Most federal employees under FERS rely on Social Security as part of retirement. While Social Security is not going anywhere, the latest trustees report suggests the choices to preserve full benefits are getting tougher. The program is moving closer to the point where it will no longer be able to pay full scheduled benefits from its current revenue. The system could pay full benefits until 2034, then benefits will be reduced to about 83% of the promised amount. What can be done? more…
How Living Longer Will Impact Your Federal Retirement
Given today’s ongoing high inflation, many Americans worry they may not have put away enough money for retirement, Chris Kowalik discusses how living longer will impact your healthcare (FEHB) premiums, healthcare expenses, and long-term care costs. And why longevity planning must be part of your big picture more…
2027 Health Savings Account (HSA) Contribution Limits Increase
Federal employees, retirees and annuitants have an opportunity to save money in a tax-advantaged manner to pay medical expenses by utilizing Health Savings Accounts. The IRS announced the increase to the amount individuals can contribute to HSAs (plus catch-up contributions for those eligible and age 55 and over) more…
2027 COLA Estimate: Increase 1% Higher Than Last Year
Analysts give a projection of the 2027 cost-of-living adjustment for retirees. While now estimated to be higher than this year’s COLA, experts say it still falls behind the actual cost of living for most seniors more…
Divorce After Federal Retirement: What Happens to Your Benefits?
There are life events occurring during a federal retiree’s retirement that can affect their retirement benefits. Ed Zurndorfer discusses the effect of divorce after retirement, and how it affects a survivor annuity, health benefits enrollment, and beneficiaries for for Thrift Savings Plan, and life insurance concerns. Includes both CSRS and FERS scenarios, practical examples, and the necessary forms more…