Annual Pay Raise vs. COLA: How Are They Different?
There is a lot of confusion about the difference between a COLA for federal retirees and a pay raise for federal employees. Here is a summary of the differences.
COLA
Stay informed on the latest COLA updates for federal retirees, including annual Cost‑of‑Living Adjustment announcements, calculation methods, and policy changes that affect retirement income under FERS and CSRS. Explore clear explanations of how COLA percentages are determined, historical trends in federal retiree COLAs, and the impact of inflation on long‑term financial security. Find timely analysis, legislative developments, and expert insights to help federal retirees understand how annual COLA changes influence their purchasing power and overall retirement planning.
What June CPI Data Say About the 2021 COLA
The latest CPI-W figures suggest a small COLA for federal retirees in 2021, but the author points out that it may be the start of a more positive trend.
Is the Annual COLA Calculation Accurate? GAO Weighs In.
GAO recommends the BLS evaluate the data sources used to calculate the annual COLA as they may not be accurate.
No COLA in 2021?
Is there a possibility or probability of no cost of living adjustment (COLA) in 2021 for Social Security recipients and federal retirees?
Rewarding High Performers and Chopping Benefits
OPM has released its proposed legislative changes impacting pay and benefits for the federal workforce. Here is a summary.
New TSP Annuity COLA Computation Rate Coming in March
TSP annuities will have a new formula used to calculate their cost of living adjustments starting this spring.
2021 Budget Proposal Would Eliminate FERS COLA, SRS
A number of reductions to federal employees’ retirement benefits have been proposed in the President’s 2021 Budget.
2020 Pay Raise Unfair to Retirees?
Which group comes out ahead in determining a COLA or the annual federal pay raise?
Proposal Would Change Calculation Rate of the TSP Annuity COLA
The FRTIB has proposed a change to the rate used to calculate annual increases for TSP annuities.
Inflation and its Impact on your Federal Retirement
Federal retirees receive COLAs on their annuities to help offset inflation, but are there any similar options with your TSP account?
