Military Retirement Age: When Can You Actually Retire?

Active duty, reserve, and medical retirement explained

Active Duty Retirement

You can retire after 20 years of active service, regardless of age. This means:

• Enlisting at 18 → retire at 38
• Commissioning at 22 → retire at 42

Reserve Retirement

Different rules apply:

• Need 20 "good years" (50 points/year)
• Can start collecting at age 60
• Reduced if you have active duty time

Medical Retirement

If medically separated:

• Less than 20 years: Temporary or permanent disability retirement
• 20+ years: Regular retirement plus disability

TSP Access

Your TSP has different rules:

• Age 59.5: No penalty withdrawals
• Age 55: If separated from service
• Rule of 55: Special early access

Use Our Calculator

Compare retirement systems with our High-3 vs BRS Calculator.