#146 The COLA Mirage: Why Inflation Is Quietly Shrinking Your Retirement
Listen to the Full Episode: Inflation doesn’t always show up loudly, and for many federal employees and retirees, the biggest danger is assuming COLA
Listen to the Full Episode: Inflation doesn’t always show up loudly, and for many federal employees and retirees, the biggest danger is assuming COLA
Listen to the Full Episode: Retirement isn’t just about making your money last, it’s about using it wisely while you still can. In this
Listen to the Full Episode: As the year closes, federal employees can’t afford to miss critical planning opportunities that protect their retirement and avoid
Listen to the Full Episode: A year-end retirement review can be a valuable step for federal employees who want to better understand their benefits
Listen to the Full Episode: Year-end is one of the most strategic times for Federal Employees to review their financial picture, retirement timeline, and
Listen to the Full Episode: In this episode of Plan Your Federal Retirement, Jamie C. Shilanski, RFC®, talks about one of the most stressful
Listen to the Full Episode: Ever wonder what questions other federal employees are asking as they plan for retirement? In this special episode, we’re taking
Listen to the Full Episode: When it comes to money, the emotional impact is often overlooked, but it can ‘make or break’ a family’s financial
Listen to the Full Episode: Healthcare is one of the most important, and often most confusing, parts of retirement. For federal employees, the combination of
Listen to the Full Episode: Social Security is one of the most misunderstood parts of retirement planning. For federal employees and their families, it’s not
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you a year away from retirement? The final 12 months before you retire from federal service are some of
Listen to the Full Episode: What does real retirement readiness look like? In this episode, Micah is joined by his father and mentor, Floyd, to
Listen to the Full Episode: Facing the New Challenges of Federal Retirement: What 2025 Means for You Federal retirement in 2025 requires thoughtful consideration of
Listen to the Full Episode: Are today’s market swings making you nervous about your retirement? You’re not alone but the good news is, there are
Listen to the Full Episode: In this episode of the Plan Your Federal Retirement podcast, Micah Shilanski and Christian Sakamoto dive deep into the relationship
Listen to the Full Episode: Is your financial plan ready for unexpected changes? In this episode, Micah and Jamie highlight the importance of taking charge
Listen to the Full Episode: Is “buy and hold” really the best strategy for retirement investing? In this podcast episode, Micah and Christian explore why
Listen to the Full Episode: Think you know how your FERS pension, Social Security, or military retirement will be taxed? Think again. In this episode,
Listen to the Full Episode: What does retirement really look like beyond the financials? In this podcast episode, Micah and Floyd discuss what life is
Listen to the Full Episode: Tax season can be overwhelming, but federal employees can stay ahead with the right strategies. In this podcast episode, Micah
Listen to the Full Episode: It’s crucial to evaluate your TSP decisions as you approach retirement. Understanding the various benefits associated with your TSP can
Listen to the Full Episode: Understanding your TSP withdrawal options is essential for a successful retirement. In this podcast episode, Micah and Christian break down
Listen to the Full Episode: Estate planning involves more than just creating a will; it’s about ensuring financial security, protecting your loved ones, and
Listen to the Full Episode: Planning for the future involves understanding what happens to your benefits after you are no longer here. In this podcast
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you considering early retirement under VERA? Before you make a decision that could affect your benefits for years to
Are you a federal employee considering Voluntary Early Retirement Authority (VERA)? This comprehensive guide breaks down eligibility, benefits, and financial impacts, including how VERA affects your pension, health insurance (FEHB), and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). Learn the key steps to avoid costly mistakes, understand your FERS Special Retirement Supplement, and maximize your retirement benefits.
🎙 Watch our YouTube Podcast for expert insights.
📚 Join our “Retire Right” On-Demand Class to make informed decisions.
Read now to take control of your federal retirement!
What should Federal Employees facing the Fork in the Road do? As a Federal Employee Benefits professional, my primary advice—though not intended to be self-serving—is
https://youtu.be/EQqQhWMzTKs Federal Employees need to know what to anticipate if they choose to accept the Deferred Resignation package issued January 2025 to civilian federal employees.
