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June 29, 2023
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Tom Hofferber the Federal Retirement Consultant

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Tom Hofferber is an individual who has made a significant impact as a Federal Retirement Consultant. With his expertise and knowledge, he has become an excellent advisor for federal employees seeking guidance on their retirement plans. As a Chartered Federal Employee Benefits Consultant, Tom Hofferber understands the intricacies of federal retirement benefits and is dedicated to helping individuals navigate through the complex process. In this article, we will delve deeper into who Tom Hofferber is and how he has become a trusted resource for federal employees.

Understanding the Role of a Federal Retirement Consultant

Before we explore Tom Hofferber’s journey as a Federal Retirement Consultant, it is essential to understand the significance of this role. Retirement planning can be a daunting task, particularly for federal employees who have unique retirement benefits. A Federal Retirement Consultant provides guidance and assistance to these individuals, helping them make informed decisions about their retirement plans.

Tom Hofferber’s expertise as a Chartered Federal Employee Benefits Consultant allows him to offer comprehensive advice and support to federal employees. He possesses an in-depth understanding of federal retirement benefits, including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), and Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS). Tom’s vast knowledge and experience make him an invaluable resource for federal employees looking to plan their retirement effectively.

The Journey of Tom Hofferber

Tom Hofferber’s journey as a Federal Retirement Consultant began with his passion for helping individuals secure their financial future. After completing his education in finance and becoming a Chartered Federal Employee Benefits Consultant, Tom recognized the need for specialized guidance in federal retirement planning. He witnessed the confusion and uncertainty many federal employees faced when making retirement decisions, and he was determined to make a difference.

Tom’s approach to retirement planning is rooted in his belief that every individual’s situation is unique. He takes the time to understand his clients’ goals, aspirations, and financial circumstances before providing tailored advice. His ability to connect with federal employees on a personal level sets him apart as an exceptional advisor.

The Impact of Tom Hofferber

Tom Hofferber’s impact as a Federal Retirement Consultant is evident through the success stories of the federal employees he has assisted. One such example is John, a federal employee nearing retirement. John was overwhelmed by the complexities of his retirement benefits and was unsure of the best course of action. Through personalized consultations with Tom, John gained clarity and confidence in his retirement plan. Today, John is enjoying a fulfilling retirement, thanks to Tom’s guidance.

Another example is Sarah, a federal employee who was worried about the adequacy of her retirement savings. Tom worked closely with Sarah, analyzing her financial situation and recommending strategies to maximize her savings. With Tom’s assistance, Sarah was able to make informed decisions and achieve her retirement goals.

Tom’s commitment to his clients goes beyond retirement planning. He believes in empowering federal employees with the knowledge and tools they need to make sound financial decisions throughout their lives. His dedication to his clients’ success is what makes him an exceptional advisor and a trusted resource in the federal retirement planning community.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Tom Hofferber is an excellent advisor and a highly regarded Federal Retirement Consultant. With his expertise as a Chartered Federal Employee Benefits Consultant, he has helped numerous federal employees navigate the complexities of retirement planning. Through personalized consultations and tailored advice, Tom has made a significant impact on the lives of his clients. If you are a federal employee seeking guidance on your retirement plan, Tom Hofferber is the go-to resource who can assist you in achieving your retirement goals.

June 28, 2023
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Thrift Savings Plans Rollover: Taking Control and Managing Risk

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Thrift Savings Plans Rollover: Taking Control and Managing Risk

When it comes to retirement planning, there are few options as attractive as Thrift Savings Plans (TSP). These plans offer federal employees and members of the uniformed services a secure and tax-advantaged way to save for their future. However, as retirement approaches, many individuals face the challenge of what to do with their TSP funds. This is where TSP Rollovers into Indexed Annuities can provide a solution.

TSP Rollovers into Indexed Annuities allow individuals to take control over their TSP savings and manage the risk associated with market volatility. By rolling over their TSP funds into an indexed annuity, individuals can enjoy the safety of principal and the potential for lifetime income. In this article, we will explore the benefits of TSP Rollovers into Indexed Annuities and how they can help you secure your financial future.

Benefits of TSP Rollovers into Indexed Annuities

One of the key benefits of TSP Rollovers into Indexed Annuities is the safety of principal. With an indexed annuity, your initial investment is protected from market downturns. This means that even if the stock market crashes or the economy takes a hit, your principal will remain intact. This provides peace of mind and ensures that your hard-earned savings are secure.

Furthermore, TSP Rollovers into Indexed Annuities offer the potential for lifetime income. An indexed annuity allows you to convert your TSP funds into a stream of income that will last for the rest of your life. This can provide a stable and reliable source of income in retirement, ensuring that you can maintain your standard of living and enjoy the retirement you deserve.

How TSP Rollovers into Indexed Annuities Work

The process of rolling over your TSP funds into an indexed annuity is relatively straightforward. First, you need to select an indexed annuity provider that offers competitive rates and favorable terms. Once you have chosen a provider, you will need to fill out the necessary paperwork to initiate the rollover.

After the rollover is complete, your TSP funds will be transferred to the indexed annuity. From there, your funds will be invested in a combination of fixed and indexed accounts. The fixed accounts provide a guaranteed interest rate, while the indexed accounts offer the potential for higher returns based on the performance of a specific index, such as the S&P 500.

Managing Risk with TSP Rollovers into Indexed Annuities

One of the main reasons individuals choose TSP Rollovers into Indexed Annuities is to manage the risk associated with market volatility. By diversifying their investments and allocating a portion of their TSP funds to an indexed annuity, individuals can reduce their exposure to the ups and downs of the stock market.

Furthermore, indexed annuities offer a unique feature known as a participation rate. This rate determines how much of the index’s gain will be credited to your annuity. For example, if the participation rate is 80% and the index gains 10%, your annuity will be credited with an 8% gain. This feature allows individuals to participate in market gains while still protecting their principal.

Considerations for TSP Rollovers into Indexed Annuities

While TSP Rollovers into Indexed Annuities offer many benefits, it is important to consider a few key factors before making the decision to rollover your TSP funds. First, it is essential to evaluate the fees associated with the indexed annuity. Some annuities have high fees, which can eat into your returns over time. Therefore, it is crucial to carefully review the fee structure before committing to a rollover.

Additionally, it is important to understand that indexed annuities have a cap on the potential returns. This means that even if the underlying index performs exceptionally well, your annuity gains will be limited. While the safety of principal is a significant advantage, it is essential to weigh this against the potential for higher returns in other investment options.

Conclusion

TSP Rollovers into Indexed Annuities offer federal employees and members of the uniformed services a way to take control over their TSP savings and manage the risk associated with market volatility. By rolling over their TSP funds into an indexed annuity, individuals can enjoy the safety of principal and the potential for lifetime income. However, it is important to carefully consider the fees and potential limitations of indexed annuities before making a decision. Ultimately, TSP Rollovers into Indexed Annuities can provide a valuable option for securing your financial future in retirement. We have been helping Federal Employees for years and have moved millions into Indexed annuities, so let us help find the solution to fit your retirement needs. Contact us today.

