Q&A
Will Retiring in the Middle of December Lower My FERS Pension?
I understand that there is often a "best date" to retire to maximize one's pension, but I want to retire in the middle of December 2017 to take…
Retirement
Stay informed with the latest federal employee retirement news, including updates on FERS and CSRS, retirement eligibility rules, OPM retirement processing, and TSP performance as it relates to long‑term retirement planning. This category covers annual COLA updates, TSP news, survivor benefits, military service credit, retirement application guidance, and major OPM policy changes or federal legislation that could affect federal retirement benefits. Find clear, timely information to help current and former federal employees navigate retirement planning, benefit calculations, and post‑retirement considerations.
Retirement
All TSP Funds Show Positive Returns for Federal Employees in 2016
Which TSP funds performed the best in 2016? Here are the results for the year.
Pay & Benefits
The Best of 2016
The FedSmith.com authors posted many articles in 2016 to keep our readers informed. These are some of our (and your) favorites.
Retirement
Staying In Your Lane: How To React To Changing Markets In The TSP
In an election cycle, there are always unexpected changes. Many federal employees ask about making changes in their TSP to take advantage of the situation. The author provides…
Retirement
Retirement Ideas for Federal Employees
Retirement is personal, and as such there is no wrong way to enjoy it. The author provides some ideas as a starting point for ways federal employees can…
Retirement
CBO: Social Security Benefits Would Need to be Reduced by 29%
A new report from the Congressional Budget Office says that under current law, Social Security benefits would have to be cut 29% beginning in 2030 at the current…
Retirement
How TSP Investments Have Changed: 2009 – 2016
The most popular Thrift Savings Plan funds change as the stock market goes up or down. Here is how investments in these funds has changed over the past…
Retirement
Protect Your Family with Important Estate Planning Documents
Have you considered what would happen to your loved ones and to your assets after you pass away? Proper planning is important to ensure your wishes are carried…
Q&A
Why are TSP Annuities the Least Popular Withdrawal Choice?
FedSmith.com author John Grobe recently stated that TSP annuities are one of the least popular withdrawal choices for plan participants. One user wanted to know why this was…
Retirement
Donald Trump’s Middle Class Tax ‘Cut’
The author notes that a tax plan proposed by Donald Trump would cut many Americans' taxes but at the same time might actually create a tax increase for…