Listen to the Full Episode: What does a Reduction in Force (RIF) or job change mean for your federal benefits and retirement plans? These transitions
Listen to the Full Episode: What impacts will the latest tax law changes, Social Security projections, and market uncertainties have on your FERS retirement benefits
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you ready to unlock the secrets to a stronger TSP in 2025? In this podcast episode, Christian and John
Listen to the Full Episode: Ready for retirement but still trying to figure out what comes after the paycheck? In this podcast episode, Jamie and
Listen to the Full Episode: How can Qualified Charitable Distributions in Retirement help you give strategically and reduce taxes? In this podcast episode, Christian and
Listen to the Full Episode: Ready to secure your federal retirement? In this podcast episode, Micah and Christian discuss essential steps to secure your federal
Listen to the Full Episode: Navigating federal retirement benefits can be complex, but understanding FERS contribution rates is key. These rates determine your eligibility, pension
Listen to the Full Episode: Understanding how to navigate taxes in retirement is crucial for preserving your hard-earned income. From Roth conversions to Qualified Charitable
Listen to the Full Episode: Planning for your retirement requires a solid understanding of your options. Discover the best strategies for managing your Thrift Savings
FERS supplement annuity. I retired from SSA under the 25 years of service at any age in 2014. I was told I would be eligible
Listen to the Full Episode: Join Tammy and Micah, as they share their insights on navigating retirement preparation, avoiding common mistakes with OPM, and ensuring
Hello PYFR team! I love the podcast and appreciate it and all the resources you offer. My question is about taxes on the pay-out of
I worked for the federal government from 1995 to 2000. I turn 62 in 2024. I spent my entire federal career at Nevada. I live
Listen to the Full Episode: Join us for our bonus podcast, where we address the questions we received from federal employees before our latest YouTube
”If I receive 26k in annual leave payout does that count against the earnings limit of my supplement? Also what about the money I made
Listen to the Full Episode: Listen to this week’s recap episode with Sierra Steele and make sure you know how to manage your Year-End Tax
Listen to the Full Episode: As the year winds down, it’s time to get proactive about your finances and tax planning! Join us as we
Listen to the Full Episode: Learn about your options for living abroad in retirement and find out everything you need to keep your benefits, covered
Listen to the Full Episode: Do you wonder about your options for living abroad in retirement? Are you ready for change but need to know
“I am currently age 32 (a bit away from retirement) and I have been with USPS for 6.5 years now. It says you are fully
Listen to the Full Episode: The importance of knowing what lies ahead, what to expect and what steps to take when transitioning to retirement, covered
Listen to the Full Episode: You are getting closer to retirement, but specific tasks must be completed to enjoy it thoroughly. You’ll need to take
“Hello, I am a vested former federal employee with the Naval Shipyard. I left federal employment in 2007 with 7+ years of service and am
https://youtu.be/A-QWGEgHvqc Nealy asks a question that we see every now and then from federal employees: “Should you collect unemployment while you’re waiting on your Federal
What you need to know about how a divorce can impact your retirement planning. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links
Divorce is generally not a fun topic, but when you are considering retirement, it is a necessary discussion to have. For many people, the terms
When it comes to your retirement, it can be a very stressful time—or it can be a very smooth transition. It really comes down to
What is the Special Retirement Supplement? FERS consists of 3 different components: the FERS annuity (pension), Social Security, and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). The
When you are planning for your retirement, there are a lot of different areas you need to be aware of financially, and it can be
Tax season is upon us, and for many, it is a scary time. With so many opinions floating around, it is hard to decipher between
We’re on the brink of another open season, so today Micah and Tammy are sharing the information you need to know about this upcoming season.
