Is the new OPM Online Retirement Application (ORA) speeding up federal retirement or causing more delays? In this video, CD Financial explains the digital process, timelines, hidden pitfalls, and speedy tips for federal employees (FERS & CSRS) preparing to retire. Learn how to optimize your paperwork, avoid late annuity payments, and get the answers to crucial OPM system changes for 2025.

🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES
FREE 15-minute call: https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/com...
Newsletter: https://cdfinancial.com/newsletter
Free Resources Library: https://cdfinancial.com/resources

⏱ TIMESTAMPS
0:00 – Intro
0:57 – ORA Overview
1:39 – Why the Switch to ORA
3:59 – Accessing the System
5:28 – Application Process
6:00 – Required Forms to Upload (SF3107, SF2817, SF2818, etc.)
11:02 – System Updates & Notifications
12:30 – Benefit Estimates
15:21 – Tax Withholding Issues
16:57 – Certification & Submission
18:38 – What ORA Doesn't Handle (TSP, Social Security)
19:27 – OPM Calculation Errors
21:11 – Getting Professional Help
23:27 – Health Tip

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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🚨 Government Shutdown URGENT Update: How will your paycheck, benefits, and retirement be impacted? Millions of federal employees and retirees are searching for answers—CD Financial reveals what most people miss (and how to protect your income right now).

👇 Have a question or personal concern? Comment below—real answers from our team!

🔔 Subscribe for urgent updates and practical financial tips.
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👋 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 — Shutdown Impact for DRP Retirees & Recent Retirees
0:25 The 3 Ways a Shutdown Hits You (HR Gaps)
0:49 No Staff to Process Your Final Paycheck
1:19 Why Your Last Check May Be Stuck in Limbo
1:52 TSP Access Rule Explained — The Age 55–59½ Corridor
2:26 Not Marked “Retired” in TSP? Risk of 10% Penalty
2:53 “I Took the DRP — Why Can’t I Access Funds?” (Status Not Updated)
3:28 AURA-Style Self-Serve Burden During Shutdown
3:51 Need Help Now? Text Us — We’ll Build a Plan
4:12 Sign-Off — “You don’t have to work longer, just need a better plan.”

#FederalEmployees #GovernmentShutdown #RetirementPlanning #BreakingNews #2025COLA #TSP #FERS #SocialSecurity #UrgentUpdate #Financialcurity


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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How will the October 2025 government shutdown impact federal employees, retirees, and Social Security recipients? In this video, CD Financial breaks down what you can expect, tips to protect your income, how to bridge financial gaps, and updates on benefits. Get expert retirement and financial planning strategies tailored to the federal workforce. 

🔔 Subscribe for weekly insights on retirement, tax planning, TSP, FERS, and Social Security. 
📞 Book your FREE 15-minute consultation: https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/complimentary-15-minute-phone-call-youtube 
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⏱ TIMESTAMPS
0:00 Government Shutdown 2025 – Why This One Is Different
0:24 Job Cuts & Reduction in Force Explained
0:41 Millions Left Wondering – What’s Next for Federal Employees?
1:04 Essential Workers – Working Without Pay
1:18 Non-Essential Employees – At Risk of Layoffs
1:31 Why This Shutdown Is Unprecedented
2:02 Administration’s Statement – “Clear Out Dead Wood”
2:18 Agencies Under Threat of Elimination
2:42 Protecting Your Federal Career & Benefits
3:24 Final Advice – Don’t Work Longer, Work Smarter

#FederalEmployees #GovernmentShutdown #RetirementPlanning #TSP #FERS #CDFinancial #October2025

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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A financial advisor doesn’t just manage your investments — they design a roadmap to your goals, protect your lifetime income, and adapt your plan when life changes.

🔔 Don’t forget to Subscribe and tap the bell for weekly insights on financial planning, retirement, tax strategy, and more.

A truly fiduciary financial advisor builds personalized retirement income strategies, handles tax planning, and ensures your portfolio adjusts to life’s changes.

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

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 — What a Financial Advisor Really Does
1:04 Defining Your Retirement Vision & Goals
1:32 How We Figure Out Your Income Needs
2:10 Portfolio Design vs. “One-Size-Fits-All” Investing
2:42 Creating Lifetime Income from Your Savings
3:13 Tax Planning & Withdrawal Strategies
3:40 Legacy Planning & Safeguards
4:10 Why the Fiduciary Standard Matters
4:45 How to Choose the Right Financial Advisor

#FinancialAdvisor #RetirementPlanning #TaxStrategy #WealthManagement #YourBrandName

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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When should you retire—62, 65, or 67? The right decision could mean a bigger pension, stronger Social Security benefits, and more years to enjoy your retirement income.

