Retirement planning can be a puzzle – especially when one spouse is a federal employee, and the other is in the private sector. Mixed-retirement households are more common than you think, and at Serving Those Who Serve (STWS), we work with many ... Read More

Roth IRAs have been available since 1998. In spite of their being advertised as a financial panacea, Roth IRAs  may not be financially suitable for all individuals. At this time late in the year, many traditional IRA owners are being ... Read More

Heads up! This is not the most updated information on this topic. With the passage of the Social Security Fairness Act in January 2025, the impact of WEP on CSRS and CSRS Offset pensions was largely eliminated. Check out our ... Read More

Several previous FEDZONE columns have discussed Medicare enrollment options for federal retirees once they become eligible to enroll in Medicare at age 65. The two options for  Medicare enrollment are: (1) Original Medicare and (2) Medicare Advantage (also known as ... Read More

Each generation faces its own challenges when preparing for retirement, and for millennials, it’s the high levels of student loan debt, lower access to affordable housing, and, as of late, staggering inflation. These rising costs can make retirement planning tricky, ... Read More

In the wake of the election earlier this month, renewed concerns have surfaced over the new administration’s possible reactivation of Executive Order 13957, also known as Schedule F.  By now, you most likely know that this action was advanced in ... Read More

In the wake of the election earlier this month, renewed concerns have surfaced over the new administration’s possible reactivation of Executive Order 13957, also known as Schedule F.  By now, you most likely know that this action was advanced in ... Read More

Healthcare costs can be unpredictable and typically rise later in age, making health insurance coverage a critical part of a strong retirement plan. Federal employee health insurance options in retirement are unique, thanks to the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program ... Read More

As we gather around the table this Thanksgiving, we’re reminded of the special dishes that bring our families together and fill our homes with warmth and comfort.  At Serving Those Who Serve, we believe in celebrating the traditions that make ... Read More

One of the best benefits available to you as a federal employee is the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS). When you separate from government service, your post-job life will be supported by the three-legged FERS stool consisting of Social Security, a ... Read More