Have you served in the military, but aren’t quite sure how to use that military time for your civil service? A lot of mistakes get
To have a comfortable and enjoyable retirement, you need a financial safety net to fund it all. So when you are planning for the rest
One of the most frequent questions that we receive from FERS Employees is how do they apply for the FERS Supplement. If you searched
How Will Your Federal Retirement Benefits Be Taxed?Many people simply forget – or perhaps just don’t understand the taxation of federal retirement benefits. Taxes will
Looking for in-person FERS Retirement Seminars in Alaska? Shilanski & Associates, Inc. offers live, in-person FERS retirement classes in Anchorage, Alaska. At our full-day workshop,
What it Means for Federal Employees in Alaska, Hawaii & US Territories The COLA Locality Pay transition is in progress. It started in 2010, and
The Non-Foreign AREA Act of 2009: COLA to Locality Pay The Non-Foreign AREA Act of 2009 spells out the transition from COLA to Locality Pay
New legislation means that Hawaii COLA is being phased out, and Locality Pay is being phased in. Federal Employees in Non-Foreign Areas are now being
Learn about ‘Buckets of Money’ When you’re investing for retirement, it’s easy to get caught up in all of the details. Most federal employees
How Much Money Should be in Your ‘Cash Bucket’? Thinking about your retirement savings and investing for retirement? You should consider putting some of your
Listen to the Full Episode: Inflation doesn’t always show up loudly, and for many federal employees and retirees, the biggest danger is assuming COLA
Listen to the Full Episode: Retirement isn’t just about making your money last, it’s about using it wisely while you still can. In this
Listen to the Full Episode: As the year closes, federal employees can’t afford to miss critical planning opportunities that protect their retirement and avoid
Listen to the Full Episode: A year-end retirement review can be a valuable step for federal employees who want to better understand their benefits
Listen to the Full Episode: Year-end is one of the most strategic times for Federal Employees to review their financial picture, retirement timeline, and
Listen to the Full Episode: In this episode of Plan Your Federal Retirement, Jamie C. Shilanski, RFC®, talks about one of the most stressful
Listen to the Full Episode: Ever wonder what questions other federal employees are asking as they plan for retirement? In this special episode, we’re taking
Listen to the Full Episode: When it comes to money, the emotional impact is often overlooked, but it can ‘make or break’ a family’s financial
Listen to the Full Episode: Healthcare is one of the most important, and often most confusing, parts of retirement. For federal employees, the combination of
Listen to the Full Episode: Social Security is one of the most misunderstood parts of retirement planning. For federal employees and their families, it’s not
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you a year away from retirement? The final 12 months before you retire from federal service are some of
Listen to the Full Episode: What does real retirement readiness look like? In this episode, Micah is joined by his father and mentor, Floyd, to
Listen to the Full Episode: Facing the New Challenges of Federal Retirement: What 2025 Means for You Federal retirement in 2025 requires thoughtful consideration of
Listen to the Full Episode: Are today’s market swings making you nervous about your retirement? You’re not alone but the good news is, there are
Listen to the Full Episode: In this episode of the Plan Your Federal Retirement podcast, Micah Shilanski and Christian Sakamoto dive deep into the relationship
Listen to the Full Episode: Is your financial plan ready for unexpected changes? In this episode, Micah and Jamie highlight the importance of taking charge
Listen to the Full Episode: Is “buy and hold” really the best strategy for retirement investing? In this podcast episode, Micah and Christian explore why
Listen to the Full Episode: Think you know how your FERS pension, Social Security, or military retirement will be taxed? Think again. In this episode,
Listen to the Full Episode: What does retirement really look like beyond the financials? In this podcast episode, Micah and Floyd discuss what life is
Listen to the Full Episode: Tax season can be overwhelming, but federal employees can stay ahead with the right strategies. In this podcast episode, Micah
Listen to the Full Episode: It’s crucial to evaluate your TSP decisions as you approach retirement. Understanding the various benefits associated with your TSP can
Listen to the Full Episode: Understanding your TSP withdrawal options is essential for a successful retirement. In this podcast episode, Micah and Christian break down
Listen to the Full Episode: Estate planning involves more than just creating a will; it’s about ensuring financial security, protecting your loved ones, and
Listen to the Full Episode: Planning for the future involves understanding what happens to your benefits after you are no longer here. In this podcast
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you considering early retirement under VERA? Before you make a decision that could affect your benefits for years to
Are you a federal employee considering Voluntary Early Retirement Authority (VERA)? This comprehensive guide breaks down eligibility, benefits, and financial impacts, including how VERA affects your pension, health insurance (FEHB), and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). Learn the key steps to avoid costly mistakes, understand your FERS Special Retirement Supplement, and maximize your retirement benefits.
🎙 Watch our YouTube Podcast for expert insights.
📚 Join our “Retire Right” On-Demand Class to make informed decisions.
Read now to take control of your federal retirement!
What should Federal Employees facing the Fork in the Road do? As a Federal Employee Benefits professional, my primary advice—though not intended to be self-serving—is
https://youtu.be/EQqQhWMzTKs Federal Employees need to know what to anticipate if they choose to accept the Deferred Resignation package issued January 2025 to civilian federal employees.
