Chris Kowalik gives you a “do-over” list to regain control in 2026 that will get you clear about your retirement numbers and options, and uncover financial decisions you have been avoiding more…
Latest Articles
What You Should Know About the Roth TSP in-Plan Conversion Option
The new Roth Thrift Savings Plan in-plan conversion option (starting Jan. 2026) is complex — and may benefit some but not all traditional TSP participants. Ed Zurndorfer provides five important questions before considering this option, plus helpful insight on the tax consequences, who is eligible to participate, and the complicated rules and required minimum distrubion (RMD) issues. Practical examples are included more…
White House Gives Federal Employees Two Extra Holidays (Dec. 24 and Dec. 26, 2025)
President Trump issued an executive order today giving most federal employees two additional paid holidays n 2025, specifically Christmas Eve and the day after Christmas. more…
Guide to 2026 GS Pay Scale for Federal Employees
NEW – 2026 Federal Pay Raise Finalized in Executive Order The White House issued an… more…
2026 Federal Pay Raise Finalized in Executive Order
The White House issued an executive order finalizing the 2026 federal employee pay raise of an overall average of 1% with no increase in locality pay. OPM’s official pay tables are also now available more…
Federal Retirees Report Error in December 2025 Annuity Statements
Many federal retirees have reported errors on their December 2025 annuity statements related to next year’s cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). Here’s what you can do if you are affected… more…
Will Federal Employees Get Christmas Eve Off?
Or is the day after Christmas — Fri., Dec. 26 — more likely to be granted as an extra day off? more…
Big Changes to the TSP in 2026
Chris Kowalik explains how newly implemented laws will affect your take-home pay and taxes more…
New Mandatory Roth TSP Catch-Up Contribution Rules Effective Jan. 1, 2026
New rules for mandatory Roth TSP catch-up contributions go to effect Jan. 1, 2026. And there are many challenges and confusion regarding which federal employees are (or are not) effected, and the financial impact. Ed Zurndorfer answers some important frequently asked questions including practical examples more…
New Tax Benefits for Health Savings Account Participants
The changes expand HSA eligibility, which allows more people to save and to pay for healthcare costs through tax-free HSAs more…