Dan and Katelyn discuss what federal employees need to know for 2026, including new TSP and IRA contribution limits, updated catch-up rules, and Roth considerations. They also cover common retirement application mistakes that can delay first payments, share tips for submitting a clean application, and highlight upcoming webinars on key federal retirement topics.
Dan and Katelyn break down what federal employees need to know heading into 2026, starting with the newly announced TSP and IRA contribution limits and how higher caps, expanded catch-ups, and Roth requirements for higher earners can shape retirement strategy. They explain why recalculating per-pay-period contributions before January matters for maximizing tax-advantaged growth and agency matching.
The conversation then shifts to the other side of retirement readiness, outlining the most common mistakes that delay first retirement payments and walking through a practical checklist for submitting a clean, on-time application. The episode closes with key planning takeaways and a preview of upcoming webinars covering FERS, taxes, Social Security, TSP, and FEHB.
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The FedLife Podcast is your in-depth, biweekly deep dive into the world of federal benefits and retirement planning. Hosted by federal benefits expert Ed Zurndorfer and Dan Sipe of Serving Those Who Serve, each 30-minute episode unpacks the complexities of FERS and CSRS retirement, FEHB and Medicare, survivor benefits, tax planning, and more. Designed for federal employees and retirees who want more than just the basics, FedLife goes beyond the headlines to explore the rules, nuances, and strategies that can make a meaningful difference in your retirement. Remember: it’s your Fed life, make it a great one.
The Fed15 Podcast is your weekly 15(ish)-minute briefing on federal benefits and financial planning, built specifically for federal employees and retirees. Hosted by Dan Sipe and Katelyn Murray of Serving Those Who Serve, each episode delivers clear, actionable guidance on topics like FERS and CSRS retirement, TSP strategies, FEHB, survivor benefits, tax planning, and more! Whether you’re five years from retirement or already there, The Fed15 helps you cut through the noise, avoid costly mistakes, and make confident decisions about your federal benefits.