Listen to the Full Episode: What does a Reduction in Force (RIF) or job change mean for your federal benefits and retirement plans? These transitions
Listen to the Full Episode: What impacts will the latest tax law changes, Social Security projections, and market uncertainties have on your FERS retirement benefits
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you ready to unlock the secrets to a stronger TSP in 2025? In this podcast episode, Christian and John
Listen to the Full Episode: Ready for retirement but still trying to figure out what comes after the paycheck? In this podcast episode, Jamie and
Listen to the Full Episode: How can Qualified Charitable Distributions in Retirement help you give strategically and reduce taxes? In this podcast episode, Christian and
Listen to the Full Episode: Ready to secure your federal retirement? In this podcast episode, Micah and Christian discuss essential steps to secure your federal
Listen to the Full Episode: Navigating federal retirement benefits can be complex, but understanding FERS contribution rates is key. These rates determine your eligibility, pension
Listen to the Full Episode: Understanding how to navigate taxes in retirement is crucial for preserving your hard-earned income. From Roth conversions to Qualified Charitable
Listen to the Full Episode: Planning for your retirement requires a solid understanding of your options. Discover the best strategies for managing your Thrift Savings
FERS supplement annuity. I retired from SSA under the 25 years of service at any age in 2014. I was told I would be eligible
Listen to the Full Episode: Join Tammy and Micah, as they share their insights on navigating retirement preparation, avoiding common mistakes with OPM, and ensuring
Hello PYFR team! I love the podcast and appreciate it and all the resources you offer. My question is about taxes on the pay-out of
I worked for the federal government from 1995 to 2000. I turn 62 in 2024. I spent my entire federal career at Nevada. I live
Listen to the Full Episode: Join us for our bonus podcast, where we address the questions we received from federal employees before our latest YouTube
”If I receive 26k in annual leave payout does that count against the earnings limit of my supplement? Also what about the money I made
Listen to the Full Episode: Listen to this week’s recap episode with Sierra Steele and make sure you know how to manage your Year-End Tax
Listen to the Full Episode: As the year winds down, it’s time to get proactive about your finances and tax planning! Join us as we
Listen to the Full Episode: Learn about your options for living abroad in retirement and find out everything you need to keep your benefits, covered
Listen to the Full Episode: Do you wonder about your options for living abroad in retirement? Are you ready for change but need to know
“I am currently age 32 (a bit away from retirement) and I have been with USPS for 6.5 years now. It says you are fully
Listen to the Full Episode: The importance of knowing what lies ahead, what to expect and what steps to take when transitioning to retirement, covered
Listen to the Full Episode: You are getting closer to retirement, but specific tasks must be completed to enjoy it thoroughly. You’ll need to take
“Hello, I am a vested former federal employee with the Naval Shipyard. I left federal employment in 2007 with 7+ years of service and am
https://youtu.be/A-QWGEgHvqc Nealy asks a question that we see every now and then from federal employees: “Should you collect unemployment while you’re waiting on your Federal
What you need to know about how a divorce can impact your retirement planning. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links
Divorce is generally not a fun topic, but when you are considering retirement, it is a necessary discussion to have. For many people, the terms
When it comes to your retirement, it can be a very stressful time—or it can be a very smooth transition. It really comes down to
What is the Special Retirement Supplement? FERS consists of 3 different components: the FERS annuity (pension), Social Security, and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). The
When you are planning for your retirement, there are a lot of different areas you need to be aware of financially, and it can be
Tax season is upon us, and for many, it is a scary time. With so many opinions floating around, it is hard to decipher between
We’re on the brink of another open season, so today Micah and Tammy are sharing the information you need to know about this upcoming season.
