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NARFE FOR THE VISUALLY IMPAIRED
ON THE TELEPHONE: This publication can be heard on the telephone by persons who have trouble seeing or reading the print edition. For more information, contact the National Federation of the Blind NFBNEWSLINE® service at 866-504-7300 or go to www.nfbnewsline.org.
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The Association, since July 1970, has been classified by the IRS as a tax-exempt labor organization [not a union]; however, dues and gifts or contributions to the Association are not deductible as charitable contributions for income tax purposes.
To support legislation and regulations beneficial to federal civilian employees and annuitants and potential annuitants under any federal civilian retirement system and to oppose those detrimental to their interests.
To promote the general welfare of federal civilian employees and annuitants and potential annuitants, to advise and assist them with respect to their rights under retirement, health and other employee and retiree benefits laws and regulations, and to represent their interests before appropriate authorities.
To cooperate with other organizations and associations in furtherance of these general objectives.
Hitting the Fall in Stride
As I write this column, a successful, exciting and fulfilling joint Federation Presidents’ and National Executive Board meeting is behind us. During the meeting, held in mid-August, NARFE senior staff, along with representatives from Street Level Studio and BRG Communications, updated the Federation Presidents with PowerPoint presentations on programs at headquarters. At the conclusion of the meeting, the Federation Presidents made several recommendations for my future consideration.
OPEN SEASON
During the upcoming annual Federal Benefits Open Season, which will take place from Monday, November 10, 2025, to Monday, December 8, 2025, federal employees and annuitants can change their Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) or Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) plans. Changes can also be made to their Federal Employee Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP) coverage and flexible spending account (FSA) choices.
ALZHEIMER’S RESEARCH
As the national oversight officer, it has been an absolute honor to guide NARFE’s partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association. We will close the year very close to reaching our 2026 goal of $17 million toward Alzheimer’s research, thanks to the vision and generous contributions of NARFE members. Scientists have made tremendous strides in a relatively short time. Many people are pleased to learn they can have a large impact on efforts to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementias without spending anything today.
Through a gift by beneficiary designation, your legacy of support continues when you name the Alzheimer’s Association as the beneficiary of a financial or retirement account. The process is straightforward, and you can do it yourself at any time. Another popular way to make a lasting impact is to leave a gift to the Alzheimer’s Association through your will or trust. Contact your regional Alzheimer’s coordinator for more information.
REMEMBRANCE
Every November, we celebrate Veterans’ Day because it allows us to honor America’s veterans who have dedicated their lives to our country and to also give thanks to the men and women who serve in the military right now to protect our country and to ensure that we continue to enjoy our freedoms in wartime and peacetime. We must thank them on November 11 and throughout the year. We must also express our gratitude to those veterans who, after their military service, continued to serve our country in a civilian capacity.
As the holiday season begins and 2025 draws to a close, all of us at NARFE National Headquarters are deeply thankful for all you do and extend our best wishes to you and your family for a happy, healthy and safe Thanksgiving Day. Stay healthy and stay safe!
As your National President, I am proud of what NARFE has accomplished. I promise that we will remain staunch advocates of protecting your earned benefits and oppose any legislative action that may harm your interests. I appreciate your support. Remember—an interested member is an involved member!
WILLIAM SHACKELFORD
NARFE NATIONAL PRESIDENT
natpres@narfe.org
READ NARFE MAGAZINE ONLINE
NARFE’S website offers a digital flipbook of this and previous issues. You can read the magazine online on your computer, phone or tablet, or download it to peruse later. Visit www.narfe.org/ magazine-issues for start reading now!
NARFE Salutes Service Members This Month
Veterans Day, November 11, is an opportunity to thank those who selflessly protected our great nation. NARFE not only is grateful for their service in uniform, but also appreciates the many who chose to transition into federal jobs as civilians.
Across the country, a significant percentage of NARFE’s members are veterans. Executive agencies must give veterans preference over other applicants in the hiring process, which
has helped the federal government remain a leading employer of vets, ahead of the manufacturing, professional, education and retail sectors.
The percentage of veterans in the federal workforce has steadily increased in the past decade, from 25.8% in fiscal year 2009 to some 32% today. The federal government also is the leading employer of disabled veterans, with more than five times the number of disabled veterans employed by the federal government than any other entity.
WEBINARS ON DEMAND
Catch up on past NARFE Federal Benefits Institute presentations in NARFE’s Webinars on Demand! There, you’ll find videos, slides and transcripts of question-and-answer sessions from webinars dating back to January 2019. View them at https:// www.narfe.org/federal-benefits-institute/ narfe-webinars/webinar-archive.
In addition to advocating on behalf of the many NARFE members who served in uniform, NARFE has long represented civilian federal employees who have had the honor of working alongside the military to support our nation’s defense and to provide care for our veterans in facilities around the country. NARFE is grateful for their dedication.
To read about three wounded warriors who transitioned from military service to federal service, visit www.narfe.org/ honoring-veterans
TSP UPDATE ONLINE
Get the monthly and annual Thrift Savings Plan returns (G, F, C, S, I and L Funds) online at www.narfe.org/tsp-funds
TRACKING RETIREMENT CLAIMS
Find out how many retirement claims the Office of Personnel Management Retirement Services receives and processes each month, with average processing times and total inventory at www.narfe. org/opm-processing.
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Pocket Rescission Announcement Continues Constitutional Fight Over Impoundment and Congress’s Power of the Purse
On Friday, Aug. 29, the White House announced it was canceling $4.9 billion in foreign aid mandated by Congress. By announcing the cancellation within 45 days of the end of the fiscal year, the administration is attempting a “pocket rescission,” under the theory that the funding will expire before the deadline for congressional action. But the move stands on shaky legal ground, at best. In assessing whether a pocket rescission is legal, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) said, “No,” arguing that “A pocket rescission essentially bypasses Congress’ power of the purse.”
“We will faithfully uphold the law. The president ran on the notion that the Impoundment Control Act is unconstitutional. I agree with that,” said Russ Vought, White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) director, at his Senate confirmation hearing on January 22, 2025.
Since his confirmation on a party line vote, 53-47,
NOVEMBER
ACTION ALERT:
Vought has led the Trump administration’s efforts to cut back federal spending, drawing the ire of congressional Democrats and some Republicans who are concerned by Executive encroachment on Congress’ core authority, as set forth in Article I, Section 9 of the U.S. Constitution: “No Money shall be drawn from the Treasury, but in Consequence of Appropriations made by Law.” Congress passed the Impoundment Control Act of 1974 (ICA) in response to attempts by the administration of President Richard Nixon to refuse to spend congressionally appropriated funds. The Supreme Court upheld Congress’
PROTECT THE RIGHT TO ACCESS PERSONNEL
FILES! Visit NARFE’s Legislative Action Center at www.narfe.org to send a message to your lawmakers urging them to cosponsor H.R. 4440, Protecting Federal Employee Rights to Personnel Files Act of 2025. This bill would require agencies to provide separated employees with an electronic and physical copy of their file within seven days of separation. Too many federal employees have faced difficulties obtaining the necessary information to apply for and make decisions regarding their retirement, amid ongoing reduction-in-force actions. Contact your representative today and urge them to support H.R. 4440, which protects the federal workforce’s ability to access their own personnel files easily.
power over federal spending with its decision in Train v. City of New York, finding that Nixon did not have the authority to selectively refuse the expenditure of environmental protection funds.
The Government Accountability Office (GAO) has the legal authority to enforce the ICA; a federal court recently found GAO alone has authority to bring suits under the ICA. In January 2020, GAO determined that OMB illegally impounded military aid funding for Ukraine in 2019 during the first Trump administration. At the time, Vought was leading OMB as acting director.
The ICA did not entirely restrict the ability of the president to seek impoundment of agreed-to spending. The ICA defines two types of impoundment:
• Rescissions: Proposed permanent cancellations of budget authority. The President can withhold funds for 45 days while Congress is in continuous session. If Congress does not approve the rescission within this time, the funds must be released.
• Deferrals: Temporary delays in the availability of funds, allowed in limited circumstances and not extending beyond the fiscal year.
The rescission authority was successfully used this summer. The administration proposed,
MYTH VS. REALITY
MYTH: When the sponsor of a piece of legislation passes away, the bill is terminated and must be reintroduced.
REALITY: When the sponsor of a bill passes away, the bill remains and retains all its current cosponsors. Often, another member of Congress will take over sponsorship of the bill and can continue to collect additional cosponsors and push the bill through the legislative process.
and both chambers of Congress approved, the rescission of $9 billion in approved FY25 funding that had been slated for foreign aid and public broadcasting. The White House called the
CONGRESS PASSED THE IMPOUNDMENT CONTROL ACT OF 1974 (ICA) IN RESPONSE TO ATTEMPTS BY THE ADMINISTRATION OF PRESIDENT RICHARD NIXON TO REFUSE TO SPEND CONGRESSIONALLY APPROPRIATED FUNDS.
rescissions a “useful exercise” and promised additional rescission packages for Congress to consider.
Vought had previously floated the potential that the administration will pursue “pocket rescissions” to jam spending cuts through Congress by proposing them very close to the end of the fiscal year on September 30 while lawmakers do not have enough time to respond. With the August 29 action to cancel $4.9 billion in additional foreign aid funding, he is testing whether it will work.
Meanwhile, the Trump administration has characterized
many of its reviews of programs and spending as deferrals, seeking to push back on scrutiny over spending delays. Assessing those claims has been the subject of litigation.
OMB took offline in April 2025 a website that Congress has mandated since 2022 to publish spending data. Federal courts in July ordered OMB to restore the website.
Democratic lawmakers led by Appropriations Committee ranking members Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) and Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA) accuse the Trump administration of illegally withholding more than $425 billion in appropriated funds, including funds to research Alzheimer’s disease and funds for Head Start, which provides funding for early childhood care and education.
As the administration pushes—or exceeds—the limits of its authority, GAO continues to investigate more than 46 potential impoundments, and has to date issued legal decisions concluding illegal impoundments of funds. These include DOT funds for electric vehicles, the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), Head Start funding.
“Without GAO’s independent investigations, these violations would be far harder to detect or correct,” wrote Taxpayers for Common Sense in a blog post on the importance of GAO. While SEE IMPOUNDMENT ON P. 12
NARFE GRASSROOTS ADVOCACY
LEARN MORE about how you can take action to protect your earned pay and benefits by reviewing NARFE Grassroots materials at www.narfe.org/advocacy
Season of Grassroots & Gratitude
Every year, many of us gather in November to celebrate Thanksgiving and express gratitude for our loved ones, for the successes we experienced, and for another year of memories. Here at NARFE, the policy and programs team and I want to share with our members what we are appreciative of, both as a department and as individuals, and give you ways you can show your appreciation to people who have supported the federal community this year.
WHAT NARFE IS THANKFUL FOR
1. Passage of WEP/GPO
Repeal As an issue that had plagued public servants in their retirement for over two decades, NARFE is grateful that 2025 marked the end of the Windfall Elimination Provision/ Government Pension Offset through the passage of the Social Security Fairness Act. You can learn more about the repeal and its effects, see how your members voted on the issue, and more on NARFE’s website.
2. Successful Grassroots Engagement From LEGcon25 to Regional Calls to Action Letters to Grassroots Advocacy Month, NARFE is appreciative of every grassroots activity taken this year, big or small. Your engagement has moved the needle on issues central to our community and continues to lay the groundwork for further advocacy efforts as we fight for the federal family.
3. Our Members Above all, NARFE is thankful for the federal employees and annuitants we proudly call our members. The men and women of NARFE served as the foundation of this country during their careers in public service and we consider our membership to be the backbone of our organization.
WHAT POLICY & PROGRAMS TEAM IS THANKFUL FOR
John Hatton, Staff Vice President, Policy & Programs
1. The health and happiness of my wife and our two boys
2. Continued opportunity to contribute to NARFE and the members we support
3. The NARFE Team—Including the Policy and Programs Team
Nicole Blackstone, Grassroots & Policy Manager
1. New additions to my family this year, a nephew and a niece
2. Softball and the two best friends, Dan & Adam
3. Nova, my dog and the best furry companion
RJ Thacker, Political & Legislative Affairs Manager
1. Health of my family
2. My cat, Truman
3. A great boss!
Ellie Dorsey, Federal Benefits Institute Manager
1. Being employed by NARFE
2. My Family
3. Friends who never gave up on me, even when I did
Missy Love, Policy & Programs Associate
1. My friends and family
2. My health
3. My safe and comfortable home
Abby Miller, Policy and Programs Assistant
1. The new friends I’ve made since I moved here and joined NARFE
2. My dogs and my cat
3. My amazing fiancé
HOW YOU CAN GIVE THANKS
1. Contacting Your Elected Official
Many representatives and senators have used their positions to defend the federal community, and taking the time to acknowledge and thank them is a great way to show gratitude and provide them with constituent backing for their platforms. When members of Congress hear from their locals that their stances have the approval of the district/state, they are empowered to continue their fight for our issues. You can call or write a letter to their office, and the contact information can be found on each member’s website or in the Congressional Directory.
2. Donating Time/Money In addition to calling or writing to your members of Congress to express your thanks, you can also donate your time and/or money to them. Elected officials can continue to make a positive difference in the legislation governing the lives of federal employees and annuitants only if they remain in office. You
New OPM Director, Same Old Woes
Scott Kupor was sworn in as director of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) on July 14, following Senate confirmation via a 49-46 vote on July 9.
In a statement posted by OPM on July 15, Kupor, an attorney and investment partner in Silicon Valley, vowed to “prioritize President Trump’s America-first agenda by focusing on a smart stewardship of taxpayer resources, fostering a workplace culture that rewards innovation and performance, and ensuring federal agencies are equipped to serve Americans with efficiency and integrity.”
The new director has a tall order to manage, as the agency has shrunk its staff by 10 percent through massive layoffs, early retirement offers, and other
separation incentive programs since the beginning of President Donald Trump’s current administration. And the agency expects at least 2,000 more staff reductions by the end of 2025.
Kupor inherits a system that has faced many challenges this year, including the handling of the Administration’s reductions in force (RIF) and reorganization initiatives, potential funding shortfalls with the Postal Service Health
Benefits (PSHB) program, application processing delays, and problems with information technology and cybersecurity. Some of these challenges existed before the current Trump Administration and continue to stifle the agency from fulfilling its mission.
Before his new role as director of OPM, Kupor was managing partner and first employee at Andreessen
HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT THE SOCIAL
SECURITY FAIRNESS ACT? Visit NARFE’s Federal Benefits Institute to find frequently asked questions our staff is compiling at https://www.narfe.org/advocacy/ social-security-fairness-act-frequently-asked-questions/. Members may also call 1-800-456-8410, and press 2 for federal benefits experts, or email fedbenefits@narfe.org.
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LEGISLATIVE RESOURCES
NARFE NewsLine A weekly newsletter that goes out to NARFE members on Tuesdays and includes weekly recaps of legislative news, compiled by NARFE’s advocacy and communications teams.
LEGISLATIVE ACTION CENTER—A one-stop site to send a letter to Congress, and more, at www.narfe.org
USDA Announces Relocation Plans
In August, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced plans to relocate approximately 2,600 of its 4,000 Washington D.C.based employees to one of the five new USDA hubs located in Raleigh, NC, Indianapolis, IN, Fort Collins, CO, Kansas City, MO, and Salt Lake City, UT. These offices will join existing sites in Minneapolis, MN, and Albuquerque, NM.
