BRS vs Legacy (High-3) Retirement
Compare the Blended Retirement System against the traditional pension side-by-side with real numbers.
Key Takeaway
With low TSP contributions, Legacy may be better — the full 2.5%/year multiplier beats BRS's reduced 2% if you don't maximize the TSP match. Consider increasing contributions to >5% of base pay.
BRS favors those who leave before 20 years or maximize TSP. Legacy favors those who serve full 20+ and don't invest elsewhere.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Blended Retirement System (BRS)?
BRS combines a smaller defined pension (2% per year of service vs 2.5% in Legacy) with government TSP matching of up to 4% after 2 years of service and a Continuation Pay bonus. It benefits members who may not serve a full 20 years.
What is the Legacy High-3 retirement system?
Legacy (High-3) pays 2.5% of your average highest 3 years of base pay per year of service. At 20 years, that is 50% of your average high-3 base pay for life. There is no government TSP match.
Who is eligible to choose BRS vs Legacy?
Service members who entered the military before January 1, 2018 with fewer than 12 years of service had a one-time opt-in window for BRS. Those who joined on or after January 1, 2018 are automatically enrolled in BRS.
Which system is better — BRS or Legacy?
It depends on your career plans. Legacy pays more if you serve 20+ years and do not invest heavily in TSP. BRS provides more value if you leave before 20 years, because you keep the TSP match even without a pension. Members who maximize TSP under BRS can come out ahead of Legacy over a full career.
Sources: DoD Blended Retirement System, DFAS Retirement Guide, TSP.gov. Last updated March 2026.