Your guide for retirement news, insights, and resources
DIY or Delegate? How to Decide Which Financial Tasks to Take On Yourself
There’s a lot of buzz about taking control of your finances – and for good reason. Knowledge is power, and being hands-on with your money can save you time and fees. But not everything should be a do-it-yourself project. Here’s how to decide what’s worth tackling solo and when it’s smarter to call in the…
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The Emotional Side of Estate Planning: Passing Down Values Alongside Your Assets
By now, you’ve seen how estate planning can save your loved ones from unnecessary headaches and keep your hard-earned money where you want it. But let’s face it: while the financial side of things is critical estate planning is also about something bigger. It’s your chance to leave behind more than just money – it’s…
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The Hidden Costs of Poor Planning: Titling of Assets and Avoiding Probate Pitfalls
So, you’ve got a will, maybe even a trust, and you’re feeling good about your estate plan. But here’s the thing: how your assets are titled can completely derail even the best-laid plans. This part of estate planning doesn’t get much attention, but it’s one of the most critical steps if you want to avoid…
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Charity Scams – Giving Safely as the Year Ends
The holiday season is a time of generosity, with many of us eager to support causes close to our hearts. Unfortunately, it’s also a prime time for scammers to exploit this goodwill. Fake charities and fraudulent campaigns spike at year-end, preying on the uptick in donations. Here’s how to protect yourself while ensuring your contributions…
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The Science of Slow: Why Rushing Less Could Be Your Secret Superpower
For most of your life, rushing probably felt like the default. Deadlines, meetings, family obligations—it’s a constant sprint to keep up. But retirement offers something unique: the opportunity to slow down. The challenge? Many retirees find it surprisingly hard to shift gears. Consider the wisdom of the turtle: a creature celebrated across cultures for its…
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Learning to Say ‘No’ in Retirement: The Hidden Key to Happiness
Retirement is often seen as a time of endless freedom, but for many, it can quickly become a whirlwind of commitments. Babysit the grandkids? Sure. Volunteer for that committee? Of course. Help a friend move? Why not? The reality is that saying “yes” to everything can leave retirees drained, overwhelmed, and far from the happiness…
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Porch Pirates and Fake Delivery Notifications – Securing Your Holiday Gifts
The convenience of online shopping makes holiday preparation easier, but it also opens the door to porch pirates and delivery scams. Here’s how to outsmart them this season. Porch piracy spikes during the holidays when thieves take advantage of unattended deliveries. A single stolen package can ruin the joy of gift-giving and cost you hundreds…
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Gift Card Scams – Don’t Let Scammers Steal Your Holiday Cheer
Gift cards are a favorite holiday gift, but they’re also a favorite tool for scammers. Every year, thousands of people lose money to fraudsters who use clever tricks to steal from unsuspecting buyers. Let’s break down how these scams work and how you can protect yourself. How Gift Card Scams HappenScammers often impersonate someone you…
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The Weight of Worry: Managing Stress as Retirement Approaches
Retirement: a word that conjures dreams of freedom, relaxation, and fulfillment—but also an undercurrent of uncertainty. For many nearing this milestone, worry becomes a persistent companion. Will my money last? How will I fill my days? What happens if my health declines? These concerns are more than fleeting thoughts; they can evolve into chronic stressors…
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Prioritizing Health in Your Financial Planning: Building a Secure and Healthy Future
When people think about financial planning, they often focus on saving and investing for retirement. Yet, health-related expenses are a major part of financial security, especially in retirement. By prioritizing health within your financial plan, you can reduce long-term costs, protect your retirement funds, and enjoy a well-rounded approach to securing your future. Why Health…
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Life Insurance – Yes or No?
Life insurance is one of those financial products we’re all told to get. From advertisements to financial gurus, it seems like the ultimate safety net for everyone. But here’s a radical thought: life insurance is not for everyone. That’s right. Despite its merits, there are scenarios where life insurance might not be the right fit,…
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The Stress of Money – Managing your Mental Wealth
Money-related stress has become a near-universal experience. Countless surveys and studies highlight a surprising truth: financial worry isn’t exclusive to any particular income bracket. Whether you’re living paycheck to paycheck or managing a substantial portfolio, the stress of money can affect us all. Financial stress is a great equalizer. It doesn’t discriminate based on income,…
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Election Guide 2024
*a subscriber exclusive* In this exclusive guide, we explore the potential impact of the upcoming election on your investments, taxes, and retirement. Learn from 90 years of market data, discover common investor mistakes during election years, and get actionable strategies for safeguarding your financial future. Whether it’s Social Security reform or sector volatility, this guide…
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Behavior & Budgeting: Mastering Your Finances for a Secure Future
*a subscriber exclusive* Curious about the link between your habits and your financial health? Our latest subscriber-exclusive article delves into the psychology behind budgeting, offering insights into why so many of us resist it—and how to change that. Discover the key behavioral patterns that influence your financial decisions, and learn practical strategies to align your…
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Hidden Costs of Retirement Relocation
Tired of seeing endless articles about the “10 Best Places to Retire” or “Cheapest Cities for Retirees”? You’re not alone. These articles paint a rosy picture of retirement relocation, making it seem as simple as picking a sunny spot and packing your bags. But the reality is far more complex—and potentially costly. While dreams of…
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Why You Need a Personal Advocate
Have you ever wondered what would happen if your life took a sudden turn for the worse – a car accident, emergency surgery….who would take care of your life while you were fighting for it? A personal advocate is an individual you trust to make decisions and take actions on your behalf when you’re incapable…
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Key Takeaways from This Year’s Midyear Financial Forecasts
Sometimes it is wise to take a look back ahead of a journey forward. We have been scrutinizing the midyear outlooks published by various financial institutions and respected strategists back in June. Our aim is to provide valuable context as we approach what could be a turbulent period. With a Presidential election right around the…
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The Green Gold Rush: A Comprehensive Guide to ESG Investing in 2024
Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) investing has gained significant attention in recent years, but many investors remain confused about its meaning, effectiveness, and potential impact on returns. ESG investing is a strategy that considers environmental, social, and governance factors alongside traditional financial metrics when making investment decisions. Here’s a breakdown of what each component means:…
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Investor Psychology: Navigating Market Volatility
Imagine the stock market takes a nosedive. Your retirement account value plummets, and anxiety sets in. Logic tells you to stay calm, but the urge to act becomes overwhelming. This scenario illustrates the power of investor psychology, which influences both individual consumers and professional money managers. The key is to recognize the behavior and take…
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Will I Run Out of Money?
