The new Roth Thrift Savings Plan in-plan conversion option (starting Jan. 2026) is complex — and may benefit some but not all traditional TSP participants. Ed Zurndorfer provides five important questions before considering this option, plus helpful insight on the tax consequences, who is eligible to participate, and the complicated rules and required minimum distrubion (RMD) issues. Practical examples are included more…
New Mandatory Roth TSP Catch-Up Contribution Rules
New rules for mandatory Roth TSP catch-up contributions go to effect Jan. 1, 2026. And there are many challenges and confusion regarding which federal employees are (or are not) effected, and the financial impact. Ed Zurndorfer answers some important frequently asked questions including practical examples more…
How to Maximize Your 2026 TSP Contributions and Not Lose Agency Matching Contributions
Ed Zurndorfer discusses how regular contributions and catch-up contributions made to the TSP affect agency matching contributions for federal employees covered under FERS — and how those employees can avoid losing matching TSP contributions from their agency. Practical examples and worksheets are included more…
A Health Reimbursement Account Is Another Tax-Advantaged Another Way to Pay Medical Expenses
While some federal employees and retirees do not meet some of the requirements to contribute to a Health Savings Account, the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) provides a Health Reimbursement Account (HRA). Ed Zurndorfer discusses what an HRA is, how federal employees can utilize it — plus it’s advantages and limitations. A helpful comparison chart of an HRA an FSA and an HSA is included more…
Health Savings Account: A Tax-Advantaged Way for Paying Current and Future Medical Bills
Federal employees and retirees have an opportunity to save money in a tax-advantaged manner in order to pay current and future medical expenses by utilizing health savings accounts (HSAs). But it is imperative that understand the HSA rules. Ed Zurndorfer discusses HSA rules including eligibility rules and the types of medical expenses that can be paid tax-free from an HSA more…
FEHB Cost Saving Ideas and Tips for Federal Retirees & Annuitants
Ed Zurndorfer provides some cost-reducing suggestions for federal annuitants including Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program health plan premium savings — and savings for those who are (or who are not) enrolled in Medicare Part A and/or Part B. Plus, suggestions of why federal retirees or annuitants should not elect out of the FEHB program. more…
Making Your FEHB Health Plan Decision for 2026
Ed Zurndorfer discusses the distinct types of health insurance plans offered through the Federal Employees Health Benefits program during this open season, and why federal employees should take a fresh look at their options for next year to best meets their medical needs at the least possible cost more…
How Flexible Spending Accounts Help Ease Sting of Increasing Medical Expenses
A health care flexible spending account (FSA or HCFSA) is one of the most tax-efficient ways to pay out-of-pocket medical, dental and vision expenses. Ed Zurndorfer discusses why federal employees should consider enrolling during open season. Practical examples of the tax-saving benefits are included more…
FEHB Open Season: Tips for Making Changes and Pre-Retirement Checklist
Ed Zurndorfer discusses choices that employees and retirees have in this year’s Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) open season (Nov. 10 – Dec. 8). Included are tips for making changes and a checklist for those who intend to retire soon and want to keep their FEHB enrollment in retirement more…
Federal Employees, Retirees Should Review Dental & Vision Insurance Needs During Open Season
Ed Zurndorfer outlines the federal dental insurance plan (FEDVIP) including premium costs, eligibility enrollment types, and the steps to enroll more…










