ActivePayOS

TSP & Retirement

A practical guide to contributions, Roth vs Traditional, and how to turn raises into wealth.

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Two-Step TSP Setup

  • Step 1: Set your contribution amount in myPay so money actually comes out of your paycheck.
  • Step 2: Log in to TSP and choose how those contributions are invested.
  • Do not assume contribution setup and investment selection are the same thing - they are two separate steps.
  • After both are set, confirm your contribution rate and your current fund allocation.

Simple Starter Strategy

  • Pick a contribution rate you can sustain, then raise it after you stabilize.
  • Increase contributions after promotions or raises before lifestyle grows.
  • Use the budget sheet to lock TSP in as a planned line item.
  • Confirm beneficiaries as part of your setup.

Roth vs Traditional (Plain English)

  • Roth: pay taxes now, withdrawals later are generally tax-free.
  • Traditional: lower taxes now, pay taxes later on withdrawals.
  • If you're unsure, choose one and stay consistent - your contribution rate matters more than finding a perfect answer.
  • Use promotions as your trigger to increase contributions automatically.

ActivePayOS Actions

Budget Planner
Make TSP a line item
Open ->
Promotion Pay Planner
Auto-allocate raises
Open ->

Official Links

myPay
Open ->
TSP (Official)
Open ->
DoD Blended Retirement System
Open ->

Coming Next

Interactive projections: "If I increase TSP by 1% each promotion, where do I land?"