June 28, 2023
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Federal Retirement Help – Plan To Retire Happy

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Federal Retirement Help: Planning for a Bright Future

As a federal employee, planning for your retirement may seem overwhelming. However, with the right resources and guidance, you can ensure that your golden years are comfortable and financially secure. By taking advantage of tools such as the Federal Pension, Social Security, and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), you can create a retirement plan that works for you.

In this article, we will explore the various options available to federal employees for retirement planning and provide practical advice for maximizing your benefits. From understanding the basics of the Federal Pension system to utilizing the TSP Annuity and Federal Retirement Calculator, we will cover everything you need to know to plan for a bright future.

Understanding the Federal Pension System

The Federal Pension system is a retirement benefit offered to federal employees who have worked for the government for at least five years. This system provides a guaranteed stream of income for life, based on your years of service and highest salary earned. The longer you work for the government, the higher your retirement benefit will be.

One important factor to consider when planning for your federal retirement is the age at which you choose to retire. The earliest you can retire and begin receiving your pension is at the age of 62, with a minimum of five years of service. However, if you wait until the age of 67, you will receive a higher monthly benefit. It is important to weigh the pros and cons of retiring early versus waiting to maximize your pension.

Maximizing Your Benefits with Social Security

In addition to the Federal Pension, federal employees are also eligible for Social Security benefits. Social Security is a government-run program that provides retirement, disability, and survivor benefits to eligible individuals. To qualify for Social Security benefits, you must have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a minimum of 10 years.

One way to maximize your Social Security benefits is to delay your retirement age. The longer you wait to start receiving benefits, the higher your monthly benefit will be. For example, if you wait until the age of 70 to begin receiving benefits, your monthly benefit will be 32% higher than if you had started at the age of 66.

Utilizing the TSP Annuity

The Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) is a retirement savings plan for federal employees. Similar to a 401(k) plan, the TSP allows you to save for retirement on a tax-deferred basis. One unique feature of the TSP is the option to purchase an annuity with a portion of your TSP balance. An annuity provides a guaranteed stream of income for life, similar to the Federal Pension system.

When considering purchasing an annuity with your TSP balance, it is important to weigh the pros and cons. One advantage of an annuity is the guaranteed income stream for life. However, once you purchase an annuity, you cannot access your TSP balance for other expenses. It is important to carefully consider your retirement needs before making a decision. We suggest you speak to one of our Federal Retirement Consultants to find which one would be best for you.

Planning with the Federal Retirement Calculator

The Federal Retirement Calculator is a useful tool for federal employees to plan for retirement. This calculator allows you to estimate your retirement benefits based on your years of service, salary, and retirement age. It also allows you to compare different retirement scenarios, such as retiring early versus waiting to maximize your pension.

When using the Federal Retirement Calculator, it is important to remember that it is only an estimate. Your actual retirement benefits may vary based on a variety of factors, such as changes in the cost of living or changes in government policy. It is important to regularly review your retirement plan and adjust as necessary.

Conclusion

Planning for retirement can be overwhelming, but by utilizing the resources available to federal employees, you can ensure a comfortable and financially secure future. Understanding the Federal Pension system, maximizing your Social Security benefits, utilizing the TSP Annuity, and planning with the Federal Retirement Calculator are all important steps in creating a retirement plan that works for you. By taking the time to plan now, you can enjoy your golden years without financial stress. And Remember, Don’t Worry, Retire Happy and let us help guide you there. Request your Free review today.

June 26, 2023
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Maximizing Your Retirement Benefits: Federal Retirement Planning Assistance

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Maximizing Your Retirement Benefits: Federal Retirement Planning Assistance

Planning for your retirement can be daunting, but with the help of Federal Retirement Planning Assistance, it doesn’t have to be. As a federal employee, you have access to a variety of retirement benefits, which can be overwhelming to navigate on your own. This article will guide you through the process of maximizing your retirement benefits with the help of Federal Retirement Planning Assistance.

Understanding Your Retirement Benefits

Before you can begin planning for your retirement, it’s important to understand the retirement benefits available to you as a federal employee. The Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) is the retirement system for most federal employees, which includes three main components: a basic benefit plan, Social Security, and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).

The basic benefit plan provides a monthly annuity payment based on your years of service and highest average salary. Social Security provides a base level of retirement income and the TSP is a defined contribution plan, similar to a 401(k), that allows you to save for retirement with pre-tax dollars.

With the help of Federal Retirement Planning Assistance, you can understand the specifics of each component and how they work together to provide you with retirement income. They can help you calculate your projected retirement income, estimate the cost of living in retirement, and create a retirement income plan that maximizes your benefits.

Maximizing Your Annuity Payments

The basic benefit plan is a key component of your retirement income as a federal employee. It provides a monthly annuity payment based on your years of service and highest average salary. Maximizing your annuity payments requires careful planning and consideration of several factors.

One factor to consider is your retirement date. The longer you work for the federal government, the higher your annuity payments will be. Federal Retirement Planning Assistance can help you weigh the benefits of retiring earlier versus working longer to maximize your retirement income.

Another factor to consider is your survivor annuity option. If you are married, you can choose to provide a survivor annuity for your spouse, which will reduce your monthly annuity payments. Federal Retirement Planning Assistance can help you understand the costs and benefits of this option and make an informed decision.

Optimizing Your Social Security Benefits

Social Security provides a base level of retirement income for all Americans, including federal employees. However, the amount of your Social Security benefit is based on your earnings history and the age at which you begin receiving benefits.

With the help of Federal Retirement Planning Assistance, you can determine the optimal age to begin receiving Social Security benefits based on your individual circumstances. They can also help you understand how your Social Security benefit will be affected if you continue to work in retirement.

Maximizing Your TSP Savings

The Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) is a defined contribution plan that allows you to save for retirement with pre-tax dollars. Maximizing your TSP savings requires careful consideration of several factors.

One factor to consider is your contribution rate. Federal Retirement Planning Assistance can help you determine the optimal contribution rate based on your retirement goals and income. They can also help you understand the tax implications of your TSP contributions.

Another factor to consider is your investment strategy. Federal Retirement Planning Assistance can help you understand the different investment options available in the TSP and create an investment strategy that aligns with your retirement goals.

In Conclusion

Planning for your federal retirement doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require careful consideration of several factors. With the help of Federal Retirement Planning Assistance, you can maximize your retirement benefits and create a retirement income plan that meets your individual needs.

Remember to take advantage of the retirement benefits available to you as a federal employee and seek the guidance of Federal Retirement Planning Assistance to ensure that you are making informed decisions about your retirement. For your Free Retirement Consultation, My Federal Retirement Help does Free 90 minute consultations. Contact us today to Schedule your Retirement review.

