Social Security’s retirement trust fund is projected to be depleted in 2032, a milestone that could lead to automatic benefit reductions unless Congress acts. A new bipartisan Senate proposal is designed to break years of legislative gridlock by requiring lawmakers to vote on recommendations for strengthening the program’s long-term finances. Here’s what it means for federal employees and retirees. more…
How the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge May Benefit Federal Retirees
Starting July 1, 2026, The Medicare GLP-1 Bridge Program gives eligible Medicare beneficiaries access to certain GLP-1 weight loss medications for a $50 monthly copayment through a temporary CMS demonstration. This guide explains eligibility requirements, covered medications, prior authorization, costs, and what federal retirees should know about using the program alongside Medicare and FEHB coverage. more…
Will Medicare’s Prescription Drug Price Negotiation Program Lower Your Costs?
Medicare can now negotiate prices for certain high-cost prescription drugs, but what does that mean for your healthcare costs? Learn how the Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program works, who may benefit, and what the Supreme Court’s recent decision means for Medicare beneficiaries more…
Understanding Social Security’s Financial Future: A Guide for Federal Employees and Retirees
Social Security isn’t disappearing, but it does face long-term financial challenges. This guide explains what the projected depletion of the trust fund reserves really means, what the 2026 Trustees Report says, and how it could affect federal employees and retirees. more…
FERS High-3 Average Salary: How It’s Calculated and Why It Matters
Your high-3 average salary is one of the most important factors used to calculate your FERS pension — but it’s also one of the most misunderstood. Learn what counts as basic pay, how OPM determines your highest consecutive 36 months of earnings, common mistakes to avoid, and how your high-3 affects your retirement income. Includes practical examples and a FERS High-3 Estimator Worksheet. more…
Not All Pensions Are Treated the Same: What Federal Employees Need to Know About State Taxes in Retirement
Federal employees spend years building a clear picture of their retirement income. Far less attention is given to how state taxes will affect what that income looks like in practice. While relocating to a different state is often a goal in retirement, knowing how each location will impact your money can make a huge difference. more…
OPM Finalizes Major Changes to Federal Employee Performance Appraisals: What Employees 5–10 Years from Retirement Should Know
While the new rule (effective August 6, 2026) does not change federal retirement benefits, it could influence career progression, promotions, and performance awards during the final years of a federal career. For employees who are five to ten years from retirement, those indirect effects may be worth paying attention to because salary earned during those years can influence future retirement income. This guide outlines the five major changes, what has not changed, describes any impact on an employee’s retirement, and provides insight on maximizing the value of the years that remain before retirement. more…
Millions May Still Be Eligible for COVID-Era IRS Refund — But Deadline Is Soon
Millions of taxpayers — including some federal employees and retirees — may still be able to recover COVID-era IRS penalties and interest. But the opportunity isn’t automatic, and a key filing deadline is rapidly approaching. Here’s who may qualify and what you need to know before time runs out on July 10 more…
5 TSP Tax Surprises Every Federal Employee Should Know
Chapter 1: Your TSP Has a New Job From Building Retirement Savings to Creating Retirement… more…
Should Federal Retirees Enroll in Medicare Part B? The Decision Is Getting More Expensive
With Medicare Part B premiums projected to continue rising over the next decade, the decision to enroll alongside your FEHB coverage deserves careful analysis. While many federal retirees benefit from combining Medicare with FEHB, the added monthly premium isn’t the right choice for everyone. Learn what the latest Medicare projections mean, why dropping FEHB is usually a mistake, and the key factors every federal retiree should consider before making this important retirement healthcare decision. more…