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The TSP-70 form is an essential document for participants in the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) who wish to make a full withdrawal of their account balance. This form provides a structured way to request distributions from either a civilian or uniformed services account. Key sections of the TSP-70 cover vital personal information, including your name, TSP account number, and contact details. If you are married and have a TSP balance exceeding $3,500, both you and your spouse must complete specific parts of the form to acknowledge entitlements and options related to joint life annuities. The withdrawal choices are clearly outlined, allowing participants to specify their preferences for lump-sum payments, life annuities, or monthly payments based on life expectancy. Additionally, direct deposit options streamline the distribution process, ensuring participants can manage their finances efficiently. Importantly, the TSP-70 includes sections for tax withholding elections, ensuring individuals understand their tax obligations upon withdrawal. Signature and notarization requirements reinforce the form’s legal standing, making compliance with federal regulations a necessity. This introduction offers a glimpse into the comprehensive nature of the TSP-70 form, highlighting its critical role in the withdrawal process for TSP participants.

Tsp 70 Example

Spouse’s Name (Last, First, Middle)

THRIFT SAVINGS PLAN

TSP-70

REQUEST FOR FULL WITHDRAWAL

I.INFORMATION ABOUT YOU —This section is required.

1.

This request applies to my:

Civilian Account

OR

 

Uniformed Services Account

2.

Last Name

 

First Name

 

Middle Name

 

 

 

3.

 

4.

/

/

5.

 

TSP Account Number

Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)

Daytime Phone (Area Code and Number)

6.Foreign address? 7. Check here.

Street Address or Box Number (For a foreign address, see instructions on back.)

Street Address Line 2

8.

City

9.

State

10.

Zip Code

II.MARRIED FERS AND UNIFORMED SERVICES PARTICIPANTS —If your total TSP account balance is more than $3,500, your spouse is entitled to a joint life annuity with a 50% survivor benefit, level payments, and no cash refund. Check Item 11 be- low to use your entire account balance to purchase that annuity. Otherwise, complete Items 12 – 15, then proceed to Section IV.

11.

12.

I choose the default joint life annuity with my spouse. (Option 3b in Section XIII). Skip to Section VII, then complete Page 6.

 

-

-

Spouse’s Name (Last, First, Middle)

Spouse’s Social Security Number

If you are not able to obtain your spouse’s signature below, provide your spouse’s name and Social Security number and submit Form TSP-16, Exception to Spousal Requirements (TSP-U-16 for uniformed services), with this request.

Spouse’s waiver: I waive my right to a joint life annuity with a 50% survivor benefit, level payments, and no cash refund.

13.

15.

14.

/

/

Spouse’s Signature

Date Signed (mm/dd/yyyy)

 

 

Notary: Please complete the following. No other acknowledgement is acceptable (see instructions).

The person who signed Item 13 is known to or was identified by me, and, before me, signed or acknowledged to have

signed this form. In witness thereof, I have signed below on this

 

day of

,

.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Month

 

Year

 

My commission expires:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date (mm/dd/yyyy)

 

Notary Public’s Signature

 

 

 

[seal]

Jurisdiction

 

III.MARRIED CSRS PARTICIPANTS —We must notify your spouse of your withdrawal request.

16.

17.Is your spouse’s address the same as your address?

Yes

 

No (Complete Items 18 – 22.)

 

Don’t know spouse’s address.

 

 

 

-

 

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Provide spouse’s SSN and submit

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Form TSP-16.)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Spouse’s Social Security Number

18.

Spouse has

19.

foreign address?

Check here.

Street Address or Box Number (For a foreign address, see instructions.)

Street Address Line 2

20.

City

21.

State

Do Not Write Below This Line

22.

