Rayna Retirement

By American Federal Benefits Consultants

Rayna Retirement is the go-to podcast for federal employees – or anyone – looking to make smarter financial decisions with clarity and confidence. Hosted by Rayna Reyes, co-founder of American Federal... more

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FAQs about Rayna Retirement:

How many episodes does Rayna Retirement have?

The podcast currently has 74 episodes available.

Rayna Retirement episodes:

August 15, 2025 Filling Out Your Federal Retirement Paperwork the Right Way
In this episode of Rayna Retirement, host Rayna Reyes walks you through the essential retirement forms that federal and postal employees must complete to officially begin their retirement journey. Just like needing a ticket to board a plane, your "ticket to retirement" is your completed OPM paperwork—and Rayna makes sure you know exactly what’s required, which pages matter most, and how to avoid costly mistakes.
From survivor benefit elections to life insurance decisions, military service credits, and the all-important direct deposit setup, Rayna explains everything in plain English. Whether you’re a federal worker, a postal employee, or simply curious about how the retirement process works, this episode provides the clarity and confidence you need to take the next step toward your “permanent vacation.”
Ready to get your retirement paperwork done right the first time? Schedule your free appointment with Rayna and her team at American Federal Benefits Consultants today. Call Rayna directly at 850-450-6500 or reach out to her team at 1-800-872-8857.

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Contact: Rayna and the team at American Federal Benefits Consultants, call 1-800-872-8857 or visit AmericanFederal.org.
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RaynaRetirement
Rayna Retirement is the go-to podcast for federal employees – or anyone – looking to make smarter financial decisions with clarity and confidence. Hosted by Rayna Reyes, co-founder of American Federal Benefits Consultants, this show simplifies the complexities of retirement, benefits, and financial planning.
Whether you're navigating your FERS or CSRS pension, maximizing your TSP, or seeking expert advice on 401(k)s or IRAs, Rayna is here to guide you every step of the way. Tune in for practical knowledge, ethical solutions, and expert insights as you prepare for a secure and fulfilling retirement.
...more
21min
August 09, 2025The Survivor Benefit Teeter-Totter: What Every FERS & CSRS Employee Should Know
If you’re a federal employee or retiree, understanding your survivor benefit options could mean the difference between financial stability and unexpected shortfalls for your spouse. In this episode of Rayna Retirement, Rayna Reyes breaks down how survivor benefits work for CSRS and FERS employees, who can receive them, and how they compare to life insurance payouts.
She’ll walk you through:
The exact choices available under CSRS and FERS rules
How to weigh monthly taxable survivor benefits against lump sum tax-free life insurance
Special cases like “Twinkies” (two federal employees married to each other) and how it changes the math
Why health insurance continuity can be just as important as monthly income
How to make a survivor benefit choice that truly matches your family’s needs
Whether you’re thinking about retirement or already planning your legacy, this episode will help you confidently decide how to provide for your “Honey Bunches of love.”
Call Rayna directly at 850-450-6500 or contact the team at American Federal Benefits Consultants at 1-800-872-8857. We’ll walk you through your specific FERS or CSRS options, compare them with your life insurance, and help you protect your spouse in the most cost-effective way.

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Contact: Rayna and the team at American Federal Benefits Consultants, call 1-800-872-8857 or visit AmericanFederal.org.
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RaynaRetirement
Rayna Retirement is the go-to podcast for federal employees – or anyone – looking to make smarter financial decisions with clarity and confidence. Hosted by Rayna Reyes, co-founder of American Federal Benefits Consultants, this show simplifies the complexities of retirement, benefits, and financial planning.
Whether you're navigating your FERS or CSRS pension, maximizing your TSP, or seeking expert advice on 401(k)s or IRAs, Rayna is here to guide you every step of the way. Tune in for practical knowledge, ethical solutions, and expert insights as you prepare for a secure and fulfilling retirement.
...more
12min
August 01, 2025 Am I Eligible Yet? FERS, CSRS, and Knowing When to Go
Ever feel like you’re counting down the days until your retirement like a prisoner waiting for parole? You’re not alone. In this episode, Rayna Reyes walks you through exactly when—and how—you can leave federal service under both FERS and CSRS.
Whether you’re wondering what your Minimum Retirement Age (MRA) means, confused about the MRA +10 rule, or unsure if a Vera or RIF applies to you, Rayna breaks it all down in plain English. From service year requirements to the five-year health insurance rule and the federal retirement supplement, this is your comprehensive eligibility guide.
Plus, Rayna dives into the emotional side of retirement—are you not just financially ready, but truly ready in your heart to retire?
Ready to find out your best retirement date? Text Rayna directly at 850-450-6500 to schedule a one-on-one consultation.

