The Federal Retirement Blog

Your high-3 average salary is the foundation of your FERS pension — but the calculation isn't always what employees expect. Here's exactly how it works and the common mistakes that quietly reduce your lifetime pension.

The G Fund feels safe — and it is, in the short term. But for federal employees with 10 or more years before retirement, the real risk isn't volatility. It's not growing fast enough. Here's what the data actually shows.

Signed into law in January 2025, the Social Security Fairness Act is the biggest change to federal employee benefits in decades. Here's what changed, who it affects, and what you should do next.

FEGLI Option B premiums increase in 5-year age bands — and the jump between 60 and 65 shocks most federal employees. Here's what to expect, what it costs, and whether private coverage makes more sense for your situation.

A military service deposit can add years to your federal pension — but it isn't right for everyone. Here's the exact calculation to determine your deposit cost, your pension increase, and your personal breakeven point.

The FEHB-to-Medicare transition is one of the most confusing decisions federal retirees face. The wrong choice can cost you thousands in duplicate premiums — or leave dangerous gaps in your coverage. Here's how to think through it.