#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
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
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you ready to turn your retirement savings into a reliable income stream? Understanding your spending goals and determining your
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you ready to turn your retirement savings into a reliable income stream as Federal Employee? Navigating the complexities of
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you ready to turn your retirement savings into a reliable income stream? Understanding your spending goals and determining your
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
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you nearing retirement and wondering how to manage your sick leave best? Join Tammy and Micah in this insightful
Listen to the Full Episode: Have you considered what happens to your assets and who will take care of your financial matters when you’re gone?
Listen to the Full Episode: Federal employees can use various calculators to estimate their FERS benefits, but accurate documentation and proper completion of estate planning
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you seeking clarity on TSP strategies? Join us on our latest podcast episode, where Christian and JT decode the
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you ready to take control of your retirement finances? Your current spending habits could shape your future retirement lifestyle
Listen to the Full Episode: It is time to discuss retirement planning, cash flow management, and potential retirement expenses! In this special episode, Micah leads
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you ready to embark on a journey towards a secureretirement? Join Micah and Tammy, as they analyze advanced retirement
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you ready to retire? Have you considered the emotional part of this journey? Are you and your spouse on
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
Listen to the Full Episode: Federal retirees face unique challenges, from income replacement to tax considerations. But what about life insurance needs and survivor benefits?
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you ready to retire without looking back? Let’s discuss essential strategies for retirees to help ensure they can enjoy
Listen to the Full Episode: There are a lot of complexities in federal retirement benefits and retirement planning. Let’s unravel the key aspects and pitfalls
Listen to the Full Episode: What are the essential steps to a successful federal retirement? Join, Micah and Tammy, in today’s episode as they go
Listen to the Full Episode: Ever wondered why your retirement is losing money despite investment diversification? Join Micah and Christian in our latest episode, where
Listen to the Full Episode: As the holiday season ends, it is important to take action about our retirement plans and talk about the changes
Listen to the Full Episode: Listen to this week’s recap episode with Sierra Steele and learn about estate planning documents for federal employees and the
Listen to the Full Episode: You already know how important estate planning is for your retirement, but do you know the crucial must-do’s? In this
Listen to the Full Episode: Listen to this week’s recap episode with Sierra Steele and learn about the importance of retirement planning and the use
Listen to the Full Episode: It’s time to get invaluable insights from cash flow considerations to navigating the intricate rules of the Federal Employees Retirement
Listen to the Full Episode: Listen to this week’s recap episode with Sierra Steele and learn everything you need to know about Medicare and Federal
Listen to the Full Episode: What coverage do you have, and what coverage do you actually need?Join Micah and Tammy in this episode, where they
Listen to the Full Episode: Listen to this week’s recap episode with Sierra Steele and learn about the most common things clients miss when talking
Listen to the Full Episode: This episode is all about some interesting real-life client stories in the world of retirement planning that happened during this
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 how to avoid making irreversable mistakes after death and empower yourself with the knowledge you need to plan for
Listen to the Full Episode: Don’t let irreversible mistakes catch you off guard. Empower yourself with the knowledge you need to plan for a secure
Listen to the Full Episode: Learn to make informed retirement decisions and secure your financial future with valuable information in regard to your TSP, covered
Listen to the Full Episode: Whether you’re just starting your career, planning for retirement, or already in retirement, or someone looking to understand TSP better,
Listen to the Full Episode: Learn why the TSP is such a phenomenal tool for your retirement and find out what you should know about
Listen to the Full Episode: In this episode, host Micah Shilanski and a special guest – JT Ferrin, delve into explaining the meaning of TSP
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
Listen to the Full Episode: Learn why the Federal Employee Health Benefits (FEHB) is such an excellent benefit for federal employees, allowing them to keep
Listen to the Full Episode: In this episode of Plan Your Federal Retirement Podcast, Micah and Jamie discuss the Federal Employee Health Benefits (FEHB) and
Listen to the Full Episode: Learn what the importance is of understanding the rules and regulations for federal employee retirement, covered by Sierra Steele. Enjoy
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you a federal employee planning for retirement? Do you know that negative outcomes can be prevented if only you
Listen to the Full Episode: How do you know what to have in savings? Learn all about great tips on how to organize your savings
Listen to the Full Episode: How many months’ worth of living expenses do you need to have saved up and why? Do you have emergency
Listen to the Full Episode: Does everybody have the right to a FERS Supplement? Learn all about who will receive it and what you need
Listen to the Full Episode: The FERS supplement is a great benefit of your FERS retirement package. This supplement is available to federal employees who
Listen to the Full Episode: Learn what’s possible and what’s not when it comes to your TSP in retirement. Here are the 7 things you
Listen to the Full Episode: Retirement can be challenging, especially when it comes to managing your finances. One of the biggest mistakes you can make
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
Listen to the Full Episode: You’ve been working and saving and planning for your retirement. And when you retire, you go through a psychological shift
Listen to the Full Episode: The importance of knowing the different streams of income and how to use them, covered by Victoria Kellerman. Enjoy the
Listen to the Full Episode: Cashflow is the heartbeat of retirement, so you have to know the details of your income streams, the theory, and
Listen to the Full Episode: The importance of making a financial plan for a great retirement, covered by Victoria Kellerman. Enjoy the show? Use the
Listen to the Full Episode: Setting goals and mapping a strategy – these are the ground rules for taking the action in your hands! No,
Listen to the Full Episode: One of the most essential and fundamental questions is choosing the right federal retirement plan! Do you know how much
Listen to the Full Episode: What if you erroneously select an annuity from the TSP instead of a withdrawal from it, can you reverse that
Listen to the Full Episode: Net vs. Gross income. Which one hits the door of your bank account? Changes regarding insurance? Life insurance, health insurance…
Listen to the Full Episode: Accidents happen, but some come with severe consequences. For example, when covering someone with your HSA that you shouldn’t cover,
Listen to the Full Episode: Changes the Secure 2.0 brings and what do they mean for the retirees and federal employees, covered by Victoria Kellerman.
Listen to the Full Episode: Changes are happening, and questions have been raised! That is why we have a special guest in today’s episode –
Listen to the Full Episode: The benefits in retirement that Federal Employees have are based on three things: Pension Social Security TSP To avoid misconceptions
Listen to the Full Episode: It is crucial to be hyper-intentional when it comes to your retirement! How big of a change can your sick
Listen to the Full Episode: Whether you are 30, 50, or 70, a subject that has a hold on you is how to improve
Listen to the Full Episode: Christian Sakamoto joins the show again today to discuss cash flow and the money you spend in retirement. This is
Listen to the Full Episode: There are a couple of times a year when it’s really important to have clients come in and review things.
