FERS & Furloughs: Before, During, and After a Government Shutdown
These are some common questions federal employees ask about how the recent government shutdown can impact the retirement process.
OPM
Stay updated with the latest OPM updates, including new OPM guidance, federal workforce policies, hiring and staffing rules, telework and workplace regulations, and major actions affecting federal employees and agencies. Get the latest news on OPM regulations, HR policy changes, pay and benefits guidance, retirement‑related updates, and government‑wide initiatives shaping federal workforce management. Find clear summaries and analysis to help federal employees, HR professionals, and agency leaders understand how OPM decisions impact the federal workplace.
October 2025 Retirement Claims Spike Drives OPM Retirement Backlog to Highest Level Since 2022
October 2025 saw a record surge in OPM retirement claims, driving the backlog to the highest level since 2022 amid ongoing modernization efforts.
More Expensive But Still Essential: The 2026 FEHB Premiums Story
FEHB premiums are rising about 12% — the biggest jump in years. Here is what is driving the increase, particularly in BCBS, and why it is still a valuable benefit.
Federal Employees Face 12% Jump in 2026 FEHB Premiums
2026 FEHB premiums are facing another double-digit increase, continuing a trend of rising healthcare costs for federal employees and retirees.
Retirement Claims Drop Sharply in September, Easing OPM Retirement Backlog
A summer retirement surge has strained OPM, but the pace slowed in September. Another wave appears to be coming soon though.
Shutdown Fallout: The Looming Threat of Mass Federal Employee Layoffs
Hundreds of thousands of federal employees face furloughs daily amid the shutdown, with potential RIFs as agencies adjust to funding lapses and budget priorities.
From Grade Inflation to Accountability: OPM’s SES Overhaul
No more “everyone’s outstanding”—OPM issued a new rule limiting top SES ratings to boost accountability.
Retirement Wave Hits OPM: Inside August’s Record-Breaking Month
New retirement claims spiked in August, but the OPM retirement backlog is not what you would expect.
Rule of Many: New Hiring Rule Ends 150 Year Practice: Tougher Promotions and Leaner Pensions May Follow
OPM ends 150-year “rule of three” hiring system, replacing it with the “rule of many”—a shift boosting agency flexibility but risking leaner pensions for feds.
2026 Federal Pay Raise: Which Law Enforcement Officers Will Get the Full 3.8%?
OPM reveals which law enforcement roles qualify for the 3.8% 2026 federal pay raise—find out who gets more than the standard 1%.
