FERS Retirement Planning

What Medicare Part B Covers That FEHB Doesn’t

Real Question from a Federal Employee Do I need Medicare Part B if I have FEHB? I find it hard to believe Medicare Part B

#135 Your Last Year Before Retirement: The Ultimate Prep Guide

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

Timing is Everything: When to Claim Social Security as a Federal Employee

Real Question from a Federal Employee What age can I start collecting Social Security retirement benefits? What is my full retirement age, and how does

#134 Retirement Readiness: The Secrets to Knowing You’re Truly Ready

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

Approaching Retirement: How to Check If You’re Prepared

Real Question from a Federal Employee Hello, I have a question. I’m a few years out from retiremen, how can I be sure I’m financially

Changes in the Retirement Process

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

#133 Smart Retirement Planning in Volatile Markets: Cash Flow, TSP, and Taxes

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

Are You Able to Combine State and Federal Retirement Contributions?

I have 2 years state retirement contributions, 10 years military (7 years federal 3 years guard). Can I combine state and federal retirement contributions? Do

#132 Understanding How the Economy and Your Retirement Portfolio Are Related

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

Does Retiring at the End of the Month Affect TSP Contributions?

Question about TSP matching Contributions.If I retire at the end of a month, which happens to be the middle of a pay period, do I

#131 The Government Is… What Can You Control?

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

Is It Possible to Suspend FEHB and Come Back Later?

Can I suspend FEHB in retirement then start it again later if my new (private sector) employer offers health coverage benefits that I’d like to

Can You Qualify for FEHB in Retirement by Returning to Federal Service?

I have 15 years of federal service and am 55 years old. I have only been in the FEHB for my most recent 3 years

Protecting Your Pension: How to Spot a Scam as a Federal Employee

The more confident you are that you won’t be scammed, the more vulnerable you are. Scammed, Phished, Hacked, or Conned… isn’t just for the vulnerable

Is It Possible to Access Your FERS Supplement Early?

Is it possible to request a waiver to access the FERS Supplement two years early? My wife has 32/33 years but only turns 55 in

#128 Why “Buy and Hold” Doesn’t Always Work?

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

Can You Delay Your Annuity and Still Keep FEHB Coverage?

Thank you for your wonderful and helpful videos on postponed retirement. The one question I have remaining is – I understand that if I retire

#127 Avoiding Tax Traps: What Every Federal Employee Should Know

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,

Transferring TSP to IRA: Withdrawal Rules

First, I have listened to your podcast for year,s and it has been a wealth of information. Thank you. Now for my question…I am a

#126 Choosing Your Perfect Retirement Date: The Ultimate Checklist

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

Keeping Health Costs Low in Retirement: FEHB or Medicare Part B?

I’m 65 now, still working usps, when I retire in 1 to 2 years, I’m interested in keeping monthly health insurance down. Is it more

MARKETS ARE FALLING! – What are YOUR rules on investing?

Every Investor should have their “Rules on Investing” in place for times of “market volatility and turmoil.” Times like this, I am often reminded of

#125 Tax Time Survival: How Federal Employees Can Get Ahead

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

Preparing for Postponed Retirement: What You Need To Do?

Yes, good morning. Jeff here, wondering about having a postponed retirement. When the paperwork needs to be filled out, if I want to start that

#124 TSP Benefits: What You Need to Know Before Retiring

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

How to Calculate Your Annual Leave Payout When Retiring

Good morning, my name is Alberto. I am a Mail Handler for the Postal Service with 40 years of service. Currently, I can carry over

#123 TSP Withdrawals: When, How, and Why to Start

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

I Passed On The Fork… Now What Do I Do?

The Road Not Taken: What Happens When Federal Employees Make (or Avoid) Big Decisions. Understanding Federal Retirement Options: Deferred Resignation, VERA, Postponed Retirement, and Deferred

FERS Go Bag: Is Yours Packed?

How prepared are you if you no longer work for the Federal Government? Maybe you accepted the Trump Administration’s “deferred resignation” package; maybe your agency

#122 Estate Planning Myths and Facts: What Federal Employees Must Know

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

Should You Retire at 60 or Wait Until 62?