Zip Code

Form TSP-70, Page 1 (11/2015)

* P I I S 0 0 2 2 9 5 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 P I I S *

PREVIOUS EDITIONS OBSOLETE

 

Name:

TSP Account Number:

(Last, First, Middle)

IV. WITHDRAWAL ELECTION This section is required. Choose one or more methods. Indicate percentages in whole numbers. If choosing monthly payments, include the dollar amount of each payment or choose to have the TSP compute your payments based on your life expectancy.

23. I would like to withdraw my entire account balance as follows:

a.

 

 

 

.0% Single Payment

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

b.

 

 

 

.0% Life Annuity (Must equal $3,500 or more. Also complete Page 6.)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

.0% TSP Monthly Payments Tell us how to pay your monthly payments:

c.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1 0 0 % (Total a, b, and c)

$

 

 

,

 

 

 

.00

per month ($25.00 or more)

 

 

 

OR

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Compute my payments based on my life expectancy.

V.TRANSFER  ELECTION

24.I would like to transfer all or a portion of my single payment and/or eligible monthly payments (indicated in Section IV) to an IRA or eligible employer plan. (See instructions for an explanation of eligible monthly payments. Note: You must include the completed applicable transfer page(s) from this form with your withdrawal request package.)

VI. DIRECT DEPOSIT INFORMATION Single payments and/or monthly payments that are not being transferred to a tradi- tional IRA, eligible employer plan, or Roth IRA can be paid by direct deposit to a checking or savings account at a financial insti- tution. Do not complete this section if you want direct deposit for annuity payments. The annuity provider will send you the necessary paperwork for direct deposit of those payments.

25. Pay by direct deposit (check all that apply):

 

 

Single Payment

 

 

 

 

 

 

TSP Monthly Payments

26. Type of Account:

27.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Checking

 

Name of Financial Institution

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OR

28.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

29.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Savings

 

ACH

Routing Number (Must be 9 digits)

Checking or Savings Account Number

VII. CERTIFICATION AND NOTARIZATION This section is required. I certify that I have read the information in this pack- age, as well as the Withdrawal booklet and the TSP tax notice, and that I understand that my withdrawal election is irrevo- cable. I certify that the information I have provided on all pages of this form is true and complete to the best of my knowledge­. Also, I certify that I am separated from Federal service­ and that I do not expect to be rehired by the Federal Government within 31 days of my separation. Warning: Any intentional false statement in this application or willful misrepresentation concern­ing­ it is a violation of law that is punishable by a fine or imprisonment for as long as 5 years, or both (18 U.S.C. § 1001).

30.

Participant’s Signature

31.

 

/

 

/

 

 

Date Signed (mm/dd/yyyy)

32.Notary: Please complete the following. No other acknowledgement is acceptable (see instructions).

The person who signed Item 30 is known to or was identified by me, and, before me, signed or acknowledged to have

signed this form. In witness thereof, I have signed below on this

day of

,

.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Month

 

Year

 

My commission expires:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date (mm/dd/yyyy)

 

 

Notary Public’s Signature

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[seal]

Jurisdiction

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Do not write in this section.

Form TSP-70, Page 2 (11/2015)

 

 

 

PREVIOUS EDITIONS OBSOLETE

 

 

 

 

 

Name:

TSP Account Number:

(Last, First, Middle)

VIII. FEDERAL TAX WITHHOLDING — Completing this section is optional. Withholding will not apply to amounts transferred to an IRA or eligible employer plan or which are otherwise nontaxable (see instructions). If you complete this section, you should not complete IRS Form W-4P. If you complete this section incorrectly or choose a withholding option that does not apply to your elected withdrawal, and the rest of your form is completed correctly, your withdrawal will be processed using the standard IRS withholding rules.

Withholding on Single Payments

33.The TSP must withhold 20% of the taxable portion of your single payment for Federal income tax.

Indicate the dollar amount of withholding you want in addition to the mandatory 20% for Federal income tax:

$

,

.00

Withholding on Monthly Payments

The type and duration of monthly payments you elect will determine the required Federal tax withholding and which options below are available to you. You can use the monthly payment calculator on the TSP website (www.tsp.gov) to calculate the esti- mated duration of your payments.