Listen to the Full Episode: The effects of inaccurate information can be devastating, and there’s a lot of questionable information out there. So, in this
Listen to the Full Episode: Today Micah and Tammy tackle estate planning, a topic that impacts a lot of people, but that we don’t tend
Listen to the Full Episode: Misdirected advice can often be the most costly advice. So when we get advice, it’s important to hit pause to
Listen to the Full Episode: Christian Sakamoto joins the show again today to help answer some of the top questions we get from people who
Listen to the Full Episode: Have you noticed that the markets are down? Did you know there are some key opportunities to look into when
Listen to the Full Episode: Sometimes there are misconceptions we have that lead to big mistakes before retirement—and they all stem from one main problem.
Listen to the Full Episode: Pros and cons to moving investments around. Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
Listen to the Full Episode: Many people want to move investments into or out of their TSP, and there are a lot of questions surrounding
Micah and Tammy have been seeing lots of mistakes and missteps happening lately, with more people reaching out to see whether they were wrong or
Answering your questions about military buy back. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
The question of whether to buy back military time is something that affects a lot of people. This episode features Christian Sakamoto, a great advisor
Micah is flying solo in today’s podcast to answer this indirect question that he gets when meeting with clients. He discusses how to decide what
Answering your tax questions. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
In this episode, Micah is joined by a special guest who will shed light on some myths and misconceptions that you may be dealing with
Answering listener questions following Monday’s episode. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
When it’s time for that little blue book to arrive, it’s important not to just file it away. Today, Micah and Tammy share what this
Answering listener questions to help you better understand long-term care. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
As people get ready to retire, questions about long-term care often start coming up. Although it may not be the most fun subject, it’s a
How to plan TOGETHER for a successful retirement. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
Now that we’re in February, we’re going to call this episode “the love episode”—and there’s no love like survivor benefits. So today, Micah and Tammy
Answering your questions about TSP, Roth conversions, and more. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
Sometimes we get so caught up on end-of-the-year stuff that things can easily be missed or slip by us if we’re not careful. Tammy and
What you need to be thinking about getting done in the new year. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below
It’s a new year, and Tammy and Micah are here to talk about some of the things that have changed, some of the things that
In this episode, Tammy and Micah continue with the insights into TSP series and answer some great questions from active TSP participants. Whether you are
In this mini-series, Micah and Tammy have been talking about your TSP during a time of volatility and the strategies you can implement to encourage
Today, Tammy and Micah continue to address questions they’ve been receiving regarding your TSP and market volatility. In this second part of the series, they
How are things going to unfold when it comes to your Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) account? Tammy and Micah have been getting a flood of
Answering listener questions about our “controversial” podcast. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
Right now, the entire world revolves around COVID—even more so with executive orders and rules that are requiring employees to get the vaccine by the
Answering listener questions about Medicare Advantage and retirement. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
At 65, something happens to all of us where we have this forced decision that we have to deal with when it comes to Medicare—and
Answering additional questions about Social Security, COLA, and TSP benefits. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
Today, Micah and Tammy are picking up where they left off in the last episode and discussing Social Security COLA and your TSP COLA. They’ll
Answering listener questions on COLA, employee pay raises, and more. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
Many people are under the wrong impression when it comes to retirement, COLA, and pay increases. Once the numbers are run, things are rarely as
Learn what to consider about life expectancy when planning for retirement. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
When preparing for retirement, it’s important to plan for flexibility. There are a number of post-retirement risks that can upend the most precisely laid-out retirement
Action items for maximizing your retirement. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
More and more federal employees are thinking about retiring at the end of the year, and while we’ve already gone over the best times to
Learn more about the things that can sabotage your retirement. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
When it comes to retirement, there is an overwhelming amount of incomplete or incorrect information on the internet purported as fact. The truth is, you
Learn the important differences between retiring at 60 and retiring at 62. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to
There is so much misinformation out there, and sometimes, it is important to simply get back to basics and ensure your information is correct. So
Tips for figuring out the best plan for your retirement. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
Will a form for retirement be sent to you, or do you have to request that form? Can you transfer money from a traditional TSP
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
Questions to ask yourself to ensure you’re properly balancing your social security and TSP so you get the most benefit. Listen to the Full Episode:
Are you wondering what to do about your social security or how to go about taking money from your TSP? If so, this episode is
What you need to know about your TSP benefits so you can avoid risk and maximize your retirement funds. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy
You’ve worked your whole life, now you’re ready to retire. But do you know how to maximize your benefits and set yourself up for retirement
How to protect and prepare your loved ones for unexpected life events. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to
It’s the little details that can really trip you up, so Tammy and Micah share specific areas and situations they’ve noticed clients having trouble with
The importance of looking over your policies, reevaluating your beneficiaries and everything you need to know about FEGLI. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the
With so many misconceptions around life insurance, it can be hard to determine the appropriate plan or amount for your needs. Unfortunately, there are some
How to properly plan for the day of your retirement. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
With more retirement planning and with every year that retirement gets closer, the question is often asked, “What day is best to retire?” Tammy and
Do you have a plan put in place for who will inherit your assets after your demise? Many people are solely focused on increasing their
Ensuring you have met your savings goals during your retirement planning is incredibly important, but it is just one of many things to consider. Unfortunately,
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
When we consider retirement, most of us think about this chapter in our lives as a positive time—and it can be, as long as we
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
Does it make sense to stay a full thirty years in the federal government just to receive a better pension? Ten years (or more) before
There is so much that we can’t control, and it’s easy to focus on those things and feel helpless to stop them. But in this
Mary Beth Franklin is our go-to professional for all things Social Security benefits. With over 40 years as a financial journalist and a CFP® designation,
What kind of protection does the spouse of a federal employee have? Does everyone need insurance—and how is it beneficial? In this episode, Tammy and
Today Micah’s sister, Jamie Shilanski, joins the show to talk about financial planning and the inconsistent advice that many people are hearing regarding their finances.
When is the right time to retire? And what are the different options as a federal employee? While everyone wants to retire early, the fact
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
Today Micah and Tammy are opening up the mailbag to answer your most burning questions about federal retirement. A few people wrote in asking about
Today Micah and Tammy are setting the record straight and dispelling some myths about what you actually need to retire with. There’s a lot of
We hear a lot of people say they want to turn on their social security as soon as possible in order to capitalize on the
Everyone looks forward to retirement and the freedom that comes along with no longer being locked down to a job, but what if it isn’t
Micah and Tammy have shared their thoughts and experiences with credible services, agency estimates, and other incomes, but what about risk management? In this episode,
When you retire, it’s not just about having the time to do everything that you want to do—it’s also about having the money to make
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
Welcome to the Plan Your Federal Retirement Podcast, where Certified Financial Planner Micah Shilanski and Principal Retirement Specialist Tammy Flanagan come together to ensure you
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
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
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you ready to turn your retirement savings into a reliable income stream? Understanding your spending goals and determining your
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you ready to turn your retirement savings into a reliable income stream as Federal Employee? Navigating the complexities of
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you ready to turn your retirement savings into a reliable income stream? Understanding your spending goals and determining your
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
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you nearing retirement and wondering how to manage your sick leave best? Join Tammy and Micah in this insightful
Listen to the Full Episode: Have you considered what happens to your assets and who will take care of your financial matters when you’re gone?
