Ed Zurndorfer explains how CSRS and FERS cost-of-living adjustments are calculated, with 2026 numbers and real-world examples — plus how COLAs affect survivor annuities, and other federal employee death benefits. more…
Long-Term Care Costs Are Exceeding Americans’ Income: What Should Federal Employees Do?
A new report shows long-term care costs continue to rise, adding another financial challenge for federal employees planning to retire and federal retirees. While no one knows whether they’ll ever need extended care, understanding today’s costs — and what Medicare typically doesn’t cover — can help you make more informed retirement decisions. In our latest guide, Ed Zurndorfer explains the trends and provides some planning strategies to consider before these expenses become a reality more…
Essential Documents for Medical Care and End-of-Life Decisions Should Include a Dementia Directive
A dementia directive allows individuals to document their wishes for medical care before cognitive decline makes those decisions difficult or impossible. Learn how this advance-planning document works, what it may cover, and why it can provide valuable guidance for family members and caregivers. more…
5 Questions Newly-Hired Federal Employees Should Ask About the TSP
Your first few years as a federal employee can have a lasting impact on your retirement. In this guide, Ed Zurndorfer explains the Thrift Savings Plan features every new employee should know, including automatic enrollment, matching contributions, Roth vs. Traditional TSP options, and common mistakes to avoid more…
New Student Loan Rules: What Federal Employees Need to Know
Student loan repayment rules are changing, and federal employees could feel the impact whether they’re just starting their careers or planning for retirement. This guide explains what the new rules mean, how repayment options and borrowing limits are changing, and what steps you should consider now to protect both your budget and your long-term retirement plans 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…
What Departing Federal Employees Can Do With Their TSP Account
Ed Zurndorfer discusses what departed federal employees can do with their Thrift Savings Plan accounts, including making (or not making) contributions, paying of a TSP loan, and making withdrawals (with or without or without penalties) more…
Reemployment in Federal Service (FERS)
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…
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…