Hello, at age 57 years and two months, I separated from federal service for a civilian job after serving 5.3 years and buying back 17.2

Can I Keep My Spouse’s FEHB Coverage in Retirement Without Survivor Benefits?

My wife is a federal employee and will retire next year. She is going to be 50 years old. I am going to be 58

#121 The Untold Story of Survivor Benefits: Protect What Matters Most

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

Fork or Knife? The Truth About VERA

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

VERA-Retirement-Guide-Federal-Employees

Are you a federal employee considering Voluntary Early Retirement Authority (VERA)? This comprehensive guide breaks down eligibility, benefits, and financial impacts, including how VERA affects your pension, health insurance (FEHB), and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). Learn the key steps to avoid costly mistakes, understand your FERS Special Retirement Supplement, and maximize your retirement benefits.

🎙 Watch our YouTube Podcast for expert insights.
📚 Join our “Retire Right” On-Demand Class to make informed decisions.

Read now to take control of your federal retirement!

Fork in the Road: Frequently Asked Questions

What should Federal Employees facing the Fork in the Road do? As a Federal Employee Benefits professional, my primary advice—though not intended to be self-serving—is

Fork in the Road: A Comprehensive Guide to Deferred Resignation for Federal Employees

Federal Employees need to know what to anticipate if they choose to accept the Deferred Resignation package issued January 2025 to civilian federal employees. President

#120 Reduction in Force (RIF) and Job Changes – What You Need to Know!

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

Understanding Tax Implications for Survivor Benefits

Need help with federal employee survival benefits. I looking for specific help with my wife’s survivor FERS and Death Benefits. My wife worked for the

#119 FERS Retirement Benefits, What Federal Employees Should Know in 2025

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

What Medicare Part B Covers That FEHB Doesn’t

Real Question from a Federal Employee Do I need Medicare Part B if I have FEHB? I find it hard to believe Medicare Part B

#135 Your Last Year Before Retirement: The Ultimate Prep Guide

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

Timing is Everything: When to Claim Social Security as a Federal Employee

Real Question from a Federal Employee What age can I start collecting Social Security retirement benefits? What is my full retirement age, and how does

#134 Retirement Readiness: The Secrets to Knowing You’re Truly Ready

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

Approaching Retirement: How to Check If You’re Prepared

Real Question from a Federal Employee Hello, I have a question. I’m a few years out from retiremen, how can I be sure I’m financially

Changes in the Retirement Process

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

#133 Smart Retirement Planning in Volatile Markets: Cash Flow, TSP, and Taxes

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

Are You Able to Combine State and Federal Retirement Contributions?

I have 2 years state retirement contributions, 10 years military (7 years federal 3 years guard). Can I combine state and federal retirement contributions? Do

#132 Understanding How the Economy and Your Retirement Portfolio Are Related

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

Does Retiring at the End of the Month Affect TSP Contributions?

Question about TSP matching Contributions.If I retire at the end of a month, which happens to be the middle of a pay period, do I

#131 The Government Is… What Can You Control?

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

Is It Possible to Suspend FEHB and Come Back Later?

Can I suspend FEHB in retirement then start it again later if my new (private sector) employer offers health coverage benefits that I’d like to

Can You Qualify for FEHB in Retirement by Returning to Federal Service?

I have 15 years of federal service and am 55 years old. I have only been in the FEHB for my most recent 3 years

Protecting Your Pension: How to Spot a Scam as a Federal Employee

The more confident you are that you won’t be scammed, the more vulnerable you are. Scammed, Phished, Hacked, or Conned… isn’t just for the vulnerable

Is It Possible to Access Your FERS Supplement Early?

Is it possible to request a waiver to access the FERS Supplement two years early? My wife has 32/33 years but only turns 55 in

#128 Why “Buy and Hold” Doesn’t Always Work?

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

Can You Delay Your Annuity and Still Keep FEHB Coverage?