This move was in conjunction with dozens of regional office closures and consolidations across the country, including all U.S. Forest Service and Agricultural Research Service offices Other USDA offices will either
consolidate into a smaller number of active offices or be relocated to one of the newer hubs.
These consolidation efforts come after 15,000 USDA employees took the Deferred Resignation Program (DRP) back in January.
USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins and Deputy Secretary Stephen Vaden said they want to station employees currently in Washington, D.C., closer to areas that the department serves and where the cost of living is more affordable. Although relocation efforts have been an effective way to convince federal employees to leave their positions, as seen
during the return to office Mandate, these consolidation and relocation initiatives will not only put more stress on the federal workforce, but Secretary Rollins and Deputy Secretary Vaden noted that a reductionin-force remains a possibility within the USDA without providing further rationale. These plans remain in progress and are not yet finalized. As of August 18, 2025, more than 148,000 federal employees have voluntarily or involuntarily separated from their positions in civil service, according to the Partnership for Public Service.
—BY ABBY MILLER, POLICY AND PROGRAMS ASSISTANT
these investigations remain ongoing, GAO has yet to bring suit.
In one case, regarding RIFs at DHS civil rights offices, GAO concluded that workforce reductions were not an illegal impoundment, with a stipulation. “A RIF to achieve savings does not run afoul of the ICA as long as any net savings generated from the RIF are offset by other allowable expenses,” GAO said. “An agency can demonstrate that it is offsetting net savings by showing that it is continuing to obligate and expend all funds provided to the affected account(s).”
What happens next remains uncertain. As we
enter September, lawmakers continued to negotiate appropriations bills. NARFE’s Staff Vice President for Policy and Programs, John Hatton, summed up the situation as follows: “Funding negotiations remain complicated by the uncertainty over whether any deal lawmakers—particularly Democratic lawmakers—agree to will be implemented as passed. That may depend on whether GAO brings suit to challenge potentially illegal impoundments, and the outcome of those lawsuits. It will also depend on what assurances may be given to—and trusted by—lawmakers seeking to secure guarantees that their spending
priorities will not be unilaterally ignored by the administration and/or via partisan congressional rescissions. In some cases, lawmakers may demand language in the appropriations bills that provide less discretion to the administration. Still, it’s unclear whether such language would have the necessary support to pass into law. Even if it did, it still may be the subject of legal disputes. As the September 30 deadline for the start of Fiscal Year 2026 approaches, none of these questions have been resolved.”
—BY JASON BRIEFEL, POLICY CONSULTANT AND JOHN HATTON, STAFF VICE PRESIDENT, POLICY AND PROGRAMS
IMPOUNDMENT FROM P.9
Make Your Voice Heard
on Capitol Hill
NARFE’s Legislative Action Center is NARFE’s easy way to send letters to your members of Congress, search for your legislators, report your congressional meetings, view voting records and much more.
Urge Your Members of Congress to Avoid a Shutdown
Support the Equal COLA Act
Support the Saving the Civil Service Act
Protect the Freedoms of America’s Workforce
Save the Postal Service, Stop Privatization
narfe.org/advocacy/legislative-action-center/
OPM Releases Guidance on Religious Expression in the Federal Workplace
Amemorandum released on July 28 by Scott Kupor, Director of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), provides new guidance to federal agencies regarding religious expression in the workplace. The guidance expands the scope of permissible religious expression, including the ability to attempt “to persuade others of the correctness of their own religious views, provided that such efforts are not harassing in nature.” Such persuasive conversations may be conducted by supervisors, but unwillingness of individuals to engage “may not be the basis of workplace discipline.” Agencies are reminded that allowing religious discrimination in the workplace is not only unlawful but also harms recruitment and retention of employees of faith.
FROM P.10
can be part of that effort by donating to their political action committees (PACs), canvassing, or offering to phone bank. As we approach election seasons, NARFE encourages you to identify candidates and current members
DIRECTOR FROM P.11
Horowitz, a venture capital firm based in California. In his confirmation hearing, Kupor expressed his dissatisfaction with the performance review process for federal employees, but was vague in his opinion on the president’s restructuring and reductions of the federal workforce. Instead, Kupor simply stated it needed to be done in the “right way”
The guidance clarifies employee conduct protected from disciplinary or corrective action includes:
• Display and use of items for religious purposes or religious icons, such as crosses, crucifixes, and mezuzahs.
• Expressions by groups of federal employees, if not done during on-duty time.
• Conversations between federal employees.
• Expressions, in a personal capacity, in areas accessible to the public.
The memorandum cites and quotes a recent 2023 Supreme Court ruling, Groff v. DeJoy, in asserting that a “coworker’s dislike of religious practice and expression” does not constitute an undue hardship and cannot justify suppressing such expression. Agencies may still
who champion our causes and find your own way to support them.
3. Voting The easiest way to show your gratitude to your elected officials is to make sure to get out and vote for them during their primaries and/or general elections. Like we mentioned,
which includes “thorough communication and respecting the rights and roles of employees.”
In an interview with Government Executive, Max Stier, president and CEO of the Partnership for Public Service, remarked how Kupor “brings extensive private sector experience and business acumen,” but later expressed some reservations,
regulate the time, place, and manner of employee speech, but such policies must apply neutrally and not single out religious viewpoints.
The memo encourages agencies to review and update internal policies to ensure they align with current law and guidance. It emphasizes that religious expression should be accommodated to the greatest extent possible unless it would impose a clear operational burden. Federal employees do not give up their right to practice their faith at work, and this updated guidance aims to protect that right while maintaining a respectful and productive workplace for all.
—BY MISSY LOVE, POLICY AND PROGRAMS ASSOCIATE
retaining federal-friendly members is critical to ensuring our issues are addressed and our rights protected, and that only happens when members win their elections.
—BY NICOLE BLACKSTONE, GRASSROOTS AND POLICY MANAGER
noting “it remains to be seen how he will approach leadership at OPM. The real test will be in his willingness to own the mistakes of the first six months of the Administration and set a very different course based on the centrality of a professional, nonpartisan civil service.”
—BY ELLIE DORSEY, FEDERAL BENEFITS INSTITUTE MANAGER
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NARFE BILL TRACKER
THE NARFE BILL TRACKER IS YOUR MONTHLY GUIDE TO LEGISLATION NARFE IS FOLLOWING. CHECK BACK EACH ISSUE FOR UPDATES.
/ NAME / SPONSOR
H.R. 1: One Big Beautiful Bill Act / Rep. Jodey Arrington, R-TX-19
FEDERAL BENEFITS
FEDERAL ANNUITIES
H.R. 491 /S.624: Equal COLA Act/ Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-VA-11 / Sen. Alex Padilla, D-CA
The Senate-amended, final version of the bill that passed both chambers and was signed into law by the president did not contain any of the objectionable federal workforce provisions NARFE opposed throughout the process.
The House-passed version of this budget reconciliation bill, passed pursuant to the instructions of H.Con.Res.14, would (i) eliminate the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) annuity supplement as of January 1, 2028, cutting back vested benefits earned based on past service for individuals at or approaching retirement eligibility age; (ii) require new federal employees to choose between retaining merit systems protections or accepting a 5% pay cut via increased contributions toward retirement without any additional benefit; and (iii) institute a fee to appeal adverse actions to the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB).
The original version of the bill would have also (i) increased employee contributions toward retirement by up to 3.6% without any added FERS benefit, and (ii) calculated federal annuities under FERS and the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) based on the highest five years of salary rather than the highest three years of salary. Those provisions were eliminated via amendment prior to House floor consideration.
Senate-amended version (without objectionable federal workforce provisions) passed the Senate on 7/1/25, passed the House on 7/3/25, and was signed into law by the president on 7/4/25.
Provides full cost-of-living adjustments, based on the relevant change in consumer prices, to Federal Employees Retirement System annuities.
Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. 1/16/2025
Read twice and referred to the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. 02/18/2025
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NARFE BILL TRACKER
ISSUE BILL NUMBER / NAME / SPONSOR
H.R. 2550/S.2837: Protect America’s Workforce Act / Rep. Jared Golden, D-ME02 / Sen. Mark Warner, D-VA
Employees Act / Rep. Sarah Elfreth, D-MD-03 / Sen. Chris Van Hollen, D-MD
FEDERAL PERSONNEL POLICY
Cosponsors:
H.R. 1989: 64(D), 5(R) S. 918: 4(D)
H.R.492/S.134: Saving the Civil Service Act of 2025 / Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-VA-11 / Sen. Tim Kaine, D-VA
Cosponsors:
H.R. 492: 73 (D) 2 (R) S. 134: 20 (D) 2 (I)
FEDERAL COMPENSATION
H.R. 493/ S. 126: The Federal Adjustment of Income Rates (FAIR) Act / Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-VA-11 / Sen. Brian Schatz, D-HI
Cosponsors:
HR 493: 31 (D) 1 (R) S. 126: 13 (D) 1 (I)
H.Res. 70 / S.Res.147: Rep. Stephen Lynch, D-MA-8 / Sen. Gary Peters, D-MI
POSTAL SERVICE
Overturns a recent executive order that targeted certain unions due to opposition to administrative actions via public statements and lawsuits, ending collective bargaining for covered federal employees.
Proposes that probationary employees involuntarily separated from their government positions continue their probationary period upon reinstatement.
Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. 4/01/2025
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. 09/17/25
Prohibits the establishment of Schedule F of the excepted service, to ensure merit-based hiring and firing of civil servants.
Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. 3/10/2025
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. 3/10/2025
Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. 1/16/2025
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. 1/16/2025
Provides federal employees with a 3.3% across-the-board pay raise in 2026, plus a 1% average increase to locality pay rates.
Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. 1/16/2025
Read twice and referred to the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. 1/16/2025
Expressing the sense that Congress should take all appropriate measures to ensure that the United States Postal Service remains an independent establishment of the federal government and is not subject to privatization.
Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. 01/28/2025
Referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. 03/27/2025
Position: Support Oppose No position
Retirement offers you more freedom and flexibility
Shouldn’t your health care plan?
Federal and postal retirees, take advantage of the UnitedHealthcare® Group Medicare Advantage (PPO) plan designed exclusively for retirees in the FEHB and PSHB programs. Enhance your coverage with benefits like:
This plan was built to offer you the increased value, coverage and peace of mind you’ve earned. Call 1-800-385-3231, TTY 711, to get started, or visit uhcfederalretiree.com to learn more.
Plans are insured through UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or one of its affiliated companies, a Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract and a Medicare approved Part D sponsor. Enrollment in these plans depends on the plan’s contract renewal with Medicare. Benefits, features and/ or devices may vary by plan/area. Limitations, exclusions and/or network restrictions may apply.
* No copays or deductibles on covered medical services
QTHE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS & ANSWERS were compiled by NARFE’s Federal Benefits Institute experts. NARFE does not provide legal, financial planning or tax advice or assistance.
Several colleagues have encouraged me to use a flexible spending account. I read that there is a “use it or lose it” clause and decided not to set up an account. Am I missing something? Could you explain the benefits of this program?
AHaving money set aside in a flexible spending account (FSA) before taxes are withheld from your paycheck will save you from paying federal, state, the Federal Insurance Contribution Act (FICA, aka Social Security), and Medicare tax on those dollars. Depending on your federal and state tax withholdings, this can save an average of $30 for every $100 you allocate to an FSA account.
A Health Care FSA (HCFSA) helps pay for outof-pocket health care, dental, vision, and over-thecounter (OTC) expenses that are not covered by insurance for you and your family. This includes the deductible, copayments, and coinsurance for expenses not covered by your health insurance and the full cost of eligible expenses that some health plans may not cover, such as chiropractic care, acupuncture, and massage therapy. Also covered are the out-of-pocket costs you pay for continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) equipment and supplies, as well as crutches, canes, walkers, defibrillators, and hearing aids. Dental and vision care expenses are also covered and include the cost of crowns, orthodontics, eye exams, contact lenses, prescription eyeglasses, and laser eye surgery.
In many drugstores, you will see covered expenses highlighted, showing customers which products are considered FSA items, such as acne, allergy, and sinus medicines, as well as antacids,
pain relievers, cough drops, eye drops, sunscreen, hand sanitizers, insulin testing materials, and other similar products. Keep your receipts and check https://www.fsafeds.gov/explore/hcfsa/expenses to see which expenses need a doctor’s letter of medical necessity and a detailed receipt. You can try out an FSA with a minimum of $5 per pay period up to a maximum of $3,300 (2025). You can also carry over unused amounts up to $660 if you enroll for the new plan year.
The Dependent Care FSA (DCFSA) maximum contribution is increasing to $7,500 in 2026. You can use your DCFSA to pay for a wide variety of child and adult care services. You have until March 15, 2026, to use your 2025 DCFSA funds (submit claims no later than April 30, 2026). The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) determines which expenses can be reimbursed by an FSA. Check out the list of some of the most common dependent care expenses at https://www.fsafeds.gov/explore/dcfsa/expenses. This list is not meant to be comprehensive, so be sure to check with your tax advisor if you have questions about whether a certain expense is eligible for reimbursement under this program.
You may use the free FSAFEDS app that you can download to your mobile device to manage your FSA. With the app, you can:
• Check your balance
Supporting your family’s vision
For over 100 years, NARFE has been supporting federal employees. As a proud NARFE sponsor, BCBS FEP Vision offers quality vision coverage that fits your needs and budget. Pay nothing for comprehensive vision care exams and BCBS Exclusive Collection frames. You can also use your benefits at your favorite eye care providers nationwide, including MyEyeDr., Walmart, America’s Best, Warby Parker, 1800contacts and more. We’re here to help you save on your vision care.
That’s the Benefit of Blue.®
• Submit claims by snapping photos of receipts
• Sign up and receive account alerts by text or email
• View and edit your account profile
• Have your dependent care provider sign directly in the app to create an electronic receipt
• Maintain a list of providers so you don’t have to retype contact information
DEFERRED RESIGNATION PROGRAM
QI applied and was accepted for the Deferred Resignation Program (DRP). I submitted my application to retire on December 31, 2025. When will I hear from the Office of Personnel Management (OPM)?
AYou will receive a letter from OPM after your retirement package has been received. This may not be until four to six weeks after your retirement date. With the new online retirement application (ORA), the processing of your application through
COUNTDOWN TO COLA
The Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W) increased 0.4% in August 2025. To calculate the 2026 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), the 2025 third-quarter indices will be averaged and compared with the 2024 third-quarter average of 308.729. The percentage increase determines the next COLA. August’s index, 317.306, is up 2.78% from the base. As a reminder, CSRS annuities received a 2.5% COLA for 2025, while FERS annuities received a 2.0% COLA.
The CPI represents purchases of food and beverages, housing, apparel, transportation, medical care, recreation, education and communication, and other goods and services.
your human resources and payroll provider may go more quickly, and you may be notified sooner than with the previous paper application submission. Once you have submitted your completed application to your human resources office, they will prepare your final annuity estimate, verify the continuation of Federal Employee Health Benefits (FEHB) and Federal Employee Group Life Insurance (FEGLI) coverage, and ensure that your service history is documented correctly. Your payroll provider will perform the final process before the application is submitted to OPM. Your payroll provider must certify your:
• Final basic pay
• Retirement contributions
• Service history
• Unused sick leave balance
• Final salary payment information
• Any applicable unused annual leave payment
For FECA COLA updates, visit narfe.org and search for FECA.
