Chris Kowalik explains the the difference between active employee pay raises and retiree cost-of-living adjustments — and why, when and how they are applied — as well as current projections for 2026’s anticipated pay raises and how newly announced COLAs will be implemented in retirement more…
Recent Articles
Your Survivor Benefit Plan vs. Life Insurance
Your federal Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP) is an excellent way to protect a portion of your income for your spouse when you die. But that is all it protects, just a portion. You may want to seek out other solutions to fill in the gaps to meet your retirement goals. Chris Kowalik gives understanding on how the SBP and life insurance work so you can develop a comprehensive strategy for utilizing both, providing you and your spouse with the ultimate income protection. more…
2026 Medicare Premiums and Open Enrollment
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services have released the 2026 premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance amounts for the Medicare Part A and Part B programs. Medicare open enrollment is Oct. 15 – Dec. 7 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…
2026 Thrift Savings Plan Maximum Contribution Limits
The Internal Revenue Service announced the cost-of-living adjustments affecting 2026 TSP contribution limits — as well as dollar limitations for traditional and Roth IRAs and other retirement-related items… 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…
Democrats Propose to Ban RIFs During Government Shutdowns
If passed, the legislation would also reverse Reduction In Force actions taken during the most recent government shutdown 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…
2025 Federal Benefits Open Season Options Announced by OPM
The Office of Personnel Management officially announced the open season dates and various choices federal employees and retirees have for their 2026 health, dental and vision coverage. Included is a list of health plans that are dropping out in 2026. more…