Thank you for your wonderful and helpful videos on postponed retirement. The one question I have remaining is – I understand that if I retire

#127 Avoiding Tax Traps: What Every Federal Employee Should Know

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,

Transferring TSP to IRA: Withdrawal Rules

First, I have listened to your podcast for year,s and it has been a wealth of information. Thank you. Now for my question…I am a

#126 Choosing Your Perfect Retirement Date: The Ultimate Checklist

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

#152 How Will You Pay the Bills While OPM Processes Your Retirement

Listen to the Full Episode: Retirement changes more than where you spend your time, it also changes how and when your income arrives. This

What Should You Do If a “Virus Alert” Pops Up and Asks You to Call?

Real Question from a Federal Employee Question from many federal employees: “I received a pop-up on my computer saying my device was infected and I

How Much Do You Really Need to Retire?

Retirement headlines often focus on one big number. You may read that you need $1 million, $1.5 million, or even $2 million before you can

Should You Trust AI With Your Social Security Decision?

Artificial intelligence is everywhere. You can ask a chatbot almost any question and get an answer in seconds. Questions like: When should I take Social

#151 Should You Change Your Social Security Strategy Because of the News?

Listen to the Full Episode: Most federal employees focus on how much they’ve saved for retirement, but overlook one critical factor that can determine

The 4 Retirement Risks That Never Go Away

Real Question from a Federal Employee Question 1739 from Bob: My brother passed away and his quarterly tsp statement in the beneficiary summary says his

Did You Just Inherit a Tax Problem?

Real Question from a Federal Employee Question 1739 from Bob: My brother passed away and his quarterly tsp statement in the beneficiary summary says his

#150 Why Your Retirement Plan Might Fail

Listen to the Full Episode: Most federal employees focus on how much they’ve saved for retirement, but overlook one critical factor that can determine

TSP Beneficiary Discrepancy? What to Do Next

Real Question from a Federal Employee Question 1739 from Bob: My brother passed away and his quarterly tsp statement in the beneficiary summary says his

#149 Are You Letting Headlines Control Your Retirement Decisions?

Listen to the Full Episode: Are your retirement decisions based on your own goals, or are they influenced by headlines, ads, and market noise?

FERS Paperwork Lost or Delayed? Steps to Get Back on Track

Real Question from a Federal Employee I submitted a FERS application last year but then became ill and could not follow up. I did receive

#148 Are You Missing These Tax Savings? Charitable Strategies Explained

Listen to the Full Episode: Charitable giving can play an important role in retirement, and the way you give can have a big effect

Can a 401(k) Contribution Save Your FERS Supplement?

Real Question from a Federal Employee Question 1705 from Sallie: I have a question about the FERS Supplement. I am going to retire from the

#147 Does market timing always work?

Listen to the Full Episode: In this episode of the Plan Your Federal Retirement Podcast, Micah Shilanski, Managing Partner and Wealth Advisor, and Luke

What Happens to Your Social Security If You Die Before Claiming?

Real Question from a Federal Employee I have a question regarding social security. I will have the higher benefit and plan on not collecting social

Why Every SF-50 Matters for Your FERS Retirement

When getting ready for federal retirement, many employees pay attention to eligibility dates, pension estimates, and benefit choices. One often missed and potentially expensive problem

Healthy Today, But Should You Still Get Medicare B?

Real Question from a Federal Employee Question 1695 from Swatti: I have FEHB BC/BS Basic plan and have to decide on Medicare Part B. I

#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

Does the Earnings Limit Still Apply When Your Supplement Stops at 62?

Real Question from a Federal Employee I’m currently retired from the postal service and have been receiving postal supplements. At the age of 61. I

#145 Longevity vs. Living Today: The Retirement Balancing Act You Should Know

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

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Pension Payments

Resources for Feds

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Resources for Feds

On-demand Classes

In-Person Benefit Classes

Tutorials: Learning videos about FERS benefits

Retire Right: On-demand benefits class

Classes: In-person classes

Online Classes

In-Person Classes

In-Person Classes

Online Classes

In-Person Classes

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