FAQs and answers about cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) for federal annuitants (retirees, their survivors, or their spouses, ex-spouses, and children).
Questions and answers
Yes. We make cost-of-living adjustments each year to the amount we pay to annuitants.
Most retirees are eligible for COLA starting at the age of 62 under one of these federal retirement programs:
- Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- FERS Special
- Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS)
- Organization and Disability Retirement System (ORDS)
Certain retirees, like disability, survivor, and other special provisions, have different COLA entitlement rules.
For the year 2024, annuitants who retired under CSRS will receive 3.2 percent increase and those who retired under FERS will receive a 2.2 percent increase. The rate varies each year.
If a COLA is payable, we make the change in December of each year. You'll receive the adjusted payment in January, the following month.
Yes, children, students up to age 22, and survivors are eligible for the cost of living increase.
Yes, but you'll receive a prorated amount. We'll send you a letter explaining your increase. FERS annuitants under age 62 are not eligible for COLA increases unless certain conditions are met.
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Related information
A claim number is required to make a help submission.
If you are an annuitant, you can find your CSA or CSF claim number on your 1099-R, your annual COLA notice or your Benefits Booklet.
If you are unable to locate your CSA or CSF claim number, or you are not a retiree, former spouse of a retiree or a survivor of a retiree, or you are inquiring about the status of a refund application, please contact us on
1-888-767-6738 and one of our representatives will be able to assist you.
Report a Death
To report a death of a Retired Federal Employee or Current Federal Employee, please click the link below that applies:
Submit your information below and one of our Customer Service Specialists will begin working on your request. All fields are required. We usually respond within 3 to 5 business days.
Please be advised that the information submitted must be entered by the annuitant or on behalf of the annuitant by the Representative Payee.
As an expert in federal retirement programs and cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) for annuitants, I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to shed light on the intricacies of this important aspect of retiree benefits. Having closely followed and analyzed the policies and updates in this domain, I can confidently provide valuable insights and information to address common questions.
Firstly, it's crucial to understand that COLA is a key component in federal retirement programs, impacting the amount paid to annuitants each year. Retirees, survivors, spouses, ex-spouses, and children are all stakeholders in this process, and the rules governing COLA entitlement can vary based on specific circ*mstances.
The federal retirement programs covered in the article include the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), FERS Special, Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS), and Organization and Disability Retirement System (ORDS). Each program has its own set of rules and eligibility criteria, adding complexity to the understanding of COLA adjustments.
For the year 2024, the article mentions specific COLA percentages for annuitants under CSRS (3.2 percent increase) and FERS (2.2 percent increase). It's important to note that these rates are subject to change each year, highlighting the dynamic nature of COLA adjustments. The article also clarifies that if a COLA is payable, the change is implemented in December, and annuitants receive the adjusted payment in January of the following year.
A notable aspect is the inclusion of certain retirees, such as those with disability, survivor, and other special provisions, who may have different COLA entitlement rules. This emphasizes the need for individuals to be aware of their specific circ*mstances and how they impact COLA eligibility.
Furthermore, the article addresses the eligibility of children, students up to age 22, and survivors for the cost-of-living increase. It mentions that while these groups are eligible, FERS annuitants under the age of 62 may not be eligible for COLA increases unless certain conditions are met, introducing additional nuances to the eligibility criteria.
The concept of prorated COLA rates is also touched upon, indicating that some annuitants may receive a prorated amount based on their circ*mstances. The article assures that annuitants will be notified of any increase through a letter that explains the adjustment.
To facilitate understanding and accessibility, the article provides information on how annuitants can obtain their CSA or CSF claim number, which is required for help submissions. The inclusion of contact details for assistance further emphasizes the commitment to providing support and guidance to retirees navigating the complexities of federal retirement programs.
In summary, this comprehensive article covers a range of concepts, including the diverse federal retirement programs, specific COLA percentages for 2024, eligibility criteria for different groups, prorated COLA rates, and practical information on obtaining claim numbers and seeking assistance. This wealth of information serves as a valuable resource for federal annuitants seeking clarity on cost-of-living adjustments.
