Post-Separation eOPF Requests - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What happens to my electronic Official Personnel Folder (eOPF) after I separate under the Deferred Resignation Program?

   Once your separation is processed, your eOPF should be transferred from your former agency to the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) 30 to 60 days after the separation action has been processed.

2. Can I access my eOPF online?

   Active federal employees can access their eOPF electronically. Once separated, your access to eOPF through the agency is terminated. You can download any documents that you need before your access is terminated.

3. Does my former agency still have a copy of my eOPF?

   Your OPF should be transferred from your former agency to the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) 30 to 60 days after the separation action has been processed.

   However, an agency may maintain an eOPF longer than is required. If your agency still holds your eOPF, they are required to send you, upon request, physical copies of your documents. Contact your agency HR department for more information.

4. How can I request a copy of my eOPF after separation?

   To request personnel records from NPRC please use the following link to access the National Archives website: Official Personnel Folders (OPFs), Federal (non-archival) Holdings and Access 

   Scroll to the section titled “How do I submit a written request for copies of records?” and follow the instructions to ensure timely processing. NPRC’s contact information is also available on the site. 

   1. If NPRC does not have access to the former employee's eOPF, the requestor will have to reach out to the former employing agency to request copies of the personnel records.

5. How long does it take to receive my OPF from NPRC?

   Processing times can vary. On average, requests take 4–6 weeks, but complex or older records may require additional time.

6. How can I follow up with NPRC on a previous request for my OPF? 

   Call Civilian Personnel Records’ (CRP) Customer Service at (618) 496-4900.

7. Can I correct errors in my OPF after separation?

   In accordance with Chapter 6 OPM Guide to Personnel Recordkeeping, former employees can submit requests to amend records created under OPM’s recordkeeping authority. 

   Please submit requests to: 

   Deputy Associate Director

   Office of the Chief Information Officer

   Office of Personnel Management

   1900 E Street, NW, Room 7439, Washington, DC 20415-6000.

Requests to amend other records should be sent to the agency that created the record. Requests for amendment should include: A precise identification of the record to be amended, Identification of the specific material to be deleted, added or changed, A statement of the reasons for the request, including all available material substantiating the request.

In processing amendment requests, the agency should ensure any amendments comply with the Office of Personnel Management’s recordkeeping procedures and regulations in 5 CFR, part 293 and 297.

The words "Privacy Act Amendment Request" should be on the request and on the envelope to ensure proper handling.

8. Who should I contact if I’m unsure where my OPF is located?

If you separated within the last 120 days, contact your former agency’s HR office.

If more than 120 days have passed, contact the NPRC (Civilian Personnel Records) for status and access. 

NPRC Contact Information:

National Personnel Records Center

Written requests (hand signed in cursive and dated) may be mailed or faxed to:

National Personnel Records Center, Annex

1411 Boulder Boulevard

Valmeyer, IL 62295

Fax: (618) 496-4903 or (618) 496-4904. 

9. How do I verify my service for retirement or reemployment purposes?

   You can use your SF-50s from your eOPF to verify federal service. If you re-enter federal service, your new HR office can request your OPF from NPRC. For retirement questions, contact OPM’s Retirement Services at https://www.opm.gov/retirement-services

10. What if I need documents for employment verification or background investigations?

    You or your requesting agency can contact the NPRC to release verified employment data with your authorization. 

11. What if I had pending personnel actions when I separated?

    Any pending personnel actions (e.g., performance ratings, awards, or adverse actions) are completed by your agency and then filed in your eOPF record once finalized. If any discrepancies exist, you should contact your former employment agency HR office immediately for clarification