Have you served in the military, but aren’t quite sure how to use that military time for your civil service? A lot of mistakes get
To have a comfortable and enjoyable retirement, you need a financial safety net to fund it all. So when you are planning for the rest
One of the most frequent questions that we receive from FERS Employees is how do they apply for the FERS Supplement. If you searched
How Will Your Federal Retirement Benefits Be Taxed?Many people simply forget – or perhaps just don’t understand the taxation of federal retirement benefits. Taxes will
Looking for in-person FERS Retirement Seminars in Alaska? Shilanski & Associates, Inc. offers live, in-person FERS retirement classes in Anchorage, Alaska. At our full-day workshop,
What it Means for Federal Employees in Alaska, Hawaii & US Territories The COLA Locality Pay transition is in progress. It started in 2010, and
The Non-Foreign AREA Act of 2009: COLA to Locality Pay The Non-Foreign AREA Act of 2009 spells out the transition from COLA to Locality Pay
New legislation means that Hawaii COLA is being phased out, and Locality Pay is being phased in. Federal Employees in Non-Foreign Areas are now being
Learn about ‘Buckets of Money’ When you’re investing for retirement, it’s easy to get caught up in all of the details. Most federal employees
How Much Money Should be in Your ‘Cash Bucket’? Thinking about your retirement savings and investing for retirement? You should consider putting some of your
Listen to the Full Episode: Inflation doesn’t always show up loudly, and for many federal employees and retirees, the biggest danger is assuming COLA
Listen to the Full Episode: Retirement isn’t just about making your money last, it’s about using it wisely while you still can. In this
Listen to the Full Episode: As the year closes, federal employees can’t afford to miss critical planning opportunities that protect their retirement and avoid
Listen to the Full Episode: A year-end retirement review can be a valuable step for federal employees who want to better understand their benefits
Listen to the Full Episode: Year-end is one of the most strategic times for Federal Employees to review their financial picture, retirement timeline, and
Listen to the Full Episode: In this episode of Plan Your Federal Retirement, Jamie C. Shilanski, RFC®, talks about one of the most stressful
Listen to the Full Episode: Ever wonder what questions other federal employees are asking as they plan for retirement? In this special episode, we’re taking
Listen to the Full Episode: When it comes to money, the emotional impact is often overlooked, but it can ‘make or break’ a family’s financial
Listen to the Full Episode: Healthcare is one of the most important, and often most confusing, parts of retirement. For federal employees, the combination of
Listen to the Full Episode: Social Security is one of the most misunderstood parts of retirement planning. For federal employees and their families, it’s not
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you a year away from retirement? The final 12 months before you retire from federal service are some of
Listen to the Full Episode: What does real retirement readiness look like? In this episode, Micah is joined by his father and mentor, Floyd, to
Listen to the Full Episode: Facing the New Challenges of Federal Retirement: What 2025 Means for You Federal retirement in 2025 requires thoughtful consideration of
Listen to the Full Episode: Are today’s market swings making you nervous about your retirement? You’re not alone but the good news is, there are
Listen to the Full Episode: In this episode of the Plan Your Federal Retirement podcast, Micah Shilanski and Christian Sakamoto dive deep into the relationship
Listen to the Full Episode: Is your financial plan ready for unexpected changes? In this episode, Micah and Jamie highlight the importance of taking charge
Listen to the Full Episode: Is “buy and hold” really the best strategy for retirement investing? In this podcast episode, Micah and Christian explore why
Listen to the Full Episode: Think you know how your FERS pension, Social Security, or military retirement will be taxed? Think again. In this episode,
Listen to the Full Episode: What does retirement really look like beyond the financials? In this podcast episode, Micah and Floyd discuss what life is
Listen to the Full Episode: Tax season can be overwhelming, but federal employees can stay ahead with the right strategies. In this podcast episode, Micah
Listen to the Full Episode: It’s crucial to evaluate your TSP decisions as you approach retirement. Understanding the various benefits associated with your TSP can
Listen to the Full Episode: Understanding your TSP withdrawal options is essential for a successful retirement. In this podcast episode, Micah and Christian break down
Listen to the Full Episode: Estate planning involves more than just creating a will; it’s about ensuring financial security, protecting your loved ones, and
Listen to the Full Episode: Planning for the future involves understanding what happens to your benefits after you are no longer here. In this podcast
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you considering early retirement under VERA? Before you make a decision that could affect your benefits for years to
Are you a federal employee considering Voluntary Early Retirement Authority (VERA)? This comprehensive guide breaks down eligibility, benefits, and financial impacts, including how VERA affects your pension, health insurance (FEHB), and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). Learn the key steps to avoid costly mistakes, understand your FERS Special Retirement Supplement, and maximize your retirement benefits.
🎙 Watch our YouTube Podcast for expert insights.
📚 Join our “Retire Right” On-Demand Class to make informed decisions.
Read now to take control of your federal retirement!
What should Federal Employees facing the Fork in the Road do? As a Federal Employee Benefits professional, my primary advice—though not intended to be self-serving—is
https://youtu.be/EQqQhWMzTKs Federal Employees need to know what to anticipate if they choose to accept the Deferred Resignation package issued January 2025 to civilian federal employees.
