Plan Your Federal Retirement Podcast

Can You Withdraw Money from Your FERS Account in an Emergency?

IRA vs. Rollover IRA: What’s the Difference?

#123 TSP Withdrawals: When, How, and Why to Start

Understanding your TSP withdrawal options is essential for a successful retirement. In this podcast episode, Micah and Christian break down the three financial phases: accumulation, preservation, and distribution, highlighting the critical decisions federal employees need to make when withdrawing from the TSP. Learn about the different withdrawal options, including lump sums, partial withdrawals, TSP annuities, and transfers to IRAs. Discover how tax planning, required minimum distributions (RMD...

The FERS Supplement For Special Provisions

FERS Go Bag

How prepared are you if you no longer work for the Federal Government? Maybe you accepted the Trump Administration’s “deferred resignation” package; maybe your agency did a Voluntary Early Retirement (authorized as a VERA); maybe there was a reduction in force of mass layoffs? Maybe you are one of the many federal employees that we have been chatting with who said, you know what, “It’s been real. Sometimes it has been fun. It’s no longer real fun.” and you just want to leave federal service. Are...

#122 Estate Planning Myths and Facts: What Federal Employees Must Know

Estate planning involves more than just creating a will; it's about ensuring financial security, protecting your loved ones, and avoiding common mistakes that may lead to unintended consequences. In this podcast episode, Micah and Christian discuss essential estate planning topics, including the necessary documents, the dangers of outdated plans, and why having a power of attorney is not sufficient. You'll learn about the top three estate planning mistakes made by federal employees, how to prope...

Should You Retire at 60 or Wait Until 62?

Hello, at age 57 years and two months, I separated from federal service for a civilian job after serving 5.3 years and buying back 17.2 years of military time. I currently have a good civilian job and plan to continue working until at least age 62. (I will turn 59 in March 2025.) My question is: should I apply for a postponed retirement at age 60 so I qualify for FEHB, or should I wait until age 62 to receive a higher percentage of my high-3? Another consideration is that I will be eligible for ...

Is December 31st Really the Best Day to Retire?

Can I Keep My Spouse's FEHB Coverage in Retirement Without Survivor Benefits?

My wife is a federal employee and will retire next year. She is going to be 50 years old. I am going to be 58 when she retires. I am on her health insurance which we want to continue having post retirement. Can I stay on her health insurance without her taking either survivor benefit? I understand that if she dies, I am no longer covered but if she lives, we do not take any survivor benefit coverage, can I remain on her health insurance as long as she is alive? - Matt https://zurl.co/KLkev...

#121 The Untold Story of Survivor Benefits: Protect What Matters Most

Planning for the future involves understanding what happens to your benefits after you are no longer here. In this podcast episode, Micah and Christian explore the details of survivor benefits—who receives what, how to plan ahead, and why your choices are significant. You'll learn how your pension, Social Security, TSP, and FEHB affect your loved ones. The episode also covers important topics like insurable interest, beneficiary designations, and estate planning. Don’t leave these crucial decisi...

Fork or Knife? The Truth About VERA

Are you considering early retirement under VERA? Before you make a decision that could affect your benefits for years to come, it’s important to understand the risks and opportunities involved. In this podcast episode, Micah and Tammy discuss the key factors that federal employees should evaluate before opting for Voluntary Early Retirement Authority (VERA) or making other retirement choices. Learn how elements such as administrative leave during the deferred resignation period, pension benefits...

TSP or IRA: Which Is Best When Saving for Retirement?

#120 Reduction in Force (RIF) and Job Changes - What You Need to Know!

What does a Reduction in Force (RIF) or job change mean for your federal benefits and retirement plans? These transitions can bring uncertainty, but you can stay in control with the proper preparation. In this podcast episode, Micah and Floyd share strategies to help you navigate career changes and retirement readiness. Learn about building an emergency fund, managing Temporary Continuation of Coverage (TCC) for health insurance, and preparing for early retirement opportunities. Understand the k...

