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The Fed15 Podcast | Ep. 146: Rural Healthcare in Retirement + Backdoor Roth Strategies for High-Income Feds

By STWS
04/14/2026

Dan and Katelyn break down how healthcare access can impact retirement decisions and how high-earning federal employees can still utilize Roth strategies despite income limits.


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The Fed15 Podcast | Ep. 146: Rural Healthcare in Retirement + Backdoor Roth Strategies for High-Income Feds

Dan discusses what federal retirees should consider before moving to rural areas, focusing on healthcare access and stability. He explains how the new Rural Health Transformation Fund may impact local care, why availability varies by location, and how to evaluate hospitals, Medicare options, and backup care plans. He also highlights the importance of preparing for potential service reductions and building a plan for accessing care when it matters most. Katelyn explains how backdoor Roth IRA strategies work for high-income federal employees who exceed income limits for direct contributions. She walks through the step-by-step process, key tax rules like the pro-rata rule, and the importance of proper filing. She also discusses how backdoor Roth contributions fit alongside TSP savings and when this strategy makes sense-or doesn’t-based on long-term tax planning goals.

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“Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC.  Investment advisory services offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Lee, Sipe & Associates, Inc. is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James.  Content represents the opinions of the speaker and not necessarily those of Raymond James.  Important Disclosure Information:  http://raymondjames.com/smicd.htm 

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FEDLIFE Podcast

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.

 

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FED15 Podcast

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.

 

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