The processing from your human resources and payroll office will not be completed until after you have been separated from the rolls of your agency and your final paycheck and unused annual leave lump sum have been computed. Shortly after OPM receives your application, they will prepare your application for processing and initiate interim payments. During interim pay, your health and life insurance coverage will continue if you meet the requirements to continue FEHB and FEGLI in retirement; however, OPM will only withhold federal income tax from these payments. When OPM has finished processing your retirement application, it will begin withholding health benefits and life insurance premiums retroactive to the start date of your annuity. During the initial processing, OPM will mail your Civil Service Annuity (CSA) number to your home address, and this will serve as your “account” number with OPM. After you receive your password for OPM’s Services Online ( https://www.servicesonline.opm.gov/), you can track your application status and set up state tax withholding, if necessary. The OPM Retirement Quick Guide https://www.opm.gov/retirementcenter/quick-guide/ will walk you through what to expect as your retirement application is processed and your benefits are determined. Keep in mind, the Federal Employee Retirement System (FERS) is a three-part system. You may need to apply for Social Security retirement benefits and set up your Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) distributions. You can apply for Social Security benefits by calling 1-800-772-1213 or
applying online at https://www.ssa.gov/apply. For more information about Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) distributions, visit https://www.tsp.gov/ withdrawals-in-retirement/. You have important decisions to make when planning your retirement, and you may decide to consult with a financial professional. Choosing whether to work with a professional—and determining which type is best for you—is a critical decision. The Securities and Exchange Commission has tools to help at https:// www.investor.gov/
THRIFT SAVINGS PLAN
QIf I contribute a percentage of my pay to the TSP, what happens if I exceed the annual limit? When should I set up TSP contributions for 2026?
A
Typically, you’ll use your agency or service’s electronic payroll system (Employee Express, GRB Platform, MyPay, etc.) to begin, modify, or end TSP contributions. You can learn more about the types of contributions and contribution limits at https://www.tsp.gov/making-contributions/. All FERS employees receive a 1% agency automatic contribution to their TSP accounts each pay period. Each pay period, you get a 100% match on the first 3% of basic pay you contribute (“dollar for dollar”), plus a 50% match on the next 2% (50 cents on the dollar). You must contribute at least 5% of your basic pay for each pay period to receive the 4% matching contributions, so don’t contribute too much too early. Each year, the IRS determines the elective deferral limit.
Q I plan to retire in 2026; how can I make sure that I maximize the amount that I can contribute to the TSP?
A
You can increase your contributions up to the maximum annual limitation before you leave. Use the “How Much Can I Contribute?” calculator (https://www.tsp.gov/making-contributions/howmuch-can-i-contribute/#panel-1) to determine the specific dollar amount to be deducted each pay period, ensuring you don’t miss out on maximizing your retirement savings. Contributions must be made through payroll deductions.
Q May I contribute to the TSP from my lump sum annual leave payment?
ATSP contributions may only be made from your basic pay. Basic pay does not include
other types of pay, such as lump sum annual leave payments, bonuses, allowances, overtime, holiday pay, military pay, or supplemental payments from the Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP). Included in basic pay are night differential pay for wage employees, environmental differential pay for employees who work under hazardous situations, premium pay for groups such as law enforcement officers, and localitybased comparability payments. If you multiply your biweekly pay by your retirement contribution percentage (e.g., 0.8%, 3.1%), you will notice that only your basic pay is subject to retirement contribution withholding.
FEDERAL EMPLOYEE HEALTH BENEFITS
Q My doctor and/or hospital may not accept my FEHB health plan any longer? Can I change my plan?
AYou may consider changing plans during the annual Open Season. It is not uncommon for providers to leave plans mid-year. Other plan providers will be available to provide care. The FEHB Program operates on a calendar-year basis, from January to December. But the carriers’ provider contracts are spread throughout the year, as are the carriers’ policies with other employers. Unfortunately, this is not a “qualified life event” (QLE) to change your plan.
RETIREMENT
COST-OF-LIVING ADJUSTMENT (COLA)
QI am going to retire on December 31, 2025. How much COLA will I receive for 2026?
AThe current COLA increase will take effect December 1, 2025, and is payable to retirees in their January 2026 annuity payment. Eligible annuitants who have been retired for at least one year will receive the full COLA. The COLA increase is prorated according to the annuitant’s annuitizing date during the annuitant’s first year on the annuity roll. This provision applies to both Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) and FERS retirement annuities. Not every FERS annuitant gets COLAs. FERS COLAs generally do not apply to annuitants who are under age 62 as of December 1, except for spouse, former spouse, or insurable interest survivor annuitants; certain disability annuitants; those who retired under
the special provisions for law enforcement officers, firefighters, and Capitol Police; those who retired under the special provisions for air traffic controllers; those who retired under the special provision for military reserve technicians (age 50, 25 years of service) because they ceased to qualify for military membership on account of disability; and joint Payroll Office FERS Special annuitants. The 2026 COLA will take effect on December 1, 2026, and will be payable in the January 2027 annuity payment.
FEGLI
QI am trying to find out the current value of my Federal Employees Group Life Insurance (FEGLI).
AAs a retiree, there are three ways to access your FEGLI coverage information:
1. Log on to Retirement Services Online to view and print a Verification of Life Insurance (VOLI) that will show which types of FEGLI coverage you have, your amount of coverage before reduction, your post-65 reductions, and your amount of coverage after reductions are complete.
2. Email retire@opm.gov to request that your VOLI be mailed to you. Be sure to include your retirement claim number (CSA/CSF) in your email.
3. Call 1-888-767-6738 to request that your VOLI be mailed to you. The phone lines are open Monday through Friday from 7:40 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time. The phone lines can get extremely busy, so call early in the morning or late in the evening when the lines are less busy. Have your retirement claim number (CSA/CSF) or social security number handy.
Your FEGLI beneficiary records are not available online. If you wish to change your FEGLI life insurance beneficiaries, please complete Form SF 2823 (www.opm.gov/forms/pdf_fill/sf2823. pdf ) and mail it to OPM’s Retirement Office at the address listed on page 3.
SURVIVOR BENEFITS
QHow can I find out the value of the survivor benefit I elected for my spouse?
AYour personalized retirement booklet contains details regarding your or your spouse’s annuity and outlines options and procedures for designating beneficiaries and the benefits available to them. Starting in 2025, OPM personalized Retirement Booklets are now accessible online as
a digital download. The paper option remains, but this development continues the larger effort to modernize retirement services. OPM Services Online allows annuitants (federal retirees, their spouses, ex-spouses, and children) to manage their accounts online. For more information, visit https://www. servicesonline.opm.gov/. See the previous response if you wish to contact OPM by phone or email.
FEHB
QI have FEHB and am turning 65 soon. My mailbox is full of unsolicited marketing materials from health insurance companies, urging me to apply for Medicare gap coverage or a Medicare Advantage plan. Do I need either of these plans?
AYour FEHB or Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) plan will be the secondary payer when you enroll in Medicare Parts A and B (also known as “original” Medicare) and your premiums for FEHB or PSHB are being deducted from you or your spouse’s CSRS or FERS retirement benefit. Becoming eligible for Medicare is a qualifying life event (QLE). This allows you to change your FEHB enrollment anytime, beginning 30 days before you become eligible for Medicare, and can be used once in your lifetime. Once Medicare becomes the primary payer, you may find that a different FEHB plan will meet your needs. Some plans waive deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments when Medicare is primary or pays benefits first.
You may decide to choose a Medicare Advantage plan accessed through your FEHB plan, and you will not need to suspend FEHB coverage. There are also Medicare Advantage plans offered through the plan comparison tool available at Medicare.gov. You have the option to suspend FEHB coverage while enrolled in one of the commercially available Medicare Advantage plans. Before suspending or canceling FEHB/PSHB, carefully review the Medicare Advantage plan’s benefits to ensure sufficient coverage. If you suspend FEHB/PSHB coverage, you’ll have the option to reenroll; however, you will not have the option to reenroll in FEHB/PSHB if you cancel your FEHB/PSHB coverage.
You can find a series of NARFE Webinars On Demand about coordinating Medicare and FEHB/PSHB by visiting the NARFE Federal Benefits Institute at https://www.narfe.org/ federal-benefits-institute/narfe-webinars/ webinar-archive/.
OPEN SEASON
QDo I need to make an election during “open enrollment” that I hear on the radio?
AThe Open Season for FEHB/PSHB plans is different from the “Open Enrollment” for those wanting to join, drop, or switch to another Medicare Advantage Plan with or without drug coverage (or add or drop drug coverage) or those individuals who want to switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan or from a Medicare Advantage Plan to Original Medicare. The Medicare open enrollment is from October 15 through December 7 each year. It is different from the FEHB/PSHB, FSA and Federal Employee Dental & Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP) Open Season that will run from November 10 through December 8, 2025, this year.
OPEN SEASON
QWhat does it mean to suspend my FEHB/PSHB plan?
AI f eligible, you can apply to suspend your coverage at any time. You must carefully complete the Health Benefits Cancellation/ Suspension Confirmation form, RI 79-9 found at https://www.opm.gov/forms/pdf_fill/ ri79-9.pdf . If you are a TRICARE/TRICARE For Life enrollee, you must provide a copy of your Uniformed Services Identification (ID) card and, if over age 65, a copy of your Medicare card showing Parts A and B. If you are a CHAMPVA enrollee, you must provide a copy of your CHAMPVA Authorization card (A-card). To suspend your FEHB Coverage for the Peace Corps, you must provide OPM with evidence of your eligibility. For information on suspending your enrollment, contact your retirement or employment office. If you later want to re-enroll, you may generally do so only at the next Open Season, unless you involuntarily lose coverage under the program. OPM takes 60-90 days to process the suspension forms. It will continue to deduct the FEHB/PSHB premiums from your annuity until the processing is complete, and you will be reimbursed later. You will receive a Notice of Annuity Adjustment once OPM has processed the suspension request.
FEHB
QWhat happens if my FEHB plan premiums are larger than my annuity or my spouse’s survivor annuity? Will we lose my FEHB plan?
AThe good news is you may change to a lower cost plan or option, one in which the share of the premiums is low enough to be withheld from your annuity. Another option is that you may be eligible to pay your premiums through direct billing if your annuity is not enough to deduct the current insurance premiums. You must continue to make premium payments directly for the length of the enrollment, even if your annuity increases enough to cover premium costs.
CSRS
QI am receiving CSRS retirement benefits and do not qualify for Social Security due to insufficient credits. I’ve heard that I may be eligible to receive Social Security benefits based on my spouse’s earnings. How can I find out more details?
AI f you have not yet filed a claim or are unsure if you have, you may need to apply. The date you apply can affect when your benefits start. The easiest way to apply for retirement or spouse’s benefits is online at www.ssa.gov/apply . If you are applying for your spouse’s benefits, please select “Family Benefits.” This will guide you through the application for Retirement and Medicare benefits to make sure you get all the benefits you qualify for. Please note that survivor benefit applications are not available for online submission. If you have not applied before due to the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) or the Government Pension Offset (GPO), you can also apply by phone. Call 1-800-7721213, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. through 7 p.m. local time. For the most up-to-date information, please visit the Social Security Fairness Act webpage at www.ssa.gov/benefits/ retirement/social-security-fairness-act.html .
To obtain an answer to a federal benefits question, NARFE members should call 800-456-8410 and select option 2 for the Federal Benefits Institute; send the question by postal mail to NARFE Headquarters, ATTN: Federal Benefits; or submit it by email to fedbenefits@narfe.org
IChoosing a Health Plan that Works Best with Medicare
f you have recently retired and are over 65, or are already retired and nearing 65, you know that you have a critical decision to make. You will need to understand the costs and benefits of Medicare and then decide whether you need to add Medicare coverage. Although plans under the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) will continue to cover you even if you choose not to enroll in Medicare, the decision to enroll is a very important one. With a few exceptions, postal retirees are required to enroll in Medicare A and B to retain their health insurance under the Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) program. For exceptions to this requirement, see https://www. opm.gov/healthcare-insurance/pshb/.
When Medicare is the primary payer for your health care, you may find that it makes sense to explore all available FEHB/PSHB options because some plans offer incentives to encourage enrollment. These incentives may include a waiver of cost sharing (deductibles, copays, and coinsurance), a rebate, or a reduction in the Part B Medicare premium. Many plans that offer these benefits may also have lower premiums.
To gain a better understanding, let’s examine each part, starting with Parts A, B, and D. Part B often causes the most confusion, so we’ll address it last.
Part A has no premium if you or your spouse has paid Medicare payroll taxes. Part A helps cover inpatient care in hospitals, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and home health care. When combined with many FEHB/ PSHB plans, you may have
no out-of-pocket hospital costs if your plan waives the inpatient deductible, copay or coinsurance when Medicare Part A is primary.
Private companies approved by Medicare offer Medicare Advantage (MA) plans (Part C), and you must be enrolled in Medicare A and B to be eligible to enroll. These plans may offer additional coverage, including vision, hearing, dental, and/or health and wellness programs. Medicare pays a fixed amount for your care every month to the companies offering MA Plans, and the companies must follow rules set by Medicare. Each MA Plan can charge different out-of-pocket costs and have different rules for accessing services. You may enroll in an MA plan through most FEHB/PSHB plans, or you may suspend your FEHB or PSHB coverage and use an MA plan, found on the Plan Finder
BENEFITS RESOURCES
NARFE OFFERS MEMBERS a wide range of information on federal benefits. Visit www.narfe.org/federal-benefits-institute.
at https://www.medicare.gov/ plan-compare/.
Part D of Medicare helps cover the cost of prescription drugs. Most FEHB/PSHB plans now include Part D, as the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) in 2022 brought significant changes to Part D, including a cap on insulin prices at no more than $35/month and a $2,000 per-enrollee out-of-pocket spending cap. These FEHB/ PSHB plans are required to offer as good or better coverage than the FEHB/PSHB plan and access to the same drugs. FEHB/PSHB plans that provide a Part D prescription drug plan don’t charge an extra premium; however, there may be an Income Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA) of $13.70/month per enrollee or more, depending on your modified adjusted gross income. Enrollment is automatic; however, eligible annuitants and their Part D-eligible family members may choose to opt out of the FEHB/PSHB plan’s Part D coverage. FEHB members who opt out will return to the FEHB prescription drug plan; however, Postal annuitants who opt out will not receive any prescription drug coverage through PSHB. This leaves us with Part B. The standard premium in 2025 is $185/month per enrollee (as of this writing, the 2026 rates have not been announced). Like Part D, Part B is subject to IRMAA for individual taxpayers
with MAGI over $106,000 in 2025 or joint filers with MAGI over $212,000. When Medicare is the primary payer for doctor visits, outpatient surgery, physical therapy, and other outpatient services, the FEHB/PSHB plans are only responsible for the portion of the bill not covered by Medicare which is the annual Part B deductible ($257 in 2025) and coinsurance, usually 20% of the cost, as long as your health care provider accepts the Medicare-approved amount. This is referred to as “accepting assignment.” Most providers accept Medicare assignments, but always verify that yours do. The advantage of enrolling in Part B is that the incentives offered by your FEHB/PSHB carrier may offset the premium paid for Part B. To learn more about coordination of Medicare with FEHB/PSHB plans, check Section 9 of your plan brochure or visit your plan website.
Note that the premium for particular lowincome beneficiaries is paid on their behalf by Medicaid for Part B and by Medicare for Part D. To learn more about Medicare savings programs, visit https://www.medicare.gov/basics/ costs/help/medicare-savings-programs.
