Where to find your TSP account number

Your Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) account number is a nine-digit identifier assigned to you when you open your account. You can find it on your TSP statement, in your online TSP account, or by calling the TSP directly. The fastest route is logging into your account at tsp.gov — your account number appears 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). Have your Social Security number and date of birth ready. A representative will confirm your identity and read your account number to you over the phone.

Your TSP account number is different from your employee identification number (if you are a federal employee) or your Social Security number. It is specific to your retirement savings account only.

Key Takeaways

  • Your TSP account number is a nine-digit code that appears on your TSP statement and in your online account at tsp.gov.
  • You can retrieve your account number by logging into your TSP account online or by calling 1-877-968-3778 with your Social Security number and date of birth.
  • Your TSP account number is not the same as your federal employee ID or Social Security number.
  • Paper statements mailed to your address will show your account number in the header or footer of the first page.

Checking your TSP statement

If you receive paper statements in the mail, your account number is printed on the first page, usually in the upper left or right corner or at the bottom. The statement shows your account balance, contributions, and transaction history — your account number appears above or below this information.

You can also request a paper statement by mail if you do not have one. Log into tsp.gov, go to "Statements and Documents," and select the statement period you need. You can view it online as a PDF or request a printed copy be mailed to your address on file.

Setting up online access if you do not have it

If you have never logged into your TSP account online, you will need to register first. Go to tsp.gov and click "Register" or "Create Account." You will need your Social Security number, date of birth, and either your employee ID (if you are a federal employee) or your TSP account number — which creates a catch-22 if you are trying to find the number for the first time.

In that case, call the TSP at 1-877-968-3778. A representative can verify your identity and provide your account number over the phone. Once you have it, you can complete your online registration and access your account anytime.

What to do if you cannot remember your login information

If you have an online account but forgot your password or username, go to tsp.gov and click "Forgot Password" or "Forgot Username." You will be asked to verify your identity using your Social Security number and date of birth. TSP will send a reset link to the email address on file.

If you do not have access to that email address anymore, or if you cannot complete the identity verification, call 1-877-968-3778. The TSP phone line can reset your account access and confirm your account number at the same time.

Account numbers for former federal employees and military

If you left federal service or military duty, your TSP account still exists and your account number remains the same. You can retrieve it using the same methods: online at tsp.gov or by phone at 1-877-968-3778. You do not need an active employee ID to access your account.

If you separated from service years ago and have not checked your account, your contact information on file may be outdated. Calling the TSP is the most reliable way to confirm your account number and update your address or email so you receive future statements.

Why you need your TSP account number

Your account number is required when you set up direct deposit for TSP withdrawals, transfer money between TSP and another retirement account, or contact the TSP by phone or mail about your account. Banks and financial institutions may also ask for it when you are moving money to or from your TSP account.

Keep your account number in a safe place — you will use it repeatedly if you manage your TSP account over time. Write it down separately from your Social Security number, or store it in a password manager alongside your TSP login credentials.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is my TSP account number the same as my employee ID?

No. Your TSP account number is a nine-digit code unique to your retirement savings account. Your federal employee ID (if you have one) is a separate number used for payroll and benefits. They are not interchangeable.

Can I find my TSP account number on my pay stub?

Not usually. Pay stubs show TSP contributions but typically do not print your full account number. Your TSP statement or online account is the correct place to look.

What if I never opened a TSP account but think I should have one?

If you are a federal employee or service member, your agency or military branch may have opened a default TSP account for you. Call 1-877-968-3778 with your Social Security number to find out whether an account exists in your name.

Can someone else retrieve my TSP account number for me?

No. The TSP will only release your account number to you directly, after verifying your identity with your Social Security number and date of birth. A spouse or family member cannot retrieve it on your behalf, even with a power of attorney.

How long does it take to get my account number if I call?

If you call during business hours (Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern), a representative can provide your account number within a few minutes once your identity is confirmed. Wait times vary depending on call volume.