Max retirement contributions just got bigger in 2026 — $24,500 elective limit plus expanded catch-up contributions for federal TSP and 401(k) plans.

2026 contribution limits for TSP and 401(k)/403(b) increase — here’s how to make the most of your elective deferrals and catch-up contributions.

🔥 Curious how these IRS changes affect your federal benefits, TSP retirement strategy, and catch-up planning? 

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This channel helps federal employees, military personnel, and retirement savers maximize their retirement planning and tax-advantaged contributions through clear, strategy-focused videos on TSP, 401(k), catch-up contributions, and retirement benefit optimization. Subscribe for weekly financial planning insights and actionable strategies.

⏱ TIMESTAMPS
0:00 Intro & Key 2026 Contribution Highlights
0:45 2026 Elective Deferral Limit: $24,500 Explained
1:30 Catch-Up Contributions for Age 50+
2:15 Super Catch-Up Limits (Ages 60–63)
3:10 How TSP & 401(k) Contribution Limits Compare
3:55 Roth Catch-Up Rules Starting 2026
4:35 Federal Employees: How to Elect Your 2026 Deferrals
5:15 IRA Contribution Changes & Planning Tips
6:00 Retirement Planning Strategy: What to Do Now
6:40 Closing Thoughts + Next Steps

Advisory services are offered through CD Financial LLC dba CD Financial, an Investment Advisor in the State of California. Insurance products and services are offered through CD Financial & Insurance Services LLC, an affiliated company.
Opinions expressed herein are solely those of CD Financial and our editorial staff. The information contained in this material has been derived from sources believed to be reliable but is not guaranteed as to accuracy and completeness and does not purport to be a complete analysis of the materials discussed. All information and ideas should be discussed in detail with your individual adviser prior to implementation.

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In this important discussion, we focus on "long term care awareness", especially relevant during Long-Term Care Awareness Month. We examine the critical aspects of "long term care" and effective "financial planning" strategies that align with a minimalist approach to "personal finance". Learn practical insights on "how to save money", drawing from a thoughtful, careful spending philosophy.

PS. Asset-based long-term care combines care coverage with savings or life insurance, so you don’t risk wasting premiums if you never need care.

Do You Have Questions? Scheduele a FREE 15-minute call: https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/complimentary-15-minute-phone-call-youtube

Or text your Name, Last Name, & Email to (949) 359-5100 so our team can help you schedule a FREE 15-minute call

Newsletter: https://cdfinancial.com/newsletter

Socials:
Instagram: https://instagram.com/cdfinancial.llc/
Facebook: https://facebook.com/cdfinancial
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/cd-financial

👋 WHO AM I?
CD Financial helps federal employees and near-retirees create sustainable, tax-smart retirement income. Expect weekly strategies on 401K, FERS, TSP, Social Security timing, tax planning, and health-meets-wealth habits—clear, practical, compliant.

⏱ TIMESTAMPS
0:00 Intro

Advisory services are offered through CD Financial LLC dba CD Financial, an Investment Advisor in the State of California. Insurance products and services are offered through CD Financial & Insurance Services LLC, an affiliated company.
Opinions expressed herein are solely those of CD Financial and our editorial staff. The information contained in this material has been derived from sources believed to be reliable but is not guaranteed as to accuracy and completeness and does not purport to be a complete analysis of the materials discussed. All information and ideas should be discussed in detail with your individual adviser prior to implementation.

Support the show

In this important discussion, we focus on "long term care awareness", especially relevant during Long-Term Care Awareness Month. We examine the critical aspects of "long term care" and effective "financial planning" strategies that align with a minimalist approach to "personal finance". Learn practical insights on "how to save money", drawing from a thoughtful, careful spending philosophy.

PS. Asset-based long-term care combines care coverage with savings or life insurance, so you don’t risk wasting premiums if you never need care.

Do You Have Questions? Scheduele a FREE 15-minute call: https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/complimentary-15-minute-phone-call-youtube

Or text your Name, Last Name, & Email to (949) 359-5100 so our team can help you schedule a FREE 15-minute call

Newsletter: https://cdfinancial.com/newsletter

Socials:
Instagram: https://instagram.com/cdfinancial.llc/
Facebook: https://facebook.com/cdfinancial
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/cd-financial

👋 WHO AM I?
CD Financial helps federal employees and near-retirees create sustainable, tax-smart retirement income. Expect weekly strategies on 401K, FERS, TSP, Social Security timing, tax planning, and health-meets-wealth habits—clear, practical, compliant.

