Federal Employees Retirement & Benefits Podcast by CD Financial

This special podcast with Ann Wirtz and CD Financial discusses taking control of your financial success. We explore essential aspects of personal finance and financial management to help you make smarter decisions. Learn how to navigate your future with confidence and robust financial planning. Take the quiz: https://lb1nm6qa2sh.typeform.com/to/pKWB4w8b 🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES FREE 15-minute call...

Are You "Shutdown-Proof" for Retirement? Find out here: https://lb1nm6qa2sh.typeform.com/to/pKWB4w8b Your TSP, Your Rules — Take control of your federal retirement savings and overcome processing delays, tax traps, and income planning pitfalls with smarter decisions.” Learn how to manage your Thrift Savings Plan distributions, withdrawal strategies, and TSP loan options with confidence....

Download the Guide here: https://cdfinancial.com FREE 15-minute call: https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/complimentary-15-minute-phone-call-youtube Are you truly ready to retire? This episode of the CD Financial Podcast dives into key questions about eligibility and financial management, helping you to understand the path to getting ready for retirement. We discuss essential aspects of retirement p...

👉 FREE Retirement Planning Guide + Checklist: https://cdfinancial.org/tsp%20free%20guide/ FREE 15-minute call: https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/complimentary-15-minute-phone-call-youtube Are you truly retirement ready — financially secure, lifestyle-aligned, and prepared for life after work? Learn the key retirement planning questions and readiness checklist every pre-retiree should ask to avoid...

Federal Employee Health Benefits (FEHB) & Medicare Part B Explained: What Every Federal Worker and Retiree Must Know in 2025” — get the facts on FEHB cost changes, Medicare coordination, and retirement health planning to avoid unnecessary premium spending and coverage gaps. Discover whether combining FEHB with Medicare Part B or supplements makes sense for you. 👇 Understanding how FEHB works...

Comparing Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) coverage with Medicare Part B + Supplement helps retirees balance premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket costs while maximizing access to care. FEHB + Part B or Medicare Part B with a Supplement — What’s the smarter retirement healthcare move for federal employees and retirees navigating rising FEHB costs and Medicare decisions? Discover how FEH...

Most people never talk about the retirement income gap — the difference between what you think you’ll need and what you actually have saved, and that’s exactly why most retirements fall short. Using disciplined retirement strategies like dollar cost averaging and optimizing employer matches can dramatically improve your long-term success. FREE 15-minute call: https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/comp...

“I wish I knew earlier that starting saving and investing young turbo-charges your future wealth through compound growth, better retirement planning, and smarter money decisions.” 👉 FREE RETIREMENT PLANNING GUIDE 15-MIN CONSULT: https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/complimentary-15-minute-phone-call-youtube Newsletter: https://cdfinancial.com/newsletter “Start your Roth IRA early, let compound inter...

2026 TSP and 401(k) contribution limits just increased—here’s how much you can put away, what catch-up really means, and how to set your payroll so you don’t miss it. If you’ve heard the “15% max” myth or you’re unsure whether you’re actually doing catch-up contributions, this episode clears it up—fast. 🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES IRS: 401(k) limit increases to $24,500 for 2026; IRA limit increases t...

Max retirement contributions just got bigger in 2026 — $24,500 elective limit plus expanded catch-up contributions for federal TSP and 401(k) plans. 2026 contribution limits for TSP and 401(k)/403(b) increase — here’s how to make the most of your elective deferrals and catch-up contributions. 🔥 Curious how these IRS changes affect your federal benefits, TSP retirement strategy, and catch-up plann...

In this important discussion, we focus on "long term care awareness", especially relevant during Long-Term Care Awareness Month. We examine the critical aspects of "long term care" and effective "financial planning" strategies that align with a minimalist approach to "personal finance". Learn practical insights on "how to save money", drawing from...

In this important discussion, we focus on "long term care awareness", especially relevant during Long-Term Care Awareness Month. We examine the critical aspects of "long term care" and effective "financial planning" strategies that align with a minimalist approach to "personal finance". Learn practical insights on "how to save money", drawing from...