To learn about the different parts of Medicare, read the “Medicare & You” handbook available at https://www.medicare.gov/ publications/10050-Medicare-and-You.pdf or by calling 1-800-633-4227 to order a printed copy. NARFE has webinars on this topic, which can be found at the NARFE Federal Benefits Institute at www.narfe.org.
A first step is to narrow down your options by using one of the available comparison guides:
• Consumers Checkbook Guide https://www. checkbook.org/newhig2/hig.cfm. Some agencies offer the guide to their employees free of charge. NARFE Members get a 20% discount on the purchase of this guide. Use the code 20NARFE . Checkbook will release an online version of the 2025 Guide to Health Plans for Federal Employees on November 10th at the start of the open season.
—MICHELE BOLLIER IS A RETIREMENT AND BENEFITS SPECIALIST WITH RETIRE FEDERAL.
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Considering the Latest in
Did you know that the risk of being struck by lightning each year is less than one in a million, with most victims surviving the event? The chances of being the victim of a violent crime are 0.37%. To compare, nearly 70% of people turning 65 today will likely need long-term care (LTC) at some point, whether due to disability, chronic illness, or other challenges.
Women live an average of six years longer than men, which means they should plan for more years of LTC.
Americans, in general, are living longer these days—and the longer we live, the more likely it is we'll need some extra help.
Having adequate insurance protects us against the potential financial and health consequences that often outweigh any perceived savings. Some might say it gives us “peace of mind.” The primary purpose of insurance is to avoid the financial burdens related to the risks of daily life. Consider homeowners' insurance, which provides financial protection for your home and belongings against damage, destruction, or theft. Car insurance protects you from the financial burden caused by accidents, theft, or other incidents beyond your control. Of course, there is also health insurance that helps shield you from large, unexpected medical bills due to illness or injury. Most people carry insurance to protect against financial ruin from major expenses, though ideally it goes unused.
LTC insurance protects against the significant expense of receiving custodial or personal care when an individual requires assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing, feeding, toileting, continence, or transferring, as well as supervision when an individual has severe cognitive impairment. Without a means to pay for this need, the burden often falls on our family members, typically a spouse or our children. Without a spouse or children, then perhaps a sibling or other relative becomes responsible. If there are no family members available to provide care, this care must be paid out-of-pocket until our assets and income are no longer sufficient to cover the necessary care. If you’re a veteran, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) may help pay for the costs of nursing home facilities.
As a last resort, there are resources available for those with limited assets or income to cover the cost of this expensive care. Medicaid will pay 100% of nursing home costs, but only if you meet the program’s strict
financial eligibility requirements, which vary by state. Medicaid is a public health insurance program for Americans with limited financial resources. Medicaid is different from Medicare, a federal health insurance program that covers medical services for older adults and people with specific disabilities. Here are a few things to know about Medicaid and long-term care:
• Across the country, Medicaid is the primary provider of coverage for nearly two out of every three (63%) nursing home residents.
• For assisted living, Medicaid programs vary by state. Medicaid does not cover room and board costs in assisted living facilities, unlike nursing home care.
• Over the next five years, the U.S. population of individuals aged 80 years and older is expected to increase by more than four million people to 18.8 million.
The insurance industry created LTC insurance coverage in the U.S. during the late 1970s and early 1980s in response to the growing recognition of the need for financial protection against the high costs of LTC services. It was created to cover extended care costs, such as nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home health care, which are typically excluded by regular health insurance or Medicare. Early policies were often sold as “nursing home insurance” and primarily covered care in skilled nursing facilities. These early policies were often expensive and provided limited benefits, typically purchased by individuals with significant assets to protect.
In 2005, the Deficit Reduction Act (DRA) tightened asset transfer rules to prevent people from using Medicaid for long-term care while keeping their assets protected by transferring them to family members. The DRA established a 60-month lookback period for asset transfers (including most trusts). Transferring assets within this timeframe will result in penalties and delays in using Medicaid to cover care costs. The DRA also included additional spending for home and community-based services for the elderly and disabled by allowing states to offer these services as an optional benefit.
Following the DRA, more states were allowed to adopt standardized partnership programs. Partnership programs encourage individuals to purchase LTC insurance while still allowing them to qualify for Medicaid. Partnership states allowed individuals who purchased qualified LTC insurance policies to protect assets equal to the amount paid
by their policy when applying for Medicaid. For example, if your LTC insurance policy covered $175,000 in benefits, you could retain $175,000 in personal assets and still qualify for Medicaid. Currently, LTC Partnership Programs are available nationwide, except in the District of Columbia, and in the states of Alaska, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Utah, and Vermont.
What appears to be preventing people from purchasing LTC insurance is the high premium costs and the unpredictability of premium increases. The LTC insurance industry has faced challenges, including unexpectedly high claims costs and lowerthan-anticipated interest rates, which led to premium increases for many policyholders. As a result, according to the Federal Register, some insurance companies exited the LTC insurance market altogether due to financial concerns.
The Federal Long Term Care Insurance Program (FLTCIP) was not insulated from these challenges.
What appears to be preventing people from purchasing LTC insurance is the high premium costs and the unpredictability of premium increases. The LTC insurance industry has faced challenges, including unexpectedly high claims costs and lower-than-anticipated interest rates, which led to premium increases for many policyholders.
The U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) announced a suspension of applications for FLTCIP on December 19, 2022. As of this writing, the suspension remains in effect with no announced
There are various LTC insurance options available for those who can afford coverage. Providers of LTC insurance offer standalone policies, hybrid policies that combine life insurance with LTC benefits, and LTC insurance riders that can be added to select life insurance products.
end date, and no applications for FLTCIP coverage will be accepted during this period. Additionally, current enrollees are not eligible to apply for coverage increases during this time. FLTCIP premiums have increased each time OPM renewed each of the program’s seven-year contracts with John Hancock Life and Health Insurance Company. The last increase took effect January 1, 2024. The most recent contract was renewed on May 1, 2023, and will remain in effect for a period of seven years. During the period for new contract proposals, John Hancock was the only company that submitted a bid.
The enrollment status or benefit eligibility of current enrollees will not be affected by the suspension. For those in claim status, there is no change in coverage or the claims reimbursement process.
There are various LTC insurance options available for those who can afford coverage. Providers of LTC insurance offer standalone policies, hybrid policies that combine life insurance with LTC benefits, and LTC insurance riders that can be added to select life insurance products. Each of these options has unique features and benefits. to purchase LTC insurance is based on your income, health and gender. If you can afford the premiums, there is no time like the present to consider coverage, but you must be able to pass the medical underwriting. Some experts recommend considering
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this type of insurance in your 50s or 60s, when the need for life insurance is typically lower. There’s even a name for this switch from life insurance to LTC insurance—it’s called “trading premiums.”
I am one of the more than 260,000 FLTCIP policyholders who purchased a “stand-alone” LTC policy under the FLTCIP 1.0 Comprehensive policy, the first version of FLTCIP to become available in 2001. I applied and was approved for FLTCIP more than 20 years ago, when I was 47 years old. This is considered a young age for buying LTC insurance; however, when premiums increase, one of the factors used to compute the increase is the issue age at which I applied and was approved for coverage. To keep premium increases to a minimum, I elected a lower inflation adjustment of 3.9% (instead of my original election of 5%) and a three-year benefit period (instead of the original five-year period). I selected these reductions to manage the premiums that are currently $123.67 per month. My current policy provides a weekly benefit amount of $1,667.12 for three years with a maximum payout of approximately $260,000. The daily amount and maximum lifetime benefit will increase by 3.9% automatically without a corresponding increase to the premium. By the time I am 86 years old, the benefit amount will have doubled, but I can only hope that the premiums don’t continue to escalate. There is no guarantee. To date,
I have paid more than $24,000 in premiums, and I hope to continue paying premiums for another 20 to 30 years (or however long I am alive). I would be happy if I did not get my “money’s worth” out of the policy, however, having this insurance provides peace of mind knowing that if I should need care, the cost will not initially come out of our living expenses or personal savings, at least until the policy benefits are exhausted, and my family members won’t feel obligated to be unpaid caregivers.
Two categories of people probably don’t need to purchase LTC insurance:
• Those with little assets or income who would quickly qualify for Medicaid, and
• Individuals who expect to have enough money to cover the cost out of pocket, should they need longterm care.
Although this may serve as a “rule of thumb,” if you can afford to pay the premiums for LTC insurance, it may be worth considering whether you have a modest income or a wealthy one. If you buy a minimal amount of coverage, such as a daily benefit of $100 per day for a two-year benefit period, this will provide $73,000 worth of coverage for a minimal premium cost. If the policy offers in-home coverage, this may allow you to stay home longer, providing you with the flexibility to determine whether you need only a few hours of care per day before deciding
Two categories of people probably don’t need to purchase LTC insurance:
Those with little assets or income who would quickly qualify for Medicaid, and
Individuals who expect to have enough money to cover the cost out of pocket , should they need longterm care.
to enter a care facility. Having LTC insurance could also provide a resource to help pay for an informal caregiver, such as your son or daughter or a neighbor, as many policies sold offer an “informal caregiver” benefit. If you choose a policy with a daily benefit amount of $200 to $400 for three or four years, this
will provide coverage of $200,000 to $600,000. Having this coverage allows you to leave more of your savings as an inheritance for your family or part of your legacy to a favorite organization or charity. Deciding to pay for care may be easier because of the insurance coverage dedicated to this expense.
The Worldwide Assurance for Employees of Public Agencies (WAEPA) is a life insurance product specifically designed for federal employees, offering a Chronic Illness Rider (found at https:// www.waepa.org/products/chronic-illness-rider/) that provides financial support in the event of a permanent chronic illness. Adding this rider when you apply for Group Term Life Insurance coverage can help plan for the unexpected. The rider allows you to accelerate 50% of your group term life benefit amount up to a maximum of $500,000 if you become permanently chronically ill. While this benefit cannot replace health insurance, it can help ease the financial burdens associated with chronic illness. A chronic illness is defined as the permanent inability
• Prepare for the future as a family decision-maker or future beneficiary.
• Get clear guidance on federal benefits, health insurance, and long-term care planning.
• Find community and connections through local events or online through FEDHub. First-year chapter dues are free for new members.
to perform at least two of six activities of daily living (ADLs): bathing, dressing, eating, toileting, transferring, and continence.
If you are in the market for LTC insurance, you may wish to consider a policy that combines the benefits of long-term care protection with the guarantees of life insurance. Wes Battle, certified financial planner and fellow NARFE federal benefits expert, says that one such policy that he sometimes recommends to clients is called Securian ( https:// www.securian.com/products-services/long-termcare-chronic-illness-insurance.html), issued by Minnesota Life Insurance Company. Securian is an example of a hybrid life/LTC product. Hybrid products that provide life insurance and LTC benefits will consider “mortality” and “morbidity” issues. In other words, if you suffer from a life-threatening illness that may cause your early death and if you have a diagnosis that may result in needing LTC at some point, you may not qualify for this type of product. Stand-alone LTC policies are primarily concerned with morbidity, whereas life insurance products focus more on mortality.
Another type of LTC product that Wes may suggest for a client combines the benefits of an annuity with LTC insurance. This is referred to as a “Life Care Annuity” (LCA). In comparison with traditional LTC insurance, LCAs can be used to cover the cost of LTC or as a general annuity. The cost of an LCA is generally more expensive than traditional LTC
Recent statistics regarding caregiving in the U.S. in 2025, released by AARP and the National Alliance for Caregiving, reveal a rapidly evolving caregiving landscape that now includes 63 million Americans, a nearly 50% increase since 2015. This surge underscores the growing demand for family caregivers who provide essential support to those with chronic, disabling, or severe health conditions.
insurance, as it combines two insurance products into one. Annuity products, in general, are complex, whereas LTC policies are simpler to understand, as they focus solely on LTC coverage. One of the main attractions of the newer LCAs is that they offer a return in the form of annuity payments along with potential LTC benefits. The complexity of these products can make them difficult to understand, potentially leading to confusion among consumers about what is covered and how benefits are paid out. With any product of this kind, specific fees and costs are involved, including the monthly cost of insurance, administrative expenses, and premium load charges, as well as daily charges on assets invested in the variable subaccounts to cover mortality and expense risk, and asset management fees. Please refer to the prospectus or consult with your financial professional for more detailed
Although hybrid products, combining life insurance and LTC benefits, sound like a good solution, there are some benefits to stand-alone LTC policies, such as the FLTCIP. With this type of long-term care insurance policy, you have the flexibility to choose the amount of coverage, the benefit period, and the elimination period to fit your
* The Blue Cross and Blue Shield Service Benefit Plan may pay a hearing aid benefit for FEP Blue Basic® and FEP Blue Standard® members up to $2,500 total with prior approval every 5 calendar years for adults age 22 and over, and up to $2,500 total per calendar for members up to age 22. FEP Blue Focus® does not have a hearing aid benefit.
The Blue Cross® and Blue Shield® words and symbols, Federal Employee Program®, MyBlue®, Blue365®, and FEP® are all trademarks owned by the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association. Do not rely on this communication piece alone for complete benefit information. All benefits are subject to the definitions, limitations, and exclusions in the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Service Benefit Plan brochure. Blue365 offers access to savings on health and wellness products and services that members may purchase from independent vendors, which are not covered benefits under the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Federal Employee Program, Blue Cross Blue Shield FEP Dental® and/or Blue Cross Blue Shield FEP Vision®. These products and services will be offered to you through the entire benefit year. During the year, the independent vendors may offer additional discounts on these products and services. To find out what is covered under your policy, contact the customer service number on your member ID card. Any disputes regarding your health insurance products and services may be subject to your plan’s grievance
The duration and level of LTC will vary from person to person and often change over time. Here are some statistics (all are "on average") you should consider:
Nearly 70% of people turning 65 will need some form of LTC services or support.
Women need care longer (3.7 years) than men (2.2 years)
One-third of today's 65-year-olds may never need LTC services or support, but 20% will need it for longer than 5 years.
needs and budget. Benefits are triggered when you can no longer perform a certain number of ADLs without help (e.g., two out of six), or you develop a cognitive impairment such as Alzheimer’s disease. Standalone long-term care insurance is generally the less expensive option, since it only covers
lapses, and you receive no return on the money you invested. As mentioned earlier, the premiums and benefits for this type of long-term care insurance can be changed by the insurer over time. Insurers may offer discounts when both spouses or partners apply and are approved for coverage, says the American Association for LTC Insurance. This can range from 10% to 40%. Preferred or good health discounts are available to individuals in good health who lead a healthy lifestyle, have no chronic conditions, and have a family history of longevity, allowing them to qualify for discounts ranging from 5% to 40%.
Although FLTCIP is not currently taking applications for new policies, there are a few companies that offer stand-alone LTC insurance. These include companies such as Mutual of Omaha, Nationwide (noted for its policy customization), New York Life, which boasts long-term financial stability, and Northwestern Mutual, an excellent plan for couples.
The duration and level of LTC will vary from person to person and often change over time. Here are some statistics (all are “on average”) you should consider:
• Nearly 70% of people turning 65 will need some form of LTC services or support.
• Women need care longer (3.7 years) than men (2.2 years)
• One-third of today's 65-year-olds may never need LTC services or support, but 20% will need it for longer than 5 years.