March 23, 2023
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How Your FERS, Social Security and TSP Payments Get Taxed

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How is your retirement income, specifically your FERS annuity, Social Security, and TSP withdrawals, taxed for federal income tax purposes?  The taxable portion of each of these sources of income are taxed as ordinary income; that is, they receive no special tax treatment are taxed based on the bracket in which they fall.

The vast majority of your FERS annuity will be federally taxable.  You will not be taxed on the portion of your FERS annuity that is due to your already taxed contributions but, because you recoup your contributions bit by bit over your life expectancy, most of your FERS annuity is taxed.  The form 1099-R you receive from OPM will tell you how much is taxable.

It is quite likely that 85% of your Social Security will be subject to federal income tax at your rate for ordinary income, though some retirees will find that a lesser portion is considered taxable; the higher your income the higher the percentage of your Social Security benefit that is subject to federal income tax.  You will determine how much of your Social Security is taxable when you are filling out your tax forms.

Distributions from your traditional TSP are fully taxable for federal income tax purposes.  Distributions from your Roth TSP will be tax free if the withdrawals are qualified.  For a Roth withdrawal to be considered qualified, you must have had the Roth account for at least 5 years and be at least 59 ½ years old.  If your Roth withdrawals are not qualified, you will pay taxes on the portion of your Roth distribution that is due to earnings; withdrawn contributions are never taxable, because your contributions were made out of already taxed dollars.  In the Roth TSP (unlike a Roth IRA) Roth withdrawals come proportionally from contributions and earnings.

The above paragraphs tell how your retirement income is taxed – not how taxes are withheld from said income.  We’ll look at withholding in the paragraphs below.

Regarding your FERS annuity, you likely filled out a W-4P with your retirement papers and now taxes are being withheld from your monthly payments.  You probably based this withholding on the last W-4 you filed while still an employee and it will most likely cover all taxes due from your annuity.

On the other hand, Social Security will not withhold one red cent from your benefits for taxes unless you ask them to!  In order to be sure enough is withheld for taxes, you can:

Ask Social Security to withhold from your monthly payments.  You can do this when you apply (if you’re applying online, you do it in the “remarks” section of the form) or you can file a form W-4V after you have applied.

Make quarterly estimated tax payments.  These payments which are due on April 15, June 15, September 15 and January 15 (or a few days later depending on the day of the week the 15th falls on) require you to remember to set aside the money for the payment and remember to actually send it in.  I don’t trust my memory (or my ability to keep my hands off money that I have set aside) so, when I filed for Social Security, I requested that they withhold a percentage of my benefit for federal income taxes.  If I don’t see it, I won’t miss it.

The Thrift Savings Plan withholds taxes at different rates for different types of payments.  They have a booklet available on their website, tspbk26.pdf that contains a detailed table describing the withholding on each different type of withdrawal.  According to TSP statistics, the most common withdrawal is installment payments and with that type of withdrawal (if the payments are likely to continue for 10 years or more) taxes are withheld as if you were married, filing jointly, and claiming 3 exemptions.  This will almost certainly result in not enough taxes being withheld and might even cause a tax penalty.  Just because you’re not having taxes withheld doesn’t mean that you don’t owe taxes.

Most other types of payment from the TSP withhold at a 20% rate, which may (or may not) be sufficient to cover your federal income taxes.

Those of you who live in states that tax retirement income and/or Social Security should be aware that neither Social Security nor the TSP withhold state income taxes.  You will want to either make estimated payments to your state taxing authority or have more withheld from other sources of income.

If you’re just retired, or planning on retiring in 2023, plan on having enough money withheld this year to cover your taxes and avoid any penalties.  Remember, tax avoidance is OK – it’s tax evasion that’ll get you into trouble.

Finally, to get the best idea of where you stand going into retirement, we do suggest you get a Full Retirement Consultation with a Federal Retirement Consultant.  Please visit the contact us page to start the process to schedule your Free Retirement Review.

January 26, 2023
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Congressional Democrats Propose an 8.7% Pay Raise for Feds in 2024

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The annually introduced bill would provide a 4.7% across-the-board increase in basic pay and an average 4% increase to locality pay.

Democrats in both chambers of Congress on Thursday introduced legislation that would provide federal employees with an average 8.7% pay raise in 2024.

The Federal Adjustment of Income Rates Act, introduced by Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-Va., in the House and Sen. Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii, in the Senate, would increase federal workers’ basic pay by 4.7% across the board next year, and provide an average 4% increase in locality pay.

The introduction of the FAIR Act has been an annual endeavor in recent years; last year, the bill proposed a 5.1% pay increase, split between a 4.1% across-the-board basic pay raise and a 1% average increase in locality pay. Although the bill is rarely acted upon, it could serve as an important marker as lawmakers and the Biden administration debate spending levels for fiscal 2024 as House Republicans demand cuts to government spending.

Connolly described the measure as a way to restore “years of lost wage increases” over the last decade due to government shutdowns, hiring and pay freezes and sequestration-related furloughs.

“For years now, federal employees have risked their health and safety working on the frontlines of this pandemic,” Connolly said. “They were subjected to the Trump administration’s cruel personal attacks, unsafe work environments, pay freezes, government shutdowns, sequestration cuts, furloughs and mindless across-the-board hiring freezes. Still, our federal workforce serves with dedication and distinction every day. Federal employees are our government’s single greatest asset, and they deserve better.”

The bill’s introduction drew swift support from unions and other federal employee groups.

“The 8.7% increase listed in the FAIR Act is not a pay raise,” said Randy Erwin, national president of the National Federation of Federal Employees. “It is a minimum increase needed to offset the dwindling checking accounts of public servants, and it is critical to recruiting and retaining the best possible workforce.”

American Federation of Government Employees National President Everett Kelley said that a sizeable pay increase is particularly important as the government tries to recruit new workers during a tight labor market.

“The latest report of the Federal Salary Council shows that federal worker pay lags behind the private sector by over 23%—making it difficult for agencies to recruit, hire and retain top talent and hurting the quality of services Americans receive,” he said. “The 8.7% pay increase included in the FAIR Act will not only reward federal employees’ hard work and help them keep pace with inflation, but it will also help government agencies remain competitive and deliver high-quality services to the American public.”

And William Shackelford, president of the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association, echoed that sentiment.

“The FAIR Act proposes a strong pay raise to counteract a tightening labor market and increasing private-sector pay, rising costs of living and an impending federal retirement wave,” he said. “A strong pay increase in 2023 is critical to the recruitment and retention of an effective federal workforce, and we’re thankful to have Congressman Connolly’s support for this effort.”

So how would this raise affect your High 3 average going into retirement?  Let us run a Full Benefits Analysis Retirement Review for you so you can help plan and maximize your retirement.  Contact Us today to get YOUR Review!

