Q. I retired Dec. 31. I plan to use the 10-year monthly annuity option. Does the principal in my account continue to be in play in the market? Will I benefit or suffer from market volatility?
A. If you use your Thrift Savings Plan money to purchase an annuity, you give up ownership of the principal in exchange for the guaranteed payments. The principal will be removed from your account to pay for the annuity.