Q. I divorced five years ago, after my retirement. My ex-spouse received 50 percent of my TSP. I’m now remarried. I would like to do a full withdraw option now that I’m going to quit my second career (have reached the age of 64), but am confused on the options. Do I have to select the 50 percent survivor benefit and, if so, should our marriage not work out in the long run will I, again, lose half of my TSP?
A. If you are covered by FERS, your current spouse has the right to a survivor annuity unless they waive that right. Under CSRS, you may withdraw your money without your spouse’s consent, but they will be notified of your withdrawal election. See form TSP-70.