January 4, 2023
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Almost Every TSP Fund Ended Last Month (and Year) Down

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The vast majority of offerings in the 401(k)-style Thrift Savings Plan did not have a good month in December—or a good year in 2022 for that matter.

The S Fund, invested in small and mid-sized businesses, had the worst performance for December, losing 6.55%. It was down 26.26% for 2022.

The common stocks of the C Fund fared just slightly better. The fund lost 5.67% last month and 18.13% last year.

The international stocks in the I Fund were 1.85% in the red for December and were down 13.94% for the year 2022, while the fixed income bonds in the F Fund lost 0.65% for the month and 12.83% for the year.

Government securities in the G Fund were the one bright spot, inching up 0.32% for December and 2.98% for the year.

The lifecycle funds, which move to a less risky mix of investments as participants near retirement, were all in the red for last month as well as last year. The L Income fund, designed for people who have already started making withdrawals, was down 0.9% for December. L 2025 lost 1.65% last month; L 2030, 2.64%; L 2035, 2.93%; L 2040, 3.22%; L 2045, 3.47%; L 2050, 3.71%; L 2055, 4.48%; L 2060, 4.49%; and L 2065, 4.49%.

For the year of 2022, L Income lost 2.7%; L 2025, 6.72%; L 2030, 10.32%; L 2035, 11.65%; L 2040, 12.9%; L 2045, 14.03%; L 2050, 15.05%; L 2055, 17.6%; L 2060, 17.61%; and L 2065, 17.62%.

So with that being said, should you look into other investments where you don’t have to take ANY losses?  We call it Zero is our Hero.  Contact one of our Financial Retirement Consultants to learn how we help you plan for a better retirement.

December 27, 2022
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No Time Like the Present: Retirement and Estate Planning in Your 20s and 30s

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When you’re young, saving for retirement may be the last thing on your mind. Yet, the financial choices you make in your 20s and 30s will dictate how well-off you are decades from now, and delaying retirement and estate planning until you’re older can be a decision you live to regret. Here’s how to start preparing so you’re ready for your golden years.

Money Management: Budgeting and Handling Debt

Living within your means is a habit best formed early in life, and it becomes even more critical when you’re earning a regular paycheck that must cover expenditures like rent, auto loans, insurance, and utility bills. To ensure you’ll meet your obligations, start by tracking your income and expenses; if the latter exceeds the former, you’ll need to either cut unnecessary spending or find a way to generate more earnings. Use your tracking to create a monthly budget, and then stick to it to avoid overspending.

If you’ve used credit wisely up to now, and you don’t carry any revolving debt, keep it that way. If not, add a line in your budget for paying down your cards so you don’t waste money on interest charges. Pay as much as you can above the minimum requirements, and remit payments on time to avoid fees and build your credit history.

Money Maximization: Saving and Investing

Once you have built a budget and are following it, you may be tempted to splurge with any extra cash. Although you shouldn’t live a life of hermetic deprivation, focusing on saving rather than spending will always have a better outcome long term. That’s because interest compounds, or builds on itself, so free money is added to what you’ve saved.

Speaking of free money, if your job offers a 401(k) plan, join it. It will make it effortless to build your savings, and if your employer provides matching contributions, then company money will be added to your plan every payday.

Buying a home is also a smart investment, as house values generally increase over time. Down the road, you can use your home’s equity as a source of liquidity when needed. When you’re ready to purchase, use a helpful online house appraisal to assess the asking price so you avoid overpaying and benefit fully from any appreciation.

Money Protection: Insurance and Estate Planning

Once you’ve committed to saving and investing for retirement, take steps to ensure you’ll hold onto that money until you or your loved ones need it. Always carry health insurance coverage, as medical debt can quickly deplete your savings. Having a life or disability insurance policy will also help preserve what you’ve accumulated if you die or become unable to work.

Although estate planning may sound silly when you’re beginning to save for the future, if you die without a will, your money may not go where you wish. By creating a complete estate plan when you’re young and then updating it when you marry, buy a home, have children or go through other life changes, you’ll rest assured that your assets won’t end up in the wrong hands.

No one ever says they wish they’d waited longer to be smart with their finances. By focusing on managing, maximizing, and protecting your money in your 20s and 30s, which may include taking advantage of your home equity or utilizing your 401(k) plan, you’ll set yourself and your loved ones up for a stronger financial future.

My Federal Retirement Help can assist you as you begin planning for your upcoming retirement. This way, you won’t have to spend your golden years worrying about your finances. Contact us today by calling 254-870-5959 Ext. 700 or texting 254-301-6571.

December 13, 2022
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OPM Will Suspend Long Term Care Insurance Applications as a Sizeable Premium Increase Looms

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The deadline to apply for the program before a two-year suspension is Dec. 19, but officials want applicants to go in with “eyes wide open” that rates will likely increase substantially.

The Office of Personnel Management plans to suspend applications for the Federal Long Term Care Insurance Program for two years beginning Dec. 19, in anticipation of a sizeable rate hike.

OPM announced the unusual measure last month in the Federal Register, and noted that federal workers who submit their applications by the deadline will still be considered for enrollment. FLTCIP was created in 2002 and assists with health care costs for participants who need help with daily personal functions, or who have a severe cognitive illness, and covers home care, nursing home or assisted living benefits.

“OPM is suspending applications for coverage in FLTCIP to allow OPM and the FLTCIP carrier to assess the benefit offerings and establish sustainable premium rates that reasonably and equitably reflect the cost of the benefits provided,” the agency wrote.

The program will continue to operate normally for current enrollees, although they will not be able to apply to increase their coverage. There are currently around 267,000 federal workers and retirees participating in the insurance plan, and OPM typically receives only a few thousand applications to enroll per year.

The decision to suspend applications for the program came after John Hancock Life and Health Insurance Co., the contractor that administers the program, informed OPM that it is likely that there will a premium increase sometime next year.

In recent years, the long term care insurance market has been plagued by large premium increases, in part because people have been living longer and in part because long term interest rates have been at historic lows since the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis. The Federal Long Term Care Insurance Program last saw premiums increase by an average of 83% in 2016.

John Hatton, staff vice president of policy and programs for the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association, said it is likely that OPM will examine whether there is anything they can do administratively to improve the stability of the program or propose legislation to alter the program.

“Reading the tea leaves, instituting a suspension of applications shows that there’s a lack of faith or trust that it’s designed in a way that can be sustainable,” he said. “The first premium increase was around 25%, the second was as high as 125% [in some cases], and 83% on average. These premiums were quoted with the intention of staying stable for the lifetime of the coverage, which is someone’s life. And it’s not just federal workers’. They were just not priced correctly to begin with.”

