The plan proposes an the across-the-board 2026 federal employee pay raise of 1 percent with no increase in locality pay. Some federal law enforcement officers would receive larger raises more…
Recent Articles
10 Must-Do Action Items to Prepare to Retire from Federal Service
As you begin planning for retirement, you may be concerned that you’ll miss some critical steps. Federal retirement expert, Chris Kowalik, provides the action items to ensure you’re on track more…
TSP Withdrawal Option: Total Distribution
A retired federal employee has several options for withdrawing from their Thrift Savings Plan accounts. Ed Zurndorfer outlines the total distribution TSP withdrawal option including the income tax consequences for traditional and Roth accounts and the pros and cons of direct rollovers to IRAs
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Preparing Your Exit from Federal Service
Chris Kowalik provides key understanding on voluntary and involuntary departures (including DRP 2.0), who is entitled to what (and when), how the pension and other benefits are affected. Includes example scenarios for federal employees more…
TSP Withdrawal Option: Partial Distribution
A retired federal employee has several options for withdrawing from their Thrift Savings Plan accounts. Ed Zurndorfer outlines the the partial TSP distribution option including its tax consequences, the limit of distributions allowed, rollovers, and required minimum distributions (RMDs). Practical examples are included. more…
Estate Planning for Unmarried Couples
An estate plan is a group of critical documents that outline end-of-life wishes in case of illness or incapacitated state. Ed Zurndorfer provides estate planning tips for unmarried couples, and a checklist of the documents that both spouses should have more…
5 Tips to Evaluate Your Life Insurance Needs
Is your Federal Employees Group Life Insurance (FEGLI) enough? Life insurance needs change based on major life events, so it’s important to review your coverage regularly. Chris Kowalik guides you through five ways to evaluate your needs more…
Estate Planning for Married Couples
An estate plan is a group of critical documents that outline end-of-life wishes in case of illness or incapacitated state. Ed Zurndorfer provides estate planning tips for married couples, and a checklist of the documents that both spouses should have more…
Estate Planning for Singles
Estate planning is important for singles, couples or families. Ed Zurndorfer provides ten estate planning documents and strategies that are specifically designed for individuals more…
Why Exercise Caution in Electing the Social Security Lump Sum Retroactive Benefits Option
There is the option that allows an individual to cease their delay of Social Security benefits, apply for their monthly benefit, and then receive a lump sum payment of retroactive Social Security monthly benefits. Ed Zurndorfer explains this lump sum option, including its advantages and its disadvantages. more…