Can I roll a TSP account into an IRA or a private 401(k) after leaving government?

Yes. After you separate from federal service, you can roll your TSP into a traditional IRA, a Roth IRA (as a taxable conversion for pre-tax balances), or a new employer's 401(k). The traditional TSP portion moves to pre-tax accounts tax-free, while Roth TSP dollars roll to a Roth IRA tax-free.

Before rolling out, weigh what you would give up. The TSP's fees are so low that many advisors suggest leaving the money there. Rolling out gains you broader investment choices and features like partial Roth conversions. You can also roll outside IRA money into the TSP while employed. Use a direct rollover to avoid the 20% withholding trap, and compare the TSP's ultra-low costs against your destination account's fees before moving anything.