34.For monthly payments that will last less than 10 years (less than 120 payments), indicate the dollar amount of with- holding you want on each monthly payment in addition to the mandatory 20% for Federal income tax:

$

,

.00

35.For monthly payments that will last 10 years or more (120 payments or more), or are computed based on life expectancy, I want:

a.

b.

No withholding

Withholding based on my marital status:

Single

 

Married

 

Married, but withhold at higher single rate

Allowances (Enter the total number of allowances. If zero, enter 0.)

c.

 

Withhold this additional dollar amount:

$

 

 

 

(Note: You must also complete Item 35b.)

 

,

.00

 

 

Do not write in this section.

Form TSP-70, Page 3 (11/2015)

 

 

 

PREVIOUS EDITIONS OBSOLETE

 

 

 

 

 

Name:

TSP Account Number:

(Last, First, Middle)

TRANSFER —TRADITIONAL

This page is optional. You and the IRA trustee or plan administrator must complete this page if you want to transfer (i.e., direct rollover) all or a part of the traditional (non-Roth) portion of your single or eligible monthly payments to a traditional IRA, an eligible employer plan, or a Roth IRA. Your traditional TSP balance consists of traditional contributions, tax-exempt contributions,­ all agency contributions, and the earnings associated with these contributions. Note: If you choose to transfer money from your traditional (non-Roth) balance to a Roth IRA, you will have to pay tax on that portion when you file your tax return for the year.

IX. YOUR TRANSFER ELECTION FOR TRADITIONAL BALANCE —After you complete this section, take or send this page (including the instructions on the back) to your IRA or plan. Your IRA trustee or plan administrator must complete Section X. You must submit the completed package in order for your transfer to be processed.

36.Single Payment. Indicate the percentage of your traditional (non-Roth) single payment that you want to transfer:

37.Monthly Payments. Indicate the percentage of your traditional (non-Roth) monthly payments that you want to transfer:

.0%

.0%

X.TRANSFER INFORMATION FOR TRADITIONAL BALANCE —This section is to be completed by the IRA trustee or plan administrator. The account described here must be a traditional IRA, eligible employer plan, or Roth IRA. Please return this completed form to the participant. Do not submit transfer forms of financial institutions or plans.

38.

Type of Account:

 

 

 

 

 

Traditional IRA

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Eligible Employer Plan

 

 

 

 

 

Roth IRA

39.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

IRA/Plan Account Number or Other Customer ID

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

40.

 

 

Check this box if tax-exempt balances are accepted into the account identified above.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

41.

Provide the name and mailing address information below exactly as it should appear on the front of the check.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Only the

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

financial

 

Make check payable to

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

institution or

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

plan should

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

complete this

 

 

If needed, use these boxes to supplement “check payable to” information above.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

information.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

It will be used

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

to identify the

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

account that

 

Street Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

will receive the

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

}transfer.

 

 

City

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

State

 

 

 

 

Zip Code

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I confirm the accuracy of the information in this section and the identity of the individual named above. As a representative of the fi­nancial institution or plan to which the funds are being transferred, I certify that the financial institution or plan agrees to accept the funds directly from the Thrift Savings Plan and deposit them into the IRA or eligible employer plan identified above.

42.

Typed or Printed Name of Certifying Representative (Last, First, Middle)

43.

Signature of Certifying Representative

( )

Daytime Phone (Area Code and Number)

44.

 

/

 

/

 

 

Date Signed (mm/dd/yyyy)

 

 

Do not write in this section.