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

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 When Should You Retire? 62, 65, or 67?
2:00 Social Security Timing: Does It Pay to Delay?
5:00 The Pros & Cons of Taking Benefits Early
10:00 Funding Retirement Accounts: Maxing Out TSP & 401(k)
13:00 Increasing Your Pension by Staying Longer
16:00 The Hidden Costs of Delaying Retirement
18:45 Go-Go, Slow-Go, and No-Go Retirement Years
20:00 Why Having a Retirement Plan Matters Most
22:00 Health & Lifestyle: Taking Real Breaks
24:00 Final Takeaways & Free Consultation Offer

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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Don’t let inflation erode your retirement — this video shows you how you can protect your 2025 Federal Pension COLA for income liquidity from day one.

By rolling over a portion of your TSP into an IRA before retirement and having liquid funds in place, you can increase the quality of the first few months of retirement without delays in your pension COLA or benefits.

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

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 – The challenge of delayed pension & COLA in 2025
0:45 Why pension delays happen & what triggers them in federal retirement systems
1:10 How rolling your TSP into an IRA can give you liquidity when you need it
1:35 Setting up your IRA linked to your bank account: step-by-step
2:00 Building a buffer: how many months of income you should prepare for
2:45 Military TSP options & special considerations
3:10 What to do if your savings are large in TSP but small in cash or checking
3:35 The importance of a written retirement income plan
4:15 How a fiduciary with federal benefits expertise makes a difference

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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DIY retirement income often fails not because of market drops—but because emotional selling, poor tax planning, and wrong withdrawal timing silently drain your savings.

For many DIY retirees, the fatal five are market corrections, shifting from accumulation to income without a strategy, lack of access to durable income instruments, mismanaged tax implications, and uncertainty about whether their money will last through retirement.

🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES
👉 Schedule a free 15-minute call https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/complimentary-15-minute-phone-call-youtube
Newsletter: https://cdfinancial.com/newsletter
Free Resources Library: https://cdfinancial.com/resources

👋 WHO WE ARE
CD Financial — where health meets wealth. We help near-retirees and retirees (including many Federal Employees, FERS & TSP participants) build reliable retirement income through evidence-based planning, tax-smart withdrawals, and risk management. Subscribe for weekly strategies that turn savings into sustainable paychecks for life.

⏱ TIMESTAMPS
0:00 Intro — Should you DIY investing in retirement?
1:06 #1 Market Corrections & Emotion Traps (why panic selling crushes long-term returns)
3:44 #2 Accumulation vs. Decumulation (the rules change when paychecks stop)
7:17 #3 Access to Income Instruments (what DIY often can’t buy or evaluate)
10:04 Bond Funds ≠ “Safe Money” (understanding rate risk when taking income)
13:29 #4 Tax Planning That Pays You Back (Roth conversions, brackets, and timing)
16:03 How to Start: One Small Step (text your name/email to 949-359-5100)
17:12 #5 Will Your Money Last? (stress-testing with a Written Retirement Income Plan)
19:16 Planning Mindset (why clarity = confidence in spending)
24:01 Action Items & Next Steps (how to get your Charted Retirement Course™)

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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Don’t run out of money before you run out of life—build a written retirement income plan you can count on.

Large, poorly timed withdrawals and RMD surprises can wreck a portfolio—separate income from growth and let a tax plan, not emotions, drive your decisions.

🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES
👉 Schedule a free 15-minute call https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/complimentary-15-minute-phone-call-youtube
Newsletter: https://cdfinancial.com/newsletter
Free Resources Library: https://cdfinancial.com/resources

Mentioned in the Video:
TSP Funds (C, S, I, G): https://www.tsp.gov/
Social Security basics: https://www.ssa.gov/

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

👋 WHO WE ARE
CD Financial — where health meets wealth. We help near-retirees and retirees (including many Federal Employees, FERS & TSP participants) build reliable retirement income through evidence-based planning, tax-smart withdrawals, and risk management. Subscribe for weekly strategies that turn savings into sustainable paychecks for life.

