While you can’t avoid taxes, you can choose when you want to pay them when it comes to certain accounts and savings. Chris Kowalik explains how the growth in your investments is taxed, and which tax bucket is right for you: “tax me now,” “tax me later,” and “tax me never.” more…
Latest Articles
New Standard Deduction Presents Tax-Planning Opportunities for Individuals — Particularly Seniors
A law passed in 2025 allows a new temporary senior tax deduction for the years 2025 through 2028, and also changes the standard deduction for most other individuals. Ed Zurndorfer explains the changes and how they present both tax-planning opportunities and a caution for potential “stealth taxes.” Practical examples are included. more…
2027 Federal Pay Raise Proposed at 4.1 Percent
If passed, the Federal Adjustment of Income Rates (FAIR) Act would provide federal workers with a 3.1% across-the-board increase in basic pay next year plus an average 1% increase in locality pay. more…
Best (and Worst) States to Retire in 2026
A recent study compared the 50 states across 46 key indicators of retirement-friendliness including tax rates, cost of living, and access to quality medical care and fun activities. Here’s what they found… more…
How to File a Tax Return for An Individual Who Died
Filing a tax return for the year an individual dies presents some unique filing and reporting rules. Ed Zurndorfer discusses the rules and provides the list of forms (with links) that the tax filer may need more…
Understanding the Complicated Roth TSP to Roth IRA Rollover Rules
Upon retiring from federal service, a Roth TSP participant has the option of rolling over their Roth TSP account to a Roth IRA. But this rollover one of the most complicated transfers, and can have major federal and tax consequences. Ed Zurndorfer explains the three most critical pieces of the rollover that federal employees and retirees need to consider more…
Legislation Would Guarantee Pay for Federal Employees and Contractors in Government Shutdowns
If passed, the True Shutdown Fairness Act would also prevent layoffs during any government shutdowns in fiscal year 2026 more…
Who Must File a 2025 Federal Income Tax Return, How to File, and Filing Deadlines
Ed Zurndorfer discusses which individuals are required to file a 2025 federal income tax return, how to file a return, and filing deadlines. Included is a checklist of the personal information and documents you’ll need plus ways to file for free more…
New Postal Rule Could Delay Processing of Your Tax Returns
Ed Zurndorfer explains the rule and gives federal employees and retirees the steps to avoid penalties, interest and late claims this year more…
TSP Roth In-Plan Conversion: Calculators, How-To Guide & Video Tutorial
The new TSP Roth In-Plan Conversion Option started Jan. 28. Are you confused about what it is? Is it the right option for you? Here are several tools from the TSP to help, including a 20-page guide, tutorial video, and two online calculators more…









