DID YOU KNOW: Blended Retirement System

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  • By ARPC Public Affairs
It once seemed far into the future when the DoD first introduced it, but the Blended Retirement System opt-in date of Dec. 31, 2018, is fast approaching with only one month left to decide.

Still not sure what the BRS is or if you might benefit from opting in? Check out this video, this article, or for a deep dive, this guide to break it down. You can also read FAQs. As of October 2018, the percentage of eligible Airmen who have opted in was lower than expected at only 16.9 percent.

Here are some fast facts about the BRS:
1. If you want to opt in, you have to visit the BRS site and go through a process to opt in. It is not automatic. Learn how to opt in here. It’s not easily possible to accidentally opt in. And, you need to know it is not a reversible decision. The system asks you multiple times if you’re sure you want to opt in. Pay attention to what you’re clicking on.
2. All members serving as of Dec. 31, 2017, are grandfathered under the legacy retirement system and members currently serving will NOT be automatically switched to the BRS.
3. Active component service members with fewer than 12 years as of Dec. 31, 2017, and National Guard and Reserve service members in a paid status, who have accrued fewer than 4,320 retirement points as of Dec. 31, 2017, may choose to opt into the BRS.
4. If you have more 4,320 points or more and wish to remain in the legacy retirement system, you do not need to do anything. Nothing will change.
5. Not sure if the math adds up? Use this calculator to find out how much you can earn in retirement by opting in.

WEB RESOURCES FOR LEARNING MORE ABOUT BRS
Military Pay - BRS information
Military One Source - BRS information
BRS Guide