Listen to the Full Episode: What does a Reduction in Force (RIF) or job change mean for your federal benefits and retirement plans? These transitions
Listen to the Full Episode: What impacts will the latest tax law changes, Social Security projections, and market uncertainties have on your FERS retirement benefits
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you ready to unlock the secrets to a stronger TSP in 2025? In this podcast episode, Christian and John
Listen to the Full Episode: Ready for retirement but still trying to figure out what comes after the paycheck? In this podcast episode, Jamie and
Listen to the Full Episode: How can Qualified Charitable Distributions in Retirement help you give strategically and reduce taxes? In this podcast episode, Christian and
Listen to the Full Episode: Ready to secure your federal retirement? In this podcast episode, Micah and Christian discuss essential steps to secure your federal
Listen to the Full Episode: Navigating federal retirement benefits can be complex, but understanding FERS contribution rates is key. These rates determine your eligibility, pension
Listen to the Full Episode: Understanding how to navigate taxes in retirement is crucial for preserving your hard-earned income. From Roth conversions to Qualified Charitable
Listen to the Full Episode: Planning for your retirement requires a solid understanding of your options. Discover the best strategies for managing your Thrift Savings
FERS supplement annuity. I retired from SSA under the 25 years of service at any age in 2014. I was told I would be eligible
Listen to the Full Episode: Join Tammy and Micah, as they share their insights on navigating retirement preparation, avoiding common mistakes with OPM, and ensuring
Hello PYFR team! I love the podcast and appreciate it and all the resources you offer. My question is about taxes on the pay-out of
I worked for the federal government from 1995 to 2000. I turn 62 in 2024. I spent my entire federal career at Nevada. I live
Listen to the Full Episode: Join us for our bonus podcast, where we address the questions we received from federal employees before our latest YouTube
”If I receive 26k in annual leave payout does that count against the earnings limit of my supplement? Also what about the money I made
Listen to the Full Episode: Listen to this week’s recap episode with Sierra Steele and make sure you know how to manage your Year-End Tax
Listen to the Full Episode: As the year winds down, it’s time to get proactive about your finances and tax planning! Join us as we
Listen to the Full Episode: Learn about your options for living abroad in retirement and find out everything you need to keep your benefits, covered
Listen to the Full Episode: Do you wonder about your options for living abroad in retirement? Are you ready for change but need to know
“I am currently age 32 (a bit away from retirement) and I have been with USPS for 6.5 years now. It says you are fully
Listen to the Full Episode: The importance of knowing what lies ahead, what to expect and what steps to take when transitioning to retirement, covered
Listen to the Full Episode: You are getting closer to retirement, but specific tasks must be completed to enjoy it thoroughly. You’ll need to take
“Hello, I am a vested former federal employee with the Naval Shipyard. I left federal employment in 2007 with 7+ years of service and am
https://youtu.be/A-QWGEgHvqc Nealy asks a question that we see every now and then from federal employees: “Should you collect unemployment while you’re waiting on your Federal
What you need to know about how a divorce can impact your retirement planning. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links
Divorce is generally not a fun topic, but when you are considering retirement, it is a necessary discussion to have. For many people, the terms
When it comes to your retirement, it can be a very stressful time—or it can be a very smooth transition. It really comes down to
What is the Special Retirement Supplement? FERS consists of 3 different components: the FERS annuity (pension), Social Security, and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). The
When you are planning for your retirement, there are a lot of different areas you need to be aware of financially, and it can be
Tax season is upon us, and for many, it is a scary time. With so many opinions floating around, it is hard to decipher between
We’re on the brink of another open season, so today Micah and Tammy are sharing the information you need to know about this upcoming season.
