Blog categorized as Retirement Planning Basics

How can you ensure your spouse or dependents are financially secure after retirement?

Alright, let’s have a heart-to-heart about making sure your spouse or dependents are financially secure after you retire. Because, let’s face it: we don’t just work hard for us. We do it for the people we care about—the ones who will always be our why. But figuring out how to protect their future ca...

How can you create a comprehensive retirement checklist?

Let’s talk about creating a retirement checklist. I know, it sounds like one of those boring, “adulting” things, but trust me—it’s worth doing. Think of it like packing for the ultimate vacation. You wouldn’t just throw stuff in a bag and hope for the best, right? (Or maybe you would, but that’s how...

How should you balance lifestyle goals with financial stability in retirement?

Alright, let’s get real about balancing your lifestyle dreams with financial stability in retirement. Because, honestly? Retirement is supposed to be your reward. You worked hard, put in the hours, and now it’s time to actually enjoy life. But let’s also be real—no one wants to be pinching pennies a...

How can federal employees manage market risk during retirement?

Let’s talk about something no one really loves thinking about: market risk during retirement. You know, that feeling of “What if the stock market decides to nosedive just when I need my money?” It’s a real concern, and if you’re a federal employee relying on your TSP or other investments, it’s worth...

How can you maximize your TSP contributions before retirement?

Alright, let’s keep it simple and real—how can you make the most of your TSP (Thrift Savings Plan) before you retire? Don’t worry, I’m not about to throw big words or confusing ideas at you. Think of this as a laid-back chat where we figure out how to set future-you up for the best possible life....

How do you calculate your FERS annuity and CSRS pension?

Alright, let’s get real about who’s managing your retirement accounts and pensions. This is one of those things that can feel a little mysterious, like, “Is there a retirement fairy taking care of this?” Spoiler: there’s no fairy. There are actual people and organizations working behind the scenes, ...

Who is responsible for managing your retirement accounts and pensions?

Alright, let’s talk about who’s actually in charge of managing your retirement accounts and pensions. Because if you’re like most people, you probably have a vague idea that “someone somewhere” is handling it. But who? Let’s break it down like we’re two friends chatting over coffee, because this stu...

Who should federal employees contact for detailed information about their benefits?

Alright, let’s talk about figuring out your federal benefits. Because, let’s be honest, it’s not exactly the kind of thing anyone wakes up excited to deal with. But knowing who to talk to when you have questions? That’s half the battle. So, let’s break it down—no boring jargon, no stiff advice, just...

Who benefits most from survivor annuities in federal retirement plans?

Alright, let’s keep it real and talk about survivor annuities—without the boring, stiff explanations. This is one of those things no one likes to think about, but it’s so important. It’s about making sure your loved ones are okay, even if you’re not around. And hey, if you’ve spent years building a ...

Who can help you navigate TSP withdrawal strategies effectively? 

Alright, let’s talk about TSP withdrawals—because getting your money out of the Thrift Savings Plan isn’t as simple as, “Hey, I need some cash.” There are strategies, rules, and a whole lot of what ifs involved. So, who can actually help you figure this out without making your head spin? Let’s break...