January 28, 2025
The Deferred Resignation Offer – Information On Pay, Benefits & Eligibility
If you’ve been considering retirement, or perhaps just want to leave federal service to pursue other paths, now might be the right time to make your move. The Deferred Resignation Offer is now available, giving the majority of federal employees the opportunity to step away while still receiving full pay and benefits through September 30, 2025. Time is limited to make your decision — employees must opt in by February 6, 2025, to take advantage of this offer.
No matter if you’ve been weighing your exit for a while or are just now considering your options, here’s what you need to know to make an informed decision.
Key Details of the Offer
- Voluntary Resignation with Deferred Date: Eligible federal employees can submit their resignation effective September 30, 2025 but are not required to work during this period.
- Continued Pay & Benefits: Employees who opt for deferred resignation will continue receiving full salary and benefits, including retirement accruals, until their final resignation date.
- Exempt from Return-to-Office Requirements: Employees who accept deferred resignation are not required to return to in-person work.
- Deadline to Accept: The final day to submit resignation under this program is February 6, 2025.
- Eligibility: This offer is available to all full-time federal employees except:
- Military personnel of the Armed Forces
- U.S. Postal Service employees
- Employees in immigration enforcement and national security roles
- Other positions specifically excluded by individual agencies (more information will be release soon)
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to these FAQs are based on current documentation and professional interpretation based on authoritative/trusted government sources of information. It is still highly recommended that anyone considering taking the deferred resignation offer, or retiring before September 30, should get a full benefits review from a qualified Federal Benefits Specialist to make sure they have a complete understanding of the options and benefits available to them as a federal employee. To find a Benefits Specialist in your area, visit the Find a Benefits Specialist page.
Do I have to work between now and September 30, 2025?
No, except in rare cases determined by your agency.
Can I retire instead of resigning if I become eligible before my resignation date?
Yes, if you become eligible for early or normal retirement before September 30, 2025, you may retire instead.
What happens if I don’t respond to the email?
Nothing. The program is completely voluntary.
Can I change my mind after resigning?
You can request to rescind your resignation, but approval is not guaranteed as agencies will move quickly to reassign or consolidate positions.
Can I get another job while on deferred resignation?
Yes, but check with your agency’s HR regarding restrictions.
Can I resign earlier than September 30, 2025?
Yes, you can accelerate your resignation date at any time.
Can I extend my resignation beyond September 30, 2025?
No, unless your agency grants a waiver for impending retirement eligibility.
Can I complete my Military Buyback if I accept the Deferred Resignation Offer?
Yes, as long as you pay your military deposit in full before your resignation date (September 30, 2025). If the deposit is not completed by then, your military service won’t count toward your federal retirement. You can estimate your service deposit for a military time buyback here on our site and you can request a copy of the Buyback Blueprint which comes with access to a Federal Benefits Specialist that can answer questions related to your specific situation.
Will this impact my ability to work for the federal government in the future?
No, you can apply for future federal jobs.
Key Deadlines
- February 6, 2025: Deadline to indicate your intent to accept the offer.
- September 30, 2025: This will be the effective date of separation.
How to Accept the Offer
- Send an email from your .gov or .mil account to hr@opm.gov.
- In the subject line, type “Resign”.
- Hit Send. You will receive a confirmation email (which may take up to 72 hours).
Check Your Retirement Eligibility
You can use the Federal Retirement Early Estimator to check your eligibility for either a full or early retirement (w/ reduction) before September 30, 2025. In addition to estimating MRA and FERS pension, you can also add any military time that you want to buy back. Though it’s important to remember that if you want to complete a military time buy back, you have to complete your service deposit before separation.
Final Thoughts
This offer gives federal employees a choice: continue under the evolving workplace policies or exit on financially secure terms with time to plan their next move. With the February 6, 2025 deadline approaching, those considering this option should review their career goals, financial situation, and future employment plans before deciding.
Need Help?
Deciding whether to take the Deferred Resignation Offer can feel like a big step, but you don’t have to figure it out on your own. A Federal Benefits Specialist can help you understand your options, and if you decide to take this offer, they will help you take advantage of every benefit available to you as a federal employee.
If you need help, we’re here for you: https://myfedbenefitshelp.com/contact-us/find-a-benefits-specialist/
Official Documentation & Sources of Infomation:
– OPM: Fork in the Road
– OPM: Frequently Asked Questions (currnet topic)
– CHCOC: Guidance Regarding Deferred Resignation Program
Know Your Options!
Claim Your Free Federal Benefits Workbook Today
Was this article helpful?
Thanks for your feedback!
Sorry about that
How can we improve it?