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Contact: Rayna and the team at American Federal Benefits Consultants, call 1-800-872-8857 or visit AmericanFederal.org.
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RaynaRetirement
Rayna Retirement is the go-to podcast for federal employees – or anyone – looking to make smarter financial decisions with clarity and confidence. Hosted by Rayna Reyes, co-founder of American Federal Benefits Consultants, this show simplifies the complexities of retirement, benefits, and financial planning.
Whether you're navigating your FERS or CSRS pension, maximizing your TSP, or seeking expert advice on 401(k)s or IRAs, Rayna is here to guide you every step of the way. Tune in for practical knowledge, ethical solutions, and expert insights as you prepare for a secure and fulfilling retirement.
...more
18min
July 25, 2025 Too Many Buckets? Rollover Tips for Smarter Retirement Planning
Got a dozen retirement accounts and no idea what to do with them? You’re not alone. In this episode of Rayna Retirement, Rayna Reyes breaks down the concept of rollovers, required minimum distributions (RMDs), and the art of simplifying your financial life — especially for federal employees.
Rayna uses relatable analogies (yes, there’s coffee, mugs, and even Hank Williams) to explain how rolling over your money from one account to another can help you gain more control, reduce taxes, and plan more effectively for the future — without triggering immediate tax consequences. She also explores the difference between traditional and Roth accounts, explains why account consolidation can make life easier for your heirs, and reminds you to plan for both the expected and the unexpected.
If your retirement strategy looks like a game of financial Tetris, this episode will help you align your blocks and clear a path to clarity and peace of mind.

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Contact: Rayna and the team at American Federal Benefits Consultants, call 1-800-872-8857 or visit AmericanFederal.org.
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RaynaRetirement
Rayna Retirement is the go-to podcast for federal employees – or anyone – looking to make smarter financial decisions with clarity and confidence. Hosted by Rayna Reyes, co-founder of American Federal Benefits Consultants, this show simplifies the complexities of retirement, benefits, and financial planning.
Whether you're navigating your FERS or CSRS pension, maximizing your TSP, or seeking expert advice on 401(k)s or IRAs, Rayna is here to guide you every step of the way. Tune in for practical knowledge, ethical solutions, and expert insights as you prepare for a secure and fulfilling retirement.
...more
16min
July 18, 2025 FEGLI for Life: Why You Should Never Drop Basic Coverage
Basic, A, B, C… it might sound like alphabet soup, but when it comes to federal life insurance, these options can make or break your retirement legacy. In this information-packed episode, Rayna Reyes breaks down the key components of FEGLI and offers practical advice on what to keep, what to consider, and how to make sure your loved ones are protected for life—without overpaying. She also shares her family’s firsthand experience with a living benefits policy that helped them during a cancer diagnosis. Federal life insurance doesn’t have to be confusing—this episode makes it make sense.
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Contact: Rayna and the team at American Federal Benefits Consultants, call 1-800-872-8857 or visit AmericanFederal.org.
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RaynaRetirement
Rayna Retirement is the go-to podcast for federal employees – or anyone – looking to make smarter financial decisions with clarity and confidence. Hosted by Rayna Reyes, co-founder of American Federal Benefits Consultants, this show simplifies the complexities of retirement, benefits, and financial planning.
Whether you're navigating your FERS or CSRS pension, maximizing your TSP, or seeking expert advice on 401(k)s or IRAs, Rayna is here to guide you every step of the way. Tune in for practical knowledge, ethical solutions, and expert insights as you prepare for a secure and fulfilling retirement.