Have you served in the military, but aren’t quite sure how to use that military time for your civil service? A lot of mistakes get
To have a comfortable and enjoyable retirement, you need a financial safety net to fund it all. So when you are planning for the rest
One of the most frequent questions that we receive from FERS Employees is how do they apply for the FERS Supplement. If you searched
How Will Your Federal Retirement Benefits Be Taxed?Many people simply forget – or perhaps just don’t understand the taxation of federal retirement benefits. Taxes will
Looking for in-person FERS Retirement Seminars in Alaska? Shilanski & Associates, Inc. offers live, in-person FERS retirement classes in Anchorage, Alaska. At our full-day workshop,
What it Means for Federal Employees in Alaska, Hawaii & US Territories The COLA Locality Pay transition is in progress. It started in 2010, and
The Non-Foreign AREA Act of 2009: COLA to Locality Pay The Non-Foreign AREA Act of 2009 spells out the transition from COLA to Locality Pay
New legislation means that Hawaii COLA is being phased out, and Locality Pay is being phased in. Federal Employees in Non-Foreign Areas are now being
Learn about ‘Buckets of Money’ When you’re investing for retirement, it’s easy to get caught up in all of the details. Most federal employees
How Much Money Should be in Your ‘Cash Bucket’? Thinking about your retirement savings and investing for retirement? You should consider putting some of your
Listen to the Full Episode: Inflation doesn’t always show up loudly, and for many federal employees and retirees, the biggest danger is assuming COLA
Listen to the Full Episode: Retirement isn’t just about making your money last, it’s about using it wisely while you still can. In this
Listen to the Full Episode: As the year closes, federal employees can’t afford to miss critical planning opportunities that protect their retirement and avoid
Listen to the Full Episode: A year-end retirement review can be a valuable step for federal employees who want to better understand their benefits
Listen to the Full Episode: Year-end is one of the most strategic times for Federal Employees to review their financial picture, retirement timeline, and
Listen to the Full Episode: In this episode of Plan Your Federal Retirement, Jamie C. Shilanski, RFC®, talks about one of the most stressful
Listen to the Full Episode: Ever wonder what questions other federal employees are asking as they plan for retirement? In this special episode, we’re taking
Listen to the Full Episode: When it comes to money, the emotional impact is often overlooked, but it can ‘make or break’ a family’s financial
Listen to the Full Episode: Healthcare is one of the most important, and often most confusing, parts of retirement. For federal employees, the combination of
Listen to the Full Episode: Social Security is one of the most misunderstood parts of retirement planning. For federal employees and their families, it’s not
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you a year away from retirement? The final 12 months before you retire from federal service are some of
Listen to the Full Episode: What does real retirement readiness look like? In this episode, Micah is joined by his father and mentor, Floyd, to
Listen to the Full Episode: Facing the New Challenges of Federal Retirement: What 2025 Means for You Federal retirement in 2025 requires thoughtful consideration of
Listen to the Full Episode: Are today’s market swings making you nervous about your retirement? You’re not alone but the good news is, there are
Listen to the Full Episode: In this episode of the Plan Your Federal Retirement podcast, Micah Shilanski and Christian Sakamoto dive deep into the relationship
Listen to the Full Episode: Is your financial plan ready for unexpected changes? In this episode, Micah and Jamie highlight the importance of taking charge
Listen to the Full Episode: Is “buy and hold” really the best strategy for retirement investing? In this podcast episode, Micah and Christian explore why
Listen to the Full Episode: Think you know how your FERS pension, Social Security, or military retirement will be taxed? Think again. In this episode,
Listen to the Full Episode: What does retirement really look like beyond the financials? In this podcast episode, Micah and Floyd discuss what life is
Listen to the Full Episode: Tax season can be overwhelming, but federal employees can stay ahead with the right strategies. In this podcast episode, Micah
Listen to the Full Episode: It’s crucial to evaluate your TSP decisions as you approach retirement. Understanding the various benefits associated with your TSP can
Listen to the Full Episode: Understanding your TSP withdrawal options is essential for a successful retirement. In this podcast episode, Micah and Christian break down
Listen to the Full Episode: Estate planning involves more than just creating a will; it’s about ensuring financial security, protecting your loved ones, and
Listen to the Full Episode: Planning for the future involves understanding what happens to your benefits after you are no longer here. In this podcast
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you considering early retirement under VERA? Before you make a decision that could affect your benefits for years to
Are you a federal employee considering Voluntary Early Retirement Authority (VERA)? This comprehensive guide breaks down eligibility, benefits, and financial impacts, including how VERA affects your pension, health insurance (FEHB), and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). Learn the key steps to avoid costly mistakes, understand your FERS Special Retirement Supplement, and maximize your retirement benefits.
🎙 Watch our YouTube Podcast for expert insights.
📚 Join our “Retire Right” On-Demand Class to make informed decisions.
Read now to take control of your federal retirement!
What should Federal Employees facing the Fork in the Road do? As a Federal Employee Benefits professional, my primary advice—though not intended to be self-serving—is
https://youtu.be/EQqQhWMzTKs Federal Employees need to know what to anticipate if they choose to accept the Deferred Resignation package issued January 2025 to civilian federal employees.