Understanding Tax Implications for Survivor Benefits

Need help with federal employee survival benefits. I looking for specific help with my wife’s survivor FERS and Death Benefits. My wife worked for the Federal government and was still working when she passed. After her death I met with her employer to fill out paperwork to gain access to her TSP (401k) and FERS accounts, and to make decisions regarding how the death benefit would be paid out. I don’t understand the tax rules for the FERS and death benefit funds so am looking for some guidance. M...

FERS Account Transfers: What You Need to Know

How Does a CSRS Pension Affect Social Security Benefits?

# 119 FERS Retirement Benefits, What Federal Employees Should Know in 2025

What impacts will the latest tax law changes, Social Security projections, and market uncertainties have on your federal retirement in 2025? In this podcast episode, Micah and Floyd discuss actionable strategies to prepare you for a secure retirement. Learn how to navigate potential Social Security reductions, plan for tax diversification, and ensure your retirement cash flow is under control. Plus, uncover tips on Roth conversions, the importance of knowing your income projections, and how to a...

Does Buying Back Military Time Affect Your CRSC?

Hi, my name is Eric. I am calling because I have a question about buying back my military time. I am retired from the from the Marine Corps. Injuries Sustained in Combat. So I received a CRSC Combat Related Special Compensation, and my question is how does that impact... because I heard that if you buy back your time, you surrender that. So hopefully you can answer this question. Thank you. Bye. - Eric https://zurl.co/8y7vW...

What You Need to Know About Wills and Trusts

#118 TSP Secrets: The Key to Starting Your Year Off Right

Are you ready to unlock the secrets to a stronger TSP in 2025? In this podcast episode, Christian and John reveal strategies to make the most of your Thrift Savings Plan. From updated contribution limits to the benefits of compounding interest, Roth contributions, and rebalancing your portfolio, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you prepare for a successful year. Tune in now and take control of your retirement planning to ensure you're set up for long-term financial success! ht...

Understanding the Impact of Lump Sum Annual Leave on Your FERS Supplement

Hello. My name is Joyce and I am trying to determine the best date to retire either december 31st or january 11th 2025 at the end of the last pay period. Just wanted to know the advantages of possibly waiting to retire at the end of the pay period. And if I would receive my annual lump sum and the January pension or would it start in February? Thank you in advance for your your help with this question. Thank you. Bye bye. - Joyce https://zurl.co/L1MK1...

What Are Your TSP Choices When You Retire?

Understanding Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs)

#117 The Psychological Impact of Retirement: Preparing for Life After Federal Service

Ready for retirement but still trying to figure out what comes after the paycheck? In this podcast episode, Jamie and Floyd dive deep into the emotional side of retirement, something many people overlook. Discover how to handle the loss of purpose, adjust to new routines, and stay connected with others as you transition to this next phase of life. Retirement isn’t just about finances; it’s about finding fulfillment in every part of your day. Listen now for practical insights that will help you n...

TSP to Roth IRA: What Federal Employees Need to Know

I'm 60 years old with 36 years of service. I called the TSP help line and asked if I could roll over money from the traditional TSP directly to a Roth IRA I have at Fidelity. They said yes. And, sure enough, when you go on the tsp.gov website and click through Withdrawals and "Roll Over an Amount to an IRA" "Roth IRA" is one of the three choices for a destination. So, is it true you no longer have to do the two step process of going to an IRA and then from there roll over to the Roth? If so, wha...

To Roll Over or Not to Roll Over?

#116 The Strategic Role of Qualified Charitable Distributions in Retirement

How can you make the most of charitable giving while reducing your tax burden? In this podcast episode, Christian and John explore the strategic use of Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) in retirement planning. Learn how QCDs can help you meet Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) while supporting causes you care about—all tax-free. They also dive into age requirements, reporting considerations, and unique planning opportunities. If charitable giving is part of your retirement goals, this...

Buying Back Military Time and Pension

Hello, I just started federal employment this July. I served Active Duty in the Army for 9 years from 2009 to 2018. In 2018 I joined the reserves. I will be going part time in my Federal job this Sept. Does it make since to by back my military time. Would it only be the 9 years on Active duty. When I retire from the reserves then would I still be able to collect my reserve pension and FERS? Does it affect disability that I receive from the military? - Katie https://zurl.co/xhS6...

Am I on Track To Be Able To Retire?

FEHB Plan Options: How to Pick What’s Right for You