Form TSP-70, Page 4 (11/2015)

 

 

 

PREVIOUS EDITIONS OBSOLETE

 

 

 

 

 

Name:

TSP Account Number:

(Last, First, Middle)

TRANSFER — ROTH

This page is optional. You and the IRA trustee or plan administrator must complete this page if you want to transfer (i.e., direct rollover) all or a part of the Roth portion of your single or eligible monthly payments to a Roth IRA or to a Roth account maintained by an eligible employer plan. Your Roth TSP balance consists of any employee contributions that you designated as Roth when you made your contribution election and the earnings associated with these contributions. Withdrawals of Roth contributions are paid tax-free. The earnings associated with these contributions are paid tax-free only if 5 years have passed since January 1 of the calendar year in which you made your first Roth contribution, and you have reached age 59½ or have a permanent disability. (See instructions.)

XI. YOUR TRANSFER ELECTION FOR ROTH BALANCE —After you complete this section, take or send this page (includ- ing the instructions on the back) to your IRA or plan. Your IRA trustee or plan administrator must complete Section XII. You must submit the completed package in order for your transfer to be processed.

45.Single Payment. Indicate the percentage of your Roth single payment that you want to transfer:

46.Monthly Payments. Indicate the percentage of your Roth monthly payments that you want to transfer:

.0%

.0%

XII. TRANSFER INFORMATION FOR ROTH BALANCE —This section is to be completed by the IRA trustee or plan admin- istrator. The account described here must be a Roth IRA or a Roth account maintained by an eligible employer plan. Please return this completed form to the participant. Do not submit transfer forms of financial institutions or plans.

47. Type of Account:

 

Roth IRA

 

Eligible Employer Plan — Roth Account

48.

IRA/Plan Account Number or Other Customer ID

49. Provide the name and mailing address information below exactly as it should appear on the front of the check.

 

 

 

 

Only the

Make check payable to

 

 

 

financial

 

 

 

institution or

 

 

 

 

plan should

 

 

 

 

complete this

If needed, use these boxes to supplement “check payable to” information above.

 

 

 

information.

 

 

 

 

It will be used

 

 

 

 

to identify the

Street Address

 

 

 

account that

 

 

 

will receive the

 

 

 

 

City

State

Zip Code

}transfer.

I confirm the accuracy of the information in this section and the identity of the individual named above. As a representative of the fi­nancial institution or plan to which the funds are being transferred, I certify that the financial institution or plan agrees to accept the funds directly from the Thrift Savings Plan and deposit them into the IRA or eligible employer plan identified above.

50.

51.

Typed or Printed Name of Certifying Representative (Last, First, Middle)

Signature of Certifying Representative

( )

Daytime Phone (Area Code and Number)

52.

 

/

 

/

 

 

Date Signed (mm/dd/yyyy)

 

 

Do not write in this section.

Form TSP-70, Page 5 (11/2015)

 

 

 

PREVIOUS EDITIONS OBSOLETE

 

 

 

 

 

Name:

TSP Account Number:

(Last, First, Middle)

Complete this page if you chose a life annuity in Item 11 or 23b.

XIII. ANNUITY ELECTION — Choose only one annuity. If you choose a joint life annuity, you must complete Section XIV. If the annuity you choose is marked by an asterisk (*), you must also complete Section XV.

53.Your Gender:

Male

Female

54.Indicate your annuity choice by checking one of the options below.

Single Life — Level Payments:

Single Life — Increasing Payments:

1a

No additional features

2a

No additional features

*1b

Cash refund (Complete Section XV)

*2b

Cash refund (Complete Section XV)

*1c

10-year certain (Complete Section XV)

*2c

10-year certain (Complete Section XV)

Joint Life With Spouse — Level Payments:

Joint Life With Spouse — Increasing Payments:

3a

100%

to survivor, no additional features

4a

100%

to survivor, no additional features

3b

50%

to survivor, no additional features

4b

50%

to survivor, no additional features

*3c

100%

to survivor, cash refund (Complete Section XV)

*4c

100%

to survivor, cash refund (Complete Section XV)

*3d

50%

to survivor, cash refund (Complete Section XV)

*4d

50%

to survivor, cash refund (Complete Section XV)

Joint Life With Joint Annuitant Other Than Spouse — Level Payments:

5a

100%

to survivor, no additional features

*5c

100%

to survivor, cash refund (Complete Section XV)

5b

50%

to survivor, no additional features

*5d

50%

to survivor, cash refund (Complete Section XV)

XIV. INFORMATION ABOUT SPOUSE OR OTHER JOINT ANNUITANT  55.

Name (Last, First, Middle)

56.