After the previous round of premium hikes, OPM instituted “FLTCIP 3.0,” which allows current enrollees to adjust their coverage downward in order to reduce the impact of rising premiums. Even with that change, Hatton said OPM likely made the right decision by suspending applications.

“If you can’t accurately quote someone what the cost will be for a product, it shouldn’t be open ended,” he said. “That said, the reason these premiums are going up is costs are very high, and people have to figure out how to plan for long term care costs, and there’s no public option aside from Medicaid, which only provides catastrophic coverage if you’re completely impoverished yourself.”

Ultimately, Hatton said he thinks that OPM will wind up having to request legislation from Congress to make the changes needed to stabilize the program.

“OPM, for their part, has done—within the structure of the program, I think—what they can do,” he said. “They hired an independent actuary to look at the assumptions and make sure that they’re right, they hired a consultant to look at various options, and we’ll see where that goes and what flexibility they have in the statute or whether they’ll need Congress to provide some flexibilities. But at the end of the day, the options that would emerge are going to be ones that are maybe tied more to affordability and certainty, but also less coverage.”

We can also show you a better alternative to Long Term Care insurance using certain riders on our Income Annuity Products.  Why pay for something you may or may not ever use?  Contact us today to learn more.

November 9, 2022
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plan your federal retirement

FAQs Related to Federal Retirement Planning

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The number of retirees receiving social security benefits has increased from 34 million to 47 million in the US. It clearly indicates how important retirement planning is. Whether you have just kick-started or are at the mid-way of your career, it is never too late to plan your retirement.

According to a study, 39% of adults start saving for their retirement in their mid-20s. Another study suggests that an average American starts saving money for their retirement at age 31. When you want to begin your retirement planning, you need to increase your awareness, especially when you are a federal employee.

What is the federal employee retirement program?

Under FERS, a federal employee is eligible to receive benefits from three sources, a basic benefit plan, social security plan, and a thrift saving plan. A basic benefit plan is the most common type of retirement plan that every employee is eligible for. A thrift saving plan is similar to a private sector 401 (k), while social security is another type of benefit that a federal employee receives based on the eligibility criteria.

What if your employment comes under fers special retirement category?

If you fall under the category of fers special retirement, your retirement age would be less than other federal employees. They may retire at age 62, but you’ll be retiring at age 57; there will be a money gap till you become eligible for receiving social security benefits. But, you are eligible for receiving special supplemental benefits. It is an extra supplemental income that bridges the money gap till you become eligible for receiving FERS benefits.

Should you calculate your retirement benefits yourself?

You can calculate your retirement benefits yourself using a federal retirement calculator. All you need to know is your high three average salaries and year of creditable service. You can put all the values in the formula to calculate your estimate. However, you can calculate your estimate much more accurately with the help of professionals. But where can you find such professionals? Find out in the next point.

Seek professional help from My Federal Retirement Help

We are federal retirement planning specialists who offer guidance so you can choose the best retirement plan to meet your and your family’s needs. We will listen to your concerns and chart out personalized plans to meet your goals. In the end, we will make sure that your checklist is covered and that you can get the most out of federal employee retirement planning.

September 30, 2022
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health premiums

Federal Employees Will Pay 8.7% More Toward Health Care Premiums Next Year

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The Office of Personnel Management said increased use of health care services as the COVID-19 pandemic has waned has led to the sharpest uptick in health insurance premiums in more than a decade.

Federal employees and retirees will spend an average of 8.7% more on their health insurance premiums in 2023, a figure that marks the highest cost increase in more than a decade.

The government’s share of Federal Employees Health Benefits Program premiums will increase by an average of 6.6%, bringing the overall increase to 7.2%, according to an OPM document obtained by Government Executive. That overall premium increase is the highest the nation’s largest health insurance program has seen since costs increased 9% in 2011.

On average, federal employees enrolled in “self-only” plans will pay an additional $8.11 per bi-weekly pay period, while feds in “self plus one” insurance plans will pay $20.34 more per pay period. Federal workers enrolled in family coverage will pay an average of $20.87 more per pay period in 2023.

For the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program, the average premium for dental plans will increase by 0.21%, while the overall average premium for vision coverage will decrease by 0.41%.

The FEHBP’s annual open season, in which federal employees can choose from a variety of national and regional insurance carriers and coverage plans, will run from Nov. 14 through Dec. 12.

OPM’s document attributed the jump in premiums to the “unprecedented volatility” in health care costs due to COVID-19, noting that the pandemic cost FEHBP about $2 billion in the testing and treatment of the disease in 2021, or roughly double what the disease cost the program in 2020, which has impacted premiums for next year. OPM also cited an increase in usage of health care services, following a period earlier in the pandemic when enrollees used fewer medical services.

The document described the overall 7.2% increase as “aligned” with increases in premiums by comparable large employers. But three of those plans’ reported increases are lower than FEHBP’s—CalPERS, which covers California government employees, projects an average 6.75% increase; a Business Group on Health survey of large employers projected a 6.5% average increase; and consulting group Aon estimated health costs will increase by around 6.5% next year. The Kaiser Family Foundation projects a 10% average increase for individual marketplace premiums, with “most rate increases falling between about 5% and 14%.”

OPM said it has worked with insurers this year to improve coverage of prenatal and postpartum health care services, as well as increase access to gender affirming care for members of the LGBTQ+ community. Insurers are also required to provide “adequate coverage” of anti-obesity medications. And four new plan options will provide assisted reproductive technology coverage, bringing the total number to 18 plans next year, and an additional plan will provide an optional benefit for discounted ART procedures.

National Treasury Employees Union National President Tony Reardon said in a statement Friday that although the premium increases are reportedly in line with other large employers, the spike in costs underscores the inadequacy of President Biden’s proposed 4.6% average pay raise for federal employees next year.

“These premium increases may be similar to those expected by other large employers in the private sector, but they will still cause sticker shock for federal employees,” he said. “These premium increases are yet one more data point in our argument that federal employees deserve a fair pay increase in 2023. NTEU supports legislation providing federal employees, on average, a pay increase of 5.1%, which would help them keep up with rising costs and save for retirement.”

September 25, 2022
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If You Make $100,000 in Average Annual Income, Here’s What You’ll Get From Social Security at 67

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For anyone born after 1960, the Social Security Administration (SSA) determines that your normal retirement age, which is when you would be entitled to your full benefit, is 67.

But deciding whether or not you should retire at that age can be difficult. You can start receiving Social Security benefits as soon as you turn 62, but claiming early can significantly reduce your amount.

You can also wait until 70 to start taking Social Security (increasing your benefit to the highest amount possible), but perhaps you don’t want to wait that long. It depends on where you are in life from a financial perspective and how your health is doing.

Given all of these factors, it’s a good idea to figure out how much you might get when you start to claim benefits. Despite its complexity, you can break down the Social Security formula into basic parts to calculate your amount. Let’s see how much you would make if you earned about $100,000 annually (adjusted) over your career and retired at 67.

