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Category Archives: CSRS

FedLife Podcast: Mandatory Roth TSP Catch-Up Contributions Coming in 2026 – What Federal Employees Need to Know

07/25/2025
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

The Fed15 Podcast: Is FLTCIP Worth It? Plus, Retirement Strategies for Veterans in Government

07/22/2025
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

FedLife Podcast: FERS Retirees Receiving SRS—Don’t Forget to Report 2024 Earnings

07/18/2025
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

COLA Watch: What the 2026 Estimate Could Mean for CSRS and FERS Retirees

07/16/2025
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

The Fed15 Podcast: Solo Retirement Planning and a Tribute to Rep. Gerry Connolly

07/15/2025
In this episode, Katelyn and Dan explore key topics for federal employees planning for the future-covering solo retirement strategies, long-term care costs, estate planning essentials, and building a personal support system. They also honor Representative Gerry Connolly’s legacy of federal ... Read More

Options for Withdrawing Funds from the Thrift Savings Plan: Option 2 – TSP Annuity

07/11/2025
This is the second of four FEDZONE columns discussing TSP withdrawal options that are available to all separated Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) participants. In these columns, a separated TSP participant means a civilian federal employee or a member of the ... Read More

The Fed15 Podcast: Understanding the Big Beautiful Bill and Protecting Whistleblower Rights

07/08/2025
In this episode, Jen and Dan unpack major challenges facing federal employees-from proposed retirement changes to whistleblower protections-covering the Big Beautiful Bill Act, FERS updates, legal safeguards, and steps to stay informed and protected. Check Out Our Next FERS Webinar ... Read More

FedLife Podcast: What Feds Need to Know About Drug Discount Programs

07/02/2025
In this episode, Dan and Ed explain how prescription drug discount programs work and how to manage your coverage under FEHB. They also discuss the importance of reviewing your formulary, considering generics, and why an annual plan review matters-plus key ... Read More

The Fed15 Podcast: Navigating Privatization and Protecting Your Clearance

06/24/2025
In this episode, Katelyn and Dan discuss the rise of privatization and changing security clearance policies, highlighting the impact of recent layoffs, at-risk roles, political shifts, and executive orders-while emphasizing the need for federal employees to stay informed, protected, and ... Read More

The Fed15 Podcast: Union Shifts and Financial Safety Nets for Federal Employees

06/17/2025
In this episode, Dan and Katelyn discuss the future of federal employee unions and emergency financial planning, emphasizing the importance of understanding evolving labor policies, staying informed through reliable resources, building a strong financial foundation, and proactively preparing for uncertainty ... Read More