What's the Difference Between High-3 and BRS?
Legacy High-3 System
The Legacy High-3 retirement system calculates your pension as 2.5% × years of service × average of your highest 36 months of base pay. After 20 years, you receive 50% of your High-3 average. There is no government matching for TSP contributions.
Blended Retirement System (BRS)
BRS reduces the pension multiplier to 2.0% × years of service × High-3 average, so after 20 years you receive 40% instead of 50%. However, the government automatically contributes 1% of your base pay to TSP and matches up to an additional 4% (for a total of 5% matching).
Which is Better?
It depends on your TSP contribution rate, years of service, and investment returns. Generally:
- High-3 wins if you serve 20+ years and don't maximize TSP
- BRS wins if you contribute at least 5% to TSP and serve less than 20 years (you keep the TSP match even if you separate early)
Important Notes
- BRS was mandatory for those who joined on or after January 1, 2018
- Those who joined before 2018 had the option to opt into BRS during 2018
- The choice is irreversible once made
- This calculator provides estimates only — consult a financial advisor for personalized advice