Updated
Updated · www.myfederalretirement.com · Aug 17
TSP Opens 26 Annual Roth Conversions as 10%-24% Tax Rates Become Permanent
Updated
Updated · www.myfederalretirement.com · Aug 17

TSP Opens 26 Annual Roth Conversions as 10%-24% Tax Rates Become Permanent

1 articles · Updated · www.myfederalretirement.com · Aug 17

Summary

  • January 28, 2026 brought a new TSP feature letting federal employees, separated participants and spousal beneficiaries convert traditional balances to Roth inside the plan, with no IRA rollover required.
  • Congress strengthened the case in July 2025 by making the 2017 tax brackets permanent, locking in the 10%, 12%, 22% and 24% rates many workers use to gauge conversion costs.
  • The tool allows up to 26 conversions a year, with a $500 minimum and a requirement to leave at least $500 in each traditional source after converting.
  • Taxes cannot be withheld from the conversion, so participants must pay ordinary income tax from outside funds; the move is irrevocable once processed.
  • The strategy is aimed at reducing future RMD pressure at age 73 or 75 and avoiding Medicare IRMAA surcharges, which start at $109,000 for singles and $218,000 for couples in 2026.

Insights

Could a simple TSP account tweak accidentally trigger a massive hidden tax on your future Medicare premiums?
Why might paying thousands in taxes today actually be the ultimate secret to protecting your federal retirement?