⏱ TIMESTAMPS
0:00 Why Long-Term Care Awareness Month Matters
0:33 A Minimalist’s Approach to Spending and Protection
0:59 Why People Dislike Traditional Long-Term Care Insurance
1:22 How Long-Term Care Fits Into Your Charted Retirement Course
1:43 When a $6,000/Month Care Bill Hits Your Retirement Plan
2:16 The Impact on Spouses, Adult Children, and Family Caregiving
2:58 Option #1: Traditional Long-Term Care Insurance — Main Drawbacks
3:18 Option #2: Life Insurance with a Long-Term Care Rider — How It Works
4:18 Option #3: Asset-Based Long-Term Care — “One-and-Done” Strategy
4:48 Protecting Your Plan and Loved Ones — Why This Conversation Matters
5:18 Final Thoughts, How to Get Help, and “You Don’t Have to Work Longer” Reminder

Advisory services are offered through CD Financial LLC dba CD Financial, an Investment Advisor in the State of California. Insurance products and services are offered through CD Financial & Insurance Services LLC, an affiliated company.
Opinions expressed herein are solely those of CD Financial and our editorial staff. The information contained in this material has been derived from sources believed to be reliable but is not guaranteed as to accuracy and completeness and does not purport to be a complete analysis of the materials discussed. All information and ideas should be discussed in detail with your individual adviser prior to implementation.

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In this episode of the CD Financial Podcast, Chuck D and Marcus C delve into the implications of the new Secure Act 2.0, particularly focusing on catch-up contributions to retirement accounts. They discuss the differences between Roth and traditional contributions, the tax implications of forced Roth contributions, and the concerns that high earners may have regarding their tax bills. The conversation also touches on the challenges of payroll setup for federal employees and the perceived unfairness of the new rules. Additionally, they provide insights into how these changes may affect cash flow and retirement planning, concluding with a health tip emphasizing the importance of resistance training for longevity.

Takeaways

Catch-up contributions can be made to Roth or traditional accounts depending on income levels.
The Secure Act 2.0 mandates Roth contributions for high earners.
Tax implications of Roth contributions can affect take-home pay.
Forced Roth contributions may disrupt financial planning for some individuals.
Payroll systems may struggle with the implementation of new rules.
Many employees feel penalized by the new tax rules.
Federal employees need to consider how these changes affect Medicare premiums.
Regional variations exist in contribution rules for federal employees.
It's crucial to review retirement plans regularly to avoid mistakes.
Resistance training is essential for maintaining health as we age.

🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES
FREE 15-minute call: https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/complimentary-15-minute-phone-call-youtube
Newsletter: https://cdfinancial.com/newsletter

Socials:
Instagram: https://instagram.com/cdfinancial.llc/
Facebook: https://facebook.com/cdfinancial
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/cd-financial

👋 WHO ARE WE?
CD Financial helps federal employees and near-retirees create sustainable, tax-smart retirement income. Expect weekly strategies on 401K, FERS, TSP, Social Security timing, tax planning, and health-meets-wealth habits—clear, practical, compliant.

⏱ TIMESTAMPS
0:00 Introduction to Catch-Up Contributions
1:03 Understanding Roth vs. Traditional Contributions
4:53 Concerns About Tax Implications
8:47 The Impact of Forced Roth Contributions
12:36 Navigating Payroll Changes
16:13 Perceptions of Fairness in Taxation
20:03 Federal Employees and Medicare Considerations
22:16 Regional Variations in Contribution Rules
24:29 Conclusion and Health Tips

Advisory services are offered through CD Financial LLC dba CD Financial, an Investment Advisor in the State of California. Insurance products and services are offered through CD Financial & Insurance Services LLC, an affiliated company.
Opinions expressed herein are solely those of CD Financial and our editorial staff. The information contained in this material has been derived from sources believed to be reliable but is not guaranteed as to accuracy and completeness and does not purport to be a complete analysis of the materials discussed. All information and ideas should be discussed in detail with your individual adviser prior to implementation.

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For high income earners, new rules for 2025 mean you might not be able to put your catch-up money into tax-deferred or traditional TSP or 401k for that matter. This video breaks down what this means for your retirement planning and highlights the importance of understanding these changes. Understanding these new rules is crucial for maximizing your tax benefits and managing your retirement accounts effectively.

High-income earners risk losing the traditional tax break on catch-up contributions — and the 2026 Roth-only rule can change your retirement strategy entirely.

🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES
IRS official update on catch-up contributions: https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/treasury-irs-issue-final-regulations-on-new-roth-catch-up-rule-other-secure-2point0-act-provisions

FREE 15-minute call: https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/complimentary-15-minute-phone-call-youtube

Newsletter: https://cdfinancial.com/newsletter

Socials:
Instagram: https://instagram.com/cdfinancial.llc/
Facebook: https://facebook.com/cdfinancial
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/cd-financial

👋 WHO AM I?
CD Financial helps federal employees and near-retirees create sustainable, tax-smart retirement income. Expect weekly strategies on 401K, FERS, TSP, Social Security timing, tax planning, and health-meets-wealth habits—clear, practical, compliant.

⏱ TIMESTAMPS
0:00 Introduction and the new catch-up contribution restrictions
0:35 Why high-income earners may lose access to traditional catch-up contributions
1:13 Income thresholds by grade and step for federal employees
2:03 Why mandatory Roth catch-up can be a long-term tax advantage
2:35 Planning for high earners: splitting traditional and Roth contributions
3:01 How Roth contributions benefit spouses and heirs
3:35 City-by-city breakdown: Los Angeles, San Diego, Las Vegas, Phoenix, Austin
4:08 Strategy decisions: step increases vs. bonuses and their impact on TSP
4:40 What happens if payroll contributions are made incorrectly
5:24 Final planning reminder and guidance for next steps

Advisory services are offered through CD Financial LLC dba CD Financial, an Investment Advisor in the State of California. Insurance products and services are offered through CD Financial & Insurance Services LLC, an affiliated company.
Opinions expressed herein are solely those of CD Financial and our editorial staff. The information contained in this material has been derived from sources believed to be reliable but is not guaranteed as to accuracy and completeness and does not purport to be a complete analysis of the materials discussed. All information and ideas should be discussed in detail with your individual adviser prior to implementation.

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In this episode, Chuck D and Marcus C discuss the recent government shutdown, its effects on employees and retirees, and the importance of having a financial plan. They explore the challenges faced by those returning to work, the uncertainty for retirees, and the mental health benefits of planning and communication in relationships. The conversation emphasizes the need for preparation in the face of potential future shutdowns and the value of having a solid strategy for retirement.

The government shutdown lasted 43 days, the longest in history.
1.4 million employees were unpaid during the shutdown.
Essential employees had to work without pay, affecting their finances.
Retirees faced uncertainty with delayed pension checks and processing.
Many employees drained savings and incurred credit card debt during the shutdown.
Having a financial plan is crucial for retirement readiness.
Mental health benefits arise from having a plan and open communication.
Walking with loved ones can improve both physical and mental health.
The importance of family meals without distractions for relationship building.
Future government shutdowns may require better preparation and planning.

🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES
FREE 15-minute call: https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/complimentary-15-minute-phone-call-youtube
Newsletter: https://cdfinancial.com/newsletter

Socials:
Instagram: https://instagram.com/cdfinancial.llc/
Facebook: https://facebook.com/cdfinancial
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/cd-financial

👋 WHO AM I?
CD Financial helps federal employees and near-retirees create sustainable, tax-smart retirement income. Expect weekly strategies on 401K, FERS, TSP, Social Security timing, tax planning, and health-meets-wealth habits—clear, practical, compliant.

⏱ TIMESTAMPS
0:00 Government Shutdown Ends – What It Means for Federal Workers & Retirees
1:57 “Essential” but Unpaid – Stress, Uncertainty, and the Real Cost of Furloughs
3:39 Back Pay, Savings Drain, and Credit Card Debt After the Shutdown
6:11 Night Shifts, Contractors, and How Work Changes After a Government Shutdown
10:38 Retirees in Limbo – Pension Delays, TSP Access, and Annual Leave Payouts
12:51 “I Think I’m Done” – How the Shutdown Pushed Some Federal Workers Toward Retirement
14:59 Eligibility Basics – MRA + 30, Buying Back Military Time, and the Rule of 55 for TSP
16:36 DRP, VERA, and Early Retirement Options for Federal Employees
17:56 The Parachute Story – Why You Shouldn’t “Jump” Without a Written Retirement Income Plan
20:57 What a Real Plan Includes – Expenses, Income Sources, Assets, and Longevity
22:19 Mental & Family Health – Walks, Connection, and Managing Stress in Uncertain Times
24:35 Final Thoughts, Next Steps, and How CD Financial Can Help

Advisory services are offered through CD Financial LLC dba CD Financial, an Investment Advisor in the State of California. Insurance products and services are offered through CD Financial & Insurance Services LLC, an affiliated company.
Opinions expressed herein are solely those of CD Financial and our editorial staff. The information contained in this material has been derived from sources believed to be reliable but is not guaranteed as to accuracy and completeness and does not purport to be a complete analysis of the materials discussed. All information and ideas should be discussed in detail with your individual adviser prior to implementation.

