Ed Zurndorfer discusses how reemployment in federal service can affect a FERS annuitant’s current and future benefits — including health, dental and life insurance, future FERS annuity, and employment in the private sector more…
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Federal Retiree COLA vs. Federal Employee Pay Raises: What is the Difference?
Chris Kowalik explains the the difference between active employee pay raises and retiree cost-of-living adjustments — and why, when and how they are applied — as well as current projections for 2026’s anticipated pay raises and how newly announced COLAs will be implemented in retirement more…
Trump Accounts: Questions and Hurdles Before Launch July 4, 2026
Trump Accounts were passed into law in 2025 are individual retirement investment-style accounts established for children under the age of 18 (and include one-time $1,000 federal government contribution to their account for those eligible). They are due to launch on July 4, 2026, however many are waiting for some key details including rules for contributions, federal/state income tax consequences, and hurdles to activate and contribute to these accounts. more…
Reviewing Designation of Beneficiaries and Third-Party Payees
Certain life events can affect a federal retiree’s benefits. Ed Zurndorfer discusses why retiring employees are advised to review their designation of beneficiary forms. Also presented is information on third-party payees such as a court may appoint a guardian. more…
Federal Employees Would Get 12 Paid Weeks of Family / Medical Leave Under Proposed Bill
If passed, bipartisan legislation would give civilian federal employees up to 12 weeks of paid family and medical leave per year more…
10 Most Common Mistakes to Avoid When Purchasing Life Insurance
Ed Zurndorfer outlines errors individuals often make when purchasing and owning a life insurance policy
2025 Health Insurance Plan Options & Comparison Tools
Get the latest the official information online for the 2024 plan year of the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program. Dental and vision (FEDVIP) details are also available...
Your Federal Health Benefits & Medicare: Helpful Resources from OPM
The Office of Personnel Management offers several resources for federal employees and retirees regarding Medicare and how it works with the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program...
Guide to Federal Retiree COLAs: What Are They and How Are They Calculated?
Understand what the cost-of-living adjustment is, how it is computed, and how it affects CSRS and FERS annuities, survivor annuities, and other federal employee death benefits...
10 Biggest Mistakes Federal Employees Make When Planning for Retirement (and How to Avoid Them)
Learn the 10 biggest federal retirement planning mistakes that many employees make before leaving civil service including CSRS, FERS, Thrift Savings Plan...
Federal Retirement Planning Checklists
Checklists for 5-10 years from retirement, one year away from retirement, and for your first year after retirement...