In this episode of the CD Financial Podcast, Chuck D and Marcus C delve into the implications of the new Secure Act 2.0, particularly focusing on catch-up contributions to retirement accounts. They discuss the differences between Roth and traditional contributions, the tax implications of forced Roth contributions, and the concerns that high earners may have regarding their tax bills. The conversa...

For high income earners, new rules for 2025 mean you might not be able to put your catch-up money into tax-deferred or traditional TSP or 401k for that matter. This video breaks down what this means for your retirement planning and highlights the importance of understanding these changes. Understanding these new rules is crucial for maximizing your tax benefits and managing your retirement account...

In this episode, Chuck D and Marcus C discuss the recent government shutdown, its effects on employees and retirees, and the importance of having a financial plan. They explore the challenges faced by those returning to work, the uncertainty for retirees, and the mental health benefits of planning and communication in relationships. The conversation emphasizes the need for preparation in the face...

If you’re done working in uncertain shutdown-zones instead of on your own terms, now’s the time to lock in your retirement freedom— the longest federal shutdown in history just highlighted what it means to wait. 🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES FREE 15-minute call: https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/complimentary-15-minute-phone-call-youtube Newsletter: https://cdfinancial.com/newsletter Socials: Instagram...

Should you leave your Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) untouched, roll it to an IRA, or turn it into a lifetime income stream? In this episode, we break down the real-world pros and cons of each TSP retirement option so you don’t accidentally trade away flexibility, tax control, or your spouse’s future security. Most federal employees pick the “simple” choice with TSP—and it can quietly cost them in taxe...

Unlock the most overlooked Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) strategies for federal retirees! This video covers three powerful—but often missed—TSP retirement options that can increase your financial security. Discover: The unique benefits and risks of TSP annuitization Smart TSP withdrawal strategies for lasting retirement income How to avoid costly mistakes with TSP rollovers Whether you’re a federal em...

Discover how charitable donations can maximize your tax benefits and support causes you care about. In this video, we unpack: Strategies for effective charitable giving Tax deductions for retirees and business owners Donor-advised funds and philanthropy tips Common mistakes to avoid when giving IRS rules and documentation best practices Key Links & Resources: Book a FREE 15-minute call: https:...

Confused about why your Medicare Part B premium is higher? Discover how IRMAA (Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount) impacts your Medicare costs and what federal employees and retirees can do about higher premiums. This video covers: What is IRMAA and why it matters for Medicare Part B & D How taxes affect your Medicare premiums and retirement budget Planning strategies for federal retiree...

Curious about how financial advisors actually earn their income—especially for federal employees and retirees? This video demystifies how advisors are paid, explains fee structures, and helps you choose the best financial guidance for your retirement planning. KEY TOPICS COVERED: Financial advisor fees explained Commission, fee-only, and hybrid models Pros and cons for federal employees and retire...

Are you a federal retiree still waiting for your first pension check? You’re not alone—delays at OPM are leaving thousands in financial limbo. In this video, learn bridge strategies to cover expenses, avoid financial hardship, and what steps you can take now if your federal retirement payment is late. Your pension check might not be processed—so what are you going to do when no pension checks are...

Should you work with a financial advisor? Discover when hiring a certified financial planner makes sense for federal employees and retirees—and when DIY investing might be enough. Learn the real value a fiduciary financial advisor brings to your retirement planning, from tax-smart strategies to FERS benefits optimization. Whether you're nearing retirement or managing TSP withdrawals, this gui...

When the government stops, your bills don’t. Learn how to stay financially steady during a federal shutdown and protect your essentials. When federal paychecks pause, preparation becomes protection. Here’s how to manage bills, cash flow, and peace of mind through a government shutdown. 🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES FREE 15-minute call: https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/complimentary-15-minute-phone-cal...

Medicare Part B premium costs can jump because of IRMAA (Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount) when your MAGI crosses key thresholds—especially for federal retirees with pensions, Social Security, and RMDs. Learn how timing, Roth conversions, and TRICARE for Life choices can influence your Medicare Part B and Part D costs without panic or fear-mongering. IRMAA isn’t a penalty—it’s a higher Med...