/

/

57.

-

-

58. Gender:

Male

Female

 

Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)

 

Joint Annuitant’s Social Security Number

 

 

 

59.

Relationship to Participant

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

XV. BENEFICIARY DESIGNATION FOR YOUR TSP ANNUITY — If you chose an annuity with a cash refund or 10-year certain feature (options in Section XIII marked by an asterisk (*)), you must provide the requested information and indicate the share of your annuity intended for each designation. (Contingent beneficiaries are not allowed.) Use whole percent- ages. Percentages must total to 100.

60.

Beneficiary’s Name (Last, First, Middle)

Share:

%

Social Security Number/EIN

Relationship to Participant

61.

Beneficiary’s Name (Last, First, Middle)

Share:

%

Social Security Number/EIN

Relationship to Participant

62.

Beneficiary’s Name (Last, First, Middle)

Social Security Number/EIN

Relationship to Participant

Share:

%

 

 

 

Check here if you are submitting additional pages. How many additional pages are you attaching to this form?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Do not write in this section.

Form TSP-70, Page 6 (11/2015)

 

 

 

 

 

PREVIOUS EDITIONS OBSOLETE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Form Characteristics

Fact Name Description
Form Purpose The TSP-70 is a request form to withdraw funds from the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). It is used by participants to request a full withdrawal of their account balance.
Eligibility Requirements Participants can submit the TSP-70 if they are separated from federal service and do not expect to be rehired by the Federal Government within 31 days.
Spousal Signature Requirement If a participant has a TSP balance exceeding $3,500 and is married, spousal consent is necessary unless an exception is provided through Form TSP-16.
Withdrawal Options Participants can choose from several withdrawal methods including a single payment, life annuity, or monthly payments, reflecting their individual financial needs.
Tax Withholding The TSP-70 includes options for federal tax withholding on distributions, which varies based on chosen withdrawal methods and desired additional withholding.
Notary Requirement Notarization is required for certain sections of the form, ensuring proper identification and legal compliance in the signing process.
Direct Deposit Participants can choose to receive their funds via direct deposit into their checking or savings accounts, simplifying access to their funds.
Transfer Elections The form allows participants to transfer portions of their accounts to IRAs or eligible employer plans, providing flexible options for managing retirement savings.
Governing Laws The TSP-70 is governed by federal regulations outlined in the Federal Employees Retirement System Act and the Thrift Savings Plan provisions.

Guidelines on Utilizing Tsp 70

Completing the TSP-70 form is an essential step for those looking to request a full withdrawal from their Thrift Savings Plan account. As you fill out this form, ensure all necessary information is accurate and complete, as any errors could delay processing. Once you have finished, you will need to sign and submit the form according to the outlined instructions to facilitate your withdrawal request.

  1. Identify Your Account: Select whether this request applies to your Civilian Account or Uniformed Services Account.
  2. Provide Personal Information: Fill in your last name, first name, middle name, TSP account number, date of birth, and daytime phone number.
  3. Complete Address Information: Enter your street address, city, state, and zip code. If you have a foreign address, indicate that accordingly.
  4. Spouse Information: If applicable, provide your spouse's name and Social Security number. Indicate whether you choose a joint life annuity with your spouse or wish to waive that right.
  5. Withdrawal Election: Specify how you want to withdraw your account balance, including any monthly payment amounts if applicable. Ensure the total percentages add up to 100%.
  6. Transfer Election: If you plan to transfer a portion of your withdrawal to an IRA or eligible employer plan, complete that section as needed.
  7. Direct Deposit Information: For payments not transferred, provide your financial institution's information and account details if you wish to set up direct deposit.
  8. Certification and Notarization: Sign and date the form, and have a notary public validate your signature.
  9. Federal Tax Withholding (Optional): If you wish to specify additional withholding amounts for tax purposes, complete the relevant sections.