Listen to the Full Episode: Federal employees can use various calculators to estimate their FERS benefits, but accurate documentation and proper completion of estate planning
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you seeking clarity on TSP strategies? Join us on our latest podcast episode, where Christian and JT decode the
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you ready to take control of your retirement finances? Your current spending habits could shape your future retirement lifestyle
Listen to the Full Episode: It is time to discuss retirement planning, cash flow management, and potential retirement expenses! In this special episode, Micah leads
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you ready to embark on a journey towards a secureretirement? Join Micah and Tammy, as they analyze advanced retirement
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you ready to retire? Have you considered the emotional part of this journey? Are you and your spouse on
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
Listen to the Full Episode: Federal retirees face unique challenges, from income replacement to tax considerations. But what about life insurance needs and survivor benefits?
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you ready to retire without looking back? Let’s discuss essential strategies for retirees to help ensure they can enjoy
Listen to the Full Episode: There are a lot of complexities in federal retirement benefits and retirement planning. Let’s unravel the key aspects and pitfalls
Listen to the Full Episode: What are the essential steps to a successful federal retirement? Join, Micah and Tammy, in today’s episode as they go
Listen to the Full Episode: Ever wondered why your retirement is losing money despite investment diversification? Join Micah and Christian in our latest episode, where
Listen to the Full Episode: As the holiday season ends, it is important to take action about our retirement plans and talk about the changes
Listen to the Full Episode: Listen to this week’s recap episode with Sierra Steele and learn about estate planning documents for federal employees and the
Listen to the Full Episode: You already know how important estate planning is for your retirement, but do you know the crucial must-do’s? In this
Listen to the Full Episode: Listen to this week’s recap episode with Sierra Steele and learn about the importance of retirement planning and the use
Listen to the Full Episode: It’s time to get invaluable insights from cash flow considerations to navigating the intricate rules of the Federal Employees Retirement
Listen to the Full Episode: Listen to this week’s recap episode with Sierra Steele and learn everything you need to know about Medicare and Federal
Listen to the Full Episode: What coverage do you have, and what coverage do you actually need?Join Micah and Tammy in this episode, where they
Listen to the Full Episode: Listen to this week’s recap episode with Sierra Steele and learn about the most common things clients miss when talking
Listen to the Full Episode: This episode is all about some interesting real-life client stories in the world of retirement planning that happened during this
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 how to avoid making irreversable mistakes after death and empower yourself with the knowledge you need to plan for
Listen to the Full Episode: Don’t let irreversible mistakes catch you off guard. Empower yourself with the knowledge you need to plan for a secure
Listen to the Full Episode: Learn to make informed retirement decisions and secure your financial future with valuable information in regard to your TSP, covered
Listen to the Full Episode: Whether you’re just starting your career, planning for retirement, or already in retirement, or someone looking to understand TSP better,
Listen to the Full Episode: Learn why the TSP is such a phenomenal tool for your retirement and find out what you should know about
Listen to the Full Episode: In this episode, host Micah Shilanski and a special guest – JT Ferrin, delve into explaining the meaning of TSP
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
Listen to the Full Episode: Learn why the Federal Employee Health Benefits (FEHB) is such an excellent benefit for federal employees, allowing them to keep
Listen to the Full Episode: In this episode of Plan Your Federal Retirement Podcast, Micah and Jamie discuss the Federal Employee Health Benefits (FEHB) and
Listen to the Full Episode: Learn what the importance is of understanding the rules and regulations for federal employee retirement, covered by Sierra Steele. Enjoy
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you a federal employee planning for retirement? Do you know that negative outcomes can be prevented if only you
Listen to the Full Episode: How do you know what to have in savings? Learn all about great tips on how to organize your savings
Listen to the Full Episode: How many months’ worth of living expenses do you need to have saved up and why? Do you have emergency
Listen to the Full Episode: Does everybody have the right to a FERS Supplement? Learn all about who will receive it and what you need
Listen to the Full Episode: The FERS supplement is a great benefit of your FERS retirement package. This supplement is available to federal employees who
Listen to the Full Episode: Learn what’s possible and what’s not when it comes to your TSP in retirement. Here are the 7 things you
Listen to the Full Episode: Retirement can be challenging, especially when it comes to managing your finances. One of the biggest mistakes you can make
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
Listen to the Full Episode: You’ve been working and saving and planning for your retirement. And when you retire, you go through a psychological shift
Listen to the Full Episode: The importance of knowing the different streams of income and how to use them, covered by Victoria Kellerman. Enjoy the
Listen to the Full Episode: Cashflow is the heartbeat of retirement, so you have to know the details of your income streams, the theory, and
Listen to the Full Episode: The importance of making a financial plan for a great retirement, covered by Victoria Kellerman. Enjoy the show? Use the
Listen to the Full Episode: Setting goals and mapping a strategy – these are the ground rules for taking the action in your hands! No,
Listen to the Full Episode: One of the most essential and fundamental questions is choosing the right federal retirement plan! Do you know how much
Listen to the Full Episode: What if you erroneously select an annuity from the TSP instead of a withdrawal from it, can you reverse that
Listen to the Full Episode: Net vs. Gross income. Which one hits the door of your bank account? Changes regarding insurance? Life insurance, health insurance…
Listen to the Full Episode: Accidents happen, but some come with severe consequences. For example, when covering someone with your HSA that you shouldn’t cover,
Listen to the Full Episode: Changes the Secure 2.0 brings and what do they mean for the retirees and federal employees, covered by Victoria Kellerman.
Listen to the Full Episode: Changes are happening, and questions have been raised! That is why we have a special guest in today’s episode –
Listen to the Full Episode: The benefits in retirement that Federal Employees have are based on three things: Pension Social Security TSP To avoid misconceptions
Listen to the Full Episode: It is crucial to be hyper-intentional when it comes to your retirement! How big of a change can your sick
Listen to the Full Episode: Whether you are 30, 50, or 70, a subject that has a hold on you is how to improve
Listen to the Full Episode: Christian Sakamoto joins the show again today to discuss cash flow and the money you spend in retirement. This is
Listen to the Full Episode: There are a couple of times a year when it’s really important to have clients come in and review things.
