New CPI-W data confirms the 2027 COLA estimate is holding steady at 3.1% for CSRS/Social Security and 2.1% for FERS — see the full breakdown. more…
Main Content
Service Computation Dates: Why Your SCD Matters for Federal Retirement
Not all Service Computation Dates are the same — and the one on your SF-50 may not be the one that determines when you can retire. Here’s how to tell which SCD actually applies to you. more…
Should Federal Employees Self-Fund for Long-Term Care Costs?
Long-term care insurance isn’t the only way to prepare for future LTC costs. Ed Zurndofer looks at self-funding as an alternative — the advantages, the key questions to ask about who will provide care, and which accounts (HSAs, brokerage funds, Roth TSP/IRA) make the most sense to tap when the time comes. more…
The Real Cost of Your TSP RMD (and How to Reduce It)
Your Thrift Savings Plan required minimum distributions can do more than raise your tax bill — it can push up Medicare premiums and make more of your Social Security taxable. Here’s what the rules actually say, and how to plan ahead. more…
Roth Conversions & Your TSP: The Window is Still Open
Two things changed recently that make Roth conversions worth a second look: tax rates are now locked in, and as of January 2026, you can convert traditional TSP funds to Roth directly inside your TSP account — no rollover needed. This piece covers who benefits most from converting (hint: often those in a lower-income window before RMDs kick in), the rules and limits on in-plan conversions, and the tax-payment mistakes to avoid since the TSP can’t withhold taxes for you. 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...