For some people, a family caregiver will be the answer should they need LTC. Recent statistics regarding caregiving in the U.S. in 2025, released by AARP and the National Alliance for Caregiving, reveal a rapidly evolving caregiving landscape that now includes 63 million Americans, a nearly 50% increase since 2015. This surge underscores the growing demand for family caregivers who provide essential support to those with chronic, disabling, or severe health conditions.
Key Findings of this research include that one in every four adults is a caregiver. Of these, 94% care for adults, and one in three is under age 50. Caregivers are becoming increasingly diverse in terms of race, income, and generation. There are 29% who are sandwich generation caregivers, supporting both their children and adult family members. Over 40% of caregivers now provide high-intensity care. Unfortunately, another sobering fact is that one in five caregivers reports poor health, and a quarter of them take on debt due to caregiving. Half report a negative financial impact due to caregiving, and one in five cannot afford basic needs like food. Seven in ten family caregivers are employed, but many face disruptions and lack access to supportive benefits, especially the 18 million hourly wage workers. The report includes 11 million caregivers who receive some form of compensation through Medicaid,
1 in every 4 adults is a caregiver. Of these, 94% care for adults, and one in three is under age 50. Caregivers are becoming increasingly diverse in terms of race, income, and generation. There are 29% who are sandwich generation caregivers, supporting both their children and adult family members. Over 40% of caregivers now provide highintensity care.
the VA, or other state programs. When asked to identify the main condition requiring care, family caregivers most commonly cite “old age” or aging (13%), followed by Alzheimer’s or other dementias (11%), mobility issues (8%), cancer (7%), and surgery or wounds (6%). Collectively, these five leading conditions comprise almost fifty percent of the principal causes necessitating care.
What Is on the Horizon?
Representatives Tom Suozzi, D-NY, and John Moolenaar, R-MI, reintroduced the Well-Being Insurance for Seniors to be at Home (WISH) Act earlier this year. The bill would establish a federally administered LTC insurance trust fund that helps eligible individuals cover the cost of at-home care. In a nutshell, the WISH Act would provide monthly LTC benefits after a waiting period of one to five years, depending on income. During that time, people would need to rely on alternative methods — such as personal savings, family assistance, or Medicaid (if eligible) — to cover costs. After the federal benefit kicks in, it would offer ongoing financial assistance for LTC expenses. Aside from the program's direct benefits, the hope is that it will eventually reduce the cost of LTC insurance obtained on the open market.
“This proposal will incentivize private insurers to offer more affordable products and increase public awareness of the need to plan for LTC costs before elderly individuals become disabled,” Moolenaar said in a press release. The funding for this benefit would come from a new LTC Insurance Trust Fund. This model is similar to the Federal Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund and the Disability Insurance Trust Fund. The bill also includes public outreach, requiring the Social Security Administration to send eligible individuals a notice within the first month of their qualification for the LTC benefit.
NARFE provides expert guidance on federal benefits issues directly affecting current and former federal employees, as well as tips and tools to help ensure a safe and secure retirement for the federal community. Last September, Mark Keen, certified financial planner, and I recorded a webinar titled “Planning for Long-Term Care: Aging Gracefully While Financially Secure.” This broadcast can be found archived at https://www.narfe.org/federalbenefits-institute/narfe-webinars/webinar-archive/ lanning-for-long-term-care-aging-gracefully-whilefinancially-secure/.
—TAMMY FLANAGAN IS A FEDERAL RETIREMENT EXPERT WITH RETIRE FEDERAL
BY EVERETT A. CHASEN
Are you considering working part-time once you leave the federal government? Here’s how to get started!
Many federal employees seek part-time work after retirement. Some want to stay active and engaged to avoid becoming bored or intellectually stagnant. Others miss the sense of purpose that work offers, as well as the feeling of still being useful and productive after a career of helping others. Still others crave the regular human connection they had at their jobs.
Money may also influence the decision to continue working. Some retirees may not have fully benefited from the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) and need income to help cover their expenses. Part-time work allows retirees to let their TSP and other savings grow, avoiding the need to withdraw funds from retirement accounts. Some may also need to support children, grandchildren, and other family members financially.
Finally, the current administration’s goal to significantly reduce the federal workforce has caused some government workers to retire early and others to be laid off. Many of these men and women are not ready to retire but either don’t want to return to the grind of full-time work or desire to try something new on a part-time basis.
Job opportunities to consider
Dennis Damp, owner of Bookhaven Press LLC, and proprietor of the websites “Federal Retirement Planning” (federalretirement.net), and the “Federal Employee’s Retirement Planning Blog” fedretire.net), believes
former government workers have a leg up when it comes to finding part-time jobs—but all retirees can find work they love by employing a little ingenuity.
“There are many creative ways to make money in retirement,” he said. “And it isn’t just about money. It’s the social outlet work provides. Federal retirees have so many opportunities because they have such a wealth of information they can use to help other people. And in the federal government, you’re blessed because you can retire so young.”
Hobbies are a great way to find both the social network many retirees miss and to engage in enjoyable and fulfilling retirement activities.
“I collected and serviced pocket and wristwatches until recently,” Damp said. “I joined the National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors to learn the trade. I could restore and sell watches online and at trade shows. It’s easy to turn a hobby into a profession if you’re proficient at something.”
However, Damp’s principal occupation in retirement is managing and marketing his websites. He began this business part-time 20 years before retiring from federal service. When he retired from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in 2004, he launched his Federal Retirement Planning website.
“I attended several retirement seminars before retiring and came back with more questions than answers,” he said. “I compiled this comprehensive website because I felt there was a definite need for individuals in the federal
Federalretirement.net offers several options for earning extra income in retirement without being employed by an organization, such as
ƹ Selling on eBay or Facebook Marketplace.
ƹ Becoming a pet sitter or dog walker.
ƹ Taking handyperson jobs.
ƹ Performing basic yard services.
ƹ Renting a table at local farmers’ markets.
sector planning their retirement to understand their benefits and the options they have to carry into retirement.”
At the time, Damp recalled that the Office of Personnel Management’s (OPM) website primarily provided hard statistics and facts, not support for those considering retirement.
“It’s much improved today, though,” he added. “I commend them for that, but in the early days it wasn’t so.”
Damp’s sites still provide value to retirees, offering his perspectives and those of others on federal benefits and retirement.
Federalretirement.net includes a jobs board (federalretirement.net/jobsboard), listing remote, flexible, freelance, and work-fromhome jobs. Click on the link to a company you’re interested in, and it will take you to the hiring section of their website. There are also links to job recruiting companies that can help steer you towards full- or part-time work.
Other job boards federal retirees may find helpful include usajobs.gov, the government’s official website for finding and applying for federal government jobs; the AARP job board ( jobs.aarp.org), which is tailored to workers aged 50 or older; and seniors4hire.org, which helps employers find experienced workers 50 or older from all walks of life. NARFE’s website (NARFE. org) also offers resources and other support for retired federal employees.
Damp’s website offers several options for earning extra income in retirement without being employed by an organization. These include:
• Selling on eBay or Facebook Marketplace, where you can clean out your attic and make a profit at the same time. If you don’t have stuff
– Dennis Damp, owner of Bookhaven Press LLC, and proprietor of the websites “Federal Retirement Planning” (federalretirement.net), and the “Federal Employee’s Retirement Planning Blog” (fedretire.net)
(ebay.com).
• Becoming a pet sitter or dog walker, where pet owners pay you to walk or watch their pet at your home or in theirs while they are away. You can limit your care to as few as one pet at a time, and select the weight range of the companions you’re willing to watch or walk. To get started, check out the www.rover.com website.
• Taking handyperson jobs, if you are good at home projects and repairs. The website www. taskrabbit.com will help you find jobs such as fixing appliances, painting, and general household tasks, among many others.
Performing basic yard services. If you love gardening, you can offer general yard services, including light pruning, planting flowers and bulbs, cleaning and maintaining gardens, mowing small lawns, and removing twigs and leaves after storms. Damp wrote: “I would love to find someone in my area who can provide these services.”
Renting a table at local farmers’ markets. Many people sell homemade items at farmers’ markets throughout the United States (check Google for ones near you). These include baked goods, handmade jewelry, and homemade jams and jellies. Others sell candles and collectibles, such as things they’ve carved from wood.
“Turn your passion into profits,” Damp tells his readers.
The website also offers help for those looking for employment similar to the work they did during their government careers. There’s a list of the top 68 government contractors, with links to their websites. These contractors seek out federal retirees for their expertise in various areas, leveraging their experience. Retirees’ annuities are not reduced
when they return to work for the private sector. Both full- and part-time work is available.
Although many contractors and the status of their contracts are in flux as the new administration sorts out its priorities, “contracting isn’t going to go away,” Damp added.
“It will transform into other venues, such as artificial intelligence,” he said. “The list on our website is of top contractors that are still hiring.”
In addition, you can work with federal agencies under personal services contracts.
“These involve signing an agreement to perform specific functions for government organizations,” Damp said. “The agency includes particular tasks and compensation in the agreement, and the contract is for a defined period.”
Retirees reemployed under personal services contracts aren’t considered federal employees, and their pay doesn’t affect their federal annuity payments. No benefits are included. Workers are considered self-employed and are required to pay
both employer and employee Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA) payroll taxes.
Another way to work with the government is through the Reemployed Annuitant Program. Reemployed annuitants are retired federal employees who are now receiving Civil Service Retirement System or Federal Employee Retirement System annuities, but are rehired by the government. They continue to receive their annuity in their new position, but the amount of the annuity may reduce their salary. OPM explains the program in detail on its website www.opm.gov.
Like contractor hiring, rehiring former federal employees is also in flux as the administration’s reorganization continues. The program is ongoing, however. Damp knows a retired air traffic controller whom the FAA recently rehired. Because of critical shortages at that position, he was able to receive both his full pension and his full salary.
Taste the Lifestyle You’ve Earned at the ARC
With many dining options, we provide unique culinary adventures for every occasion, whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a fine dining experience.
– Laura Balun, former director of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) voluntary service program
He believes many agencies will use personal services contracts to rehire retired government employees.
“A lot of the organizations that are letting people go now are going to come back and say, ‘you know what, we jumped the gun on this, we need expertise in that area,’” he said. “Instead of hiring them as reemployed annuitants, they’ll bring them back on a personal services contract. They won’t be on the payroll—but they’ll get paid for their services!”
Volunteering and mentoring
Volunteering is another way to find rewarding part-time work. There are many volunteer opportunities within the federal government—and many more outside of government. Laura Balun, a former director of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) voluntary service program, explained the benefits of working without compensation in this way:
“The volunteer experience gives you the chance to do things you are passionate about— something you always wanted to do but never had the opportunity to try,” Balun said. “When I was working in a VA spinal cord injury unit, I wanted to be a massage therapist. After retiring, I went back to school to learn how to do that, and then I came back and volunteered at the VA. Patients loved it, and it was so much fun!”
While the VA operates the most extensive volunteer program in the federal government, it’s not the only one. The Peace Corps accepts retired applicants, as does AmeriCorps, which connects Americans aged 55 or older with people and organizations that need them most. Other federal agencies hiring volunteers include the Forest Service, the Department of Agriculture, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
“Folks can get started in volunteering by googling ‘volunteer opportunities near me,’” Balun added. “Many counties have volunteer
Dues Withholding is for retired members and is only $42 annually ($3.50/monthly annuity withholding). To apply, see NARFE’s Dues Witholding application on pg. 69 of this issue of NARFE Magazine or on the back of your next renewal notice. It takes about 4-5 months to get members onto dues withholding.
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opportunities listed, and there’s a website called VolunteerMatch (www.volunteermatch.org), which helps match nonprofit organizations with people who are passionate about and committed to their causes.”
Just like paid jobs, she said, most organizations that welcome volunteers usually have a job description for their volunteer positions.
“Usually, they’ll have training for the job you’re supposed to be doing, and they’ll do interviews and select you—or not,” Balun said. “Look for volunteer positions that involve something you’ve always wanted to do. Doing something you love always makes for a perfect transition,” she concluded.
Finally, many retired federal employees utilize their work experience to serve as mentors or coaches for others, in both paid and unpaid capacities. Mentors share their knowledge, experience, and wisdom with current employees, hoping they will benefit from the lessons mentors have learned over the course of their careers.
Good mentors have to be great listeners, not just advice givers. They need to bring out the best in others’ thinking by asking the right questions and being empathetic and understanding. They don’t tell others what to do. Instead, they help them learn.
Coaches facilitate a process that makes solutions evident to their clients, offering support and perspective to help those they coach better understand their values and priorities, and align their organizational and life goals more effectively.
In the past, OPM has encouraged federal agencies to develop formal mentoring and coaching programs. It remains to be seen whether the current administration will continue to do so. Many private companies and individuals still welcome and hire mentors, however.
Building a foundation
Damp suggests one of the best ways to find work in retirement is to build a foundation while you’re still working full-time.
“Start by discussing your desires with your significant other,” he said. “That’s how you determine what
you and your spouse expect from your retirement. Together, you develop a framework compatible with life after government work.”
Long before you retire, you need to come up with something creative to prepare for the void in your life after retirement and what you will replace it with during retirement.
“It doesn’t have to be work,” Damp added. “It could be travel, charitable work, or involvement in your church (or other organizations). If you want to start a small business, the time to explore that option part-time is while you are working full-time for Uncle Sam. No matter what you aspire to do: work, pursue hobbies, golf, travel more, volunteer—now is the time to put those plans into action, so when you leave, it isn’t all left to chance. Preparation is the key
PEN SEASON REPORT
OPEN SEASON: NOVEMBER 10 - DECEMBER 8
The 2026 federal benefits
Open Season will run from Monday, November 10, to Monday, December 8. As of press time on Monday, September 29, 2025, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) had not announced the 2026 premium rates for the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB), the Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) program or the Federal Vision and Dental (FEDVIP) program. As a result, we are not able to provide the rates or report on the plans available for 2026 in this issue.
NARFE will publish this information as soon as it becomes available on www.narfe.org/ open-season and will also include this information in the December 2025 issue of NARFE Magazine. During Open Season, federal employees may enroll in or change their current enrollments in several federal insurance benefit programs: the FEHB program, FEDVIP, and the Federal Flexible Spending Account Program (FSAFEDS).
Federal retirees and survivors may change their current enrollment in FEHB and FEDVIP. Open Season is the only time of the year when enrollees in FEDVIP can cancel their registration.
Postal Service employees, annuitants and their eligible family members will enroll in the Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) Program. Postal employees may enroll in or change their current enrollments in FEDVIP and FSAFEDS, and postal retirees may change their current enrollment in FEDVIP.
PSHB OVERVIEW
Like FEHB, the PSHB is administered by OPM.
Medicare Part B and PSHB: Individuals who are postal employees aged 64 and older, or postal annuitants, as EVEN MORE RESOURCES ARE AVAILABLE ONLINE
Postal employees and annuitants, and their family members converted from the FEHB program to the PSHB program starting January 1, 2025. They are no longer eligible to enroll or continue enrollment in an FEHB plan (as the primary enrollee) as of January 1, 2025. They must enroll in a PSHB plan to maintain health coverage through the Postal Service.
If a Postal Service employee or Postal Service annuitant is covered under a family member’s FEHB plan (based on the family member’s eligibility through federal service), they can continue that coverage after January 1, 2025.