Breaking down the formula

To begin calculating your benefits, the SSA first calculates your average indexed monthly earnings (AIME), which looks at the 35 years of your work history in which you made the most money.

It looks at your nominal earnings over these 35 years and then indexes them (or adjusts them) to determine what the amounts would have been if you were making them in the present. So, essentially, the SSA would take your nominal earnings, from, say, 1982 and adjust them for wage inflation over the years to reflect what those earnings would be in 2022.

An example on the SSA website shows that nominal earnings of $13,587 in 1982 would have been equivalent to about $52,000 in 2022. But the SSA also has a wage base limit for what a retiree can get credit for. That number is $147,000 in 2022.

To finish getting the AIME, you add up your highest 35 years of annual earnings, which are now indexed to account for inflation. Then you divide by 35 to get the annual amount over that period and then divide by 12 to get the monthly amount.

Once you have your AIME, the next thing you need to do is calculate your primary insurance amount (PIA), which is your actual monthly benefit from Social Security for those receiving full benefits at the normal retirement age.

This is also not a simple calculation, but it can be done easily enough using these three steps and adding the amounts from each step. Here are the numbers for someone who turned 62 in 2022:

  • 90% of the first $1,024 of your AIME.
  • 32% of any amount between $1,024 and $6,172.
  • 15% of the leftover amount above $6,172.

What is your PIA on an annual income of $100,000?

If your highest 35 years of indexed earnings averaged out to $100,000, your AIME would be roughly $8,333.

  • 90% of $1,024 = $921.6
  • 32% of $5,148 = $1,647.36
  • 15% of $2,161 ($8,333-$6,172) = $324.15

If you add all three of these numbers together, you would arrive at a PIA of $2,893.11, which equates to about $34,717.32 of Social Security benefits per year at full retirement age. That’s not too shabby considering the maximum benefit is $4,194 per month, and that assumes you delay claiming until you are 70.

The $18,984 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook
If you’re like most Americans, you’re a few years (or more) behind on your retirement savings. But a handful of little-known “Social Security secrets” could help ensure a boost in your retirement income. For example: one easy trick could pay you as much as $18,984 more… each year! Once you learn how to maximize your Social Security benefits, we think you could retire confidently with the peace of mind we’re all after.

August 5, 2022
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What You Need to Know About Social Security and Federal Retirement

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What is the average monthly Social Security retirement check in 2022?

$1,657, according to this Social Security fact sheet.

Sandy and her husband, Tom, were both born in 1956. Sandy began receiving a reduced Social Security benefit of $586 a month at 62. (This is 73.3 percent of the full benefit amount of $800 she would have received at her full retirement age of 66 years and 4 months). Tom is retiring this year and will receive $2,800 a month at his full retirement age—also 66 and 4 months. How much will Sandy receive after Tom retires?

She will get $1,115. This is a bit complicated, so don’t feel bad if you couldn’t figure out the answer. At full retirement age, a spouse is eligible for 50% of the full Social Security retirement benefit of their spouse or their own benefit—whichever is higher. But the fact that Sandy began collecting her own benefit at 62 affects the calculation of her spousal benefit when her husband retires.

Social Security will use Sandy’s full benefit amount that would have been payable at her full retirement age, based on her own work record (not the amount she has been receiving since she was 62). That amount will be subtracted from 50%of her husband’s amount. Sandy’s full benefit would be $871 (it has grown from the initial amount of $800 by cost-of-living adjustments since 2018), so Social Security would subtract $871 from 50% of her husband’s full benefit amount of $2,800, or $1,400. The resulting sum of $529 would be added to her current benefit of $586, and her new benefit amount would be $1,115 per month. If Sandy had waited until her full retirement age to apply for Social Security, then she would have received the higher of her own full benefit amount or 50% of Tom’s, which would have been $1,400 a month.

How much can you earn in 2022 if you are under your full retirement age without reducing your Social Security benefit?

$19,560. If you’re under your full retirement age for the entire year, Social Security will deduct $1 from your benefit for every $2 you earn above the annual limit. Here’s more information about how work affects your Social Security benefit.

What are the conditions under which you can receive a Social Security benefit based on your former spouse’s work record?

If you were married for 10 years or more, are not currently remarried, and are not receiving a pension from work not covered by Social Security. A former spouse who meets the requirements to receive a Social Security benefit is treated basically the same as a current spouse. This entitlement does not affect the former spouse’s own Social Security benefit or his or her new family’s. If the spouse is receiving a Civil Service Retirement System retirement benefit, then he or she will be affected by the dreaded Government Pension Offset, which will reduce the spousal benefit by two-thirds of the CSRS retirement. This will eliminate the benefit entirely in many cases. Read more in this Social Security publication: What Every Woman Should Know.

Among beneficiaries 65 and older, what percentage rely on Social Security for more than 90 percent of their income?

For men the answer is 12%, and for women it’s 15%. It’s also interesting to note that 37% of men and 42% of  women rely on Social Security for 50% or more of their income.

What is the full Social Security retirement age?

The earliest you can start receiving Social Security retirement benefits is 62, but the benefit is permanently reduced for applying early. Your full retirement age is between 65 and 67, depending on your year of birth.

What can you do to increase the amount of your Social Security check?

Here are some of your options:

  • Delay receiving payment until you turn 70
  • Claim a benefit on your spouse’s work record
  • Continue working past 62

Social Security was never meant to be your only source of retirement income. Knowing this, how should you plan your retirement?

Here are some steps you could take:

  • Learn to live on less now
  • Make saving mandatory and automatic
  • Plan for being single, even if you’re not
  • Be realistic about when you can afford to retire

Always remember that the modern federal retirement has three key elements: a government retirement benefit, Social Security and personal savings, especially through the Thrift Savings Plan. Learning how to balance and maximize these elements is the key to a comfortable retirement.

August 5, 2022
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Postal Employees Voice Major Concerns as USPS Begins Implementing Its Delivery Consolidation Plan

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The U.S. Postal Service is standing up the first of the new plants across the country that will process mail for larger geographic areas, causing employees to fear the mailing agency will relocate or consolidate jobs throughout the workforce.

As promised in his 10-year plan to allow USPS to break even, Postmaster General Louis DeJoy has identified an initial 10 previously closed plants to reopen for consolidated mail and package sorting before the pieces go out for final delivery. Postal management began this week notifying employee groups of the sites, located primarily on the East Coast and in the Midwest. Those organizations reacted with significant consternation, saying USPS has failed to keep them in the loop or answer questions regarding the fallout for the workforce.

Most post offices around the country operate as delivery units, meaning mail carriers go to them to pick up mail and packages for their routes before bringing them to homes and businesses. DeJoy has repeatedly decried this model, saying it is inefficient and can lead to as many as dozens of such units in one metropolitan area. Instead, he is looking to open “sorting and delivery centers” around the country, as well as larger mega-centers, that can take on more work in less space. Letter carriers will have to travel farther to take mail to its final destination, but DeJoy said it will save costs on the contracted trucks that USPS hires to bring mail between various facilities.

