OPM ORA Help

About This System

This online system is for the submission of retirement applications for Federal and United States Postal Service Employees covered under the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) or the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).

More information, the correct processing procedures, and applications can be obtained from your agency's HR department or the OPM retirement center.

This system also does not process benefits that you may be entitled to under the Thrift Savings Plan and/or Social Security. You must contact these agencies separately to apply for benefits. Please note federal employees covered under CSRS may not be entitled to benefits under these systems.

Information for Applicants +

Accessing and Using the System

If you have not already done so, please contact your agency HR to obtain login information to access this system.

In the following knowledge area, you will find information concerning this system and information as it pertains to applying online. When you are prepared to continue, this online system will guide you through submitting your application for federal retirement benefits. Congratulations, and thank you for your service to the people and government of the United States of America.

Frequently Asked Questions for Retirees

How do I know if I'm eligible for retirement? +

Eligibility for retirement depends on your age, years of service, and the retirement system you're covered under (CSRS or FERS). For detailed information about eligibility requirements, please visit:

- www.opm.gov/retirement-services/csrs-information for CSRS

- www.opm.gov/retirement-services/fers-information for FERS

How do I login? +

Once your HR partner has created your account for you, will login with the Login.gov account associated with the email address that was provided to HR. If you are having troubles with Login.gov, the Login.gov help section may be of use to you.

How do I update my address or other information after submitting my application? +

Any changes that occur after final submission of your application can be updated via:

- The OPM call center at 1-888-767-6738 (TTY: 1-855-887-4957)

- If you have already received a claim number and password, using our Services Online system at www.servicesonline.opm.gov

What if I need to change or withdraw my application? +

You can request a withdrawal through ORA for your HR specialist to process. However, if the application has been submitted to OPM, changes must be requested by contacting OPM directly.

Onboarding for HR Departments +

Getting Started

As an HR Specialist, you play a crucial role in helping employees transition to retirement. This system is designed to process retirement applications for Federal and United States Postal Service Employees covered under CSRS or FERS.

Your responsibilities include verifying employee eligibility, ensuring all required documentation is complete, and submitting the application through this system.

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HR Specialist Guide to Retirement Processing
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Frequently Asked Questions for HR Specialists

How do I help employees access this system? +

You will create the applicant's account using their personal email address that is associated with their Login.gov account. The application will then use Login.gov to access the ORA system.

How do I get access to the ORA system has an HR specialist or supervisor? +

Please work with your HR lead or Agency Benefit Officer (ABO) to have your account created.

What happens if I submit a package to Payroll and then need to make a change? +

Using ORA, you are able to "re-open" any of the sections of the retirement application package, make the edits, and re-certify back to Payroll.

How do I handle existing payroll submission processes outside of ORA? +

Please coordinate with your payroll service provider.

Onboarding for Payroll Offices +

Payroll Processing for Retirement

Payroll offices are responsible for certifying the accuracy of retirement contributions, service history, and final salary information for retiring employees. This information is critical for calculating retirement benefits.

When processing retirement applications, ensure that all retirement contributions have been properly deducted and reported, and that the employee's service history is accurately documented. Any errors in this information can delay the processing of retirement benefits.

After an employee submits their retirement application, you will receive notification to complete the payroll portion of the application. This must be completed promptly to ensure timely processing of retirement benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions for Payroll

What information must payroll certify for retirement applications? +

Payroll must certify:

- Final basic pay

- Retirement contributions

- Service history

- Unused sick leave balance

- Final salary payment information

- Any applicable unused annual leave payment

What is the timeline for processing retirement payroll information? +

Payroll offices should complete their portion of the retirement application within 7 days of the employee's separation date. Exceptions may be made in extremely complex cases to allow for up to 30 days of processing time. Delays in processing can result in delayed retirement payments to the employee.

How can I make payroll-related corrections that are needed after submission of an application? +

Corrections must be sent directly to OPM after the application has been submitted.