What You Should Know About This Form

What is the TSP-70 form used for?

The TSP-70 form is a request for a full withdrawal from your Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) account. It applies to either civilian or uniformed services accounts. Completing this form allows participants to specify how they would like to withdraw their account balance, whether through a single payment, life annuity, or TSP monthly payments.

Who needs to complete the TSP-70 form?

Participants who are eligible for withdrawal from their TSP accounts need to fill out this form. This includes both civilian employees and members of the uniformed services. If you have a balance of more than $3,500, and you are married, your spouse will also need to provide their information and signature.

What information do I need to provide on the TSP-70 form?

You will need to provide personal information, including your name, date of birth, TSP account number, and contact information. If you're married, you must include your spouse's name and Social Security number. Additionally, you should indicate your withdrawal election preferences and provide bank details if you wish for payments to be made via direct deposit.

Is my spouse required to sign the TSP-70 form?

Yes, if your TSP balance exceeds $3,500 and you want to withdraw the entire balance, your spouse must sign the form to waive their right to the joint life annuity. If you are unable to obtain your spouse's signature, you must submit a separate form (TSP-16) indicating the situation.

What are the different withdrawal options available on the TSP-70 form?

You can choose from several options. These include a single payment of your entire account balance, purchasing a life annuity, or setting up monthly payments. You can also transfer all or part of your balance to an IRA or an eligible employer plan. It's important to specify the percentage or amount you wish to withdraw in each category.

What happens if I don't complete the TSP-70 form correctly?

If the form is filled out incorrectly, your withdrawal request may be delayed. Additionally, any errors regarding tax withholding may result in the mandatory federal tax rules being applied instead of your preferences. To avoid complications, ensure all sections are completed accurately and all necessary signatures are obtained.

Can I change my withdrawal election after submitting the TSP-70 form?

Once your withdrawal election is processed, it is generally considered final. The elections you make on the TSP-70 form are irrevocable. If you have concerns about your options or timing, consider speaking with a financial advisor before submitting the form.

How long does it take to process the TSP-70 form?

The processing time can vary. Typically, you can expect a processed election within 30 days if all required information and documentation are in order. During peak times, it may take longer, so plan accordingly if you are relying on these funds for a specific purpose.

Where can I obtain more information about the TSP-70 form?

For additional information, you can visit the official TSP website at www.tsp.gov. The website contains helpful resources, including detailed explanations about withdrawal options, FAQs, and the latest forms. You can also contact TSP customer service for personalized assistance.

Common mistakes

Completing the TSP-70 form can be a straightforward process, but many individuals make common mistakes that can delay their request for a full withdrawal. One prevalent issue is neglecting to select the correct account type—either Civilian Account or Uniformed Services Account. This choice is critical, as it sets the foundation for the entire withdrawal request. Ensuring this selection is accurate helps avoid unnecessary complications later.

Another frequent error is failing to provide accurate personal information. Incomplete or incorrect entries for names, Social Security numbers, or even the TSP account number can lead to significant delays. It’s essential to double-check entries against official documents to ensure that all information is correct. Not confirming these details could result in processing setbacks and additional paperwork.

Some individuals forget to address the spousal requirements applicable to married participants. If the TSP account balance exceeds $3,500, obtaining the spouse's signature is necessary. Skipping this step can cause the entire withdrawal request to be declined. It’s advisable to gather all required documentation and signatures ahead of time to streamline the process.