“It just goes right out,” DeJoy said last week of mail at the new centers. “It’s going to save 100% of the trucking costs.”

June 3, 2022
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What do You need to Know About Special Retirement Supplement?

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Do you know about the FERS supplement? An important retirement benefit plan for individuals who retire before the age of 62, it is also called the Special retirement supplement or SRS. Many individuals retiring before 62 are not aware of FERS benefits and thus couldn’t make a wise decision.

Special retirement supplement offers various benefits, such as it bridges the money gap if you retire before age 62 as you don’t receive social security until you reach age 62. But, not all federal employees are eligible for a special retirement supplement.

Who gets FERS special retirement benefits?

Federal workers younger than age 62 eligible for an unreduced federal employee retirement system are also eligible for temporary extra benefit, i.e., FERS annuity supplement. Firefighters, air traffic controllers, and law enforcement officers who retire under special provisions and FERS retirees who retire at age 60 with a minimum of 30 years of service are also eligible. If you are a firefighter planning your retirement, learn about FERS’s special supplement.

Rule for eligibility

1) If the employee has at least one calendar year of service at the time of retirement

2) Individuals retiring at or after reaching MRA with at least 30 years of service

3) individuals retiring at age 60 with at least 20 years of service

So, if you are eligible for FERS special retirement supplement, estimate it with the help of the below-mentioned formula.

 

 

How to estimate FERS special retirement supplement?

Get your annual social security statement handy to estimate your supplement amount. You also need to know how many years of creditable service you would have at the time of your retirement. Now, you can use the formula.

Years of creditable service/40 * your age 62 social security benefit = your estimated FERS supplement. Calculating FERS supplement benefits is an extremely time-consuming and complex task; take the help of a consultant from My Federal Retirement Help.

We are a team specialized in designing a comprehensive financial plan considering all aspects related to pre-retirement and retirement. We make integrated financial plans tailored to your specific goals and your family’s needs.

Reduction in FERS Supplement

FERS supplement is treated as social security income, so if you take the supplement before the full social security retirement age, your supplement can be subjected to taxes and reductions. Also, if you take a part-time job after retiring from federal service, your supplement may get reduced. Contact an expert to get more clarity on this.

My Federal Retirement Help is a team of planners and advisors who can help federal employees get into the next stage in their life by assisting them with a retirement plan, paperwork, and its submission to OPM.

May 26, 2022
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TSP Preps for Its Transition to a New Service Provider

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Officials at the federal government’s 401(k)-style retirement savings program on Tuesday outlined the disruptions—and new features—participants will see as the Thrift Savings Plan transitions to a new recordkeeping service provider this weekend.

At the monthly meeting of the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board, which administers the TSP, project manager Tanner Nohe said the agency is on track to bring the public facing portions of the project, which was internally called Converge, online by June 1. Currently, most transactions are unavailable to participants, and there will be a full blackout period from the close of business on Thursday until the new system comes online.

Nohe said that while some aspects of TSP services will remain unchanged, like the tsp.gov web address and the phone number for the Thriftline customer service center, that’s where the similarities end. Beginning in June, TSP participants will have access to long awaited and requested features like a mobile app, a virtual agent to help users and answer questions.

Additionally, changes to the TSP website will enable participants to make loan repayments after they leave federal service, sign documents electronically, while participants who invested in the TSP both as members of the military and as civilian federal workers will be able to see their all of their account information from the same login, where before now they had to log into two separate tsp.gov accounts.

The TSP’s mobile app, which will be available on both Apple and Android operating systems, will feature most of the same functions as the desktop website, including the new virtual assistant, the ability to make distributions and withdrawals and change how funds are invested and make interfund transfers. And participants will be able to sign and submit forms electronically, as well as upload an image of a check to roll over funds from a traditional 401(k) into the TSP.

Additionally, the TSP is adjusting a number of its terms to track with the terminology used more commonly throughout the 401(k) industry.

Once the new services are live, participants will be required to create a new account on tsp.gov, which then will work on both the website and the mobile app. The new login process will be streamlined and feature greater security, Nohe said.

But Tee Ramos, the TSP’s director of participant services, warned there could be hiccups during the transition. The agency is expecting higher than normal call volume on the Thriftline, and has staffed up at its call center to accommodate those who need assistance.

“There will be some delays in the first week, and we’re doing everything we can to support participants,” he said. “But expect much higher call volume in the days before we go live, and know that we appreciate your patience.”

If anyone is needing assistance with making some changes within there TSP Accounts, or have considered other investment ideas with their Thrift Savings Plan, we do assist all Federal Employees in this area.  You can contact us for assistance or read some testimonials from other Federal employees we have helped as well.

May 10, 2022
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Whole Life Insurance: What You Need to Know About It

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We all want to protect our loved ones from the uncertainties of life. So, we take a life insurance policy for our family. Many people go with While Life Insurance policies to take advantage of unique features, including consistent, level premiums for life, the ability to accumulate cash value, and living benefits. Do you also want to get the same for your loved ones? Read further to learn more.

Furthermore, some Whole Life Policies come under a special category. This means that you receive dividends through these policies, while getting cash value. Keep in mind that you get this benefit only, if you go through mutual life insurance companies. If you want to know more about it, look for a federal professional for federal employee retirement help.

If we talk more about mutual life insurance companies, stockholders or private equity companies don’t own them. Policyholders own these companies. Moreover, we are here to explore the main features of a Whole Life policy and make sure it is right for you.

health premiums

Permanent Coverage

Whole life insurance is nothing but permanent life insurance. It has some varying features compared to term life insurance. This insurance policy has been designed to protect you through your lifespan. Whether you die today after buying the policy or 50 years later, your loved ones will receive the benefits. After all, hire a consultant if you are planning your retirement and need any help with federal retirement.

Build Cash Value

While you take benefit of consistent premiums, your Whole Life insurance collects cash value for you in the form of dividends. Mutual life insurance companies help you make the most out of your policy. As a policy owner, you receive an equitable portion of the company’s surplus each year as a dividend. If you want federal employee retirement help, hire a federal consultant. 

Consistent Premiums

Whole Life premiums work as per your age and will not vary throughout your life. In comparison with FEGLI, FEGLI will become greater in cost by over 650% by the time you retire. After all, many federal employees want to reduce their coverage to maintain the deduction at retirement. For this, it is good to have Whole Life insurance that compensates the risk with guaranteed premiums. To get help with federal retirement, look for a federal consultant near you.

Simplified Issue

As a federal professional, you can take advantage of this policy with simplified issue guidelines. This means that you will not need to undergo any health exams, bloodwork, or other requirements. That’s all.

