Overview of Fact Sheet The Voluntary Early Retirement Authority (VERA)—also known as an “Early Out”—allows… more…
Reduction in Force (RIF) Fact Sheets
As government agencies reduce their budgets through a Reduction in Force (RIF), federal employees are often left confused.. Chris Kowalik provides fact sheets focused on the Voluntary Early Retirement Authority (VERA), Voluntary Separation Incentive Pay (VSIP), Discontinued Service Retirement (DSR), and Severance Pay. By removing the ambiguity and answering very common questions on each topic, you can better navigate your decisions and understand the consequences of each program more…
How FEHB and Medicare Work Together in Retirement
Chris Kowalik examines the two parts of Medicare that retiring federal employees should be most concerned about, the pros and cons of having both FEHB and Medicare in retirement, plus three different FEHB and Medicare combinations — and their advantages and disadvantages more…
The “F” Word for Federal Employees: ‘You’re Fired!’
Chris Kowalik provides tips for preparing yourself for an unexpected exit from federal service including: getting what you need before you lose access to government systems, knowing what you have earned based on your age and length of service, and accessing money you will need during the transition period more…
4 Myths About Taxes in Retirement
Chris Kowalik explains why taxes can derail an otherwise great retirement plan, and how a little tax planning will help protect your retirement savings in the long run more…
12 Steps to Prepare For a Reduction in Force
As federal agencies undergo workforce reductions, many employees are left wondering what the next round of the Reduction in Force (RIF) will look like and whether it will impact them. To mitigate the risks, you should take proactive steps to safeguard your financial well-being. Chris Kowalik gives 12 critical steps every federal employee should take now to prepare for a potential RIF more…
Reduction in Force (RIF) Training Series
Throughout the 22-part video series, Chris Kowalik delivers information federal employees should understand, answers frequently asked questions, and provides the actionable steps they can take to prepare if faced with a Reduction-in-Force (RIF) termination. more…
8 FAQs About Your TSP
Chris Kowalik unpacks some frequently asked questions from participants in the Thrift Savings Plan regarding contributions, agency matching, and confusion over traditional and Roth accounts more…
Federal Employees Retiring Under an ‘Early Out’ Offer
Chris Kowalik outlines the opportunities (and the consequences) to leaving federal service under the VERA/VSIP more…
Resources for the Deferred Resignation Offer
Chris Kowalik provides a 9-part video series with information and insight to help you make informed decisions about your pending decision on the deferred resignation offer that OPM released on Jan. 28. Includes the new early outs offered by OPM, and questions to ask your agency’s HR before you decide. more…