The PSHB plan year will run from January 1 through December 31 each year, the same for annuitants covered by FEHB, but different from the FEHB plan year for employees, which begins on the first day of the first full pay period in January each year.
of January 1, 2025, who are not enrolled in Medicare Part B will not be required to enroll to maintain coverage under FEHB/PSHB. But future retirees (employees younger than age 64 as of January 1, 2025) will be required to enroll in Part B when eligible, and those already enrolled in Medicare Part B will be required to maintain coverage, unless an additional exception applies.
PSHB Enrollment: Postal Service employees, Postal Service annuitants, and eligible family members will remain enrolled in their 2025 PSHB plans unless they make a change during Open Season.
Enrollees are encouraged to review all available plans to choose a plan that best fits their needs.
Postal Service employees and annuitants remain eligible for other federal insurance and benefits programs, including:
• Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP)
• Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance (FEGLI)
• Federal Long Term Care Insurance Program (FLTCIP)
U.S. Postal Service employees, annuitants, and their family members who are currently eligible for coverage under FEHB are eligible for coverage under PSHB.
It is important to note that postal annuitants are not required to enroll in Medicare Part B if they have not already done so. Anyone who was a postal annuitant by January 1, 2025, and not already/ currently enrolled in Medicare
Part B, is not required to enroll in Part B as a condition of receiving health benefits through the PSHB program.
Any family members of such a postal annuitant are also exempt from the Part B enrollment requirement. Further, postal employees who were at least age 64 as of January 1, 2025, are not required to enroll in Medicare Part B when they retire (as a postal annuitant) as a condition of receiving health benefits through the PSHB program. Any family members of such a postal employee are also exempt from the Part B enrollment requirement.
As a reminder, enrollment in a PSHB plan will not disrupt enrollment in other insurance and benefits programs, including:
• Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP)
• Federal Flexible Spending Account Program (FSAFEDS)
• Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance (FEGLI), or
• Federal Long Term Care Insurance Program (FLTCIP)
2026 PRIORITIES
In its annual call for carriers this year, OPM highlighted specific areas of concern:
• Easing Administrative Burden on Enrollees
• Preventive Care
• Fertility Benefits
• Mental Health Parity and Network Adequacy and
• Prevention and Treatment of Obesity
Additionally, OPM’s goal for both the FEHB and PSHB Programs is to provide quality, affordable, and equitable health benefits for Federal and Postal Service employees, Federal and Postal Service annuitants, their family members, and other eligible persons and groups. Continuous open and effective communication between OPM contracting
staff and Carriers should occur to ensure a smooth and successful negotiation cycle. Carriers should discuss all proposed benefit changes with their FEHB and PSHB Health Insurance Specialists.
OPM issued two addenda following President Donald Trump’s executive orders on January 20, 2025, to comply with Plan Year 2026. First, all federal agencies are tasked with ensuring all federal policies and documents that require an individual’s sex list two options, male and female, and shall not make available third options or request “gender identity.”
Pursuant to the second EO, all Carriers for Plan Year 2026 will exclude coverage for pediatric transgender surgeries or hormone treatments for the purpose of gender transition. OPM recognizes that there
are some bona fide medical conditions, such as precocious puberty or therapy after a traumatic injury, where carriers may lawfully cover hormone treatments for individuals under the age of 19. On August 15, OPM issued a third addendum stating this exclusion applies to anyone regardless of age.
IMPORTANT REMINDERS FOR ALL ENROLLEES
• Research Preferred Providers. Fee-forservice (FFS) plans use preferred provider organizations (PPOs) and doctors to help contain program costs and keep premiums at a reasonable rate. Usually, you will save a lot on out-of-pocket costs if you use your plan’s preferred hospitals and doctors. However, PPO arrangements are business contracts that are not always renewed. PPO arrangements can be made and also discontinued from one year to the next. In addition, there may not be PPO arrangements in all parts of the country. If you are enrolled in an FFS plan or thinking of enrolling in one, you should check with the hospitals and doctors you use and ask them if they are PPO providers in your plan. You can
Coordination: Carriers were directed to implement a multi-pronged educational outreach effort to inform eligible enrollees about Medicare coordination, including the potential effects of the Income Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA).
OPM stressed the need for carriers to provide customer
also review your plan’s PPO directory to see if your doctor or hospital is a PPO provider for your plan.
• Ask Questions. Make sure to confirm information in your plan’s brochure by speaking with a plan representative. Do not assume anything. For example, plans may describe benefits in terms of “annual” or “annually.” This would seem to mean “each year,” when, in fact, it may mean that a year must have elapsed before it will cover you again.
• ID Cards. The health plan issues new plan identification cards showing your enrollment. If you do not change to another plan or option during Open Season, you don’t necessarily get a new ID card from the plan.
Medicare
Active and Retired Federal Employees–Join NARFE (or Renew) Today!
The only organization dedicated solely to protecting and preserving the benefits of all federal workers and retirees, NARFE informs you of any developments and proposals that affect your compensation, retirement and health benefits, AND provides clear answers to your questions.
Who Should Join NARFE?
If your future security is tied to federal retirement benefits—federal retirees, current employees, spouses and individual survivors—you should join NARFE. Membership expiring? Renew now!
NARFE MEMBER BENEFITS
• Understand benefit changes and key aspects to stay on top of with NARFE’s monthly webinars, held on a variety of topics such as Thrift Savings Plan, health insurance options and long term care insurance updates
• Direct access to Federal Benefits Institute experts who can answer your most pressing questions and help you get answers you need from OPM
• Topical and robust articles on new legislation, and topics like car buying tips and finding your path in retirement, and the ever popular Q&A section addressing your most burning benefit questions in NARFE Magazine
• Support from your peers with access to FEDHub, the only national online community for the federal community, and local chapters, where you can meet feds in a neighborhood near you
• Weekly news roundup email called Newsline, with helpful tips and updates from NARFE on the work we are doing to support you
• Discounts on popular national brands with NARFE Perks
• Powerful advocacy and alerts to take action on important legislation pending in Congress and our advocacy team that protects your benefits every day!
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1. Complete this application and mail with your payment to NARFE Member Services / 606 N Washington St / Alexandria, VA 22314-1914.
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service via telephone, online chat, and email, particularly related to members enrolled in Medicare Employer Group Waiver Plans (EGWPs).
Prescription Drug Coverage: OPM will continue to receive proposals to allow FEHB program members to benefit from Medicare Part D coverage by enrolling in carriers’ or their affiliated sponsors’ MA-PD EGWPs or PDP EGWPs.
Related to EGWPs, the letter stated that “pharmacy claims must be adjudicated at the point of sale using processes seamless to the member. Neither the member nor the pharmacy should have to determine which benefit adjudicates at the lowest cost-share.”
Fraud, Waste and Abuse: OPM stated carriers are responsible for preventing, detecting, investigating, and
reporting instances of fraud, waste, and abuse within the FEHB and PSHB programs. FEHB and PSHB carriers were urged to follow guidance on removing ineligible family members from Self Plus One and Self and Family enrollments.
FIND OUT MORE
Employees will receive Open Season information from their agencies, and most eligible annuitants will receive information from OPM. Visit NARFE’s Open Season page at www.narfe.org/open-season for useful links and webinars.
—FEDERAL BENEFITS INSTITUTE
FLEXIBLE SPENDING ACCOUNTS (FSAFEDS)
Eligible federal employees can enroll in FSAFEDS, the federal government’s flexible spending program, each year during the Federal Benefits Open Season. Under the program, employees contribute money from their salary into a FSAFEDS account before taxes are withheld and use it to get reimbursed for out-of-pocket health care and dependent care expenses.
The federal government offers three types of FSAFEDS accounts:
• Health care flexible spending account (HCFSA), used to pay for qualified medical costs and health care expenses that are not paid by an employee’s Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program plan or any other insurance.
• Limited expense health care flexible spending account (LEX HCFSA), only available to employees who enroll in an FEHB high deductible health plan
(HDHP) with a health savings account (HSA), and limited to dental and vision care services/products.
• Dependent care (day care) flexible spending account (DCFSA), used to pay for eligible dependent care expenses such as child care.
Open Season FSAFEDS enrollments are effective January 1, 2026. Current enrollees must enroll each year to continue participating in FSAFEDS. Federal retirees are not eligible for FSAFEDS. To learn more, visit www.FSAFEDS.com
to NARFE programs Donate
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MAKE CHECK PAYABLE TO: NARFE
PLEASE MAIL COUPON AND CHECK TO:
NARFE / 606 N. Washington St. / Alexandria, VA 22314 or donate online at www.narfe.org/ donate
With NARFE’s thanks, you will receive a NARFE Photo Calendar
NARFE safeguards the earned pay and benefits of America’s five million federal workers, retirees, their spouses, and survivors. NARFE is YOUR legislative voice and tireless advocate.
NARFE contributions are NOT tax-deductible.
Enclosed is my NARFE Contribution: $ __________________ All donations go to the NARFE General Fund to support NARFE Programs and operations.
NARFE members contributed for Alzheimer’s research: $17 Million Fund $16,784,483.16
*Total as of August 31, 2025 All contributions go directly to Alzheimer’s research, with the exception of funds given to the Walk to End Alzheimer’s or The Longest Day.
If you have any questions, write to:
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Olivia Williams PO Box 2175 Columbia, SC 29202
OR E MAIL: oeashf3@gmail.com
MAKE CHECK PAYABLE TO:
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Your charitable contribution is tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.
Enclosed is my NARFE-Alzheimer’s contribution: $ Every cent that is contributed is used for research.
The NARFE-FEEA Fund supports NARFE members during disasters; provides scholarships to their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and funds other programs to support NARFE members at the direction of NARFE and FEEA.
MAKE CHECK PAYABLE TO: NARFE-FEEA Fund
PLEASE MAIL COUPON AND CHECK TO: FEEA
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Your charitable contribution is tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.
Enclosed is my NARFE-FEEA Fund Contribution: $ ________
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FAQS FOR OPEN SEASON
Will my current health plan continue to participate in the FEHB program?
The FEHB program adds new plans and drops others each year, and plans can change from year to year. This year, postal employees and retirees will receive coverage via the Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) program. Many–and the largest—FEHB plans will have PSHB counterparts, so it will be a similar (or the same) plan under a different umbrella and with a different set of premiums. But some may not offer PSHB coverage. Be sure to utilize resources provided via NARFE’s website this Open Season to learn the latest. The best way to stay on top of upcoming changes is to read the information available from your health plan and from OPM. To ensure you do not miss any critical communication, make sure your current address is on file with both OPM and your FEHB plan.
How do I get a plan brochure for Open Season? I didn’t get one in the mail.
Health insurance carriers are no longer required to send plan brochures through the mail. You can view the brochures online at OPM’s website (www.opm. gov/healthcare-insurance/ healthcare/plan-information/ plans/) or call your carrier using the contact information on your health plan ID card.
In my agency, who can I go to for assistance or answers to my Open Season questions?
For help with or questions about your Open Season options, contact your human resources office or your agency’s shared service center. Your agency should have provided you with its contact information.
If you still need assistance after speaking with those sources, try contacting your agency’s headquarters’ level agency Benefit Officer using the following link for contact details: https://apps. opm.gov/abo/index.cfm#list.
If you have remaining questions that your agency can’t address, contact NARFE’s Federal Benefits Institute at fedbenefits@ narfe.org
If I make a change during Open Season, when will it be effective?
Open Season changes for annuitants are effective January 1. Changes for most current employees are effective the first day of the first full pay period
in January. If you need medical services before the effective date of your Open Season enrollment, you should contact your old plan.
What are the parameters used to determine the dates for the annual Open Seasons for health, dental and vision insurance as well as for flexible spending accounts?
Each year, Open Season runs from the Monday of the second full workweek in November through the Monday of the second full workweek in December. This year’s Open Season begins Monday, November 10, and ends Monday, December 8.
This is the time of year to ensure that you have the right health, dental and vision insurance coverage for you and your family.
It is also the time for current employees to consider how much money to put aside in
flexible spending accounts for out-of-pocket medical and dependent care expenses for the upcoming year.
Ihave had the same health insurance plan since the day I first joined the federal government years ago. Why is it important to have a federal Open Season every year?
Most Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) plans will see benefit and rate changes for the upcoming year. Some plans might drop out of the program, and others may change their service areas or coverage options. Also, postal employees and retirees will enroll for the first time in plans that are part of the Postal Service Health Benefits program.
There are many different types of plans available in just
about any ZIP code. It is wise to review your coverage during this period each year to decide what coverage and premium best suits your needs for the upcoming year.
Another program to consider during Open Season is the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP). Through this program, you have the option to supplement your health insurance plan with separate dental and/ or vision insurance coverage that could potentially reduce your outof-pocket costs for these types of care. You may also cancel your participation in these programs during this period.
A flexible spending account through FSAFEDS can save employees money through lower tax withholding. You can fund your account through pretax
We took an oath too — to protect your oral health
contributions from your salary and use the account to pay for health care out-of-pocket or dependent care costs.
Typically, you cannot enroll, change your enrollment or cancel your coverage in these programs outside of an Open Season unless you experience a qualifying life event.
Why are the enrollee shares for some Self Plus One enrollments the same or higher than Self and Family enrollee shares for the same plan?
OPM provided the following answer to that question:
“For most enrollees, the enrollee share for Self Plus One will be lower than the enrollee share for Self and Family. However, it is possible that some plans will have higher
At Delta Dental, it’s our honor to serve federal employees, retirees and their families. When choosing a FEDVIP plan this Open Season, remember that only our coverage comes with:
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enrollee shares for self-plus-one enrollments than for self-andfamily enrollments.
“The statutory formula that is used to calculate the government contribution is based on the average of all plan premiums and requires that OPM calculate a maximum contribution for each enrollment type.
“In other words, there is a limit to how much the government will contribute toward the cost of a Self Only, Self Plus One or Self and Family enrollment. The government contributes the lesser of the maximum contribution or 75% of the total premium. The remaining amount is the enrollee share (how much the enrollee must pay).
“In some cases, such as plans with a premium cost that is above the program average, this calculation may result in a higher enrollee share for a Self Plus One enrollment than a Self and Family enrollment.”
Which benefit is the most important to consider?
The answer to that question can vary depending upon your medical needs in the upcoming year.
For those not enrolled in Medicare Part B, the catastrophic protection benefit is very important. It puts a dollar limit on what you must pay out of pocket in terms of co-payments and coinsurance for the expenses that the plan covers.
If a federal employee is married to another federal employee and they don’t have any eligible children under their FEHB plan, then it’s usually less expensive to maintain a separate Self Only FEHB plan versus a shared Self Plus One plan.
However, you should consider using OPM’s online plan comparison tools and/ or the Consumers’ Checkbook Guide to Federal Health Plans to carefully compare your options, including physician networks and prescription drug coverage (NARFE members receive a 20% discount).
If I make an Open Season enrollment change and I have to go to the doctor after January 1, which plan do I contact to provide the insurance coverage based on my visit?
If you are an annuitant, you should contact your new plan. Your Open Season enrollment is effective January 1.
However, if you are an active employee, your new plan is not responsible for providing coverage until the effective date of your enrollment change, which for most active employees is the first day of the first full pay period in January.
As an active employee, if you need medical services before the effective date of your Open Season enrollment or change, you should contact your old plan.
Your old plan will provide coverage according to its new 2026 contract for care received
in January before the effective date of your new plan. These expenses will count toward your prior year’s deductible.
Can I enroll online in the FEDVIP without contacting the OPM?
BENEFEDS is an enrollment and premium processing system sponsored by OPM that you must use to enroll in the FEDVIP.
