Fed Pilot Podcast

If you’re a federal employee nearing retirement, you’ve probably heard about “interim payments” — those partial checks OPM sends while your full pension is being processed. In this episode, we break down exactly how those payments work, when to expect them, and whether you’ll get paid back in full (spoiler: yes, you will). Hear a real workshop question answered with clarity, including what to expe...

Most federal employees think use-it-or-lose-it hits on September 30 — but that’s a costly myth. At a FedPilot workshop, we clarified when the leave year actually ends and what you must do now to protect your hours. A few simple planning moves can save hundreds of hours — and real money at retirement. This is exactly the kind of clear, practical guidance FedPilot workshops deliver. #FederalRetireme...

Preparing for retirement as a federal employee? Ensuring that your retirement application is accurate and complete is crucial to avoid delays from OPM and HR. Join our workshops (fedpilot.com) for expert insights on navigating the nuances of your application process—because a smooth transition into retirement starts with the right information! #FederalRetirement #FEDS #OPM #RetirementPlanning #Fed...

How well do you know your TSP? Join us at a Fed Pilot workshop (webinar or in-person) and not only learn about your benefits, but how to prepare for retirement. The earlier in your career, the better. Register: https://fedpilot.com Want to ask a question for me to answer in a video? Ask at https://fedpilot.com/contact-us #heyfeds #fedpilot #federalemployees #federalretirement #federalbenefits #Ret...

Most Feds don’t know their real retirement number. Join us at a Fed Pilot workshop (webinar or in-person) and not only learn about your benefits, but how to prepare for retirement. The earlier in your career, the better. Register: https://fedpilot.com Want to ask a question for me to answer in a video? Ask at https://fedpilot.com/contact-us #heyfeds #fedpilot #federalemployees #federalretirement #...

If you’re a federal employee, here’s what you need to know about a RIF. Join us for a Fed Pilot workshop to learn about benefits and retirement prep. Register: https://fedpilot.com Questions? Ask at https://fedpilot.com/contact-us #heyfeds #fedpilot #federalemployees #RetirementPlanning #LTCPlanning #federalretirement #FedRetirement #SurvivorBenefits #FederalEmployee

Get educated on your federal retirement! Join us for a Fed Pilot workshop to learn about benefits and retirement prep. Register: https://fedpilot.com Questions? Ask at https://fedpilot.com/contact-us #heyfeds #fedpilot #federalemployees #RetirementPlanning #LTCPlanning #federalretirement #FedRetirement #SurvivorBenefits #FederalEmployee

Heard something about your retirement benefits from a coworker? Don’t panic. In this episode, Kevin breaks down why you shouldn’t make major retirement decisions based on hallway chatter—and what to do instead to make informed, confident choices about your future. Join us at a Fed Pilot workshop (webinar or in-person) and not only learn about your benefits, but how to prepare for retirement. The e...

Heard something about your retirement benefits from a coworker? Don’t panic. In this episode, Kevin breaks down why you shouldn’t make major retirement decisions based on hallway chatter—and what to do instead to make informed, confident choices about your future. Join us at a Fed Pilot workshop (webinar or in-person) and not only learn about your benefits, but how to prepare for retirement. The e...

Preparing for retirement as a federal employee? Ensuring that your retirement application is accurate and complete is crucial to avoid delays from OPM and HR. Join our workshops (fedpilot.com) for expert insights on navigating the nuances of your application process—because a smooth transition into retirement starts with the right information! #FederalRetirement #FEDS #OPM #RetirementPlanning #Fed...

Wondering what happens to your benefits if you’re laid off through a RIF? We break down the key details surrounding layoffs, including what typically happens with your healthcare, TSP, and pension benefits. Join us at a Fed Pilot workshop (webinar or in-person) and not only learn about your benefits, but how to prepare for retirement. The earlier in your career, the better. Register: https://fedpi...

We clarify the often-confusing employment terms that have surfaced recently, such as Deferred Resignation, Buyouts, and RIFs. Understanding these concepts is crucial for making informed career decisions. We explore the differences between voluntary and involuntary separations, providing you with the insights needed to navigate your options effectively. Join us at a Fed Pilot workshop (webinar or i...

