In this episode, Jen and Dan go over managing taxes as income stacks up in retirement and whether heavy reliance on U.S. stocks in the TSP adds unnecessary risk. They cover how to avoid tax surprises through proper withholding and how international diversification through the TSP I Fund may help balance long-term portfolio risk.
Jen breaks down how federal retirees can stay in control of their tax withholding in retirement as income sources stack up, including FERS, Social Security, TSP, and part-time work. She explains how to avoid tax surprises, when to use estimated payments, and how to adjust withholding using Form W-4P so cash flow stays aligned with actual tax liability.
Dan explores whether federal employees are too concentrated in U.S. equities through the TSP C Fund and what international diversification actually adds to a retirement portfolio. He covers the role of the TSP I Fund, the tradeoffs of global exposure, and why consistency matters more than reacting to short-term market performance.
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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.
