Federal retirement expert, Chris Kowalik, explains why the Federal Employees Group Life Insurance program was designed to be relatively affordable coverage while you are working — and never intended to be the long-term life insurance policy that you kept forever more…
7 Retirement Regrets to Avoid
Federal retirement expert, Chris Kowalik, explains how retirement regrets have real consequences, and why it’s important to do what you can now to get ahead of the game more…
The TSP Early Withdrawal Penalty
Federal retirement expert, Chris Kowalik, reveals the rules of the early withdrawal penalty (and how to avoid it) when taking money out of the TSP prior to age 59-1/2. Examples are provided.
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3 Questions to Ask When Hiring a Financial Professional
Less than 25% of federal employees have ever consulted a financial professional. Federal retirement expert, Chris Kowalik, discusses why someone should engage a professional, what they should expect in the process, and what it’s going to cost more…
The Goals, the Gap and the Gains
Federal retirement expert, Chris Kowalik, discusses why goal setting can leave federal employees feeling frustrated and overwhelmed. She gives real world examples of how to break down goals into manageable steps
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3 Financial Pitfalls to Avoid in Retirement
A financially stable retirement depends on knowing what to do – and what not to do – with your benefits, money and assets. Federal retirement expert, Chris Kowalik, provides some common pitfalls to watch out for (and what to do about them) more…
New TSP Withdrawal and Loan Options from CARES Act
Federal retirement expert, Chris Kowalik, discusses the new guidance just released by the TSP on withdrawals and the loan options for participants affected by COVID-19. Who qualifies? Are these changes advantageous to you? What are the potential problems you should think through before making a decision?
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Top 5 Things to Know About Your TSP During a Market Downturn
Many Thrift Savings Plan investors have seen their accounts dwindle in value in just a few days. Whether you’re close to retirement or have a ways to go, federal retirement expert, Chris Kowalik, provides some candid insights on this topic before making any knee-jerk reactions more…
Volatile Market: The TSP and the Coronavirus
Federal retirement expert Chris Kowalik discusses the financial impact the coronavirus is having on federal employees who are investors in the Thrift Savings Plan. Specifically, she addresses: Is there a reason to panic? Should you rebalance your TSP because of this market downturn? Are there any weaknesses exposed in TSP when we have a volatile market?
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3 Retirement Resolutions You Should Make for the New Year
Federal retirement expert, Chris Kowalik, discusses three retirement resolutions you should be making in the new year — specifically how making smaller, realistic goals (and sticking to them) can lead to big results over time more…