2026 TSP Updates: What Federal Employees Should Know

February 24, 2026

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EP Wealth Advisors

Learn what’s changing for the TSP in 2026, including contribution limits, catch‑uprules, and planning considerations for federal employees.

2026 TSP Updates: What Federal Employees Should Know

Now is the time to check in on your Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) and make sure you’re taking full advantage of the opportunities available in 2026. Here’s what federal employees should keep in mind throughout the year.

Are You on Track with Contribution Limits?

The IRS increased TSP contribution limits again this year:

  • Annual Elective Deferral: $24,500
  • Catch-Up Contributions (age 50+): Additional $8,000 (total potential contributions = $32,500)
  • Super Catch-Up (ages 60–63): Up to $11,250 under SECURE 2.0, depending on whether your plan adopts this provision. If you haven’tupdated your contribution elections, there’s still time.

Remember—contributions are spread across your remaining pay periods, so waiting until the very end of the year could mean missing out on the maximum.

Check in with your EP Wealth advisor to see if you’re on trackto reach your target. Even a small increase now can help you towards maximizingyour retirement savings for 2026.

Mid-Year Investment Checkup

The TSP continues to offer the same core funds:

  • C Fund: S&P 500 stock index
  • S Fund: U.S. small/mid-cap stock index
  • I Fund: International stock index
  • F Fund: U.S. bond index
  • G Fund: Government securities
  • L Funds: Target-date funds that automatically adjust over time

You also still have access to the TSP Mutual Fund Window, which provides more investment choices but often comes with higherfees. Ask yourself:

  • Is your mix of funds still aligned with your retirement timeline?
  • Has your risk tolerance changed this year?
  • Would a Lifecycle Fund simplify things for you?

A quick review now helps prepare for unpleasant surprises later.

Plan Ahead for Taxes

Whether you’re contributing to traditional (pre-tax) or Roth (after-tax) TSP, your decisions this year impact both your 2026 taxes and your retirement strategy.

  • Traditional contributions lower your taxable income today.
  • Roth contributions grow tax-free, which can provide flexibility later.
  • Nearing retirement? Consider how a TSP rollover to an IRA or a Roth conversion strategy might fit into your 2026 plan. Connect with an EP Wealth advisor for more information.

The Bottom Line

There’s still time in 2026 to get the most out of your TSP. By checking your contribution levels, reviewing your investment mix, and planning ahead for taxes, you can finish the year on track.

Not sure what adjustments make sense for your situation? An EP Wealth advisor can help you evaluate your options. Connect with us to get personalized guidance and next steps tailored to your goals.

 

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