Blog categorized as Retirement Planning Basics

When should you consult to review your retirement benefits and options?

Alright, let’s talk about who you should actually talk to when it comes to sorting out your retirement benefits and options. Because, let’s be honest, this stuff can feel like trying to put together IKEA furniture without the instructions. And nobody has time for that.


Here’s the deal: Retirement pla...

Who is eligible for federal retirement benefits under FERS or CSRS?

Let’s chat about federal retirement benefits—specifically, who’s eligible under FERS (Federal Employees Retirement System) or CSRS (Civil Service Retirement System). 


If you’re a federal employee, you’ve probably heard these acronyms tossed around, but let’s be real, figuring out what it all mea...

When should you prepare for Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs)?

Let’s talk about something most of us don’t think about until it’s breathing down our necks—Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs). I know, not exactly a party topic, but if you’ve got a retirement account like a 401(k) or IRA, you have to deal with them. Don’t worry, I’ll break it down in plain, hum...

When should you consult a financial advisor for retirement planning?

Alright, let’s have a real talk about when you should bring in a financial advisor for your retirement planning. No fluff, no lectures, just the stuff you need to know—like we’re chatting over coffee or maybe wine (because retirement planning can feel like a wine topic).



When Should You Call in a Pro...

When should federal employees apply for Medicare coverage?

Alright, let’s dive into something every federal employee has to think about eventually—Medicare. I know, it’s not the most exciting topic. But if you play your cards right, it can save you a ton of stress (and money) down the road. So, let’s chat about when to apply and how to keep things simple.



Wh...

When is the right time to begin taking Social Security benefits?

Alright, let’s tackle a big question: When should you start taking Social Security benefits? I know, it’s one of those things that sounds kind of boring at first. But trust me, it’s worth figuring out because we’re talking about your money and your future here.



The Million-Dollar Question: When’s the...

When should you start contributing to the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)?

Alright, let’s talk about the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). Don’t worry—I’ll keep it real and not throw a bunch of boring financial jargon at you. Think of this as two friends chatting over coffee, where one of us (me) is casually nudging you to get your retirement act together.



When’s the Best Time to ...

Why should you diversify your investments during retirement?



Why Put All Your Eggs in One Basket?


Imagine you’re carrying a basket of eggs to your dream retirement picnic (stay with me here). Now, what happens if you trip? Every single one of those eggs goes splat, and suddenly, your picnic dreams are toast. That’s what happens when you don’t diversify your in...

Why is it important to review and update beneficiaries on retirement accounts?

Alright, let’s get real about something you probably haven’t thought about in a while—beneficiaries on your retirement accounts. I know, thrilling topic, right? But seriously, it’s one of those little details that can make a huge difference.


Think about it like this: You’ve worked hard, saved up, and...

Alright, let’s talk about inflation. I know, not exactly the kind of thing you bring up at brunch, but it’s one of those sneaky little forces that can mess with your retirement savings if you’re not paying attention. And we’re friends, so I’m here to make sure that doesn’t happen to you.


Inflation: T...