BENEFEDS includes a secure website and a call center. BENEFEDS also handles billing and premium administration. It’s the only place to enroll in a FEDVIP plan. You can enroll securely online at www. benefeds.com or by telephone at 1-877-888-3337, TTY 1-877-889-5680.
Is it possible to make a serious mistake in choosing a plan during Open Season?
There really aren’t any bad plans in the FEHB or PSHB. It’s just that there may be a plan that is better suited for you based on how and where you want to obtain your health care in the upcoming year.
Federal employees, retirees and their survivors enjoy the widest selection of health plans
in the country. You can choose from among consumer-driven and high-deductible plans that offer catastrophic risk protection with higher deductibles, health savings/reimbursable accounts and lower premiums; fee-forservice (FFS) plans and their Preferred Provider Organizations (PPO); or Health Maintenance Organizations (HMO), if you live (or sometimes if you work) within the area serviced by the plan.
Common mistakes include: enrolling in a costly plan or option when you don’t need one; a plan that doesn’t cover a specific benefit that you need; Self Only coverage when you need additional coverage or vice versa; or you enroll in a plan that requires you to use preferred providers and there are none in your area.
You might also make a mistake if you live outside the United States and Puerto Rico, and neglect to enroll in a plan that offers “overseas” benefits.
Are there any useful tools online that can help me make decisions during this Open Season?
Several resources can help you understand the relationship between the three annual Open Season programs and aid you in choosing an FEHB or PSHB plan and/or a FEDVIP plan. If actively employed, you also have resources to assist you with setting up a health care or dependent care Flexible Spending Account.
To find all the information you need to make informed decisions during Open Season in one place, start with NARFE’s Federal Benefits Open Season portal at www.
narfe.org/open-season . Of particular interest are the seven 2025 NARFE Federal Benefits Institute webinars dedicated to Open Season topics, including one on Open Season prep, which will be streamed live on November 4, one on FEHB/PSHB Without Medicare (Active Feds) on November 6 and one on FEHB/ PSHB With Medicare, which will be streamed live on November 13.
For a more sophisticated set of online tools, consider using the Consumers’ Checkbook Guide to Health Plans for Federal Employees. Some agencies have purchased access to this program for their employees, so if you are actively employed, refer to the following web link to see if your agency has secured access for you: www.checkbook.org/ newhig2/year22/more.cfm If you don’t currently work for an agency that provides such access, you can use the discount code 20NARFE to receive 20% off the regular cost of using the website. The site also offers some “Open Season Tips” at www.checkbook.org/ newhig2/year22/advice/11fehb-open-season-tips . FSAFEDS has tools and calculators on its website to assist employees with determining the appropriate amount they might want to set up in a flexible spending account during the Open Season for any qualified expenses they anticipate incurring in the upcoming year.
These tools are available at the following link: https://fsafeds. com/support/savingscalculators
My monthly annuity barely covers the cost of my current FEHB monthly premium. Once the 2026 FEHB premiums and annuity cost-of-living adjustments are announced, what are my options if my FEHB premium exceeds the amount of my monthly annuity?
Each year, OPM attempts to notify annuitants when they see that annuitants’ FEHB plan monthly premium will exceed their expected monthly annuity in the upcoming year. During the annual Open Season, OPM tries to encourage these annuitants to compare their current plan to other available plans so the annuitants can find another plan that will continue to meet their medical needs while preventing them from going into what OPM calls a “negative net” situation. However, OPM understands that annuitants might want to keep their current FEHB plan for personal reasons, even if it will exceed their monthly annuity. In such cases, OPM allows annuitants to keep the same FEHB plan and arranges for the annuitants to pay OPM the difference each month. Once an annuitant makes that decision, OPM will send the annuitant a letter with instructions on how to pay OPM the difference moving forward.
What happens if I do nothing during an Open Season?
You will continue to be covered by your present insurance plan unless your plan drops out of the program or reduces its service coverage area. However, your benefits, premiums and/or coverage options may change.
— NARFE FEDERAL BENEFITS INSTITUTE
NARFE Recruiter Rewards
Help NARFE Grow AND Win Cool Stuff!
Did you know that NARFE rewards our members for recruiting new members? Think of it as a special thank you from Headquarters for increasing our numbers and voices.
Enrollment Submission Requirements:
• Recruiter’s Membership ID must be included on each application.
• To receive the Fall Membership Recruitment Drive credit, all envelopes must be postmarked on or before December 31.
HOW DOES THIS AWESOME INCENTIVE WORK?
January-August
• Recruiter receives $8 for any new (never joined) active federal employee enrollment only
September-December Fall Membership Recruitment Drive
• Recruiter receives $10 for new enrollment (any member type—active or retired federal employee)
Recognition:
• Top Performers from the Fall Membership Recruitment Drive will be announced in the NARFE Magazine (March Edition) with prizes to be announced.
New members can join by:
• Mailing in the application from the F-135 brochure
• Going online to narfe.org/join
• Calling us at 800-456-8410 Ext 1, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST.
• Mailing in the application that appears in every issue of NARFE Magazine
TWhat the Social Security Fairness Act Means for Your Taxes
he Social Security Fairness Act delivered what federal retirees fought for years to achieve: the elimination of the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO). This victory means retroactive lump-sum payments averaging thousands of dollars, plus larger ongoing benefits. But this long-awaited success has tax implications that could trigger unexpected costs and ripple effects across your income tax return and Medicare premiums—knowing the rules and your options can help.
In February, the Social Security Administration began issuing lump sum payments for retroactive benefits going back to January 2024. Even though most of the 2025 lump-sum payment covers 2024 benefits, the entire amount will be reported on your 2025 tax return.
Social Security benefits are taxable based on “provisional income,” which is the combination of your adjusted gross income (AGI) (before Social Security benefits), taxexempt interest, and half of your Social Security benefits. Once provisional income passes certain thresholds, up to 85% of your benefits can become taxable. See Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Publication 915 for additional details on these thresholds and calculations.
Since a larger portion of Social Security benefits becomes taxable as provisional income increases, these benefits may cause a larger portion to be taxable—a conundrum called the Social Security tax torpedo.
There may be some relief, however. The IRS lump-sum election lets you calculate what portion would have been taxable
if received in 2024, without requiring amended returns. You simply run the calculation for 2024 to determine how much of the benefit would have been taxable if received in that year and adjust your current return accordingly. For some, this election may help reduce the taxable portion, preventing negative side effects from the higher income. See Publication 915 for instructions.
Even if the lump-sum election proves helpful, higher income can create other tax challenges. Not only will higher income likely lead to higher taxes, but it could also trigger stealth taxes, as many tax provisions are linked to AGI thresholds.
First, watch out for the Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA), which is an additional surcharge and can significantly raise your Medicare Part B and Part D premiums. There’s a two-year lookback for Medicare premiums, so if the additional Social Security benefits push your modified AGI (MAGI) into the next IRMAA bracket in 2025, you’ll see an increase in your 2027 premiums. For
IRMAA purposes, MAGI is your AGI plus tax-exempt interest.
Additionally, the Net Investment Income Tax (NIIT) could come into play. This 3.8% surtax applies if MAGI exceeds $200,000 for individuals or $250,000 for couples filing jointly. If the additional benefits push retirees over this line, investment income such as interest, dividends, and capital gains could be subject to this extra tax. If the NIIT could be an issue, be particularly mindful about generating additional year-end investment income. For example, you may consider deferring sales of appreciated assets to next year.
Finally, ordinary tax brackets may shift. A one-time spike in income may move you into a higher marginal bracket, increasing the tax rate on some of your income. Fortunately, there’s still time to plan, but with only months left in 2025, acting quickly is essential.
Start by running a tax estimate based on the additional income. Also, follow the instructions and worksheets in IRS Publication 915 to see if the lump sum election method will help reduce the amount of the lump sum payment that’s taxable.
If your tax payments are likely to fall short of what you will owe due to the higher Social Security benefits, one option to consider is increasing the withholding from your remaining pension payments or year-end retirement plan distributions. This strategy can
BENEFITS RESOURCES
NARFE OFFERS MEMBERS a wide range of information on federal benefits. Visit www.narfe.org/federal-benefits-institute
help you avoid underpayment penalties when you file your 2025 return.
If increased income will trigger stealth taxes, look for opportunities to reduce your AGI. One great option is Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) from IRAs, which can reduce your AGI while satisfying required minimum distributions, potentially keeping you below key thresholds.
Furthermore, as explained last month, not only are Roth conversions more complicated by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, but don’t forget to factor in the lump sum payment in your calculations when deciding how much to convert.
The repeal of WEP and GPO delivers longoverdue fairness to federal retirees, but the lumpsum payments can complicate the tax situation.
In the October Managing Money column, NARFE incorrectly stated that the deduction is subject to phaseouts. This charitable deduction is not subject to any phaseout limitations. We apologize for the error.
With careful planning around withholding, charitable giving, and election choices, you can minimize the impact and keep more of the benefits you fought so long to receive. Don’t let tax surprises diminish this victory.
MARK A. KEEN, CFP®, PARTNER, KEEN & POCOCK. SECURITIES OFFERED THROUGH THE STRATEGIC FINANCIAL ALLIANCE, INC. (SFA), MEMBER FINRA/ SIPC. ADVISORY SERVICES OFFERED THROUGH STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT, LLC AND THE STRATEGIC FINANCIAL ALLIANCE, INC. MARK KEEN IS A REGISTERED PRINCIPAL OF SFA AND AN INVESTMENT ADVISOR REPRESENTATIVE OF SFA AND STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT, LLC. SFA AND STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT ARE AFFILIATED THROUGH COMMON OWNERSHIP BUT OTHERWISE UNAFFILIATED WITH KEEN & POCOCK. NEITHER STRATEGIC BLUEPRINT NOR SFA PROVIDE TAX OR LEGAL ADVICE.
Join Us for The Global Day of Giving
On December 2, people all around the world are coming together to tap into the power of human connection and strengthen communities and change our world. Will you be one of them?
By joining the GivingTuesday movement, you’re proving that in times of uncertainty, generosity can bring the whole world together. It’s a great opportunity to support NARFE and a chance to share NARFE’s mission of advocacy and federal benefits education with others.
Here is how you can get ready to give:
1. MARK YOUR CALENDAR.
2. GIVE. On December 2, go to NARFE.org/GivingTuesday and donate.
3. SPREAD THE WORD. Encourage your friends and family to join you in creating real impact on December 3 by sharing what our mission means to you and why you support our organization. Let’s rally together to build stronger communities.
NARFE Membership Sending Reminder Emails About Renewals
Did you receive an urgent email from NARFE reminding you that your membership has expired or will expire soon? Fear not! All you have to do is sign into your account to renew your membership.
The membership department at NARFE is keeping pace by notifying every individual member with a personalized reminder that their dues will lapse as their expiration date approaches. If your expiration date is November 30, 2025, or earlier, it is time to renew! Look on the address label of this magazine to check your date.
Renewing your NARFE membership is the best way to protect and maximize your federal retirement benefits.
NARFE is the only organization solely dedicated to protecting and preserving the benefits of all federal workers and annuitants. As a NARFE member, you have a dedicated professional legislative team working to protect and preserve your earned benefits on Capitol Hill and with the administration. You also have access to many valuable resources, such as:
• NARFE Magazine
• NewsLine, our weekly e-newsletter, with the latest news and information about the issues that affect you.
RENEWING YOUR NARFE MEMBERSHIP IS THE BEST WAY TO PROTECT YOUR FEDERAL RETIREMENT
BENEFITS AND MAXIMIZE YOUR BENEFITS.
• Daily Clips, our daily email snapshot of the news you need to know to start your day.
• Personalized answers to your federal benefits questions from our experts.
• NARFE Perks discounts on travel, legal, and security services, and much more!
RENEWING YOUR MEMBERSHIP IS EASY!
• Renew online at https:// members.narfe.org. Go to “My Account” and click on “My Invoices.”
• While you’re logged in, sign up for AutoPay and never
receive another mailed or emailed reminder again! Simply click on “My Account,” “My Settings” and then “My AutoPay Account.”
• Renew by phone by calling 800-456-8410 and select option 1, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET. Tell them your member number.
Want another way to avoid receiving these renewal reminders each year? If you’re retired and want to save on your annual membership, flip to page 69 to learn more about dues withholding and have your membership deducted monthly from your annuity. Simply complete the form and mail it back to 606 N Washington St, Alexandria, VA 22314. Numbers matter. Our voice is loudest when we all stand together. Thank you for being a member of NARFE!
Please don’t delay! Your NARFE benefits are at risk. Renew today to keep receiving your issues of NARFE Magazine, guidance when benefits change, access to federal benefits specialists who can help you with your specific questions, and much more.
Thank you for your continued support!
—BY NORA MACDONALD, SENIOR DIRECTOR, MEMBER ENGAGEMENT
JUST RELEASED!
No coin embodies the spirit of America more than the Morgan Silver Dollar. From the Comstock Lode discovery that provided millions of ounces of silver to make them, to outlaws robbing stagecoaches in the Wild West to pay for their bar tabs and brothel visits, the hefty Morgan Silver Dollar holds a special place in American history.
It’s no wonder collectors and history buffs alike clamor to get their hands on them. That is, if they can get their hands on them.
Prized Last-Year Coins
Collectors love “lasts” as no collection is complete without the last coin struck. Last year coins are often hard to find and always in demand. Little did master engraver George T. Morgan know the legacy he was creating when he designed what has become known as “The King of Silver Dollars” but it came to an end 104 years ago with the last-year 1921 Morgan Silver Dollar, the most beloved coin in American history.
Public Release - Only 832 Coins Available
Rarcoa®, America’s Oldest Coin Company, is announcing the public release of 832 of the very last year 1921 Morgan Silver Dollars, struck at the iconic Philadelphia Mint. Each coin today comes in Brilliant Uncirculated condition, pristine as the day they were struck!
Hold 104 Years of American History
Struck in 1921, each coin is one hundred and four years old. Could Charles Lindbergh have carried your coin in his pocket during his flight across the Atlantic? Or maybe your great-grandfather carried it while storming the beaches of Normandy during World War II before ending up in a small coin shop in Tuscaloosa,Oklahoma. Each coin has its own unique history and you can hold 104 years of American history when you buy yours today!
A Miracle of Survival
Coin experts estimate that only 15%-20% of Morgans are still surviving today due to multiple mass-meltings over the years. The Pittman Act of 1918 melted over 270,000,000 coins, that’s almost 50% of all coins produced at the time. Untold quantities were melted in the 1980s and 2000s when silver prices rose up to $50 per ounce.
Sold Nationally for as much as $141
This same 1921 Morgan Silver Dollar sells elsewhere for as much as $141. But thanks to Rarcoa’s buying power and numismatic expertise, you can own one for as little as $49, in quantity while supplies last. That’s a difference of up to $91!
BUY MORE AND SAVE!
Act now and you can SAVE BIG when you buy more! But don’t wait, our inventory won’t last long.
5-9 coins - $59 each, Save up to $90 + FREE SHIPPING 10+ coins - $49 each, Save $200 or more + FREE SHIPPING
when you call.
Win Cool NARFE Swag During NARFE’s Fall Membership Drive!
Did you know that NARFE rewards its members for recruiting new members? Think of it as a special “thank you” from our staff for building our membership and voice.
The drive began on September 1, and the program runs through December 31, 2025. Current members can earn $10 for each new member they recruit and other prizes.