Curious about the income limits for the Roth TSP? We dove into the exciting news that there are no income restrictions when contributing to your Roth TSP, setting it apart from traditional IRAs. Plus, discover the impressive contribution limits that allow federal employees to maximize their savings potential! Join us at a Fed Pilot workshop (webinar or in-person) and not only learn about your bene...

We delve into the critical distinction between what you can and should do regarding financial decisions, particularly concerning the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) before retirement. While you may be able to invest a large sum in the TSP, we emphasize the importance of carefully weighing the pros and cons and considering alternative options like IRAs, which may offer more flexibility. Join us in our wo...

We dive deep into the critical relationship between OPM and HR and why their alignment is essential for a seamless retirement process. Discover the complexities of how different agencies manage HR functions and the impact this can have on your retirement experience. Join us at a Fed Pilot workshop (webinar or in-person) and not only learn about your benefits, but how to prepare for retirement. The...

We tackled a question from one of our workshops about retirement eligibility for federal employees, specifically addressing the implications of retiring with less than 20 years of service. Discover why you must be at least 62 years old to qualify for full retirement benefits and how the Special Retirement Supplement (SRS) can impact your financial planning if you retire before this age. Join us at...

We demystify the concept of the “High Three” retirement calculation, clarifying common misconceptions. Contrary to the belief that it’s simply the average of your highest pay over three years, we explain that it actually involves averaging the last 78 pay periods, with only certain types of pay contributing to this total. Join us as we break down this complex formula, ensuring you’re fully informe...

After five years of full-time service, you may indeed qualify for a pension, depending on your age at retirement. The pension amount varies based on your earnings and specific factors like your “high three” average salary. Join us at a Fed Pilot workshop (webinar or in-person) and not only learn about your benefits but how to prepare for retirement. The earlier in your career, the better. Register...

Thinking about retiring at 62 with 25 years of service? We explain the nuances of buying back 13 years of military time and how it can impact your retirement benefits. Join us at a Fed Pilot workshop (webinar or in-person) and not only learn about your benefits, but how to prepare for retirement. The earlier in your career, the better. Register: https://fedpilot.com

There is widespread misinformation among federal employees, particularly regarding retirement rules. It’s crucial to understand that common sayings, like “age plus years equals 80,” often stem from outdated or exaggerated claims that can mislead individuals into making poor life decisions. The reality is, that these assumptions can create confusion and hinder your planning efforts. We emphasize th...

Discover how federal employee health benefits work when one spouse carries the FB policy. Learn that as long as your spouse is covered under your policy for 5 years before retirement, they’re eligible for benefits. Join us at a Fed Pilot workshop (webinar or in-person) and not only learn about your benefits, but how to prepare for retirement.

There are some common misconceptions about retirement timing for federal employees. For example, want to clarify that retiring on January 30th isn’t the best choice; instead, January 31st is preferable for maximizing benefits. Join us at a Fed Pilot workshop (webinar or in-person) and not only learn about your benefits, but how to prepare for retirement. The earlier in your career, the better. Reg...

Curious about the ‘Basic’ life insurance plan through the federal government? Discover how you can potentially access free benefits after age 65 and what factors to consider when making your decision. Join us at a Fed Pilot workshop (webinar or in-person) and not only learn about your benefits, but how to prepare for retirement. The earlier in your career, the better. Register: https://fedpilot.co...

Join us at a Fed Pilot workshop (webinar or in-person) and not only learn about your benefits, but how to prepare for retirement. The earlier in your career, the better. Register: https://fedpilot.com Want to ask a question for me to answer in a video? Ask at https://fedpilot.com/contact-us

Personal health conditions significantly influence the decision to withdraw Social Security, as they can impact life expectancy and financial needs. Join us at a Fed Pilot workshop (webinar or in-person) and not only learn about your benefits but how to prepare for retirement. The earlier in your career, the better. Register: https://fedpilot.com