The Uniformed Services Blended Retirement System (BRS) Training for New Accessions is a mandatory training for all active duty, National Guard and Reserve accessions with a Date of Initial Entry to Military Service (DIEMS) on or after January 1, 2018.  

The purpose of this training is to ensure Service members receive current and effective training on the BRS enabling them to understand the basics of their retirement system, navigate available financial tools and resources, and be motivated to actively manage their finances. 

The revised version, published February 2, 2026, reflects updated statutory requirements and supersedes all prior course materials. All previous versions are obsolete. 

Primary Learning Objective

Understand the purpose of preparing for retirement, including the components of the military retirement system and the options available through the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). 

Supporting Learning Objectives

• Explain how retirement planning supports financial readiness. 
• Identify the key components of the Blended Retirement System (BRS). 
• Understand the fundamentals of the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) and TSP accounts. 
• Recognize how Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) contributions are made. 
• Understand how the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) affects future retirement savings and military pay. 
• Understand managing retirement savings. 

Training Materials 

• Instructor Guide
• Participant Guide
• PowerPoint for video version
• PowerPoint for non-video version
• Videos
  • Why Save Now For Retirement?
  • The Military Retirement System
  • Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) Basics