⏱ TIMESTAMPS
0:00 Intro — the #1 fear: running out of money
0:24 Why “not saving enough” isn’t always the problem—lack of a written plan
2:30 Case Study (Susie): Large withdrawal → higher tax bracket → years of tax catch-up
6:10 Sequence-of-returns risk: Why withdrawing after a market drop hurts twice
8:36 The danger of being too safe (G Fund/bonds) vs keeping up with inflation
12:31 RMDs explained: The government’s withdrawal schedule & tax surprises
14:41 What’s a “reasonable” withdrawal rate? Context matters (why 4% isn’t a rule) 
19:10 Take control with a multi-year tax plan (Roth conversions & bracket management)
21:05 Two-bucket approach: Separate income (stability) from growth (inflation defense)
24:20 Health tip: Movement is a privilege—health truly meets wealth

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

How to survive a delayed federal retirement pension check? Avoid financial ruin by building your bridge plan now.

Many federal retirees are shocked to find that not only is the regular pension delayed for months, but even the first estimated check may be missing — you need a bridge strategy in place so you aren’t left without income.

This channel helps federal employees and retirees protect their financial security by providing clear retirement planning strategies, income-gap solutions, and the tools you need to transition into retirement with confidence. Subscribe for expert guidance, real stories, and actionable advice you can use.

Looking for personalized advice? Schedule a consultation with Charles to tailor a plan that suits your unique financial situation: https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/dzamatalk-complimentary-15-min-phone-call

⏱ TIMESTAMPS
0:00 Intro: What happens when your retirement check doesn’t arrive
0:35 Understanding the delay: regular pension vs estimated checks
1:08 What zero income looks like in your first few months post-retirement
1:50 Sources to fill the gap: savings, private accounts, disability income
2:12 Real-life case: “Tom and Carla” — one unprepared, one protected
2:45 Risks of credit card debt and borrowing to survive
3:17 Building a bridge fund: how much you really need (example)
3:54 Using TSP → IRA when you’re over 59½ to access funds sooner
4:21 Planning isn’t about working longer — it’s about smarter preparation

Twitter: /CDFinancial_LLC
Instagram: /CDfinancial.llc
Facebook: /CDFinancialLLC
LinkedIn: /cd-financial-llc Visit our Website: https://cdfinancial.org/
Subscribe and Stay Updated: Don’t miss out on crucial advice for your financial journey. Subscribe now for weekly insights and strategies to secure your retirement.

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

“Lead a charted retirement course by separating income assets from growth assets for true recession‑proof peace of mind.”

You don’t need to work longer; you just need a better plan. Schedule a peace of mind visit for your retirement planning with this link: https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/dzamatalk-complimentary-15-min-phone-call

Chapters 
0:00 – Welcome & intro: What does "recession-proof your retirement" really mean?
0:46 – Chuck’s ocean swimming analogy – being knocked down but getting back up in retirement
4:09 – Why retirees must pay attention to recessions and sequence of returns risk
6:26 – “Do’s vs. Don’ts”: The dangers of pulling from declining assets (doofus vs. gallant)
10:01 – Why pulling from a down portfolio compounds losses—30%+ rebound needed
11:20 – What you *should* do: Separate income and growth assets for stability
12:27 – Avoid volatility in your retirement “paycheck”
13:45 – Peace of mind visit: planning your retirement voyage with charts
16:13 – How to schedule your consultation: text vs. call details
16:57 – Summary: balance growth and stability for a recession-resilient plan
18:28 – Mental health tip: when you take a break, really take a break
20:04 – Final thoughts: Recessions are inevitable—your response doesn’t have to be
20:43 – Wrap-up: Thanks for joining — check the resource library below

Connect with CD Financial for More Insights:
Twitter: /CDFinancial_LLC
Instagram: /CDfinancial.llc
Facebook: /CDFinancialLLC
LinkedIn: /cd-financial‑llc

👋 WHO AM I?
I’m Charles Dzama, founder of CD Financial. We help federal employees understand their benefits, optimize retirement income, and make confident decisions about the future. On this channel, you’ll find clear, practical guidance on FERS, FEHB, TSP, and more.

Get More from CD Financial: Looking for personalized advice? Schedule a consultation with Charles to tailor a plan that suits your unique financial situation: https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/dzamatalk-complimentary-15-min-phone-call

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