Chris Kowalik addresses one of the toughest questions facing federal employees: How much money do I need to retire? more…
Latest Articles
Rules for Claiming Social Security Benefits at Age 62
Many federal employees will be retiring in the next few years when they are in their early 60’s. Ed Zurndorfer discusses the rules that apply to individuals who apply for their monthly Social Security retirement benefit when they reach their 62nd birthday more…
Legislative Plans Targeting Federal Benefits
Chris Kowalik provides an overview of the proposed changes looming over the federal workforce that affect federal employee benefits — plus gives an update on reduction-in-force (RIFs). more…
Electing FERS Spousal Survivor Benefits When Retiring
No matter which type of retirement a federal employee chooses and is eligible for, an employee has the option of offering a survivor annuity to one individual. Ed Zurndorfer discusses FERS spousal survivor benefits and their importance for married employees when retiring under immediate retirement, Voluntary Early Retirement Arrangement (VERA), Voluntary Separation Incentive Payment (VSIP), Discontinued Service Retirement (DSR) and deferred retirement more…
Important Deadline and Reminders for FSAFEDS Claims
Ed Zurndorfer outlines the deadlines — and provides helpful tips — for submitting claims for 2024 in the Federal Flexible Spending Account Program (FSAFEDS) more…
What if I Don’t Qualify for a VERA or DSR?
Chris Kowalik explores what happens when a federal employee is facing a reduction-in-force (RIF), but doesn’t qualify for an early out or a discontinued service retirement. Includes what an employee may be eligible to receive (such as a cash incentive or severance pay), and how an employee may qualify for a federal pension later more…
What Departing Federal Employees Can (and Cannot) Do With Their TSP Account
Ed Zurndorfer discusses TSP contributions, TSP loans, withdrawals and distributions (RMDs) 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…
3 Myths About FEHB in Retirement
Chris Kowalik dispels several misconceptions about how the Federal Employee Health Benefits program works in retirement more…
OPM ‘Retirement Quick Guide’ to Help Federal Employees
The guide is designed to help employees know what to expect as their retirement application is processed and benefits are determined — plus assist in estimating when they can expect to receive their interim and first annuity payments more…