Decoding Your RIF Notice
Receiving a Reduction in Force (RIF) notice can be stressful. This official document contains critical information about your employment status, rights, and options. Understanding its components is the first step in navigating your transition effectively.
This guide helps you interpret the key sections of a typical RIF notice and understand their implications.
60-Day Notice Period
You are entitled to a specific, written RIF notice at least 60 full calendar days before the effective date of the action (5 CFR 351.801). If you receive less notice, contact your agency HR or union representative immediately.Types of RIF Actions & Notices
Your notice will specify the personnel action being taken. The most common include:
Separation
Your employment with the agency ends on the effective date.
Demotion / Change to Lower Grade
You are moved to a position at a lower grade and pay level.
Reassignment
You are moved to a different position at the same grade/pay, potentially in a new location.
Furlough (>30 days)
Temporary non-duty, non-pay status exceeding 30 consecutive or 22 discontinuous days.
Key Elements Found in Your Specific RIF Notice
Review your notice carefully for these critical details:
- Tenure Group: (e.g., I - Career, II - Career-Conditional)
- Subgroup: (e.g., AD - Vet Pref 30%+, A - Vet Pref, B - Non-Vet)
- Service Computation Date (SCD) for RIF: Includes adjustments for performance.
- Performance Rating Summary: The ratings used for service credit.
- Severance Pay eligibility (or ineligibility if retiring).
- Health & Life Insurance continuation options (TCC, conversion).
- Retirement options (DSR, deferred, voluntary).
- TSP options.
- Unemployment Compensation (SF-8 information).
- Career Transition Assistance (CTAP/ICTAP).
General RIF Timeline Post-Notice
Key milestones after receiving your specific notice:
Notice Received (60+ Days Prior)
Review notice carefully. Start gathering documents. Contact HR with initial questions. Begin exploring options (benefits, retirement, job search).
During Notice Period
Attend agency briefings. Seek counseling (benefits, financial, career). Make decisions about retirement/benefits. Apply for jobs (CTAP active). Submit retirement application if applicable.
RIF Effective Date
Separation/action takes effect. Finalize exit procedures. Apply for unemployment benefits immediately.
Within 30 Days Post-Effective Date
MSPB Appeal Deadline.
Within 31/60 Days Post-Separation
Deadlines for FEGLI conversion (~62 days total), FEHB/FEDVIP TCC election (60 days), Marketplace SEP (60 days), Spouse FEHB QLE (60 days).