Ed Zurndorfer explains the strategy and process for increasing Social Security benefits by suspending it until reaching full retirement age, and refiling for benefits more…
Latest Articles
Your 10-Point Retirement Checklist
Chris Kowalik outlines must-do action items, timelines and step-by-step instructions to be prepared for your retirement more…
Withdrawal of Social Security Claim Within First Year
In the first of three columns discussing “redo” options that are available for Social Security beneficiaries, Ed Zurndorfer outlines the withdrawal of application process and strategies to claim Social Security benefits more…
TSP Lifecycle Funds
Chris Kowalik explains why, when, and how to use this Thrift Savings Plan investment strategy more…
Optimizing Your TSP
Chris Kowalik highlights the important changes to the Thrift Savings Plan and how to leverage them to your advantage more…
Getting Your ‘Docs’ in a Row
Chris Kowalik offer tips on how to get yourself organized before leaving federal service more…
Why Transferring Traditional TSP to a Roth IRA Makes Sense for Many Federal Employees
Many federal employees could be in a higher marginal tax bracket by the time they withdraw their traditional TSP and traditional IRA accounts. Ed Zurndorfer gives insight on why transferring a traditional Thrift Savings Plan to a Traditional IRA — and then converting to a Roth IRA — may be beneficial. Practical examples and suggested steps are provided more…
5 Mistakes to Avoid When Making TSP Required Minimum Distributions
Knowing the required minimum distribution (RMD) rules is extremely important because of the severe IRS penalties — plus the missed planning opportunities. Ed Zurndorfer discusses common mistakes to avoid. more…
The Truth About ‘Water Cooler Experts’
Chris Kowalik reveals the real truth behind why so many federal employees take advice from the “self-appointed office experts” at the proverbial water cooler more…
A Misunderstanding of the Early Withdrawal Penalty for Disability Applicable to the TSP and IRAs
The exception to the 10 percent early withdrawal penalty for disability applicable to Thrift Savings Plan participants and to IRA owners is a source of much confusion. Ed Zurndorfer examines when a TSP participant and an IRA owner can make penalty-free withdrawals more…