One of the most important—and most misunderstood—decisions you’ll make before retiring is whether to elect a survivor benefit for your spouse. While reducing your monthly pension may seem costly, the wrong decision could leave your surviving spouse without a lifetime income or even the ability to continue FEHB health insurance. Chris Kowalik explains how the Survivor Benefit Plan works, what it costs, who should consider it, and the key tradeoffs every federal employee should understand before making this often irrevocable election more…
Main Content
Not All Pensions Are Treated the Same: What Federal Employees Need to Know About State Taxes in Retirement
Federal employees spend years building a clear picture of their retirement income. Far less attention is given to how state taxes will affect what that income looks like in practice. While relocating to a different state is often a goal in retirement, knowing how each location will impact your money can make a huge difference. more…
Rolling Over a TSP Account to an IRA: Advantages and Disadvantages
Thinking about moving your Thrift Savings Plan to an IRA after retirement? A TSP rollover can provide more investment choices and greater flexibility—but it also means giving up some unique TSP advantages. Before making an irreversible decision, understand the tax rules, costs, withdrawal options, and the situations where keeping your money in the TSP may actually be the better choice. Ed Zurndorfer walks you through the pros and cons so you can make an informed decision with confidence. more…
OPM Finalizes Major Changes to Federal Employee Performance Appraisals: What Employees 5–10 Years from Retirement Should Know
While the new rule (effective August 6, 2026) does not change federal retirement benefits, it could influence career progression, promotions, and performance awards during the final years of a federal career. For employees who are five to ten years from retirement, those indirect effects may be worth paying attention to because salary earned during those years can influence future retirement income. This guide outlines the five major changes, what has not changed, describes any impact on an employee’s retirement, and provides insight on maximizing the value of the years that remain before retirement. more…
Millions May Still Be Eligible for COVID-Era IRS Refund — But Deadline Is Soon
Millions of taxpayers — including some federal employees and retirees — may still be able to recover COVID-era IRS penalties and interest. But the opportunity isn’t automatic, and a key filing deadline is rapidly approaching. Here’s who may qualify and what you need to know before time runs out on July 10 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...