FEVS 2025 Cancelled: What Federal Employees Need to Know
The Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey (FEVS) has been around long enough to become part of the rhythm of federal life. Each year, it gives employees a chance to weigh in…
The Fed15 Podcast: Crypto Caution & the Best States for Retiring Feds in 2025
In this episode, Katelyn and Dan explore the growing interest in cryptocurrency among federal employees and the importance of a cautious approach. They cover the risks of crypto investing, regulatory…
How Much Is Enough? Understanding — and Reaching — Federal Retirement Benchmarks
If you’re a working Fed, currently, your paycheck is likely going toward “now” expenses — think food, clothing, shelter and extras. A portion of that paycheck is also directed toward…
Leaving Federal Service Early: How to Create a Private-Sector-Compatible Financial Plan
The federal workforce is shifting, and more Feds are exiting mid-career. Private-sector employers, especially in tech, consulting, and defense, are actively recruiting experienced federal employees with offers of higher pay…
Understanding the TSP RMD Rules for TSP Beneficiary Participant Accounts: Spousal Beneficiary Participant Accounts
A Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) participant is strongly advised to designate a TSP account beneficiary. By designating a TSP account beneficiary, a TSP participant has control and flexibility who will…
The Federal Contractor Advantage: When to Make the Transition from Government Employment
Increasingly, more federal employees are considering contractor roles each year. Higher pay and greater flexibility pull many toward the private sector. Burnout, return-to-office mandates, long commutes, and stalled career growth…
The Fed15 Podcast: Navigating the Federal Job Landscape and Advanced Charitable Giving
In this episode, Katelyn and Dan examine the evolving federal job landscape and charitable giving strategies. They cover federal employee survey findings, the value of core benefits like FERS, TSP,…
Federal Pay vs. Inflation 2025: Are Government Salaries Keeping Up?
Federal employees received an average 4.5% pay raise in January 2025, one of the highest increases in recent years. But for many Feds, that bump hasn’t gone far enough, especially…
The TSP and Required Minimum Distributions
A Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) participant who has separated from federal service (either left federal service or retired from federal service) must begin to take TSP required minimum distributions (RMDs)…
FedLife Podcast: Understanding the Ongoing Appeal of Qualified Charitable Distributions for IRA Owners
In this episode, Dan and Ed explain what QCDs are and how they work with RMDs from traditional IRAs. They also discuss which retirement accounts allow QCDs, the timing considerations…