Listen to the Full Episode: The effects of inaccurate information can be devastating, and there’s a lot of questionable information out there. So, in this
Listen to the Full Episode: Today Micah and Tammy tackle estate planning, a topic that impacts a lot of people, but that we don’t tend
Listen to the Full Episode: Misdirected advice can often be the most costly advice. So when we get advice, it’s important to hit pause to
Listen to the Full Episode: Christian Sakamoto joins the show again today to help answer some of the top questions we get from people who
Listen to the Full Episode: Have you noticed that the markets are down? Did you know there are some key opportunities to look into when
Listen to the Full Episode: Sometimes there are misconceptions we have that lead to big mistakes before retirement—and they all stem from one main problem.
Listen to the Full Episode: Pros and cons to moving investments around. Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
Listen to the Full Episode: Many people want to move investments into or out of their TSP, and there are a lot of questions surrounding
Micah and Tammy have been seeing lots of mistakes and missteps happening lately, with more people reaching out to see whether they were wrong or
Answering your questions about military buy back. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
The question of whether to buy back military time is something that affects a lot of people. This episode features Christian Sakamoto, a great advisor
Micah is flying solo in today’s podcast to answer this indirect question that he gets when meeting with clients. He discusses how to decide what
Answering your tax questions. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
In this episode, Micah is joined by a special guest who will shed light on some myths and misconceptions that you may be dealing with
Answering listener questions following Monday’s episode. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
When it’s time for that little blue book to arrive, it’s important not to just file it away. Today, Micah and Tammy share what this
Answering listener questions to help you better understand long-term care. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
As people get ready to retire, questions about long-term care often start coming up. Although it may not be the most fun subject, it’s a
How to plan TOGETHER for a successful retirement. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
Now that we’re in February, we’re going to call this episode “the love episode”—and there’s no love like survivor benefits. So today, Micah and Tammy
Answering your questions about TSP, Roth conversions, and more. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
Sometimes we get so caught up on end-of-the-year stuff that things can easily be missed or slip by us if we’re not careful. Tammy and
What you need to be thinking about getting done in the new year. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below
It’s a new year, and Tammy and Micah are here to talk about some of the things that have changed, some of the things that
In this episode, Tammy and Micah continue with the insights into TSP series and answer some great questions from active TSP participants. Whether you are
In this mini-series, Micah and Tammy have been talking about your TSP during a time of volatility and the strategies you can implement to encourage
Today, Tammy and Micah continue to address questions they’ve been receiving regarding your TSP and market volatility. In this second part of the series, they
How are things going to unfold when it comes to your Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) account? Tammy and Micah have been getting a flood of
Answering listener questions about our “controversial” podcast. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
Right now, the entire world revolves around COVID—even more so with executive orders and rules that are requiring employees to get the vaccine by the
Answering listener questions about Medicare Advantage and retirement. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
At 65, something happens to all of us where we have this forced decision that we have to deal with when it comes to Medicare—and
Answering additional questions about Social Security, COLA, and TSP benefits. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
Today, Micah and Tammy are picking up where they left off in the last episode and discussing Social Security COLA and your TSP COLA. They’ll
Answering listener questions on COLA, employee pay raises, and more. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
Many people are under the wrong impression when it comes to retirement, COLA, and pay increases. Once the numbers are run, things are rarely as
Learn what to consider about life expectancy when planning for retirement. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
When preparing for retirement, it’s important to plan for flexibility. There are a number of post-retirement risks that can upend the most precisely laid-out retirement
Action items for maximizing your retirement. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
More and more federal employees are thinking about retiring at the end of the year, and while we’ve already gone over the best times to
Learn more about the things that can sabotage your retirement. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
When it comes to retirement, there is an overwhelming amount of incomplete or incorrect information on the internet purported as fact. The truth is, you
Learn the important differences between retiring at 60 and retiring at 62. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to
There is so much misinformation out there, and sometimes, it is important to simply get back to basics and ensure your information is correct. So
Tips for figuring out the best plan for your retirement. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
Will a form for retirement be sent to you, or do you have to request that form? Can you transfer money from a traditional TSP
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
Questions to ask yourself to ensure you’re properly balancing your social security and TSP so you get the most benefit. Listen to the Full Episode:
Are you wondering what to do about your social security or how to go about taking money from your TSP? If so, this episode is
What you need to know about your TSP benefits so you can avoid risk and maximize your retirement funds. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy
You’ve worked your whole life, now you’re ready to retire. But do you know how to maximize your benefits and set yourself up for retirement
How to protect and prepare your loved ones for unexpected life events. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to
It’s the little details that can really trip you up, so Tammy and Micah share specific areas and situations they’ve noticed clients having trouble with
The importance of looking over your policies, reevaluating your beneficiaries and everything you need to know about FEGLI. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the
With so many misconceptions around life insurance, it can be hard to determine the appropriate plan or amount for your needs. Unfortunately, there are some
How to properly plan for the day of your retirement. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
With more retirement planning and with every year that retirement gets closer, the question is often asked, “What day is best to retire?” Tammy and
Do you have a plan put in place for who will inherit your assets after your demise? Many people are solely focused on increasing their
Ensuring you have met your savings goals during your retirement planning is incredibly important, but it is just one of many things to consider. Unfortunately,
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
When we consider retirement, most of us think about this chapter in our lives as a positive time—and it can be, as long as we
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
Does it make sense to stay a full thirty years in the federal government just to receive a better pension? Ten years (or more) before
There is so much that we can’t control, and it’s easy to focus on those things and feel helpless to stop them. But in this
Mary Beth Franklin is our go-to professional for all things Social Security benefits. With over 40 years as a financial journalist and a CFP® designation,
What kind of protection does the spouse of a federal employee have? Does everyone need insurance—and how is it beneficial? In this episode, Tammy and
Today Micah’s sister, Jamie Shilanski, joins the show to talk about financial planning and the inconsistent advice that many people are hearing regarding their finances.
When is the right time to retire? And what are the different options as a federal employee? While everyone wants to retire early, the fact
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
Today Micah and Tammy are opening up the mailbag to answer your most burning questions about federal retirement. A few people wrote in asking about
Today Micah and Tammy are setting the record straight and dispelling some myths about what you actually need to retire with. There’s a lot of
We hear a lot of people say they want to turn on their social security as soon as possible in order to capitalize on the
Everyone looks forward to retirement and the freedom that comes along with no longer being locked down to a job, but what if it isn’t
Micah and Tammy have shared their thoughts and experiences with credible services, agency estimates, and other incomes, but what about risk management? In this episode,
When you retire, it’s not just about having the time to do everything that you want to do—it’s also about having the money to make
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
Welcome to the Plan Your Federal Retirement Podcast, where Certified Financial Planner Micah Shilanski and Principal Retirement Specialist Tammy Flanagan come together to ensure you
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
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
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you ready to turn your retirement savings into a reliable income stream? Understanding your spending goals and determining your
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you ready to turn your retirement savings into a reliable income stream as Federal Employee? Navigating the complexities of
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you ready to turn your retirement savings into a reliable income stream? Understanding your spending goals and determining your
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
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you nearing retirement and wondering how to manage your sick leave best? Join Tammy and Micah in this insightful
Listen to the Full Episode: Have you considered what happens to your assets and who will take care of your financial matters when you’re gone?