Worrying about running out of money is at the top of the list of concerns for those planning for retirement or already there. Whether you’ve diligently saved a small fortune or you’re working with more modest means, the transition from saving to spending can feel almost terrifying. Of course, no one can answer this question…
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What You Can DIY in Federal Benefits: A Guide for Employees
Federal employees enjoy access to some of the most comprehensive benefits programs available, from the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) to healthcare options, life insurance, and retirement annuities. The challenge? These benefits can feel overwhelming to navigate. The good news is that with the right resources and know-how, you can take charge of many aspects on…
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Cybersecurity 101: Protecting Financial Data from Common Threats
Managing your financial life comes with a unique set of responsibilities – and risks. In today’s digital world, cyber threats are everywhere, and your financial data is a prime target. Whether you’re managing your money solo or working with professionals, understanding how to safeguard your information is critical. Here’s what you need to know. Why…
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What Happens to Your Benefits If You Die Before Retirement? A Federal Employee’s Guide
Federal employees enjoy a robust array of benefits, but what happens to those benefits if you pass away before reaching retirement? Understanding how your federal pension and unpaid compensation are handled is crucial—not only to protect your loved ones but also to ensure your estate plan accounts for every detail. This guide breaks down what…
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Your OPM Retirement Checklist: Be Prepared for the Big Day
Retirement marks one of life’s most significant transitions, and for federal employees, it comes with unique processes and requirements. Navigating the paperwork and timelines overseen by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) can feel daunting. This comprehensive checklist will help you prepare for a smooth and stress-free retirement. Confirm Your Eligibility• Understand Your Plan: Determine…
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Voluntary Separation Incentives: Should You Take the Buyout?
Federal agencies often offer buyouts, known as Voluntary Separation Incentive Payments (VSIPs), or early retirements, called Voluntary Early Retirement Authority (VERA), during times of budget cuts or restructuring. These programs can be enticing, presenting opportunities to step away from federal service with financial benefits. However, they’re not one-size-fits-all solutions and require a thoughtful analysis of…
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Feeling Stuck? How Federal Employees Can Explore New Opportunities Without Jumping Ship
Recent studies show that federal employees earn, on average, nearly a quarter less than their private-sector peers. For many, this disparity raises questions about career growth and financial security. But before making the leap to the private sector, it’s worth exploring the opportunities already available to federal employees to improve their financial and career outlook.…
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Federal Workforce in Flux: Navigating Uncertainty Under the New Administration
With the Trump administration preparing to take office alongside a Republican-controlled Congress, federal employees face a period of uncertainty and speculation. Proposals such as downsizing agencies like the FDA and Department of Education or creating a new Department of Government Efficiency have sparked concerns and raised questions about what lies ahead. While headlines may suggest…
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FEHB Open Season Final Week Reminder: Last Chance to Review Your 2025 Health Plan Options
With just one week left in the 2025 Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Open Season, now is the time to make any final adjustments to your health coverage for the coming year. Open Season ends on Monday, December 9, 2024, so use this last week to ensure your plan fits your needs and budget. This…
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Holiday Shopping Discounts for Federal Employees
The holiday season is right around the corner, and with it comes the opportunity to take advantage of exclusive discounts available to you as a federal employee. From electronics to travel deals, there are plenty of savings to be found if you know where to look. Here’s your guide to making the most of your…
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Calculate Your FERS Pension: A Comprehensive Guide
Calculating your FERS (Federal Employees Retirement System) pension is a critical step in planning for your retirement, but it can be confusing. Although federal agencies provide estimates, they don’t always capture your unique situation. Understanding how your pension is calculated and taking responsibility for the process ensures accuracy and helps avoid surprises when you retire.…
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