Author - The Assistant

Top 10 Misconceptions About Federal Employee Health Benefits and Medicare – Debunked!

As federal employees and retirees approach the age of 65, Medicare often becomes a topic of discussion. However, there are several myths surrounding Medicare and the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program that have led to confusion and misinformation. In this article, we will debunk 10 of these myths to help federal retirees make informed decisions about their healthcare coverage.
Myth #1: Medicare is free.
While it’s true that federal employees who have paid the Medicare payroll tax for at least […]

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Filing a FEGLI Death Benefits Claim

Losing a loved one is never easy, and when the financial security of your family hangs in the balance, the last thing you want is a delay or denial in claiming the Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance (FEGLI) death benefits. In this article, we will explore the process of filing a claim for FEGLI death benefits, common reasons for claim rejection or delay, and when it’s advisable to seek legal assistance.
 
Understanding FEGLI Death Benefits
FEGLI, unlike private life insurance policies […]

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Understanding the Alternative Annuity Benefit for FERS and CSRS Federal Retirees

As you prepare for retirement, you might have pondered the question: Can I take my Federal Employee Retirement System (FERS) or Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) pension as a lump sum? The thought of receiving a sizable sum upfront instead of monthly payments for life can be enticing. In this blog, we’ll delve into the concept of the “alternative annuity benefit,” which allows for a lump-sum payment of your FERS or CSRS contributions. However, there are specific criteria and […]

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Avoiding Disastrous Missteps When Optimizing Your Federal Retirement

Retirement marks the culmination of years of dedication to your federal service. However, to ensure that your retirement years are as fulfilling and comfortable as you’ve imagined, it’s crucial to navigate the complexities of federal retirement systems carefully. In this article, we’ll delve into ten common missteps that federal employees, particularly those in the FERS system, should avoid to maximize their retirement benefits. While these pitfalls might seem minor individually, their combined impact can significantly affect your financial security […]

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Unlocking Your Earned Rewards: Navigating Social Security Benefits

Retirement is a phase of life that many of us look forward to with a mix of anticipation and concern. One of the key components of a comfortable retirement is the social security benefit that you’ve earned over your years in the workforce. However, navigating the intricacies of social security benefits can be complex, and misinformation or oversight can lead to receiving less than what you’re rightfully entitled to. While the saying “you get what you get” might hold […]

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Choosing Between Income Insurance and Social Security Benefits

For many of us, the ability to work and earn an income is a cornerstone of our financial stability. But what if an unexpected disability were to strike, leaving us unable to work and earn that crucial income? This scenario isn’t as unlikely as it might seem – according to the Social Security Administration (SSA), about 25% of 20-year-olds will experience a disability lasting 90 days or more before they reach the age of 67. That’s why both individual […]

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Navigating Your Federal Retirement Journey

Federal employees are fortunate to have access to a robust benefits package that often surpasses what’s available in the private sector. However, harnessing these benefits to their full potential requires a deep understanding of the complex federal landscape. Think of your path to retirement as a voyage across the ocean – without efficient navigation, you might not reach your desired destination. At The Benefit Coordinators, we’re here to be your expert navigators, helping you make informed decisions and ensure […]

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Exploring Phased Retirement: A Flexible Path for Federal Workers

Phased Retirement for Federal Workers: A Balancing Act
For federal workers on the brink of retirement, the concept of “phased retirement” offers a unique compromise between full-time work and leisurely retirement. Depending on the agency, occupation, and individual preferences, phased retirement presents an attractive option for those who are eligible but not quite ready to bid farewell to their careers. This approach allows federal employees to transition from a traditional 40-hour workweek to a more flexible schedule, all while reaping […]

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Choosing Wisely: Traditional TSP vs. Roth TSP for Your 2023 Retirement

As a federal employee, planning for retirement involves a crucial decision: choosing between a traditional Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) and a Roth TSP. Each option comes with distinct tax advantages and considerations that can significantly impact your financial outlook. In this article, we’ll delve into the key differences between these two retirement savings avenues, helping you make an informed decision tailored to your unique circumstances.
Understanding the Tax Differences
The primary contrast between traditional and Roth TSP lies in their taxation […]

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Unmasking Social Security Myths: Don’t Fall for the Misconceptions!

Social Security retirement benefits are a critical aspect of many federal employees’ future retirement income. However, misconceptions and myths about Social Security persist among federal employees and retirees, leading to confusion about eligibility, benefits, and application processes. To clear the air and provide accurate information, we’ve compiled a list of ten common misunderstandings and myths surrounding Social Security retirement benefits.
Myth 1: Social Security is Going Bankrupt Soon
While it’s true that Social Security faces funding challenges, it won’t be going […]

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