Plan Your Federal Retirement Podcast

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,...

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....

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Micah and Christian discuss essential estate planning topics, including the necessary documents, the dangers of outdated plans, and why having a power of attorney is not sufficien...

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 6...

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 covera...

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 lik...

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. Lea...

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 Cov...

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 d...

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. Plu...

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. -...

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...

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 ques...

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 f...

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...