Listen to the Full Episode: Federal employees can use various calculators to estimate their FERS benefits, but accurate documentation and proper completion of estate planning
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you seeking clarity on TSP strategies? Join us on our latest podcast episode, where Christian and JT decode the
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you ready to take control of your retirement finances? Your current spending habits could shape your future retirement lifestyle
Listen to the Full Episode: It is time to discuss retirement planning, cash flow management, and potential retirement expenses! In this special episode, Micah leads
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you ready to embark on a journey towards a secureretirement? Join Micah and Tammy, as they analyze advanced retirement
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you ready to retire? Have you considered the emotional part of this journey? Are you and your spouse on
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
Listen to the Full Episode: Federal retirees face unique challenges, from income replacement to tax considerations. But what about life insurance needs and survivor benefits?
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you ready to retire without looking back? Let’s discuss essential strategies for retirees to help ensure they can enjoy
Listen to the Full Episode: There are a lot of complexities in federal retirement benefits and retirement planning. Let’s unravel the key aspects and pitfalls
Listen to the Full Episode: What are the essential steps to a successful federal retirement? Join, Micah and Tammy, in today’s episode as they go
Listen to the Full Episode: Ever wondered why your retirement is losing money despite investment diversification? Join Micah and Christian in our latest episode, where
Listen to the Full Episode: As the holiday season ends, it is important to take action about our retirement plans and talk about the changes
Listen to the Full Episode: Listen to this week’s recap episode with Sierra Steele and learn about estate planning documents for federal employees and the
Listen to the Full Episode: You already know how important estate planning is for your retirement, but do you know the crucial must-do’s? In this
Listen to the Full Episode: Listen to this week’s recap episode with Sierra Steele and learn about the importance of retirement planning and the use
Listen to the Full Episode: It’s time to get invaluable insights from cash flow considerations to navigating the intricate rules of the Federal Employees Retirement
Listen to the Full Episode: Listen to this week’s recap episode with Sierra Steele and learn everything you need to know about Medicare and Federal
Listen to the Full Episode: What coverage do you have, and what coverage do you actually need?Join Micah and Tammy in this episode, where they
Listen to the Full Episode: Listen to this week’s recap episode with Sierra Steele and learn about the most common things clients miss when talking
Listen to the Full Episode: This episode is all about some interesting real-life client stories in the world of retirement planning that happened during this
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 how to avoid making irreversable mistakes after death and empower yourself with the knowledge you need to plan for
Listen to the Full Episode: Don’t let irreversible mistakes catch you off guard. Empower yourself with the knowledge you need to plan for a secure
Listen to the Full Episode: Learn to make informed retirement decisions and secure your financial future with valuable information in regard to your TSP, covered
Listen to the Full Episode: Whether you’re just starting your career, planning for retirement, or already in retirement, or someone looking to understand TSP better,
Listen to the Full Episode: Learn why the TSP is such a phenomenal tool for your retirement and find out what you should know about
Listen to the Full Episode: In this episode, host Micah Shilanski and a special guest – JT Ferrin, delve into explaining the meaning of TSP
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
Listen to the Full Episode: Learn why the Federal Employee Health Benefits (FEHB) is such an excellent benefit for federal employees, allowing them to keep
Listen to the Full Episode: In this episode of Plan Your Federal Retirement Podcast, Micah and Jamie discuss the Federal Employee Health Benefits (FEHB) and
Listen to the Full Episode: Learn what the importance is of understanding the rules and regulations for federal employee retirement, covered by Sierra Steele. Enjoy
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you a federal employee planning for retirement? Do you know that negative outcomes can be prevented if only you
Listen to the Full Episode: How do you know what to have in savings? Learn all about great tips on how to organize your savings
Listen to the Full Episode: How many months’ worth of living expenses do you need to have saved up and why? Do you have emergency
Listen to the Full Episode: Does everybody have the right to a FERS Supplement? Learn all about who will receive it and what you need
Listen to the Full Episode: The FERS supplement is a great benefit of your FERS retirement package. This supplement is available to federal employees who
Listen to the Full Episode: Learn what’s possible and what’s not when it comes to your TSP in retirement. Here are the 7 things you
Listen to the Full Episode: Retirement can be challenging, especially when it comes to managing your finances. One of the biggest mistakes you can make
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
Listen to the Full Episode: You’ve been working and saving and planning for your retirement. And when you retire, you go through a psychological shift
Listen to the Full Episode: The importance of knowing the different streams of income and how to use them, covered by Victoria Kellerman. Enjoy the
Listen to the Full Episode: Cashflow is the heartbeat of retirement, so you have to know the details of your income streams, the theory, and
Listen to the Full Episode: The importance of making a financial plan for a great retirement, covered by Victoria Kellerman. Enjoy the show? Use the
Listen to the Full Episode: Setting goals and mapping a strategy – these are the ground rules for taking the action in your hands! No,
Listen to the Full Episode: One of the most essential and fundamental questions is choosing the right federal retirement plan! Do you know how much
Listen to the Full Episode: What if you erroneously select an annuity from the TSP instead of a withdrawal from it, can you reverse that
Listen to the Full Episode: Net vs. Gross income. Which one hits the door of your bank account? Changes regarding insurance? Life insurance, health insurance…
Listen to the Full Episode: Accidents happen, but some come with severe consequences. For example, when covering someone with your HSA that you shouldn’t cover,
Listen to the Full Episode: Changes the Secure 2.0 brings and what do they mean for the retirees and federal employees, covered by Victoria Kellerman.
Listen to the Full Episode: Changes are happening, and questions have been raised! That is why we have a special guest in today’s episode –
Listen to the Full Episode: The benefits in retirement that Federal Employees have are based on three things: Pension Social Security TSP To avoid misconceptions
Listen to the Full Episode: It is crucial to be hyper-intentional when it comes to your retirement! How big of a change can your sick
Listen to the Full Episode: Whether you are 30, 50, or 70, a subject that has a hold on you is how to improve
Listen to the Full Episode: Christian Sakamoto joins the show again today to discuss cash flow and the money you spend in retirement. This is
Listen to the Full Episode: There are a couple of times a year when it’s really important to have clients come in and review things.