May 9, 2022
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What is the Federal Employee Retirement System, and How Does It Work?

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A federal employee retirement plan or FERS is a retirement plan for federal government employees working in the executive, judiciary, and legislative branches of the federal government. However, this retirement plan doesn’t cover military personnel or employees of state or local government.

The employees under the FERS retirement system can avail of benefits from three sources: the basic benefit plan, social security, and the thrift saving plan, or TSP. Want to discover what benefits you will get from federal civil service retirement plans or FERS? Read on.

 

  • Basic benefit plan

Under the basic benefit plan, employees receive a set amount, regardless of the amount they have contributed. The amount you will receive will depend on the length of service and high-3 average. High-3 is the highest three consecutive years of service, often the last three years of your service. However, if you held a higher paying position in your service, your higher three years could be considered from that time.

 

  • Social Security

Your social security benefits depend on the time you have been working and the amount of money you have earned over that period. Every federal employee has to contribute 6.2% of their basic pay to the social security fund.

 

  • Thrift saving plan

A Thrift saving plan is similar to a 401(K). In1986, Congress established TSP for federal employees; however, it covers employees hired before 1986. According to this plan, 1% of your salary will go into a TSP contribution each pay period. Unlike social security plans and basic benefit plans, the amount you receive will depend on market conditions, the fund you choose, and other conditions.

Want to gain all information about thrift saving plans? My Federal Retirement is there for help. Our financial advisors will tell you about various retirement plans for federal employees, for instance, FERS firefighter retirement, federal civil service retirement plan, etc. We will also help you choose the best retirement plan aligned with your life goals.

My Federal Retirement specializes in analyzing all aspects of your pre and post-retirement planning and designing a comprehensive financial plan tailored to your specific goals, your family, and your individual needs. You can meet our licensed professional to discuss your retirement financial plans anytime.

April 8, 2022
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USPS Converted 63,000 Non-Career Employees to Permanent Jobs Over the Last Year

By | Benefits, Federal Pay, Retirement, TSP | No Comments

he U.S. Postal Service has converted 63,000 part-time or non-permanent workers into career positions, with leadership saying it has helped stabilize the workforce after years of escalating turnover.

USPS has struggled for years with high turnover rates—particularly within its non-career workforce—leading postal management to identify new strategies to keep them on as it aims to grow its rolls. The conversions have also helped the Postal Service address employee availability issues during the COVID-19 pandemic, the agency said in a report marking the one-year anniversary of the unveiling of Postmaster General Louis DeJoy’s 10-year business plan.

The Postal Service has since 2010 increasingly relied on non-career workers, such as postal support employees and mailhandler assistants, as a cheaper alternative to reduce labor costs as part of efforts to keep pace with shrinking mail revenue. Non-career employees generally receive a less generous benefits package and lower pay than their permanent, full-time counterparts. The agency’s non-career staff grew by more than 60% between 2010 and 2017. At least some of the conversions were promised as part of collective bargaining negotiations.

The USPS inspector general has for years highlighted the problems with the Postal Service’s growing reliance on non-career workers. It found in a 2016 report, for example, that turnover the agency’s unionized, career workforce turns over every year was 1.2%, while in 2014 the non-career workforce had a 29% quit rate. By 2016, the turnover rate for non-career employees had climbed to 43%.

DeJoy previously laid out plans to reduce turnover by focusing on better options for non-career employees, highlighting the issue in testimony to Congress and in his 10-year plan. The trend marks a departure from the first months of DeJoy’s tenure, when the postmaster general led an effort to slash tens of thousands of non-union jobs by offering early retirement incentives and layoffs. USPS has since gone on a hiring spree and DeJoy has speculated he may add up to 100,000 positions compared to when he took over to meet growing package demand.

The Postal Service ended 2021 with nearly 517,000 career employees, its highest total since 2012. The non-career workforce has remained fairly steady in recent years at 136,000.

USPS boasted that it has committed more than $6 billion in core infrastructure over the last year, part of DeJoy’s promise to invest at least $40 billion by 2031. About half of the obligated total has gone toward the Postal Service’s controversial contract for new delivery vehicles, only about 20% of which are so far electric. Other investments have included new processing equipment, improvements to post offices and technology upgrades.

Postal management also highlighted its improvements in delivering mail on time, though it is still falling well short of its goals. It has also slowed down delivery for about 40% of First-Class mail, making it easier to hit its targets. USPS promised more changes to “optimize” its network, saying those plans are still in the works.

“These efforts—impacting all aspects of our operations and infrastructure—are being refined now and will be deployed in stages this year and in the coming years,” the Postal Service said.

USPS also again noted its “judicious” use of its new authority to raise prices above inflation, though it just this week proposed hiking its rates for the second time by nearly the fully allowable amount. Through a complicated formula derived from factors including inflation, declining mail volume and retiree costs, USPS could have raised its First-Class mail rates in July by 6.507%. It chose to raise them by 6.506%. The Postal Service has generated nearly $2 billion in annualized revenue from previous increases, the agency said.

If you want to know more information, please let us know via our Contact us

March 10, 2022
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Consider these Things if you want to retire within 5 Years

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If you want to retire from your federal government job within five years, you should know some important things. After all, you should make sure everything is right for a great exist from your federal career.

In this article, we have included four things that you should do to retire within five years of your job. You can also contact a federal consultant to plan your federal retirement to gain the most out of it.

Remember to keep your insurance into retirement

It is always helpful to keep the insurance in your retirement, but not all are able to do so. You need to follow essential rules to keep the insurance into retirement. Eligibility for FEHB is:

• You need to enrol in FEHB for a minimum of five years before retirement.
• You should be covered under FEHB when retiring.

While FEHB has rules to keep it into retirement, FEGLI has certain rules. You need to follow all these rules to carry your insurance to your retirement. To understand the rules in detail, call a federal consultant. They will also help you with FERS special supplements.

Consider your retirement income and expenses 

If you are a federal employee, you should know that you have three primary income sources: FERS pension, social security, and your TSP. If you don’t know how these incomes sources work, hire a federal consultant. They will explain each technical point and help you plan your federal retirement.

medicare-supplement

Know the decision you make at retirement 

Mainly, three big decisions you usually make at your retirement include survivor benefit, life insurance, and TSP. The survivor benefit is when you have to offer your spouse a piece of your pension. Life insurance helps you take care of all your medical expenses. After your retirement, you have to decide how you will use your TSP funds or how you will invest them. Learn more about these three terms with a federal consultant. They will help you plan your retirement in the right way.

Choose a retirement date

The last important thing to decide to retire within five years of federal service is to choose a specific day. Choosing a date to retire makes a big difference in how you receive your pension. If you don’t know anything about planning your retirement within five years of your job, hire a federal consultant. They will help you in everything from planning to knowing about FERS special supplement. That’s all.