I started in 1987 at age 24, so that was in my favor. I invested the max to TSP from day one and that's a big factor too. After 30 years of service, I could take 44% with the COLA and SS supplement or 51% and neither for 8 years. Staying 2 more years to MRA +30 would've been 54.5% of my high three or 46% standard. It all comes down to how long do you want to work for the possibility of breaking even? A lot depends on your TSP and other obligations obviously. I was so tired of the FAA that I was willing to take the risk of maybe losing 40 bucks a month. It's actually worked out well, the FERS COLA has added 4.3% to my pension so far and I still have 5 years to reach age 62. Moved my TSP to an IRA and still haven't touched it. My life and health are so much better, it should be a no brainer! One good piece of advice is to get in touch with a financial advisor when you are about 7-10 years from your target date, especially one that is trained for federal retirement. Don't let this job and agency drive you to an early grave, you've earned the early go...take advantage of it!