Survivor benefits are a critical part of any financial planning strategy, but what happens when traditional options aren't the right fit? In episode 120 of The Federal Retirement Show, Val explores alternative solutions, from life insurance policies to trusts, and discuss how each can be tailored to provide peace of mind for families. Whether you’re planning for the unexpected or just looking to strengthen your financial safety net, this episode will help you better understand the options that go beyond the basics.

Don’t miss this episode if you’re looking to secure your financial future as a federal employee. Make sure to subscribe to The Federal Retirement Show for more episodes and leave us a review!

Have questions about retirement planning or other financial topics? Connect with Val and the topic could be featured in future episodes! Don't forget to leave a review and share this podcast with anyone looking to boost their financial knowledge.

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Listen to Previous Episodes: 
https://federalretirementshow.com/podcasts/

Subscribe to the show’s YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/@americanbenefitsexchange

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Connect with Val:
Phone --- (512) 582-6050
Email --- [email protected]
American Benefits Exchange --- thinkabx.com
Federal Retirement Show --- federalretirementshow.com/podcasts
Linkedin --- https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-benefits-exchange/

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About American Benefits Exchange:
American Benefits Exchange focuses on providing solid financial solutions to Federal, postal, and state employees as well as members of the United States Armed Forces and small businesses. American Benefits Exchange brings years of experience and knowledge to support these niche markets.

American Benefits Exchange, along with its provider companies, truly understands the needs of civil service employees. A portfolio of products is available to address important financial issues such as planning for retirement, FEGLI Option B replacement, Thrift Savings Plan Rollovers, and Pension Maximization.

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

USPS Employees – Are you tired of working for the Federal Government? Are you interested in an early retirement? On episode 119 of The Federal Retirement Show, Val breaks down the buyout offer and how this recent development is a significant turning point for many long-time postal workers. Val takes you through the intricate details of the buyout program, its potential impact on the workforce, and what it means for the future of postal services across the nation.

Don’t miss this episode if you’re looking to secure your financial future as a federal employee. Make sure to subscribe to The Federal Retirement Show for more episodes and leave us a review!

Have questions about retirement planning or other financial topics? Connect with Val and the topic could be featured in future episodes! Don't forget to leave a review and share this podcast with anyone looking to boost their financial knowledge.

---

Listen to Previous Episodes: 
https://federalretirementshow.com/podcasts/

Subscribe to the show’s YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/@americanbenefitsexchange

---

Connect with Val:
Phone --- (512) 582-6050
Email --- [email protected]
American Benefits Exchange --- thinkabx.com
Federal Retirement Show --- federalretirementshow.com/podcasts
Linkedin --- https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-benefits-exchange/

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About American Benefits Exchange:
American Benefits Exchange focuses on providing solid financial solutions to Federal, postal, and state employees as well as members of the United States Armed Forces and small businesses. American Benefits Exchange brings years of experience and knowledge to support these niche markets.

American Benefits Exchange, along with its provider companies, truly understands the needs of civil service employees. A portfolio of products is available to address important financial issues such as planning for retirement, FEGLI Option B replacement, Thrift Savings Plan Rollovers, and Pension Maximization.

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to part two of a deep dive into federal employee retirement! In episode 118, Val addresses the most common misconceptions surrounding retirement benefits for federal workers. He also tackles the frequently asked questions and shed light on the complex details that can often be confusing or overlooked.

From understanding the intricacies of Bonus and Overtime Pay included in High-3, how to change your survivor benefits election at any point in retirement, when you should take Social Security, and more!

Don’t miss this episode if you’re looking to secure your financial future as a federal employee. Make sure to subscribe to The Federal Retirement Show for more episodes and leave us a review!

Have questions about retirement planning or other financial topics? Connect with Val and the topic could be featured in future episodes! Don't forget to leave a review and share this podcast with anyone looking to boost their financial knowledge.

Listen to Previous Episodes: 
https://federalretirementshow.com/podcasts/

Subscribe to the show’s YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/@americanbenefitsexchange

Connect with Val:
Phone --- (512) 582-6050
Email --- [email protected]
American Benefits Exchange --- thinkabx.com
Federal Retirement Show --- federalretirementshow.com/podcasts
Linkedin --- https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-benefits-exchange/

About American Benefits Exchange:
American Benefits Exchange focuses on providing solid financial solutions to Federal, postal, and state employees as well as members of the United States Armed Forces and small businesses. American Benefits Exchange brings years of experience and knowledge to support these niche markets.

American Benefits Exchange, along with its provider companies, truly understands the needs of civil service employees. A portfolio of products is available to address important financial issues such as planning for retirement, FEGLI Option B replacement, Thrift Savings Plan Rollovers, and Pension Maximization.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As we enter the new year, federal employees are facing a range of significant changes that could impact their benefits. In episode 117 of The Federal Retirement Show, Val goes into significant detail about the key updates federal workers need to be aware of for 2025. From adjustments in retirement plans, healthcare options, and pay scales to shifts in remote work policies and new workplace regulations, Val  breaks down the most important changes you need to know to navigate the year ahead.

