Debunking Health Care Flexible Spending Account Myths and Why Every Federal Employee Should Own An HCFSA
11/28/2025
According to an analysis from the Employee Benefits Research Institute, there are currently (2025) 3.2 million active health care flexible spending account (HCFSAs) in the US. A study from Benepass found that 86 percent of US employers offer HCFSAs, suggesting ... Read More
The Fed15 Podcast: A Thanksgiving Special with the STWS Team
11/26/2025
Dan and Katelyn sit down with the rest of the Serving Those Who Serve team for a Thanksgiving Special episode. Each person shares what they’re thankful for, the small things bringing them joy lately, their favorite Thanksgiving dishes, and one ... Read More
FedLife Podcast: Roth TSP vs Roth IRA – Which Should Federal Employees Maximize?
11/25/2025
In this episode, Dan and Ed break down the differences between Roth TSP and Roth IRA accounts for federal employees. They explain the advantages and limitations of each option, strategies for maximizing contributions, and important considerations for withdrawals, tax treatment, ... Read More
Bump and Retreat Explained: Protecting Grade During a RIF
11/25/2025
When agencies reorganize or cut positions, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) reduction in force (RIF) rules determine who stays and who moves. These rules can feel complex, but they follow a clear order and process. By understanding how federal RIF ... Read More
What Federal Employees Planning to Retire in 2026 Need to Consider During Current FEHB Program Open Season
11/24/2025
While in federal service, federal employees are privileged to have an important fringe benefit in the form of group health insurance. Employees enrolled in the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program pay on average 25 to 28 percent of FEHB ... Read More
What We’re Thankful for this Thanksgiving:A Special Message from the STWS Team
11/21/2025
We know 2025 has been a challenging year for the federal community. Between RIFs, hiring freezes, and uncertainty across agencies, many of you have faced hard choices and heavy burdens, often while continuing to serve others with grace and professionalism. ... Read More
Proposed Shutdown Relief: Credit Protection and Cash Options
11/19/2025
New proposals in Congress aim to limit credit damage and ease access to cash for federal employees and contractors affected by government shutdowns. These federal shutdown financial relief bills seek to help Feds and contractors manage funding lapses while protecting their ... Read More
Court Halts Federal Layoffs: What Feds Should Do Next
11/19/2025
A federal judge temporarily blocked most agency RIF layoffs, pausing thousands of pending separations while the case proceeds. For now, that means time – time to confirm your status, gather your records, and plan your next steps. Here’s what this ... Read More
The Fed15 Podcast: A Career Shift with Flavor — Former Fed Kevin Gash’s Sausage Journey
11/18/2025
Dan and Katelyn sit down with Kevin Gash, founder of Maryland Brat & Butcher Co. (formerly Plan B Sausages) and former federal employee of more than 20 years. After being unexpectedly separated from federal service, Kevin shares his journey-from growing ... Read More
Federal Benefits Open Season Highlights for the 2026 Plan Year
11/17/2025
The Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program, which includes the Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) program, provides health insurance benefits to approximately 8.2 million federal employees, U.S. Postal Service employees, certain Tribal employees, and their eligible family members. The Federal ... Read More