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16min
July 11, 2025 The Bill Is Signed—Now What? Federal Retirement Relief and Grateful Perspective
Rayna Reyes is back with a big sigh of relief and a message of gratitude after the signing of the long-anticipated federal bill. In this heartfelt and informative episode, she breaks down what’s not changing for federal employees—no “high-five,” the pension supplement is safe, and your high-three calculations remain intact.
But Rayna goes beyond the headlines. She reminds federal workers to appreciate the rare benefits they have—like a guaranteed pension and Social Security income—especially in comparison to private sector workers and people in other countries. It’s a real talk moment about gratitude, income planning, and why now’s the time to reevaluate your spouse’s income options if they don’t have a pension.
Rayna also shares stories, insights, and even a little Alanis Morissette as she encourages you to keep perspective and take inventory of all that’s good. It's your post-bill-signature pep talk with practical steps to secure your family’s financial future.
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Contact: Rayna and the team at American Federal Benefits Consultants, call 1-800-872-8857 or visit AmericanFederal.org.
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RaynaRetirement
Rayna Retirement is the go-to podcast for federal employees – or anyone – looking to make smarter financial decisions with clarity and confidence. Hosted by Rayna Reyes, co-founder of American Federal Benefits Consultants, this show simplifies the complexities of retirement, benefits, and financial planning.
Whether you're navigating your FERS or CSRS pension, maximizing your TSP, or seeking expert advice on 401(k)s or IRAs, Rayna is here to guide you every step of the way. Tune in for practical knowledge, ethical solutions, and expert insights as you prepare for a secure and fulfilling retirement.

Need help with your federal benefit options? Call 850-450-6500 or visit AmericanFederal.com

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13min
June 20, 2025 TSP L Funds Explained: Are They the “Celine Dion” of Retirement Planning?
If the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) had a soundtrack, it might just be “My Heart Will Go On”. In this fun and informative episode of Rayna Retirement, Rayna Reyes breaks down the misunderstood world of TSP L Funds—and what they can do for you.
What does the "L" in L Fund actually mean?
How does your investment mix shift automatically as you approach retirement?
Are you one of the many federal employees getting a letter saying your L 2025 fund is changing?
Should you stay put or make a move?
Rayna also shares how to visually choose the fund that best matches your goals—and why picking an L Fund might be the easiest decision you’ll ever make (especially if market-watching isn’t your thing).
Plus: The myth of “G for Good,” the truth about TSP fees, and how lifecycle funds can help you stop stressing and start planning.
Need help with your TSP, L Funds, or rollover options? Call 850-450-6500 or visit AmericanFederal.com

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Contact: Rayna and the team at American Federal Benefits Consultants, call 1-800-872-8857 or visit AmericanFederal.org.
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RaynaRetirement
Rayna Retirement is the go-to podcast for federal employees – or anyone – looking to make smarter financial decisions with clarity and confidence. Hosted by Rayna Reyes, co-founder of American Federal Benefits Consultants, this show simplifies the complexities of retirement, benefits, and financial planning.
Whether you're navigating your FERS or CSRS pension, maximizing your TSP, or seeking expert advice on 401(k)s or IRAs, Rayna is here to guide you every step of the way. Tune in for practical knowledge, ethical solutions, and expert insights as you prepare for a secure and fulfilling retirement.
...more
12min
June 13, 2025TSP, Coffee & the Roth You Didn’t Know You Didn’t Know
“There are things you know. Things you know you don’t know. And things you don’t know you don’t know.”
In this rich, relatable, and sometimes hilarious episode of Rayna Retirement, federal retirement specialist Rayna Reyes breaks down everything you didn’t know you didn’t know about the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)—especially the difference between Traditional and Roth contributions.
With a metaphor involving coffee, creamer, water, and oil (yes, really), Rayna explains:
☕ What You’ll Learn:
The biggest misconceptions federal employees have about TSP matches
Why Uncle Sam’s “dad tax” could reduce your retirement income if you don’t plan ahead
The power of the Roth TSP—and how it’s like making your brownies with oil instead of water
Who should be thinking about starting a Roth (Hint: it’s not just “young whippersnappers”)
What to expect when in-plan Roth conversions become available in 2026
The difference between Roth contributions and Roth conversions—and why it matters
Whether you’re 35, 55, or 75, Rayna offers clear insights and real-life reasons for when a Roth makes sense—and when it might not. Plus, she gives you the exact questions to ask yourself (and your financial advisor) before making any big decisions about your TSP.
Ready to talk about your TSP strategy?
Text Rayna directly at 850-450-6500 for a quick response and customized answers.
Because federal retirement isn’t just about knowing the rules—it’s about knowing your rules.

