Planning a get-a-way doesn't have to be expensive. In this episode, we're joined by Ariel from Washington State Parks to explore the budget-friendly recreational opportunities available across 140 state parks. From the popular Discover Pass to several discounted options for those over age 62 and multiple free days in the year, you can access these natural treasures without breaking the bank.

We chat about diverse accommodations offered, including cabins, yurts, and even historic vacation homes. Ariel shares unique experiences like staying at a lighthouse keeper's residence or a fire lookout. Everything you need to get started on your next outdoor adventure.

Parks highlighted in the episode (alphabetically): Brooks Memorial State Park, Cape Disappointment, Conconully State Park, Curlew State Park, Deception Pass, Fort Ebey, Fort Flagler, Fort Worden, Ginkgo Petrified Forest, Goldendale Observatory, Ike Kinswa State Park, Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center,  Millersylvania State Park, Mount Spokane State Park, Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail.

Your credit score plays a crucial role in your financial health. So, it’s important to know how to manage and improve your credit. Our guests, Lyn and Nathan from the Department of Financial Institutions, break down the differences between credit scores and credit reports. They also share insights into the importance of checking your credit report regularly and the benefits of freezing your credit to safeguard against identity theft.

Editor's note: In December 2024, Congress repealed the two provisions within Social Security benefits that we discuss in this episode.

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Continuing our discussion of Social Security benefits, we focus on unique provisions that can apply to public employees. Some people assume all public employees participate in Social Security, but this isn't always the case. We explore why some government workers, such as police officers and firefighters, might not be part of Social Security due to their unique pension plans.

We discuss two critical provisions that can impact Social Security benefits: the Government Pension Offset (GPO) and the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP). Our guest, Kirk, from the Social Security Administration explains how these rules apply to folks trying to claim benefits on their own or a spouse's record while receiving a government pension.

More about the GPO: https://www.ssa.gov/policy/docs/program-explainers/government-pension-offset.html

More about the WEP: https://www.ssa.gov/policy/docs/program-explainers/windfall-elimination-provision.html

We dive into the essentials of Social Security benefits with special guest Kirk from the Social Security Administration. Kirk answers frequently asked questions about creating a My Social Security account, its benefits, and how to use online resources for your retirement planning.

Learn how to qualify for Social Security retirement benefits, understand the calculations behind your benefit amounts, and get insights into the financial health of the Social Security system. Kirk also discusses the best age to start receiving benefits and how to maximize your Social Security income.

Stay tuned for the next episode where we'll explore more specifics with provisions of Social Security that may impact public employees.

Official Social Security website: https://www.ssa.gov/

Significant changes are coming to PEBB Medicare Part D in 2025. Discover why these changes are being implemented, how they aim to reduce premiums and what specific plans will include Medicare Part D. Our guest is Ellen, who works as a Retiree Benefits Manager at the Washington State Healthcare Authority. She explains what this new change means for retirees and where to go for more information.

Open enrollment is Oct. 28, 2024 – Nov. 25, 2024.

https://www.hca.wa.gov/

Your auto and home insurance can have a significant impact on your budget, but it’s hard to know if you’re getting the best rate. Our guest, Amy from the Office of the Insurance Commissioner (OIC), joins us to provide tips on shopping around for insurance and the value of having an agent.

Resources: 

Office of the Insurance Commissioner

Podcast: OIC Answers

The amount of service credit, or time that you’ve been teaching, has a huge impact on your pension. In this episode, we explore the details of service credit for teachers in Washington state. Our guest, Jon from the DRS Contact Center, joins us to discuss options for teachers who have worked in other states and wish to transfer or purchase service credits.

We dive into the common challenges faced right after retirement. DRS team member John shares insights about handling the transition period and offers practical advice to avoid pitfalls. Whether you're planning to buy a house, plan to travel, or trying to navigate insurance coverage, this episode provides valuable tips to help ensure a smooth post-retirement experience.

Do you know how much you can spend from your investment account once you retire? Some people choose to purchase an annuity for peace of mind. Plan 3 members have access to a TAP Annuity with a lifetime cost of living adjustment (COLA). Find out more about this and other unique advantages of the TAP Annuity.

Millennial and DRS team member Durin recently got married and says that changed how he thinks about planning for the future. He shares his love of food and tips for budgeting when it comes to cooking and grocery shopping.