Inaccurate or incomplete selections in the Withdrawal Election section are also common pitfalls. When specifying withdrawal methods, individuals sometimes fail to indicate percentages correctly. If one chooses multiple methods of withdrawal, the sum of the indicated percentages must equal 100%. Oversights in this area can lead to misunderstanding or rejection of the request.

Some participants overlook the importance of seeking notarized signatures. Notaries play a crucial role in validating signatures within the TSP-70. Omitting this step or relying on an incorrect form of acknowledgment can make the submission invalid. Engaging a licensed notary at the correct stages of the process protects the integrity of one’s application.

Individuals often miss filling out the Federal Tax Withholding section despite it being optional. By neglecting to indicate their preferences, they risk having default withholding apply, which may not align with their financial needs or situation. Taking a moment to decide and fill out this part can have a lasting impact on tax obligations.

Some people rush through the submission process and forget to review the entire form. Rushing increases the chances of missing critical details, leading to processing delays or denials. Taking the time for a thorough review before submission helps ensures all details are correct, reducing the likelihood of complications.

Lastly, a misunderstanding of the transfer options available can hinder an effective withdrawal strategy. When participants elect to transfer funds to IRAs or employer plans, clarity on the amounts and percentages desired is key. Inaccuracies here can result in funds being incorrectly allocated, impacting future financial planning. Knowledge of these options and a careful selection process can significantly strengthen one's withdrawal strategy.

Documents used along the form

The TSP-70 form, used for requesting full withdrawal from the Thrift Savings Plan, often accompanies several related forms and documents. These forms help facilitate withdrawal, ensure compliance with regulations, and manage tax implications. Below is a list of commonly associated forms that may be necessary for completing the withdrawal process.

  • TSP-16 - Exception to Spousal Requirements: This form is required if a participant cannot obtain their spouse's signature. It provides an exception to the requirement for spousal consent in certain situations.
  • TSP-U-16 - Exception to Spousal Requirements for Uniformed Services: Similar to TSP-16, this form offers a spouse waiver option specifically for members of the uniformed services.
  • IRS Form W-4P - Withholding Certificate for Pension or Annuity Payments: Optional for participants to indicate their withholding preferences for federal income tax on payments received.
  • TSP Transfer Page (Traditional) - This page should be completed if a participant wishes to transfer part or all of their traditional (non-Roth) balance to another eligible plan or IRA.
  • TSP Transfer Page (Roth) - This page manages the transfer of Roth contributions to a Roth IRA or eligible employer plan, ensuring all tax requirements are met.
  • Direct Deposit Form - This document allows participants to authorize direct deposit for their withdrawals into a designated checking or savings account.
  • Notary Acknowledgement Form - A form that must be completed if notarization is needed for the participant’s or spouse’s signature to validate the application process.
  • TSP Tax Notice - This notice provides fundamental information about the tax implications of withdrawing funds, guiding participants in understanding potential tax repercussions.

In summary, these forms and documents play vital roles in ensuring that the withdrawal process is executed smoothly and in compliance with legal and tax obligations. Participants should review all required and optional materials carefully to ensure thorough and accurate submissions.

Similar forms

The TSP-70 form, which is a request for full withdrawal from the Thrift Savings Plan, shares similarities with several other financial documents. Each of these documents serves a unique purpose but often involves the management of retirement or investment accounts. Below is a comparison of the TSP-70 with five similar documents:

