Accurate Service History Records

Numerous individuals began their Federal career in a seasonal, temporary or Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP) position. This foot in the door, in many cases, was just the beginning of lifelong careers in the public sector. This time is classified as non-deduction service and by definition is a period when working for the Federal government, but ineligible to pay into the retirement system.

How does this time affect your Service Computation Date (SCD) or does it at all? Are you aware that it’s possible that you may have two service computation dates? This all depends on the retirement system you are under, the dates in which the time was served and ensuring you have accurate service history records. Below you will find the FERS and CSRS charts explaining how non-deduction service can affect your SCD.

The deposit will be calculated based on the amount you would have paid into the retirement system and any interest accrued. If these deposits are not made, the time may not count as Federal service.

Retrieve one of your recent Leave and Earnings Statements. Near the top of the page you will typically find a section labeled “SCD” or “SCD for Leave”. This is your Service Computation Date for leave purposes only. Non-deduction, and other service history issues may alter this date; thus giving you a SCD for leave purposes and a SCD for retirement purposes. It’s important to remember that you are responsible for accurate service history records and your service computation date. Be proactive in making these determinations early in your career as interest is accruing each day you wait.

Gain clarity so you can retire.

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