EEasy Filing Hub

Federal Employment

Replace a Personnel Action Notice (SF-50)

Request official copies of your federal SF-50 record.

We'll guide you through it, step by step

  • ✓Simple questions in plain language — no legal jargon
  • ✓We fill in the official form and check for common mistakes
  • ✓Private — no document uploads

Free to start • No credit card • Official form

Not sure this is the right form? Take the free eligibility check

Estimated fee

No government fee

View official fee calculator ↗

Typical timeline

2 to 12 weeks

Category

Federal Employment

Who qualifies

Current and former U.S. federal civil service employees, or authorized legal representatives needing proof of past federal employment.

The step-by-step roadmap

  1. 1

    Determine Record Custody

    Find where your personnel file lives. Current workers check their agency eOPF. Former workers request from the National Personnel Records Center.

    Watch out: Sending your request to the wrong agency will cause significant delays.
    Common rejection reason: Requesting records from the National Archives when your agency still retains them.
  2. 2

    Gather Service Information

    Collect details about your federal service, including your full legal name, Social Security number, date of birth, and employing agencies.

    Watch out: Ensure your name matches the name used during your federal appointment.
    Common rejection reason: Missing Social Security number or incorrect dates of federal service.
  3. 3

    Submit the Replacement Request

    Submit a signed written request or online application through the National Archives civilian records portal or your agency HR office.

    Watch out: Paper submissions require an original, handwritten signature.
    Common rejection reason: Unsigned request forms or digital signatures that lack verification.
  4. 4

    Receive and Verify Your SF-50

    Review the document upon arrival. Verify your retirement code, tenure group, pay plan, and grade to ensure accuracy.

    Watch out: Check that the copy includes official agency authorization signatures.
    Common rejection reason: Receiving a non-certified copy when an official certified record was required.

Documents you'll need

  • Government-Issued Identification

    A clear copy of a valid photo ID such as a driver's license or passport.

    Note: Required to protect personal privacy and verify your identity.

  • Proof of Federal Service Details

    Any past W-2 forms, agency badges, or agency correspondence showing your dates of service.

    Note: Optional, but helps locate older or archived records faster.

  • Legal Authorization or Power of Attorney

    Documentation proving legal authority if requesting on behalf of someone else.

    Note: Required if applying for a deceased or incapacitated former employee.

Ready to start?

Run the free eligibility check first, then get your personalized roadmap and document checklist.

Check my eligibility

Fees and timelines are as published by the relevant agency and may change — verify before filing. This guide is general information, not legal advice.