Don’t miss this episode if you’re looking to secure your financial future as a federal employee. Make sure to subscribe to The Federal Retirement Show for more episodes and leave us a review!

Have questions about retirement planning or other financial topics? Connect with Val and the topic could be featured in future episodes! Don't forget to leave a review and share this podcast with anyone looking to boost their financial knowledge.

 

Listen to Previous Episodes: 
https://federalretirementshow.com/podcasts/

Subscribe to the show’s YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/@americanbenefitsexchange

Connect with Val:
Phone --- (512) 582-6050
Email --- [email protected]
American Benefits Exchange --- thinkabx.com
Federal Retirement Show --- federalretirementshow.com/podcasts
Linkedin --- https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-benefits-exchange/

About American Benefits Exchange:
American Benefits Exchange focuses on providing solid financial solutions to Federal, postal, and state employees as well as members of the United States Armed Forces and small businesses. American Benefits Exchange brings years of experience and knowledge to support these niche markets.

American Benefits Exchange, along with its provider companies, truly understands the needs of civil service employees. A portfolio of products is available to address important financial issues such as planning for retirement, FEGLI Option B replacement, Thrift Savings Plan Rollovers, and Pension Maximization.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In episode 116 of The Federal Retirement Show, Val sifts through the critical topic of Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) for Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) participants. He breaks down the question of when federal employees and retirees need to start taking RMDs from their TSP accounts. Whether you're approaching retirement or already there, this episode provides essential information to help you navigate the complexities of TSP withdrawals and stay compliant with IRS regulations12.

Don’t miss this episode if you’re looking to secure your financial future as a federal employee. Make sure to subscribe to The Federal Retirement Show for more episodes and leave us a review!

Have questions about retirement planning or other financial topics? Connect with Val and the topic could be featured in future episodes! Don't forget to leave a review and share this podcast with anyone looking to boost their financial knowledge.

 

Listen to Previous Episodes: 
https://federalretirementshow.com/podcasts/

Subscribe to the show’s YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/@americanbenefitsexchange

Connect with Val:
Phone --- (512) 582-6050
Email --- [email protected]
American Benefits Exchange --- thinkabx.com
Federal Retirement Show --- federalretirementshow.com/podcasts
Linkedin --- https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-benefits-exchange/

 

About American Benefits Exchange:
American Benefits Exchange focuses on providing solid financial solutions to Federal, postal, and state employees as well as members of the United States Armed Forces and small businesses. American Benefits Exchange brings years of experience and knowledge to support these niche markets.

American Benefits Exchange, along with its provider companies, truly understands the needs of civil service employees. A portfolio of products is available to address important financial issues such as planning for retirement, FEGLI Option B replacement, Thrift Savings Plan Rollovers, and Pension Maximization.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are you prepared for the unexpected twists and turns of life? In this episode of The Federal Retirement Show, Val tackles the often-overlooked topic of Long-Term Care Insurance, the importance of proper estate planning and retirement savings strategies.

Listen to Previous Episodes: 
https://federalretirementshow.com/podcasts/

Subscribe to the show’s YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/@americanbenefitsexchange

Connect with Val:
Phone  (512) 582-6050
Email [email protected]
American Benefits Exchange: thinkabx.com
Federal Retirement Show: federalretirementshow.com/podcasts
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-benefits-exchange/

About American Benefits Exchange:
American Benefits Exchange focuses on providing solid financial solutions to Federal, postal, and state employees as well as members of the United States Armed Forces and small businesses. American Benefits Exchange brings years of experience and knowledge to support these niche markets.

American Benefits Exchange, along with its provider companies, truly understands the needs of civil service employees. A portfolio of products is available to address important financial issues such as planning for retirement, FEGLI Option B replacement, Thrift Savings Plan Rollovers, and Pension Maximization.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In episode 114 of The Federal Retirement Show, Val tackles a question many federal employees face: Should I retire at 60 or wait until 62? Val gives a detailed breakdown of the key differences, including how your FERS pension, Social Security benefits, and healthcare options are impacted by retiring at each age.

Don’t miss this episode if you’re looking to secure your financial future as a federal employee. Make sure to subscribe to The Federal Retirement Show for more episodes and leave us a review!

Have questions about retirement planning or other financial topics? Connect with Val and the topic could be featured in future episodes! Don't forget to leave a review and share this podcast with anyone looking to boost their financial knowledge.

 

Listen to Previous Episodes: 
https://federalretirementshow.com/podcasts/

Subscribe to the show’s YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/@americanbenefitsexchange

Connect with Val:
Phone --- (512) 582-6050
Email --- [email protected]
American Benefits Exchange --- thinkabx.com
Federal Retirement Show --- federalretirementshow.com/podcasts
Linkedin --- https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-benefits-exchange/

 

About American Benefits Exchange:
American Benefits Exchange focuses on providing solid financial solutions to Federal, postal, and state employees as well as members of the United States Armed Forces and small businesses. American Benefits Exchange brings years of experience and knowledge to support these niche markets.