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Contact: Rayna and the team at American Federal Benefits Consultants, call 1-800-872-8857 or visit AmericanFederal.org.
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RaynaRetirement
Rayna Retirement is the go-to podcast for federal employees – or anyone – looking to make smarter financial decisions with clarity and confidence. Hosted by Rayna Reyes, co-founder of American Federal Benefits Consultants, this show simplifies the complexities of retirement, benefits, and financial planning.
Whether you're navigating your FERS or CSRS pension, maximizing your TSP, or seeking expert advice on 401(k)s or IRAs, Rayna is here to guide you every step of the way. Tune in for practical knowledge, ethical solutions, and expert insights as you prepare for a secure and fulfilling retirement.
...more
14min
May 20, 2025Bonus Interview: Healthy Eyes, Healthy Lives: Vision Tips from the National Eye Institute
Guest: Dr. Chantal Cousineau-Krieger, Ophthalmologist, National Eye Institute

️ May is Healthy Vision Month, and Matt McClure sits down with Dr. Chantal Cousineau-Krieger, an ophthalmologist with the National Eye Institute, to explore how your eye health connects to your overall wellness—especially as you age.
We discuss:
How conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure impact your vision
The 20-20-20 rule to reduce screen strain
What foods support healthy eyes
The surprising connection between exercise and eye health
When and how often you should get a complete eye exam
Why early detection is critical—even if you feel fine
What those of us over 40 () need to keep in mind after LASIK or other vision corrections
Whether you’ve been putting off that eye exam or are looking for ways to maintain clear vision into retirement, this episode is a must-listen.
Learn more: https://nei.nih.gov

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Contact: Rayna and the team at American Federal Benefits Consultants, call 1-800-872-8857 or visit AmericanFederal.org.
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RaynaRetirement
Rayna Retirement is the go-to podcast for federal employees – or anyone – looking to make smarter financial decisions with clarity and confidence. Hosted by Rayna Reyes, co-founder of American Federal Benefits Consultants, this show simplifies the complexities of retirement, benefits, and financial planning.
Whether you're navigating your FERS or CSRS pension, maximizing your TSP, or seeking expert advice on 401(k)s or IRAs, Rayna is here to guide you every step of the way. Tune in for practical knowledge, ethical solutions, and expert insights as you prepare for a secure and fulfilling retirement.
...more
8min
May 16, 2025Law Enforcement Officers: Your FERS Benefits Decoded
Are you a federal law enforcement officer, firefighter, air traffic controller, or other “special category” employee? If so, your retirement benefits come with very different rules—and better perks. In this episode of Rayna Retirement, we break down the unique FERS retirement system for Leos (law enforcement officers) and other special category feds.
You’ll learn:
✅ How your FERS pension is calculated (hint: 1.7% is magical)
✅ When you can retire early (age 50 with 20 years, or earlier with 25)
✅ How the supplement works—and when the earnings test kicks in
✅ Big updates to TSP withdrawal rules under SECURE Act 2.0
✅ Why your retirement income plan needs to include tax strategy
Whether you’re in uniform or behind the scenes, this episode is your roadmap to retirement with clarity and confidence.
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Contact: Rayna and the team at American Federal Benefits Consultants, call 1-800-872-8857 or visit AmericanFederal.org.
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RaynaRetirement
Rayna Retirement is the go-to podcast for federal employees – or anyone – looking to make smarter financial decisions with clarity and confidence. Hosted by Rayna Reyes, co-founder of American Federal Benefits Consultants, this show simplifies the complexities of retirement, benefits, and financial planning.
Whether you're navigating your FERS or CSRS pension, maximizing your TSP, or seeking expert advice on 401(k)s or IRAs, Rayna is here to guide you every step of the way. Tune in for practical knowledge, ethical solutions, and expert insights as you prepare for a secure and fulfilling retirement.
...more
10min

FAQs about Rayna Retirement:

How many episodes does Rayna Retirement have?

The podcast currently has 74 episodes available.