Listen to the Full Episode: The effects of inaccurate information can be devastating, and there’s a lot of questionable information out there. So, in this
Listen to the Full Episode: Today Micah and Tammy tackle estate planning, a topic that impacts a lot of people, but that we don’t tend
Listen to the Full Episode: Misdirected advice can often be the most costly advice. So when we get advice, it’s important to hit pause to
Listen to the Full Episode: Christian Sakamoto joins the show again today to help answer some of the top questions we get from people who
Listen to the Full Episode: Have you noticed that the markets are down? Did you know there are some key opportunities to look into when
Listen to the Full Episode: Sometimes there are misconceptions we have that lead to big mistakes before retirement—and they all stem from one main problem.
Listen to the Full Episode: Pros and cons to moving investments around. Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
Listen to the Full Episode: Many people want to move investments into or out of their TSP, and there are a lot of questions surrounding
Micah and Tammy have been seeing lots of mistakes and missteps happening lately, with more people reaching out to see whether they were wrong or
Answering your questions about military buy back. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
The question of whether to buy back military time is something that affects a lot of people. This episode features Christian Sakamoto, a great advisor
Micah is flying solo in today’s podcast to answer this indirect question that he gets when meeting with clients. He discusses how to decide what
Answering your tax questions. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
In this episode, Micah is joined by a special guest who will shed light on some myths and misconceptions that you may be dealing with
Answering listener questions following Monday’s episode. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
When it’s time for that little blue book to arrive, it’s important not to just file it away. Today, Micah and Tammy share what this
Answering listener questions to help you better understand long-term care. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
As people get ready to retire, questions about long-term care often start coming up. Although it may not be the most fun subject, it’s a
How to plan TOGETHER for a successful retirement. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
Now that we’re in February, we’re going to call this episode “the love episode”—and there’s no love like survivor benefits. So today, Micah and Tammy
Answering your questions about TSP, Roth conversions, and more. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
Sometimes we get so caught up on end-of-the-year stuff that things can easily be missed or slip by us if we’re not careful. Tammy and
What you need to be thinking about getting done in the new year. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below
It’s a new year, and Tammy and Micah are here to talk about some of the things that have changed, some of the things that
In this episode, Tammy and Micah continue with the insights into TSP series and answer some great questions from active TSP participants. Whether you are
In this mini-series, Micah and Tammy have been talking about your TSP during a time of volatility and the strategies you can implement to encourage
Today, Tammy and Micah continue to address questions they’ve been receiving regarding your TSP and market volatility. In this second part of the series, they
How are things going to unfold when it comes to your Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) account? Tammy and Micah have been getting a flood of
Answering listener questions about our “controversial” podcast. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
Right now, the entire world revolves around COVID—even more so with executive orders and rules that are requiring employees to get the vaccine by the
Answering listener questions about Medicare Advantage and retirement. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
At 65, something happens to all of us where we have this forced decision that we have to deal with when it comes to Medicare—and
Answering additional questions about Social Security, COLA, and TSP benefits. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
Today, Micah and Tammy are picking up where they left off in the last episode and discussing Social Security COLA and your TSP COLA. They’ll
Answering listener questions on COLA, employee pay raises, and more. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
Many people are under the wrong impression when it comes to retirement, COLA, and pay increases. Once the numbers are run, things are rarely as
Learn what to consider about life expectancy when planning for retirement. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
When preparing for retirement, it’s important to plan for flexibility. There are a number of post-retirement risks that can upend the most precisely laid-out retirement
Action items for maximizing your retirement. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
More and more federal employees are thinking about retiring at the end of the year, and while we’ve already gone over the best times to
Learn more about the things that can sabotage your retirement. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
When it comes to retirement, there is an overwhelming amount of incomplete or incorrect information on the internet purported as fact. The truth is, you
Learn the important differences between retiring at 60 and retiring at 62. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to
There is so much misinformation out there, and sometimes, it is important to simply get back to basics and ensure your information is correct. So
Tips for figuring out the best plan for your retirement. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
Will a form for retirement be sent to you, or do you have to request that form? Can you transfer money from a traditional TSP
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
Questions to ask yourself to ensure you’re properly balancing your social security and TSP so you get the most benefit. Listen to the Full Episode:
Are you wondering what to do about your social security or how to go about taking money from your TSP? If so, this episode is
What you need to know about your TSP benefits so you can avoid risk and maximize your retirement funds. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy
You’ve worked your whole life, now you’re ready to retire. But do you know how to maximize your benefits and set yourself up for retirement
How to protect and prepare your loved ones for unexpected life events. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to
It’s the little details that can really trip you up, so Tammy and Micah share specific areas and situations they’ve noticed clients having trouble with
The importance of looking over your policies, reevaluating your beneficiaries and everything you need to know about FEGLI. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the
With so many misconceptions around life insurance, it can be hard to determine the appropriate plan or amount for your needs. Unfortunately, there are some
How to properly plan for the day of your retirement. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
With more retirement planning and with every year that retirement gets closer, the question is often asked, “What day is best to retire?” Tammy and
Do you have a plan put in place for who will inherit your assets after your demise? Many people are solely focused on increasing their
Ensuring you have met your savings goals during your retirement planning is incredibly important, but it is just one of many things to consider. Unfortunately,
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
When we consider retirement, most of us think about this chapter in our lives as a positive time—and it can be, as long as we
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
Does it make sense to stay a full thirty years in the federal government just to receive a better pension? Ten years (or more) before
There is so much that we can’t control, and it’s easy to focus on those things and feel helpless to stop them. But in this
Mary Beth Franklin is our go-to professional for all things Social Security benefits. With over 40 years as a financial journalist and a CFP® designation,
What kind of protection does the spouse of a federal employee have? Does everyone need insurance—and how is it beneficial? In this episode, Tammy and
Today Micah’s sister, Jamie Shilanski, joins the show to talk about financial planning and the inconsistent advice that many people are hearing regarding their finances.
When is the right time to retire? And what are the different options as a federal employee? While everyone wants to retire early, the fact
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
Today Micah and Tammy are opening up the mailbag to answer your most burning questions about federal retirement. A few people wrote in asking about
Today Micah and Tammy are setting the record straight and dispelling some myths about what you actually need to retire with. There’s a lot of
We hear a lot of people say they want to turn on their social security as soon as possible in order to capitalize on the
Everyone looks forward to retirement and the freedom that comes along with no longer being locked down to a job, but what if it isn’t
Micah and Tammy have shared their thoughts and experiences with credible services, agency estimates, and other incomes, but what about risk management? In this episode,
When you retire, it’s not just about having the time to do everything that you want to do—it’s also about having the money to make
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
Welcome to the Plan Your Federal Retirement Podcast, where Certified Financial Planner Micah Shilanski and Principal Retirement Specialist Tammy Flanagan come together to ensure you
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
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
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you ready to turn your retirement savings into a reliable income stream? Understanding your spending goals and determining your
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you ready to turn your retirement savings into a reliable income stream as Federal Employee? Navigating the complexities of
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you ready to turn your retirement savings into a reliable income stream? Understanding your spending goals and determining your
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
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you nearing retirement and wondering how to manage your sick leave best? Join Tammy and Micah in this insightful
Listen to the Full Episode: Have you considered what happens to your assets and who will take care of your financial matters when you’re gone?