American Benefits Exchange, along with its provider companies, truly understands the needs of civil service employees. A portfolio of products is available to address important financial issues such as planning for retirement, FEGLI Option B replacement, Thrift Savings Plan Rollovers, and Pension Maximization.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As we head into 2025, understanding the updated Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) contribution limits is essential for federal employees who want to maximize their retirement savings. In episode 113 of The Federal Retirement Show, Val explains in detail the newly announced limits for TSP contributions and discuss what these changes mean for your financial planning. Whether you’re considering catch-up contributions, weighing the benefits of Roth vs. Traditional TSP, or trying to make the most of your employer match, Val’s got you covered to help you make smart choices in the new year.

Don’t miss this episode if you’re looking to secure your financial future as a federal employee. Make sure to subscribe to The Federal Retirement Show for more episodes and leave us a review!

Have questions about retirement planning or other financial topics? Connect with Val and the topic could be featured in future episodes! Don't forget to leave a review and share this podcast with anyone looking to boost their financial knowledge.

 

Listen to Previous Episodes: 
https://federalretirementshow.com/podcasts/

Subscribe to the show’s YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/@americanbenefitsexchange

Connect with Val:
Phone --- (512) 582-6050
Email --- [email protected]
American Benefits Exchange --- thinkabx.com
Federal Retirement Show --- federalretirementshow.com/podcasts
Linkedin --- https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-benefits-exchange/

 

About American Benefits Exchange:
American Benefits Exchange focuses on providing solid financial solutions to Federal, postal, and state employees as well as members of the United States Armed Forces and small businesses. American Benefits Exchange brings years of experience and knowledge to support these niche markets.

American Benefits Exchange, along with its provider companies, truly understands the needs of civil service employees. A portfolio of products is available to address important financial issues such as planning for retirement, FEGLI Option B replacement, Thrift Savings Plan Rollovers, and Pension Maximization.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In episode 112 of The Federal Retirement Show, Val describes the 2024 Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Open Enrollment season! Whether you're a federal employee or retiree, now is your opportunity to review, compare, and adjust your health insurance options for the year ahead. Val breaks down what’s new this season, important dates to keep in mind, and strategies to ensure you’re making the best choices for yourself and your family!

Don’t miss this episode if you’re looking to secure your financial future as a federal employee. Make sure to subscribe to The Federal Retirement Show for more episodes and leave us a review!

Have questions about retirement planning or other financial topics? Connect with Val and the topic could be featured in future episodes! Don't forget to leave a review and share this podcast with anyone looking to boost their financial knowledge.

 

Listen to Previous Episodes: 
https://federalretirementshow.com/podcasts/

Subscribe to the show’s YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/@americanbenefitsexchange

Connect with Val:

Phone --- (512) 582-6050
Email --- [email protected]
American Benefits Exchange --- thinkabx.com
Federal Retirement Show --- federalretirementshow.com/podcasts
Linkedin --- https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-benefits-exchange/

 

About American Benefits Exchange:
American Benefits Exchange focuses on providing solid financial solutions to Federal, postal, and state employees as well as members of the United States Armed Forces and small businesses. American Benefits Exchange brings years of experience and knowledge to support these niche markets.

American Benefits Exchange, along with its provider companies, truly understands the needs of civil service employees. A portfolio of products is available to address important financial issues such as planning for retirement, FEGLI Option B replacement, Thrift Savings Plan Rollovers, and Pension Maximization.

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many federal employees hear about the “High-3” without fully grasping what’s included and how it affects their future benefits. In episode 111 of The Federal Retirement Show, Val simplifies a crucial aspect of federal employee retirement planning: understanding your High-3 average salary and what counts toward it. Val breaks down the components of your High-3 average salary, clear up common misconceptions, and give you tips on maximizing this part of your retirement calculation.

Don’t miss this episode if you’re looking to secure your financial future as a federal employee. Make sure to subscribe to The Federal Retirement Show for more episodes and leave us a review!

Have questions about retirement planning or other financial topics? Connect with Val and the topic could be featured in future episodes! Don't forget to leave a review and share this podcast with anyone looking to boost their financial knowledge.

Listen to Previous Episodes: 
https://federalretirementshow.com/podcasts/

Subscribe to the show’s YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/@americanbenefitsexchange

Connect with Val:

Phone --- (512) 582-6050
Email --- [email protected]
American Benefits Exchange --- thinkabx.com
Federal Retirement Show --- federalretirementshow.com/podcasts
Linkedin --- https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-benefits-exchange/

About American Benefits Exchange:
American Benefits Exchange focuses on providing solid financial solutions to Federal, postal, and state employees as well as members of the United States Armed Forces and small businesses. American Benefits Exchange brings years of experience and knowledge to support these niche markets.

American Benefits Exchange, along with its provider companies, truly understands the needs of civil service employees. A portfolio of products is available to address important financial issues such as planning for retirement, FEGLI Option B replacement, Thrift Savings Plan Rollovers, and Pension Maximization.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.