The monthly average processing time for April (including both digital and paper applications) increased to 78 days, up from 60 days in March . While processing digital retirement applications is faster, many paper claims are still coming in from federal agencies as the government transitions to the digital system. more…
Recent Articles
Bill Would Protect Federal Employee’s Credit Scores During Shutdowns
Senate Democrats introduced last week new legislation to protect federal employees from financial penalties they may experience while working without pay or furloughed during a government shutdown. more…
The Choice of FERS Disability Retirement or Workers’ Compensation
Ed Zurndorfer discusses a FERS-covered employee’s decision to either get disability retirement or receivie workers’ compensation benefits. In some situations, the employee may be eligible to receive both. more…
New TSP Catch‑Up Contribution Rules in 2026
If your are turning age 50 or older in 2026, a new law could change how your Thrift Savings Plan catch‑up contributions are made. Learns what catch‑up contributions are, who the new requirement applies to, how age and income affect your options, and what to consider if you don’t want Roth contributions. Real‑world examples are included more…
FERS Disability Retirement: Eligibility Requirements & Application Process / Review
Ed Zurndorfer outlines the requirements that a FERS-covered employee must fulfill in order to qualify for a disability retirement — and the criteria the Office of Personnel Management considers in determining whether to approve it. Included are a list of necessary forms and how to appeal if OPM denies the application. more…
New IRS Charitable Deduction Tax Rules in 2026
Ed Zurndorfer discusses a major tax rule changes that will likely affect the charitable giving strategies for many federal employees and retirees — for those that itemize their deductions and those who don’t. Tips and practical examples are included more…
How to Check the Status of Your Federal Income Tax Refund
This IRS online tool is a convenient way to check the status of your federal income tax refund. Here’s what you need to know more…
More Opportunities to Use Section 529 College Savings Funds from New Law
With the recent turnover and reduction in the federal government workforce, many federal employees may be considering changing jobs or professions — and likely need additional training and licensing. Using tax-free withdrawals from a Section 529 plan is one way of minimizing the cost of this additional training and licensing. Ed Zurndorfer outlines how opportunities have been expanded with the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) in 2025. more…
Applying for Federal Retirement
Chris Kowalik gives tips on preparing retirement paperwork to keep your earned benefits, avoid delays, and know what to expect more…
2027 Federal Pay Freeze More Likely
The likelihood of a 2027 pay freeze for civilian federal employees continued after the House Appropriations Committee approved a government spending bill on Wednesday that makes no mention of a pay increase in January more…