Support the show

If you’re done working in uncertain shutdown-zones instead of on your own terms, now’s the time to lock in your retirement freedom— the longest federal shutdown in history just highlighted what it means to wait.

🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES
FREE 15-minute call: https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/complimentary-15-minute-phone-call-youtube
Newsletter: https://cdfinancial.com/newsletter

Socials:
Instagram: https://instagram.com/cdfinancial.llc/
Facebook: https://facebook.com/cdfinancial
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/cd-financial

👋 WHO AM I?
CD Financial helps federal employees and near-retirees create sustainable, tax-smart retirement income. Expect weekly strategies on 401K, FERS, TSP, Social Security timing, tax planning, and health-meets-wealth habits—clear, practical, compliant.

⏱ TIMESTAMPS
0:00 Intro – Why this shutdown matters for your federal retirement plan
0:35 43 Days Unpaid – How the longest U.S. government shutdown exposed your risk
1:00 Credit-card debt & savings wiped out – real stories from federal employees
1:33 The wake-up call – “I want out of this cycle”
2:01 Retirement triggers – 30 years @ 57 vs. 20 years @ 50 for federal service
2:57 Why you need a parachute – the danger of walking away without a plan
3:32 The rules you must know – penalty-free retirement options explained
4:05 Putting together your exit strategy – step-by-step guide for federal employees
4:38 Get a second opinion – why one wrong election can cost you years
5:12 Wrap-up & next steps – your path from views to value

#FederalRetirementPlanning #GovernmentShutdownImpact

Advisory services are offered through CD Financial LLC dba CD Financial, an Investment Advisor in the State of California. Insurance products and services are offered through CD Financial & Insurance Services LLC, an affiliated company.
Opinions expressed herein are solely those of CD Financial and our editorial staff. The information contained in this material has been derived from sources believed to be reliable but is not guaranteed as to accuracy and completeness and does not purport to be a complete analysis of the materials discussed. All information and ideas should be discussed in detail with your individual adviser prior to implementation.

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Should you leave your Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) untouched, roll it to an IRA, or turn it into a lifetime income stream? In this episode, we break down the real-world pros and cons of each TSP retirement option so you don’t accidentally trade away flexibility, tax control, or your spouse’s future security. Most federal employees pick the “simple” choice with TSP—and it can quietly cost them in taxes and lost options later.

👉 FREE 15-minute call: https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/complimentary-15-minute-phone-call-youtube
Newsletter: https://cdfinancial.com/newsletter

Your FERS pension and Social Security are already annuities—so before you annuitize your TSP, make sure you’re not giving up control, flexibility, and future tax planning opportunities you may really need in retirement.

Socials:
Instagram: https://instagram.com/cdfinancial.llc/
Facebook: https://facebook.com/cdfinancial
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/cd-financial

👋 WHO AM I?
CD Financial helps federal employees and near-retirees create sustainable, tax-smart retirement income. Expect weekly strategies on 401K, FERS, TSP, Social Security timing, tax planning, and health-meets-wealth habits—clear, practical, compliant.

⏱ TIMESTAMPS
0:00 3 Options for Your TSP in Retirement
3:45 Option 1 – Annuitizing Your TSP for Lifetime Income
7:30 The Hidden Downsides of TSP Annuitization (Loss of Control & Spousal Protection)
12:45 Option 2 – Leaving Your Money in TSP: “Simple and Cheap” Explained
17:30 Why “Simple and Cheap” Can Be a Problem in Retirement (No Real Plan)
21:30 Option 3 – Rolling TSP or 401(k) to an IRA for More Flexibility
26:00 Tax Planning, RMDs, and Why Uncle Sam Shouldn’t Write Your Retirement Plan
30:00 Health Tip – Why Morning Exercise Supports a Strong Retirement Lifestyle
32:20 Final Thoughts, Getting Help, and Next Steps with CD Financial

#TSPRetirement #FederalRetirement #CDFinancial #ThriftSavingsPlan #retirementplanning 

Advisory services are offered through CD Financial LLC dba CD Financial, an Investment Advisor in the State of California. Insurance products and services are offered through CD Financial & Insurance Services LLC, an affiliated company.
Opinions expressed herein are solely those of CD Financial and our editorial staff. The information contained in this material has been derived from sources believed to be reliable but is not guaranteed as to accuracy and completeness and does not purport to be a complete analysis of the materials discussed. All information and ideas should be discussed in detail with your individual adviser prior to implementation.

