Federal Retirement Planning Blog

Dec 3, 2024

When most people hear about the highest paid federal employees, the reaction is immediate: “They must be financially set for life.”

Dec 2, 2024

Are you a federal employee in California? If so, you’re likely aware that navigating your financial future can feel like solving a puzzle.

Nov 28, 2024

Air traffic controllers (ATCs) play a most important role in ensuring air travel is both safe and efficient. The job at hand is very rewarding while being extremely challenging, demanding both physical and mental tolls.

Nov 27, 2024

FBI retirement benefits are established based on the Federal Employees Retirement System, though FBI special agent retirement is regulated in a way more favorable than regular FERS in a number of significant aspects.

Nov 26, 2024

The United States federal income tax system uses a progressive tax system, meaning that as your income increases, so does your tax rate.

Nov 22, 2024

On November 8, 2024, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced the current premium for medicare part b, deductible, and coinsurance amounts for Medicare Part A and Part B for 2025.

Nov 21, 2024

For 403b Roth 2025, the IRS has updated the 403(b) contribution limits, providing new opportunities for retirement savings. Here are the key details:

Nov 18, 2024

The roth ira contribution limits 2025 for both traditional and Roth IRAs remains unchanged at $7,000, with an additional $1,000 catch-up contribution allowed for taxpayers aged 50 and older, bringing their total to $8,000.

Nov 15, 2024

The Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance (FEGLI) Program, established on August 29, 1954, is the largest group life insurance program in the world.

Nov 14, 2024

The right retirement date under FERS can significantly increase your annual-leave payout, reduce gaps between your last paycheck and first pension payment, and improve your overall retirement benefits.

Nov 12, 2024

For Now, the 2025 cola update is that The Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 2025, which will impact more than 72.5 million Americans

Nov 8, 2024

Social Security is a federal program that provides financial support to retirees, disabled individuals, and their families.

Nov 6, 2024

The 2025 VA disability pay rates will increase by 2.5%, reflecting the Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) announced by the Social Security Administration. This increase will take effect on December 1, 2024.

Nov 4, 2024

Are you wondering how many pay periods happen in a year, or how many payroll weeks you can expect, especially if you’re on a biweekly schedule in 2024?

Oct 22, 2024

For small business owners and self-employed individuals, the Solo 401(k) and SEP IRA are two of the top retirement plan options. Whether you're a freelancer or running a small business, these plans provide a straightforward way to start saving for retirement while offering significant tax advantages.

Oct 18, 2024

The Military Pay Raise 2025 is a significant topic of interest for active-duty service members, veterans, and military families.

Oct 17, 2024

The recognition of the FERS benefit is good for federal employees. The system provides a special benefit for employees retiring before they qualify to receive Social Security, thereby bridging the income gap.

Oct 16, 2024

After several years of above-average federal pay raises including the 5.2% raise in 2024 (the largest in over four decades) and 4.7% in 2025 federal employees may be facing a sharp reversal. The administration's FY2026 budget directs agencies to plan for a 0% pay raise. Congress is considering alternatives, but the fallout from the 43-day 2025 government shutdown has intensified pressure to limit federal payroll spending heading into 2026.

Oct 11, 2024

The 60-day rollover rule requires you to reinvest money from one retirement account into another within 60 days to avoid taxes and penalties.

Oct 11, 2024

As we near 2025, retirees, government workers, and everyone living on a fixed income are eyeing the Social Security Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) and federal General Schedule (GS) pay scale updates.

Oct 10, 2024

The Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA) is an additional fee that certain Medicare beneficiaries may need to pay on their Part B and Part D premiums.

Oct 9, 2024

Both 401(a) and 403(b) plans serve as retirement savings vehicles to help individuals prepare for their future.

Oct 7, 2024

Learn how 401(k) accounts are treated after death. Discover whether beneficiaries pay taxes, how inherited 401(k)s grow, and key rules to maximize your legacy.

Oct 4, 2024

Below is an estimated 2025 GS pay scale increase​ table for 2025, created by taking the 2024 GS table and applying the anticipated 1.7% salary increase, which will take effect at the beginning of the next calendar year.

Sep 27, 2024

So, what is a 401(k) TPA? When a company sets up a 401(k) or any retirement plan, who manages it—the employer or the employees? That’s where a third-party administrator steps in. They play a critical role in ensuring the smooth management of your retirement plan.