Where to find your TSP account number
Your Thrift Savings Plan account number is a unique identifier assigned to your federal retirement savings account. It appears on your TSP statements, in your online account, and in any correspondence the TSP sends you. The fastest way to locate it is to log into your TSP account at tsp.gov using your username and password — your account number displays at the top of your account summary page.
If you do not have online access set up yet, you can call the TSP at 1-877-968-3778 (Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern time) and provide your Social Security number and date of birth. A representative will read your account number to you over the phone. This call typically takes fewer than five minutes.
Paper statements mailed to your address also show your account number in the upper right corner. If you have a recent statement in your files, you can find it there without making a call or logging in.
Key Takeaways
- Your TSP account number appears in your online account at tsp.gov, on any paper statement you receive, and in emails from the TSP.
- You can call the TSP customer service line at 1-877-968-3778 to have your account number read to you by a representative.
- Your account number is not the same as your Social Security number — it is a separate identifier the TSP assigns when your account is opened.
- You will need your account number to set up direct deposit of your TSP balance, to authorize a transfer, or to make changes to your investment mix.
Setting up online access to see your account number
If you have never logged into your TSP account before, you will need to register at tsp.gov. Click "Register" on the homepage and enter your Social Security number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your phone number. The TSP will send you a temporary password by mail within five to seven business days.
Once you receive the temporary password, log in and create a permanent one. Your account number will be visible immediately after you log in successfully. You can also set up two-factor authentication at this time to make your account more secure.
If you have already registered but forgot your password, use the "Forgot Password" link on the login page. The TSP will send you a reset link by email or mail, depending on which contact method you choose during the reset process.
What your TSP account number looks like
TSP account numbers are nine digits long and appear in formats like 123456789. They do not contain letters. Your account number is unique to you and stays the same for the life of your account, even if you change jobs, retire, or move to a different agency.
Do not confuse your account number with your Social Security number, your employee ID, or your agency's account number. The TSP assigns your account number when your account is first opened, usually when you enroll in the plan through your agency's HR office.
Why you need your TSP account number
You will need your account number when you set up direct deposit for TSP distributions, authorize a loan from your account, or request a transfer of funds to another retirement plan. Banks and financial institutions also ask for it when you are moving money between accounts.
If you are changing jobs or retiring, your new employer or the TSP may ask for your account number to ensure your records are linked correctly. Having it on hand speeds up the process and reduces the chance of paperwork delays.
If you cannot access your account online
If you are a current federal employee or military member and have never set up online access, contact your agency's HR or benefits office. They can confirm whether your account is active and help you start the registration process.
If you are a separated employee (no longer working for the federal government) and cannot log in, call the TSP at 1-877-968-3778. You may need to provide additional information to verify your identity, such as your date of birth and the last four digits of your Social Security number.
If you are a beneficiary trying to locate a deceased participant's account number, contact the TSP directly. You will need to provide proof of your relationship and may be asked to submit a death certificate or other documentation.
Keeping your account number safe
Treat your TSP account number like you would treat a bank account number. Do not share it in emails or text messages, and do not give it to anyone who calls you claiming to be from the TSP unless you initiated the call. The TSP will never ask for your account number by unsolicited email or phone call.
When you receive paper statements or correspondence from the TSP, store them in a secure location. If you move or change your address, update your contact information with the TSP so statements continue to reach you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my TSP account number the same as my employee ID?
No. Your employee ID is assigned by your agency and identifies you as a worker. Your TSP account number is assigned by the Thrift Savings Plan and identifies your retirement savings account specifically. They are separate numbers.
Can I use my Social Security number instead of my account number?
The TSP can look up your account using your Social Security number, but some financial institutions and transfer services require the actual account number. It is easier to have both on hand when you need them.
What if I have more than one TSP account?
Most federal employees have one TSP account. If you worked for multiple agencies or have both civilian and military service, you may have separate accounts. Call the TSP at 1-877-968-3778 to confirm how many accounts are under your name and get the number for each one.
Do I need my account number to check my balance?
No. You can log into tsp.gov with just your username and password, and your balance displays on the first page. Your account number is shown there, but you do not need to enter it to view your account.
How long does it take to receive my account number by mail?
If you are registering for online access for the first time, the TSP mails your temporary password within five to seven business days. Your account number is available immediately once you log in with that password.