CSRS vs FERS: Understanding the differences is crucial for federal employees. The Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) offers a traditional pension, while the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) provides a three-part system, including Social Security and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). FERS vs CSRS Retirement benefits differ in structure, flexibility, and long-term value. This guide helps you evaluate both systems to identify the one that aligns with your financial goals. Use tools like the Federal Retirement Estimator to assess your options effectively. Whether you prefer stability or flexibility, comparing these plans will help secure your future retirement.