Katelyn examines two strategies for boosting retirement annuities: retirement redeposits and military buybacks, detailing their potential benefits and processes. Additionally, she provides an update on the 2026 pay raise, analyzing the factors that impact this adjustment and its probability.
Katelyn explores two potential strategies for enhancing retirement annuities: retirement redeposits and military buybacks. She begins by outlining who might benefit from retirement redeposits, detailing its advantages and the process involved. Next, she delves into military buybacks, discussing the benefits, eligibility criteria, and how this approach can strengthen your retirement plan. Katelyn wraps up by addressing important factors such as timing and interest implications.
Next, Katelyn dives into the COLA update for 2026, covering the OMB’s proposal of a 3% federal pay raise. She reviews the pay raises from 2023 and 2024, compares them to the projected 2025 figures, and explains the factors contributing to any discrepancies between proposed and actual raises. Katelyn explores the process through which a pay raise is developed and implemented. Finally, she assesses the likelihood of the proposed 3% raise in 2026 and outlines the key considerations influencing this potential adjustment.
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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.
