Federal Retirement Planning Blog

453 guides on FERS, TSP, FEHB, Social Security and federal benefits — updated as rules change.

Mar 18, 2025

TSP Catch up 2025 - Thrift Saving Plan

Participants who are 50 years old or turning 50 during 2025 will have any contributions exceeding the elective deferral or annual additions limit automatically redirected to the catch-up limit.
Read More
Mar 18, 2025

TSP Max Contribution 2025: Updates Federals Should Know

Retirement is not just about leaving the workforce; it is about stepping into a phase of life where financial security allows you to live with peace of mind.
Read More
Mar 17, 2025

Will FERS Supplement Be Eliminated ? - What Federal Workers Must Know Now?

Will fers supplement be eliminated ? As of March 17, 2025, the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) Supplement remains in effect.
Read More
Mar 12, 2025

What Is Trump Trying to Do? Breaking Down His Next Move

In recent times, President Donald Trump's policies have sparked discussions among federal employees and the public alike. Rumors of "Trump quit" have circulated, leading many to ask, What is Trump trying to do? However, instead of stepping back, his administration is actively pursuing significant changes aimed at restructuring the federal government. These initiatives have profound implications for federal employees, particularly concerning job security, salaries, and departmental functions.
Read More
Mar 7, 2025

Government Shutdown 2025: Latest Updates & What You Need to Know

The U.S. government has narrowly avoided a 2025 government shutdown after the Senate passed a continuing resolution (CR) late Friday, funding federal operations through September 30, 2025.
Read More
Mar 5, 2025

Updated Cola 2026 Federal Employees - Could Tariffs Push Benefits Higher?

Millions of Americans rely on Social Security benefits, and each year’s Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) is closely watched by retirees and policy analysts alike.
Read More
Mar 4, 2025

Federal Employee Layoffs: Key Impacts & Strategies

Imagine dedicating years to public service, navigating policies, and ensuring the nation runs smoothly—only to face uncertainty about your career.
Read More
Feb 28, 2025

Federal Reduction In Force - The Trump Administration Lays The Groundwork For Mass Dederal Worker Layoffs In a New Memo.

A Federal Reduction in Force (RIF) is a process used by U.S. federal agencies to eliminate positions and reduce personnel due to factors such as budget constraints, reorganization, lack of work, or other operational needs.
Read More
Feb 25, 2025

Will TSP Limits Increase in 2025? Best TSP Funds to Invest

The Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) is one of the most crucial retirement savings programs available to federal employees and military personnel. Understanding the annual contribution limits and investment options is essential to making the most out of this tax-advantaged savings plan.
Read More
Feb 21, 2025

Federal Funding, Musk-Style: The Future of Student Loans & Education Grants

The landscape of student loans and education grants is set to undergo significant transformations, and the driving forces behind these changes are inspired by some of the boldest business models of our time—particularly Elon Musk’s focus on efficiency and innovation.
Read More
Feb 20, 2025

Political Chess: Judge James Wynn cancels retirement blocking Trump’s intended replacement

In a stunning political and judicial maneuver, Judge James Wynn cancels retirement blocking Trump’s intended replacement.
Read More
Feb 18, 2025

Federal Furlough: What News About Furlough Holds?

The White House announced on Friday that federal agencies have started informing affected federal employees about potential furloughs, which could take effect at midnight, as Congress faces challenges in reaching an agreement to prevent a government shutdown.
Read More
Feb 17, 2025

Federal Government Early Retirement Buyout 2025

Federal government early retirement buyout 2025 means, The Voluntary Separation Incentive Payment (VSIP) Authority, often referred to as "buyout authority," allows federal agencies to offer employees lump-sum payments as an incentive to voluntarily separate from their positions.
Read More
Feb 17, 2025

IUL Policy Pros and Cons: A Right Choice for Your Future?

Life doesn’t always go as planned. We strive to secure our family’s future while keeping our finances flexible and growing.
Read More
Feb 14, 2025

Understanding IUL vs 401k: Choosing the Right Tool for Your Retirement Goals

Planning for retirement involves exploring various financial tools to build long-term savings and security. Two popular options are an employer-sponsored 401(k) and Indexed Universal Life (IUL) insurance.
Read More
Feb 14, 2025

Federal Retirement Plans in Jeopardy: What’s Causing the Shutdowns?

Federal jobs are often seen as the gold standard for benefits and work-life balance, but what if those very benefits are at risk due to ongoing changes?
Read More
Feb 13, 2025

Indexed Universal Life (IUL) vs Annuity: Which is Right for Your Federal Retirement?

When planning for retirement, federal employees often explore various financial tools to secure their future. Two popular options are Indexed Universal Life (IUL) insurance vs annuities.
Read More
Feb 12, 2025

Buyout Now or Retirement Later: Which Is the Right Choice?

If you are a federal employee right now, you probably feel the pressure of the ongoing budget impasses and the looming uncertainty. With rising bills and cost-cutting initiatives, it’s becoming clearer that the government might be facing yet another shutdown—something many of us have seen before. The government has labeled over 6 lakh workers as 'non-essential,' meaning they can't work during a funding lapse. Restructuring is underway, with agencies like the new Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) trying to make things more streamlined. While that sounds great for efficiency, it might also mean downsizing and even forced furloughs for some employees. So, here’s the big question: Should you consider a buyout now or stick it out until retirement? This blog is going to break down the options, what they mean for your benefits, and strategies to help you pick the right choice for your future!
Read More
Feb 11, 2025

Trump Tax Plan 2025: What’s Changing for Businesses & Households?

As the expiration of Trump’s current corporate tax laws approaches, discussions about the Trump Tax Plan 2025 are gaining momentum.
Read More
Feb 10, 2025

Retirement on Shaky Ground? The Impact of Federal Buyouts

But with the wave of federal buyouts sweeping across agencies, many federal employees and retirees are left wondering about the next.
Read More
Feb 7, 2025

120 Hour Workweek, Buyouts & Burns: Is 'Doge' Sinking Your Financial Planning?

As we enter a new era of government reforms, changes are sweeping across various federal agencies, impacting not only the way the government operates but also how federal employees approach their financial planning.
Read More
Feb 4, 2025

Annuity vs 401(k): Which is Right for Your Retirement?

When planning for retirement, you’re faced with an overwhelming number of decisions about how to save, invest, and ultimately draw income during your retirement years. Two commonly discussed options are annuities and 401(k) plans.
Read More
Feb 3, 2025

Retirement Planning Boomer Mistakes - (and How to Avoid Them)

Retirement: a time for relaxation, travel, and cherished moments with family. But for many Baby Boomers and seniors, this golden chapter can be overshadowed by unexpected financial challenges.
Read More
Jan 31, 2025

At What Age Can i Withdraw From TSP Without Penalty

The Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) recently announced that account holders are no longer required to wait 30 days between withdrawal requests. This change is part of the ongoing implementation of the TSP Modernization Act of 2017, which allowed participants to make withdrawals more frequently than before.
Read More
Jan 30, 2025

TSP Investment Advice: Smart Strategies for Federal Employees

One of the most effective retirement plans that federal employees can use is the Thrift Savings Plan, yet the optimal TSP investment plan will be determined by your schedule, risk level, retirement prospects, and retirement plan.
Read More

Turn what you read into a plan — free call.

Free 30-minute call with an independent, licensed professional in your state. No obligation.

★★★★★ Reviews on Google & TrustpilotSpouses welcome