Listen to the Full Episode: What does a Reduction in Force (RIF) or job change mean for your federal benefits and retirement plans? These transitions
Listen to the Full Episode: What impacts will the latest tax law changes, Social Security projections, and market uncertainties have on your FERS retirement benefits
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you ready to unlock the secrets to a stronger TSP in 2025? In this podcast episode, Christian and John
Listen to the Full Episode: Ready for retirement but still trying to figure out what comes after the paycheck? In this podcast episode, Jamie and
Listen to the Full Episode: How can Qualified Charitable Distributions in Retirement help you give strategically and reduce taxes? In this podcast episode, Christian and
Listen to the Full Episode: Ready to secure your federal retirement? In this podcast episode, Micah and Christian discuss essential steps to secure your federal
Listen to the Full Episode: Navigating federal retirement benefits can be complex, but understanding FERS contribution rates is key. These rates determine your eligibility, pension
Listen to the Full Episode: Understanding how to navigate taxes in retirement is crucial for preserving your hard-earned income. From Roth conversions to Qualified Charitable
Listen to the Full Episode: Planning for your retirement requires a solid understanding of your options. Discover the best strategies for managing your Thrift Savings
FERS supplement annuity. I retired from SSA under the 25 years of service at any age in 2014. I was told I would be eligible
Listen to the Full Episode: Join Tammy and Micah, as they share their insights on navigating retirement preparation, avoiding common mistakes with OPM, and ensuring
Hello PYFR team! I love the podcast and appreciate it and all the resources you offer. My question is about taxes on the pay-out of
I worked for the federal government from 1995 to 2000. I turn 62 in 2024. I spent my entire federal career at Nevada. I live
Listen to the Full Episode: Join us for our bonus podcast, where we address the questions we received from federal employees before our latest YouTube
”If I receive 26k in annual leave payout does that count against the earnings limit of my supplement? Also what about the money I made
Listen to the Full Episode: Listen to this week’s recap episode with Sierra Steele and make sure you know how to manage your Year-End Tax
Listen to the Full Episode: As the year winds down, it’s time to get proactive about your finances and tax planning! Join us as we
Listen to the Full Episode: Learn about your options for living abroad in retirement and find out everything you need to keep your benefits, covered
Listen to the Full Episode: Do you wonder about your options for living abroad in retirement? Are you ready for change but need to know
“I am currently age 32 (a bit away from retirement) and I have been with USPS for 6.5 years now. It says you are fully
Listen to the Full Episode: The importance of knowing what lies ahead, what to expect and what steps to take when transitioning to retirement, covered
Listen to the Full Episode: You are getting closer to retirement, but specific tasks must be completed to enjoy it thoroughly. You’ll need to take
“Hello, I am a vested former federal employee with the Naval Shipyard. I left federal employment in 2007 with 7+ years of service and am
https://youtu.be/A-QWGEgHvqc Nealy asks a question that we see every now and then from federal employees: “Should you collect unemployment while you’re waiting on your Federal
What you need to know about how a divorce can impact your retirement planning. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links
Divorce is generally not a fun topic, but when you are considering retirement, it is a necessary discussion to have. For many people, the terms
When it comes to your retirement, it can be a very stressful time—or it can be a very smooth transition. It really comes down to
What is the Special Retirement Supplement? FERS consists of 3 different components: the FERS annuity (pension), Social Security, and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). The
When you are planning for your retirement, there are a lot of different areas you need to be aware of financially, and it can be
Tax season is upon us, and for many, it is a scary time. With so many opinions floating around, it is hard to decipher between
We’re on the brink of another open season, so today Micah and Tammy are sharing the information you need to know about this upcoming season.
Have you served in the military, but aren’t quite sure how to use that military time for your civil service? A lot of mistakes get
To have a comfortable and enjoyable retirement, you need a financial safety net to fund it all. So when you are planning for the rest
One of the most frequent questions that we receive from FERS Employees is how do they apply for the FERS Supplement. If you searched
How Will Your Federal Retirement Benefits Be Taxed?Many people simply forget – or perhaps just don’t understand the taxation of federal retirement benefits. Taxes will
Looking for in-person FERS Retirement Seminars in Alaska? Shilanski & Associates, Inc. offers live, in-person FERS retirement classes in Anchorage, Alaska. At our full-day workshop,
What it Means for Federal Employees in Alaska, Hawaii & US Territories The COLA Locality Pay transition is in progress. It started in 2010, and
The Non-Foreign AREA Act of 2009: COLA to Locality Pay The Non-Foreign AREA Act of 2009 spells out the transition from COLA to Locality Pay
New legislation means that Hawaii COLA is being phased out, and Locality Pay is being phased in. Federal Employees in Non-Foreign Areas are now being
Learn about ‘Buckets of Money’ When you’re investing for retirement, it’s easy to get caught up in all of the details. Most federal employees
How Much Money Should be in Your ‘Cash Bucket’? Thinking about your retirement savings and investing for retirement? You should consider putting some of your