Legacy vs BRS: Which Retirement System?
If you joined the military before January 1, 2018, you're in the Legacy system (defined benefit only). If you joined on or after January 1, 2018, you're in the BRS (Blended Retirement System). Some service members had a one-time option to opt into BRS during 2018-2019.
How the Multiplier Works
Legacy System
- 20 years = 50% of high-3 base pay
- 21-40 years = +2.5% per additional year
- Maximum at 40 years = 75% of high-3
BRS (Blended Retirement System)
- 20 years = 40% of high-3 base pay
- 21-30 years = +2% per additional year
- Maximum at 30 years = 60% of high-3
- + TSP with 5% agency match (1% automatic + 4% matching)
2026 High-3 Base Pay Examples
Your "high-3" is the average of your highest 36 months of basic pay. For most members, this is simply their last 3 years of base pay:
| Rank | High-3 Base Pay (2026) | Legacy @ 20 yr (50%) | BRS @ 20 yr (40%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| E-7 | $5,683.20 | $2,841.60/mo | $2,273.28/mo |
| E-8 | $6,388.20 | $3,194.10/mo | $2,555.28/mo |
| E-9 | $7,305.00 | $3,652.50/mo | $2,922.00/mo |
| W-4 | $7,672.50 | $3,836.25/mo | $3,069.00/mo |
| O-5 | $10,567.80 | $5,283.90/mo | $4,227.12/mo |
| O-6 | $12,318.60 | $6,159.30/mo | $4,927.44/mo |
| O-7 | $14,041.80 | $7,020.90/mo | $5,616.72/mo |
The TSP Catch-Up (BRS Advantage)
BRS retirees who contribute 5% of base pay to TSP get an additional 5% agency match (1% automatic + 4% match). Over a 20-year career, this can grow to $200,000+ in matched contributions alone — often making BRS more valuable than Legacy for most members, especially those who don't stay past 20 years.
Lump Sum Option (BRS Only)
BRS retirees can choose to receive 25% or 50% of the discounted present value of their pension as a lump sum at retirement, in exchange for a reduced monthly pension. Use this calculator's "30-Year Lump Sum" estimate to model this option.
Tips for Maximizing Your Retirement
- Stay past 20 years if possible — the multiplier jump from 19 to 20 years is massive (you go from 0% to 50% pension in Legacy).
- Max out TSP early — agency match is free money. In BRS, contribute at least 5% to get the full match.
- Use the high-3 years to your advantage — try to promote or pick up TDY assignments during these 3 years.
- Consider Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) — costs ~6.5% of pension but provides continued pay to spouse after death.
- Plan for COLA adjustments — your pension will increase yearly with inflation.
- Don't forget VA disability — if you have service-connected conditions, file for VA disability. You can receive both military retirement AND VA disability (Concurrent Receipt under CRSC for combat-related, or just standard if med-boarded).