Listen to the Full Episode: Federal employees can use various calculators to estimate their FERS benefits, but accurate documentation and proper completion of estate planning
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you seeking clarity on TSP strategies? Join us on our latest podcast episode, where Christian and JT decode the
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you ready to take control of your retirement finances? Your current spending habits could shape your future retirement lifestyle
Listen to the Full Episode: It is time to discuss retirement planning, cash flow management, and potential retirement expenses! In this special episode, Micah leads
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you ready to embark on a journey towards a secureretirement? Join Micah and Tammy, as they analyze advanced retirement
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you ready to retire? Have you considered the emotional part of this journey? Are you and your spouse on
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
Listen to the Full Episode: Federal retirees face unique challenges, from income replacement to tax considerations. But what about life insurance needs and survivor benefits?
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you ready to retire without looking back? Let’s discuss essential strategies for retirees to help ensure they can enjoy
Listen to the Full Episode: There are a lot of complexities in federal retirement benefits and retirement planning. Let’s unravel the key aspects and pitfalls
Listen to the Full Episode: What are the essential steps to a successful federal retirement? Join, Micah and Tammy, in today’s episode as they go
Listen to the Full Episode: Ever wondered why your retirement is losing money despite investment diversification? Join Micah and Christian in our latest episode, where
Listen to the Full Episode: As the holiday season ends, it is important to take action about our retirement plans and talk about the changes
Listen to the Full Episode: Listen to this week’s recap episode with Sierra Steele and learn about estate planning documents for federal employees and the
Listen to the Full Episode: You already know how important estate planning is for your retirement, but do you know the crucial must-do’s? In this
Listen to the Full Episode: Listen to this week’s recap episode with Sierra Steele and learn about the importance of retirement planning and the use
Listen to the Full Episode: It’s time to get invaluable insights from cash flow considerations to navigating the intricate rules of the Federal Employees Retirement
Listen to the Full Episode: Listen to this week’s recap episode with Sierra Steele and learn everything you need to know about Medicare and Federal
Listen to the Full Episode: What coverage do you have, and what coverage do you actually need?Join Micah and Tammy in this episode, where they
Listen to the Full Episode: Listen to this week’s recap episode with Sierra Steele and learn about the most common things clients miss when talking
Listen to the Full Episode: This episode is all about some interesting real-life client stories in the world of retirement planning that happened during this
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 how to avoid making irreversable mistakes after death and empower yourself with the knowledge you need to plan for
Listen to the Full Episode: Don’t let irreversible mistakes catch you off guard. Empower yourself with the knowledge you need to plan for a secure
Listen to the Full Episode: Learn to make informed retirement decisions and secure your financial future with valuable information in regard to your TSP, covered
Listen to the Full Episode: Whether you’re just starting your career, planning for retirement, or already in retirement, or someone looking to understand TSP better,
Listen to the Full Episode: Learn why the TSP is such a phenomenal tool for your retirement and find out what you should know about
Listen to the Full Episode: In this episode, host Micah Shilanski and a special guest – JT Ferrin, delve into explaining the meaning of TSP
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
Listen to the Full Episode: Learn why the Federal Employee Health Benefits (FEHB) is such an excellent benefit for federal employees, allowing them to keep
Listen to the Full Episode: In this episode of Plan Your Federal Retirement Podcast, Micah and Jamie discuss the Federal Employee Health Benefits (FEHB) and
Listen to the Full Episode: Learn what the importance is of understanding the rules and regulations for federal employee retirement, covered by Sierra Steele. Enjoy
Listen to the Full Episode: Are you a federal employee planning for retirement? Do you know that negative outcomes can be prevented if only you
Listen to the Full Episode: How do you know what to have in savings? Learn all about great tips on how to organize your savings
Listen to the Full Episode: How many months’ worth of living expenses do you need to have saved up and why? Do you have emergency
Listen to the Full Episode: Does everybody have the right to a FERS Supplement? Learn all about who will receive it and what you need
Listen to the Full Episode: The FERS supplement is a great benefit of your FERS retirement package. This supplement is available to federal employees who
Listen to the Full Episode: Learn what’s possible and what’s not when it comes to your TSP in retirement. Here are the 7 things you
Listen to the Full Episode: Retirement can be challenging, especially when it comes to managing your finances. One of the biggest mistakes you can make
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
Listen to the Full Episode: You’ve been working and saving and planning for your retirement. And when you retire, you go through a psychological shift
Listen to the Full Episode: The importance of knowing the different streams of income and how to use them, covered by Victoria Kellerman. Enjoy the
Listen to the Full Episode: Cashflow is the heartbeat of retirement, so you have to know the details of your income streams, the theory, and
Listen to the Full Episode: The importance of making a financial plan for a great retirement, covered by Victoria Kellerman. Enjoy the show? Use the
Listen to the Full Episode: Setting goals and mapping a strategy – these are the ground rules for taking the action in your hands! No,
Listen to the Full Episode: One of the most essential and fundamental questions is choosing the right federal retirement plan! Do you know how much
Listen to the Full Episode: What if you erroneously select an annuity from the TSP instead of a withdrawal from it, can you reverse that
Listen to the Full Episode: Net vs. Gross income. Which one hits the door of your bank account? Changes regarding insurance? Life insurance, health insurance…
Listen to the Full Episode: Accidents happen, but some come with severe consequences. For example, when covering someone with your HSA that you shouldn’t cover,
Listen to the Full Episode: Changes the Secure 2.0 brings and what do they mean for the retirees and federal employees, covered by Victoria Kellerman.
Listen to the Full Episode: Changes are happening, and questions have been raised! That is why we have a special guest in today’s episode –
Listen to the Full Episode: The benefits in retirement that Federal Employees have are based on three things: Pension Social Security TSP To avoid misconceptions
Listen to the Full Episode: It is crucial to be hyper-intentional when it comes to your retirement! How big of a change can your sick
Listen to the Full Episode: Whether you are 30, 50, or 70, a subject that has a hold on you is how to improve
Listen to the Full Episode: Christian Sakamoto joins the show again today to discuss cash flow and the money you spend in retirement. This is
Listen to the Full Episode: There are a couple of times a year when it’s really important to have clients come in and review things.
