Is it worth it to buy back your military time after gaining federal civilian employment? What are the benefits?

The benefits are huge. I had 13 years active duty, some at enlisted grades (7 years) and 5 as an officer. I was required to pay back the computed earnings while on active duty at 2% into the federal retirement system.

When I reached age 55, I now had 13 years credit and an additional 17 years with the FAA for my total on 30 years credit needed for retirement.

Was able to go on the another career with almost 20 more years invested for a 3rd retirement.

I would say that was a huge advantage for retirement an very little cost.

I recommend you do it.

If you are not retired from the military, it makes sense to buy back your military retirement.

You will get seniority because of longevity (being considered at 4 years of federal service) and accrue more leave. Just to point out a few benefits.

It is absolutely worthwhile. Those are years that you can apply toward your civilian retirement! So if you did 4 years in the military, buy them back and you are 4 years closer to a full pension! However...if you are ALREADY RETIRED from the military, and working now in civil service, then you are better off keeping the military pension and earning a government pension as well. That's called double-dipping because at the end, you get two federal pensions.

Like any other investment. Have to weigh the risk vs. the benefits. I find that very few people quit their government jobs before retirement. Also check with your CPO on FERS retirement. It maybe shorter than the old CS retirement plan. You may find some eligibility after 5 yrs of Fed service. Also your age could figure into the equation.

It was beneficial for me and boosted me to 37 years for retirement credit.

Unless you are planning on staying with the feds and going to retire, then no, it isn't worth it to you. I bought 14 years active duty back and for me it was beneficial as I retired with 30+ years from the VA last May.