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…
Recent Articles
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…
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…
2027 CSRS / FERS / Social Security COLA Estimate
Could retirees receive a larger COLA in 2027? According to the latest inflation figures and analysts, the answer may be yes. See the newest Social Security, CSRS, and FERS COLA projections, compare how each retirement system is affected, and learn why the next three months of inflation reports will determine your final increase. more…
OPM Retirement Backlog Continues to Improve as Paper Retirement Processing Comes to an End
The June 2026 report shows the backlog has fallen nearly 48% since February, while almost 80% of new retirement applications are now submitted digitally. Here’s what the latest numbers — and OPM’s historic end to paper processing—could mean for your retirement. more…
How the Survivor Benefit Plan Works for You (…or Does It?)
One of the most important—and most misunderstood—decisions you’ll make before retiring is whether to elect a survivor benefit for your spouse. While reducing your monthly pension may seem costly, the wrong decision could leave your surviving spouse without a lifetime income or even the ability to continue FEHB health insurance. Chris Kowalik explains how the Survivor Benefit Plan works, what it costs, who should consider it, and the key tradeoffs every federal employee should understand before making this often irrevocable election 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…
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…
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…