Listen to the Full Episode: The effects of inaccurate information can be devastating, and there’s a lot of questionable information out there. So, in this
Listen to the Full Episode: Today Micah and Tammy tackle estate planning, a topic that impacts a lot of people, but that we don’t tend
Listen to the Full Episode: Misdirected advice can often be the most costly advice. So when we get advice, it’s important to hit pause to
Listen to the Full Episode: Christian Sakamoto joins the show again today to help answer some of the top questions we get from people who
Listen to the Full Episode: Have you noticed that the markets are down? Did you know there are some key opportunities to look into when
Listen to the Full Episode: Sometimes there are misconceptions we have that lead to big mistakes before retirement—and they all stem from one main problem.
Listen to the Full Episode: Pros and cons to moving investments around. Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
Listen to the Full Episode: Many people want to move investments into or out of their TSP, and there are a lot of questions surrounding
Micah and Tammy have been seeing lots of mistakes and missteps happening lately, with more people reaching out to see whether they were wrong or
Answering your questions about military buy back. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
The question of whether to buy back military time is something that affects a lot of people. This episode features Christian Sakamoto, a great advisor
Micah is flying solo in today’s podcast to answer this indirect question that he gets when meeting with clients. He discusses how to decide what
Answering your tax questions. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
In this episode, Micah is joined by a special guest who will shed light on some myths and misconceptions that you may be dealing with
Answering listener questions following Monday’s episode. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
When it’s time for that little blue book to arrive, it’s important not to just file it away. Today, Micah and Tammy share what this
Answering listener questions to help you better understand long-term care. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
As people get ready to retire, questions about long-term care often start coming up. Although it may not be the most fun subject, it’s a
How to plan TOGETHER for a successful retirement. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
Now that we’re in February, we’re going to call this episode “the love episode”—and there’s no love like survivor benefits. So today, Micah and Tammy
Answering your questions about TSP, Roth conversions, and more. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
Sometimes we get so caught up on end-of-the-year stuff that things can easily be missed or slip by us if we’re not careful. Tammy and
What you need to be thinking about getting done in the new year. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below
It’s a new year, and Tammy and Micah are here to talk about some of the things that have changed, some of the things that
In this episode, Tammy and Micah continue with the insights into TSP series and answer some great questions from active TSP participants. Whether you are
In this mini-series, Micah and Tammy have been talking about your TSP during a time of volatility and the strategies you can implement to encourage
Today, Tammy and Micah continue to address questions they’ve been receiving regarding your TSP and market volatility. In this second part of the series, they
How are things going to unfold when it comes to your Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) account? Tammy and Micah have been getting a flood of
Answering listener questions about our “controversial” podcast. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
Right now, the entire world revolves around COVID—even more so with executive orders and rules that are requiring employees to get the vaccine by the
Answering listener questions about Medicare Advantage and retirement. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
At 65, something happens to all of us where we have this forced decision that we have to deal with when it comes to Medicare—and
Answering additional questions about Social Security, COLA, and TSP benefits. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
Today, Micah and Tammy are picking up where they left off in the last episode and discussing Social Security COLA and your TSP COLA. They’ll
Answering listener questions on COLA, employee pay raises, and more. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
Many people are under the wrong impression when it comes to retirement, COLA, and pay increases. Once the numbers are run, things are rarely as
Learn what to consider about life expectancy when planning for retirement. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
When preparing for retirement, it’s important to plan for flexibility. There are a number of post-retirement risks that can upend the most precisely laid-out retirement
Action items for maximizing your retirement. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
More and more federal employees are thinking about retiring at the end of the year, and while we’ve already gone over the best times to
Learn more about the things that can sabotage your retirement. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
When it comes to retirement, there is an overwhelming amount of incomplete or incorrect information on the internet purported as fact. The truth is, you
Learn the important differences between retiring at 60 and retiring at 62. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to
There is so much misinformation out there, and sometimes, it is important to simply get back to basics and ensure your information is correct. So
Tips for figuring out the best plan for your retirement. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
Will a form for retirement be sent to you, or do you have to request that form? Can you transfer money from a traditional TSP
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
Questions to ask yourself to ensure you’re properly balancing your social security and TSP so you get the most benefit. Listen to the Full Episode:
Are you wondering what to do about your social security or how to go about taking money from your TSP? If so, this episode is
What you need to know about your TSP benefits so you can avoid risk and maximize your retirement funds. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy
You’ve worked your whole life, now you’re ready to retire. But do you know how to maximize your benefits and set yourself up for retirement
How to protect and prepare your loved ones for unexpected life events. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to
It’s the little details that can really trip you up, so Tammy and Micah share specific areas and situations they’ve noticed clients having trouble with
The importance of looking over your policies, reevaluating your beneficiaries and everything you need to know about FEGLI. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the
With so many misconceptions around life insurance, it can be hard to determine the appropriate plan or amount for your needs. Unfortunately, there are some
How to properly plan for the day of your retirement. Listen to the Full Episode: Enjoy the show? Use the Links Below to Subscribe:
With more retirement planning and with every year that retirement gets closer, the question is often asked, “What day is best to retire?” Tammy and
Do you have a plan put in place for who will inherit your assets after your demise? Many people are solely focused on increasing their
Ensuring you have met your savings goals during your retirement planning is incredibly important, but it is just one of many things to consider. Unfortunately,
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
When we consider retirement, most of us think about this chapter in our lives as a positive time—and it can be, as long as we
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
Does it make sense to stay a full thirty years in the federal government just to receive a better pension? Ten years (or more) before
There is so much that we can’t control, and it’s easy to focus on those things and feel helpless to stop them. But in this
Mary Beth Franklin is our go-to professional for all things Social Security benefits. With over 40 years as a financial journalist and a CFP® designation,
What kind of protection does the spouse of a federal employee have? Does everyone need insurance—and how is it beneficial? In this episode, Tammy and
Today Micah’s sister, Jamie Shilanski, joins the show to talk about financial planning and the inconsistent advice that many people are hearing regarding their finances.
When is the right time to retire? And what are the different options as a federal employee? While everyone wants to retire early, the fact
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
Today Micah and Tammy are opening up the mailbag to answer your most burning questions about federal retirement. A few people wrote in asking about
Today Micah and Tammy are setting the record straight and dispelling some myths about what you actually need to retire with. There’s a lot of
We hear a lot of people say they want to turn on their social security as soon as possible in order to capitalize on the
Everyone looks forward to retirement and the freedom that comes along with no longer being locked down to a job, but what if it isn’t
Micah and Tammy have shared their thoughts and experiences with credible services, agency estimates, and other incomes, but what about risk management? In this episode,
When you retire, it’s not just about having the time to do everything that you want to do—it’s also about having the money to make
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
Welcome to the Plan Your Federal Retirement Podcast, where Certified Financial Planner Micah Shilanski and Principal Retirement Specialist Tammy Flanagan come together to ensure you