This is a critical time of year when we truly need all NARFE members to step up and help us grow by reaching out to potential new members. Please use email, your websites, and social media to encourage your fellow members to participate and promote the benefits of NARFE membership. And be sure to provide prospects with your NARFE member ID number so you get credit when the new members join. All recruiters will receive a recruiter pin after the year concludes and top recruiters will
win cool NARFE swag like hats, T-shirts or jackets.
NEW! Street Level Studio Lookbook
NARFE has been partnering with Street Level Studio for more than a year now to grow brand awareness and members for NARFE. Under Member Quick Links—Officer Resources—click on Member marketing assets from Street Level Studio. Here you will find a Lookbook that outlines all of the social media and program ads that can be used on your various pages such as Facebook, Instagram, Nextdoor, LinkedIn, etc. You will also find short 15- and 30-second video clips linked from the Lookbook. A nationwide marketing campaign has been underway in 2025 to reach members through a variety of outlets and social media platforms with these ads. If you need printed supplies to support your recruitment efforts
CONFERENCES AND MEETINGS
Information as of September 11, 2025.
WISCONSIN: The 63rd Wisconsin Federation of NARFE Convention will take place November 4-5, 2025, at the Best Western Hotel in Tomah, Wisconsin. Registration forms may be obtained by emailing the Federation Secretary at dianehedrich@yahoo.com
For the complete list, visit https://www.narfe.org/2025-chapterconferences-and-meetings/
(membership flyers, applications, copies of NARFE Magazine, etc.), you’ll find a link to the F-18 Requisition for Printed Supplies interactive online order form under Member Quick Links—Officer Resources— Membership Recruitment Materials.
NEW! Online form to collect prospect names
A new form has been set up for collecting names at events for people who aren’t quite ready to join yet. If you have recruited before you are familiar with the M-2 cards to collect prospective member information. This is an online version of the M-2 card which can be found on narfe.org under For Members/Download or Order Forms/M-2 Online Prospect Information Card. You can also use these new M2-flyers (M-2A and M-2B on next page) to collect prospect names with a QR code to get people to join more easily on their mobile phones.
NEW! Join flyers with QR code
New flyers are available to order or download with QR code that directs prospects to the new web page developed by Street Level Studio enticing them to join. The F-135A (full-page flyer for posting on bulletin boards and posting at events) and F-135B (half-page flyer to hand out to prospects) are available now on narfe.org under For Members/Download or Order Forms.
—BY NORA MACDONALD, SENIOR DIRECTOR, MEMBER ENGAGEMENT
Order printouts here: www.narfe.org/officer-resources/f-18-requisition/
Other membership recruitment resources here: https://www.narfe.org/officer-resources/membershipofficer-resources/narfe-membership-recruitmentresources/
Yard signs, Tabletop signs and Posters to Help You Recruit New Members
Show off your support for NARFE with one of our new yard signs, tabletop signs and posters! We are working to get them into ShopNARFE, but you can take the artwork to your local printer and have them printed yourself in the meantime. Checkout all the items already available in www.narfe.org/ shopnarfe.
If you have questions, please email our membership development team at membership@narfe.org or call us at 800-456-8410. Thank you for your commitment and support. Together, we can help NARFE grow!
—BY NORA MACDONALD, SENIOR DIRECTOR, MEMBER ENGAGEMENT
Get the word out about NARFE!
NEW! Retractable banners available
- Quick and easy to set-up
- Packs down easily
- Attractive silver hardware
- Table-top version measures 11”w x 19”h
- Floor version measures 60”w x 83”h
11x17 or 18x24 Rally posters available to download
Go to www.narfe.org/memberquick-links/ click Membership Recruitment Materials under Officer Resources
ShopNARFE
NARFE Merch
- Table coverings for events and health fairs
- Polo shirts/t-shirts/jackets/ poplin shirts
- Bumber stickers/lapel pins/ auto magnets
- Mugs/tumblers/license plate frames/pens
- Chapter and Federation Officer Badges
- Cooler tote bags
NARFE.org/shopnarfe
What is dues withholding?
NARFE’s Dues Withholding Program
It is a dues-payment method available to retired NARFE members, their spouses and annuitant survivors giving them the option to have their annual NARFE membership dues deducted from their annuities each month.
Advantages
• Save more than 10% off your annual NARFE dues
• Sign up your spouse and double your savings
• You’ll never get another dues reminder from us
• Your monthly payment is affordable and convenient
• You may cancel your dues withholding at any time
How does it work?
One-twelfth of your total dues is automatically deducted from your monthly annuity. Your monthly deduction is determined by the following formula: ($42 NARFE dues ÷ 12) + (Chapter dues - if applicable ÷ 12) = total monthly deduction
How do I sign up?
Complete the Dues Withholding Application below. Send no payment. It may take 60 to 90 days before auto-deduction starts. Your membership starts as soon as your application is received. To learn more about dues withholding, call 800-456-8410
NARFE Dues Withholding Application for NARFE Members who are Retirees, Spouses of Retirees or Annuitant Survivors
STOP! Complete this section ONLY if you are signing up for Dues Withholding. If so, DO NOT send payment
o YES. I want to enroll in NARFE’s Dues Withholding Program. NARFE dues of $42* and chapter dues, if applicable, to be withheld annually. (*Dues-withholding members save more than 10% off the regular NARFE dues rate.)
Social Security Number (9-digit number)
o Mr. o Mrs. o Miss o Ms.
Full Name
Street Address
Apt./Unit
City
State ___________ ZIP
Phone (__________)
Email
Date of Birth _________ /_________ /
Civil Service Annuity Number
(Include prefix, CSA or CSF) (Include any applicable suffix)
NARFE MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION
NARFE Membership ID
NARFE Chapter Number
o YES. I also authorize my (NARFE member) spouse’s dues to be withheld from my annuity. (Additional annual dues of $42 and chapter dues, if applicable, to be withheld annually. If YES, enter spouse’s information below.)
Spouse’s Name
Spouse’s Membership ID
Spouse’s Email
AUTHORIZATION (Withholding will begin in 60-90 days). Send NO PAYMENT with Dues Withholding Application!
I authorize the United States Office of Personnel Management to make appropriate deductions from my annuity payments, not to exceed the amount certified by the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association as the amount of dues for which I am annually obligated, in accordance with elections I made above, and to pay the deducted sum to the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association (NARFE). This authorization shall also apply to any and all dues changes certified by NARFE membership in accordance with elections I made. Please allow 60-90 days for processing.
I understand that this authorization shall be valid until NARFE receives and processes my written notice of cancellation in accordance with its agreement with the Office of Personnel Management and that any disputes regarding this authorization shall be a matter between NARFE and myself. I hold the Office of Personnel Management harmless for any erroneous allotment deduction made pursuant to this authorization.
Signature of Annuitant
or Survivor-Annuitant
Date
Dues payments and gifts or contributions to NARFE are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes.
MAIL
this form
(Previously Office Depot/Office Max)
Use your NARFE Perks and your membership will more than pay for itself!
See how much you can save at www.NARFE.org/memberperks
Exclusive Offer for NARFE Members: NARFE members can enjoy discounted monthly monitoring rates, $0 installation fees, reduced activation fees, and a $500 equipment voucher for customizing their security and smart home systems with ADT monitoring. Enhance your home security with these exclusive benefits tailored just for you. Select the link for more details and fill out the contact page to speak to a security expert and place your order.
GE Appliances Store | Use the link below to start shopping!
Save with NARFE members-only access to the GE Appliances Store! You will enjoy up to 25% off MSRP every day on the latest in high-quality appliances. *Orders can not be shipped to P.O. boxes, APOS, Canada, Puerto Rico, HI, AK or U.S. Territories. https://www.myapstore.com/GEStore/Appliances/Registration?AuthCode=MONARFE21
HP—The Association Member Store | 1-888-678-9620 | www.narfe.org/hp-perk-2024E
NARFE members enjoy exclusive discounts via a private store environment. Save up to an additional 10% on Desktops, Laptops, Printers, and Accessories; and save an additional 5% on Care Packs and Services. Access to exclusive memberonly promotions. Simply log on and purchase your options with a dedicated US Sales Support team to assist you. HP has Business Account Managers based in Boise, ID, and Rio Rancho, New Mexico. Call 1-888-678-9620, Monday - Friday 7:00am -7:30pm CST.
ODP Business Solutions | 1-800-650-1222 | www.officediscounts.org/narfe
Because you’re a member of NARFE, you now have access to exclusive members only discounts at ODP Business Solutions (previously Office Depot/Office Max). Members save up to 75% off on ODP Business Solutions Best Value list of preferred products and can take advantage of products discounted off the officedepot.com regular prices. Restrictions may apply so visit officediscounts.org/narfe for details. Product and service discounts may no longer be available for in-store purchases.
Purchasing Power | https://www.purchasingpower.com/?domain=narfe
While not a discount program, Purchasing Power is an exclusive purchase program helps members buy brand-name computers, electronics, appliances and furniture via annuity allotment when cash is not an option. No credit check or down payments.
Signature FCU Visa Platinum Card | www.SignatureFCU.org/NARFE
Signature FCU is a full-service, nationwide federal credit union operating since 1970. Membership starts with just a $5 deposit into a standard savings account—no membership fees and no minimum balance requirements to enjoy all the products and services we have to offer, including the NARFE Visa® Platinum Credit Card. This special card gives back to your organization and gives you one point for every $1 you spend to redeem for cash, travel, and merchandise.
WELLNESS
Active&Fit Direct | https://www.narfe.org/narfe-perks-for-members/activefit-direct/
Stay active from anywhere for $28/mo. Active&Fit Direct includes 12,200+ Gyms, 9,300+ On-Demand Videos and 1:1 Well-Being Coaching. A fitness program with no annual fees and no long-term contracts. Switch gyms anytime. Membership options for your spouse. No Enrollment Fee With Promo Code: STAYSTRONG
Brookdale Senior Living Communities | 877-713-2762 | www.brookdale.com/narfe
As the largest operator of senior living communities in the US, Brookdale has over 600 locations all across the country. Members are eligible for 7.5% discount at Brookdale Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care communities and 10% discounts on Brookdale Private Duty Home Care. Discounts are for new move-ins/ customers only.
Life Line Screening | 800-324-9906 | www.lifelinescreening.com/NARFE
Life Line Screening, America’s leading provider of community-based preventive health screenings, will conduct health screenings using state-of-the-art ultrasound technology in your neighborhood. Operator code BKHN075
MOVING SERVICES
1-800-GOT-JUNK? | 800-468-5865 | www.narfe.org/1-800-got-junk NARFE Members Save 10% with 1-800-GOT-JUNK? Do you have old furniture, appliances, electronics, construction debris, yard waste or other junk you need to make disappear? 1-800-GOT-JUNK? can take away almost any material we can fit in our trucks, without you ever lifting a finger—all you have to do is point! Use code NARFE10 when you book. To get started, give us a call or book online.
Wheaton World Wide Moving | 800-248-7960 | narfe@wvlcorp.com
At Wheaton, we know interstate relocation is much more than trucks and boxes. With a network of top-quality agents throughout the United States, Wheaton provides peace of mind with every relocation.
TRAVEL, TRANSPORT & ENTERTAINMENT
Choice Hotels International | 800-258-2847 | www.choicehotels.com
With 6,400 hotels throughout the world, Choice Hotels offers something for everyone. As a member, receive 20% off your next stay at participating hotels when you use Special Rate ID 00801967.
With over 160 tours to all 7 continents and travel styles varying from small group to river cruising, Collette offers something for everyone. As a NARFE member, you receive an additional $50-$100 off all tours including sales and offers! Just use your member benefit code NARFESAVE or let our reservation agent know you are a NARFE Member when booking.
Enterprise Rent-A-Car® | Book Now! | https://partners.rentalcar.com/narfe
When you’re ready to go, Enterprise Rent-A-Car makes it easy. We offer everyday low rates on a great selection of cars, trucks and vans and customers are picked up at no extra cost*. See website for exclusions.
Heroes Vacation Club | www.HeroesVacationClub.com
Heroes Vacation Club is your NARFE member-exclusive travel club with discounts on hotels, resorts, cruises, car rentals, airfare, and more.
Hotel Engine | www.hotelengine.com/join/24530f9
Hotel Engine, a private booking platform, connects organizations and their members to deeply discounted hotel rates.
Member Deals | https://memberdeals.com/narfe/?login=1
MemberDeals is your one stop for great discounts on nationwide travel and entertainment! Find exclusive discounts, special offers, preferred seating, and tickets to top attractions, theme parks, shows, sporting events, hotels, and much more. Visit MemberDeals and find savings such as up to 40% on top theme parks nationwide and preferred access tickets to your favorite concerts, sports & more!
National Car Rental® | 800-CAR-RENT | https://partners.rentalcar.com/narfe/
NARFE members receive great rates with National Car Rental! At National, we pride ourselves on always providing you with unsurpassed convenience and choices. To make a reservation, call National Car Rental and reference Contract 5282909
Designed exclusively for NARFE members, (plans administered by AMBA Administrators, Inc.) Senior Age Whole Life Insurance, Senior Term Life Insurance, Hospital Indemnity and Short Term Recovery Insurance, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance, AssistPlus, Discount Prescription Plan and Pet Insurance.
Member Options | 833-378-8224 | https://www.member-options.com/narfe
Member Options Auto and Home Insurance Program - Save Money with Multiple Quotes! Get quotes from top-rated insurance carriers on Auto, Home, Renters, Pet insurance and more in a matter of minutes. Answer a few simple questions online or over the phone with our licensed insurance experts to compare multiple options that meet your specific needs. To review and choose what’s best for you, go to the link above or call 833-378-8224.
ADDITIONAL PERKS
Forest Experimentation
This 1947 photograph shows U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Reclamation staff working in the Fraser Experimental Forest. They are sampling snow around the bureau’s snow store gauge in the West St. Louis Creek Watershed. Located near Winter Park, CO, the Forest Service established the Fraser Experimental Forest in 1937. Spanning 23,000 acres, this outdoor research laboratory was initially established to investigate the relationship between forest management and water yield. Today, the Fraser Experimental Forest is a site for research on silviculture, riparian habitats, invasives, insects, soils, and water quantity and quality.
PHOTO from the Records of the National Archives, courtesy of the National Archives History Office, in collaboration with the Society for History in the Federal Government (SHFG), bringing together government professionals, academics, consultants, students and citizens interested in understanding federal history work and the historical development of the federal government. To join, visit www.shfg.org.
DID YOU KNOW?
The Bureau of Reclamation is the nation’s largest wholesale water supplier, operating 296 reservoirs with a total storage capacity of 140 million acre-feet (an acre-foot, 325,851 gallons of water, supplies enough water for a family of four for one year).
Visit https://www.usbr.gov/ main/about/fact.html
FEDERAL RETIREMENT BOOTCAMP
Discover strategies to shape the retirement you envision w ith our exclusive Federal Retirement Bootcamp -- designed specifically for federal employees like you. Maximize y our unique federal benef its and retire with peace of mind, clarity and control.
KEY TOPICS COVERED:
• Proper asset allocation based on personal goals & objectives
• Withdrawal strategies & tax-efficient investing
• Social Security claiming strategies
• Roth conversion strategies
• Stealth taxes such as increased Medicare premiums, net investment income tax, and add'l Medicare tax
• Beneficiary designations and how they may not be what you expect
• FEHB and FEGLI in retirement
• Retirement Income Projections
to schedule a complimentary informational meeting to learn how our services can be of value to you!