  • Form 5305-SA, Simple IRA Plan Document: This form creates a Simple IRA plan for small employers. Like the TSP-70, it requires the identification of participants and their decision-making regarding account management. Both documents focus on facilitating withdrawal and account transfer processes.
  • Form 8606, Nondeductible IRA Contribution: This IRS form is used by individuals who make nondeductible contributions to IRAs. Similar to the TSP-70, it involves reporting on account contributions and distributions while ensuring tax implications are addressed.
  • Form W-4P, Withholding Certificate for Pension or Annuity Payments: This form allows individuals to determine their tax withholding preferences on pensions and annuities. The TSP-70 also requires similar tax information, particularly regarding how taxes will be withheld from withdrawals.
  • Form TSP-16, Exception to Spousal Requirements: This form is used when a participant cannot obtain their spouse's consent for certain transactions, echoing the consent requirements found in the TSP-70 for spousal waivers and certifications.
  • Form 8889, Health Savings Account (HSA) Tax Form: This document is used to report HSA contributions and distributions, akin to the TSP-70 in the sense that both deal with funds designated for retirement and medical expenses. Both require accurate reporting for tax purposes.

Dos and Don'ts

  • Do read all instructions carefully before filling out the form. Understanding the requirements will help ensure that your application is processed smoothly.
  • Do double-check your personal information. Ensure that your name, TSP account number, and contact details are accurate.
  • Don't leave any required sections blank. Failing to complete mandatory fields can delay your request.
  • Don't forget to include your spouse's information if applicable. If you're married and have a TSP account balance greater than $3,500, remember to address spousal requirements.
  • Do sign and date the form. Your signature indicates that you understand the terms and conditions of your withdrawal request.

Misconceptions

  • Misconception 1: The TSP-70 form is only for federal employees.
  • In reality, this form is applicable to both civilian federal employees and members of the uniformed services, allowing access to funds from their Thrift Savings Plans.

  • Misconception 2: Spousal consent is not necessary for all withdrawals.
  • If your total TSP account balance exceeds $3,500, spousal consent is required as per federal regulations. This ensures both spouses acknowledge and agree on the withdrawal.

  • Misconception 3: The TSP-70 can be submitted without documentation.
  • This form necessitates specific documentation, including the spouse's Social Security number and consent in certain cases. Without the required documentation, the processing of the withdrawal may be delayed.

  • Misconception 4: All payments are subject to the same tax withholding.
  • Tax withholding varies based on the type of withdrawal chosen. Single payments have a mandatory 20% federal tax withholding, while monthly payments may allow options based on individual circumstances.

  • Misconception 5: The form can only be submitted by the account holder.
  • A representative may submit the form, but they need to include proper authorization. The individual must also sign and certify the submission.

  • Misconception 6: Choosing a life annuity is the only way to ensure survivor benefits for a spouse.
  • A participant can opt for a joint life annuity to provide a survivor benefit, but there are alternative withdrawal options available that may also include survivor benefits.

  • Misconception 7: Completing the form incorrectly will lead to an automatic denial.
  • While incorrect or incomplete submissions may slow down processing, providing any needed corrections promptly can allow the request to proceed as intended.

  • Misconception 8: The withdrawal election is reversible.
  • Once a withdrawal election has been made and processed, it is generally considered final and cannot be undone. Understanding this is crucial to making informed decisions about fund management.

  • Misconception 9: The TSP-70 form is the only required step for transferring funds out.
  • In some cases, additional forms and documentation are needed, particularly if funds are directed to an IRA or another employer plan. It is important to refer to the instructions for any supplemental requirements.

Key takeaways

When filling out and utilizing the TSP-70 form, several key aspects should be understood to ensure a smooth process:

  • The form is required for requesting a full withdrawal from your Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) account.
  • It is crucial to specify whether you are requesting a withdrawal from a Civilian Account or a Uniformed Services Account.
  • Married participants need to consider spousal consent if the total TSP balance exceeds $3,500.
  • Accurate personal information, including your name, TSP account number, and contact information, must be provided.
  • Understanding the different withdrawal methods, such as single payments, life annuities, or monthly payments, is essential before making selections.
  • Providing your financial institution details is necessary for direct deposit options.
  • All signatures, including those of a notary, need to be included where indicated to validate the request.
  • Tax implications, particularly federal withholding for withdrawals, should be carefully evaluated.
  • Reviewing the completed form for accuracy before submission helps prevent delays in processing your request.