In this episode, Dan and Katelyn discuss retirement strategies for federal employees, with a focus on age-gap couples. They cover Medicare, Social Security, Roth conversions, and withdrawal planning, as well as early 2026 COLA projections and their impact on CSRS and FERS retirees.
Katelyn discusses key financial considerations for couples with an age difference. She highlights the importance of tailored planning to help reduce the risk of health insurance gaps, uneven income years, and potential tax surprises. Her discussion includes Medicare and health insurance planning, Social Security income strategies, required minimum distributions (RMDs), Roth conversions, and withdrawal approaches.
Then, Dan discusses the 2026 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) estimate and its potential impact on CSRS and FERS retirees. He reviews how COLAs work and outlines the early projections for 2026. He also explains the differences in how COLAs are applied to CSRS versus FERS benefits. In addition, he highlights the importance of building flexibility into a retirement income plan and covers related topics such as spousal benefits, TSP distributions, and annuity payments.
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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.