Support the show

Unlock the most overlooked Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) strategies for federal retirees! This video covers three powerful—but often missed—TSP retirement options that can increase your financial security. Discover:

The unique benefits and risks of TSP annuitization

Smart TSP withdrawal strategies for lasting retirement income

How to avoid costly mistakes with TSP rollovers

Whether you’re a federal employee or near retirement, you’ll get actionable insights to make confident decisions for your future.

🔗 FREE 15-minute call: https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/complimentary-15-minute-phone-call-youtube
📰 Exclusive newsletter & resources: https://cdfinancial.com/newsletter

Socials:
Instagram: https://instagram.com/cdfinancial.llc/
Facebook: https://facebook.com/cdfinancial
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/cd-financial

👋 WHO AM I?
CD Financial helps federal employees and near-retirees create sustainable, tax-smart retirement income. Expect weekly strategies on 401K, FERS, TSP, Social Security timing, tax planning, and health-meets-wealth habits—clear, practical, compliant.

⏱ TIMESTAMPS
0:00 — Intro
0:07 — Option #1: Annuitize Your TSP (Why Most Don’t)
0:30 — Impact of Adding a Spousal Benefit
2:37 — Life Happens: Why Dynamic Income Matters
3:07 — Option #2: Leave Your Money in the TSP
4:06 — Required Minimum Distributions & Loss of Control
4:29 — Option #3: Roll Your TSP Into an IRA
8:00 — Mistakes to Avoid With Your TSP
8:30 — Key Takeaways & Next Steps

Advisory services are offered through CD Financial LLC dba CD Financial, an Investment Advisor in the State of California. Insurance products and services are offered through CD Financial & Insurance Services LLC, an affiliated company.
Opinions expressed herein are solely those of CD Financial and our editorial staff. The information contained in this material has been derived from sources believed to be reliable but is not guaranteed as to accuracy and completeness and does not purport to be a complete analysis of the materials discussed. All information and ideas should be discussed in detail with your individual adviser prior to implementation.

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Discover how charitable donations can maximize your tax benefits and support causes you care about. In this video, we unpack:

Strategies for effective charitable giving
Tax deductions for retirees and business owners
Donor-advised funds and philanthropy tips
Common mistakes to avoid when giving
IRS rules and documentation best practices

Key Links & Resources:

Book a FREE 15-minute call: https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/complimentary-15-minute-phone-call-youtube

Subscribe for weekly tips on retirement, taxes, and financial planning.

CD Financial helps federal employees, retirees, and business owners create sustainable, tax-smart retirement income. For more, visit our website or follow us on social

Socials:
Instagram: https://instagram.com/cdfinancial.llc/
Facebook: https://facebook.com/cdfinancial
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/cd-financial

👋 WHO AM I?
CD Financial helps federal employees and near-retirees create sustainable, tax-smart retirement income. Expect weekly strategies on 401K, FERS, TSP, Social Security timing, tax planning, and health-meets-wealth habits—clear, practical, compliant.

⏱ TIMESTAMPS
0:00 Intro – Why smart giving matters for retirement & business
1:45 Understanding the standard deduction shift & itemizing challenges
4:30 Strategy #1 – Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs) explained
7:15 Strategy #2 – Donating appreciated assets to avoid capital gains 
10:00 Strategy #3 – Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) for retirees 70½
12:50 Strategy #4 – Charitable Remainder Trusts (CRTs) for business owners 
15:20 Strategy #5 – Bunching contributions and timing gifts for maximum impact
18:05 How to align your giving strategy with your business and personal legacy
20:30 Next steps & how to leverage this for compliant content and growth

Advisory services are offered through CD Financial LLC dba CD Financial, an Investment Advisor in the State of California. Insurance products and services are offered through CD Financial & Insurance Services LLC, an affiliated company.
Opinions expressed herein are solely those of CD Financial and our editorial staff. The information contained in this material has been derived from sources believed to be reliable but is not guaranteed as to accuracy and completeness and does not purport to be a complete analysis of the materials discussed. All information and ideas should be discussed in detail with your individual adviser prior to implementation.

Support the show