Federal government cost-cutting initiatives and the creation of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) have left many Feds feeling unsettled and wondering how these changes are likely to impact their futures. However, this isn't the first time federal employees have faced challenges. As federal benefits specialists who've been around since 1984, we've helped Feds through many transitions — from the Reinventing Government era of the 1990s to today.
Many of the recent conversations we've had sound familiar. While we don't have all the answers, we're here to guide you through these changes. Our role now is the same as it's always been: Offering Feds support and education, so you can understand your options and make informed decisions.
Potential Implications of Recent Changes
The current administration has announced plans for reducing the size of the federal workforce through efficiency improvements and attrition, with the newly-formed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) overseeing much of this restructuring. For many federal employees, the recent presidential executive orders raise practical questions about workplace stability and career planning, as well as the impact on financial plans.
The announced hiring freeze across agencies (except for critical national security and public safety positions) and potential impact of the Schedule F proposal could mean shifts in workload distribution and departmental structures. Senior executives may face new performance expectations and oversight measures. New measures continue to come forward, creating additional uncertainty.
Understanding Benefits During Times of Change
Times of transition make it even more important to know exactly where you stand with your federal benefits. Decisions about retirement timing, insurance coverage, and TSP strategies can have lasting effects on your financial security. This becomes especially significant when organizational changes might influence your career path.
We're here to help Feds evaluate their options based on facts, not fears. We regularly work with employees to review their complete benefits package, identify key decision points, and create strategies that protect their long-term interests. Having clear information about your benefits puts you in a stronger position to respond to changes as they develop.
Remember, your earned benefits are protected by law. While policy changes may affect future workplace structures, understanding what you've already earned can help you make sound decisions about your financial future.
Learn more about your retirement benefits at our No-Cost webinars, featuring Ed Zurndorfer -
STWS: Your Partner Through Transitions
For four decades, federal employees have turned to Serving Those Who Serve for straight answers about their benefits and financial planning. We offer a range of resources from podcasts to webinars and personalized advice to help you navigate questions about retirement planning, benefits optimization, and client-first investment management. Navigating government changes can feel stressful, but we are here to offer clarity and confidence.
Federal employees have always shown remarkable resilience through periods of change. Your dedication to public service remains critical to our nation's success. While transitions create uncertainty, they also present opportunities to review your financial strategy and ensure your plans align with your goals. We stand ready to help you make informed decisions about your future. For personalized guidance on your federal benefits and financial planning, reach out to our team at [email protected].
The information has been obtained from sources considered reliable but we do not guarantee that the foregoing material is accurate or complete. Any opinions are those of Serving Those Who Serve writers and not necessarily those of RJFS or Raymond James. Any information is not a complete summary or statement of all available data necessary for making an investment decision and does not constitute a recommendation. Investing involves risk and you may incur a profit or loss regardless of strategy suggested. Every investor’s situation is unique and you should consider your investment goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon before making any investment or financial decision. Prior to making an investment decision, please consult with your financial advisor about your individual situation. While we are familiar with the tax provisions of the issues presented herein, as Financial Advisors of RJFS, we are not qualified to render advice on tax or legal matters. You should discuss tax or legal matters with the appropriate professional. **
