5.7% for Retirees in 2009? It May Still Go Higher

Here is a reality check for readers. Inflation is alive and well. Federal retirees are on track for an increase of 5.7% next year–with another three months to go before the final figure is known. Federal employees may get an average of 3.9%–or there may be a continuing resolution that would delay finalizing the budget until 2009.