In this episode, Dan and Katelyn break down the 2024 Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey results, highlighting trends in engagement, leadership trust, and job satisfaction. They also explore how career development can boost retirement security through higher earnings, TSP contributions, and ... Read More

Federal jobs have long been a beacon of stability, known for generous benefits, dependable paychecks, and one of the last remaining pensions in the workforce. But lately, more and more of our Feds are asking the same thing: Is federal ... Read More

In this episode, Dan and Ed explain the upcoming 2026 change requiring high-earning federal employees to make TSP “catch-up” contributions only to the Roth TSP. They also discuss how the $145,000 wage threshold is determined, how dual employment impacts eligibility, ... Read More

By law, a Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) participant’s spouse has certain rights to the participant’s TSP account. These rules apply to withdrawals even if the TSP participant is separated from but still legally married to the participant’s spouse. The Federal ... Read More

This is the third of four FEDZONE columns discussing the withdrawal options that are available to separated Thrift Savings Plan TSP) participants. In these columns, a “separated” participant means a civilian employee or a member of the uniformed services who ... Read More

In this episode, Katelyn and Dan explore key considerations for federal employees and veterans planning-covering the Federal Long Term Care Insurance Program, eligibility requirements, pros and cons of coverage, and alternative options like private plans or self-insuring. They also dive ... Read More

Last year, I wrote an in-depth article exploring why Roth conversions could be a smart move for many federal employees and retirees through TCJA’s expiration in 2025. The topic clearly struck a chord with readers far and wide-and it even ... Read More

In this episode, Dan and Ed explain what the Special Retirement Supplement (SRS) is and who qualifies for it. They also discuss how the SRS is calculated, the 2024 earnings limits retirees need to know, and the impact of excess ... Read More

Signed into law on July 4, 2025, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) introduces sweeping changes to the federal tax code and financial landscape. This legislation includes tax cuts, benefit enhancements, and new savings opportunities-many of which will impact ... Read More

The Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) is a yearly increase to federal retirement benefits, designed to keep up with inflation. For retirees, it’s a key factor in how well your income holds up over time. Those under the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) usually receive the full ... Read More