FAQs

What is the Federation of Federal Employee Benefit Advocates (FFEBA)?

FFEBA is a registered vendor with the federal government dedicated to supporting federal employees in understanding their retirement benefits, including FERS, CSRS, TSP, FEGLI, and Social Security. FFEBA provides educational workshops and webinars, and connects federal employees with Federal Retirement Consultants (FRCs) who have passed rigorous exams and background checks. Our mission is to empower federal employees with knowledge and access to qualified professionals without any obligation to engage their services.

What is FFEBA’s matchmaking service for federal employees?

FFEBA connects federal employees with Federal Retirement Consultants (FRCs) based on your retirement goals, location, and preferences. After you submit your information, we use a secure algorithm to match you with an FRC who is trained to assist with federal benefits and retirement planning. You are not required to work with the matched FRC, and participation is entirely voluntary.

How does FFEBA ensure the quality of FRCs?

FFEBA ensures FRCs are highly qualified by requiring them to pass a comprehensive exam after a self-study course and undergo thorough background checks. FRCs are contractually obligated to adhere to FFEBA’s strict ethical standards, ensuring they act in your best interest, provide transparent advice, and “do the right thing” in their advisory roles.

Is FFEBA affiliated with any federal government agency?

No, FFEBA is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any federal government agency. We are a private organization and a registered federal vendor focused on education and matchmaking services for federal employees.

How is my personal data protected?

FFEBA prioritizes your data security. All personal information is encrypted using industry-standard protocols (e.g., AES-256 encryption) and stored on secure servers. We comply with GDPR and CCPA regulations and do not share your data with third parties without your consent. When you request a match, your information is shared only with the selected FRC to facilitate the connection.

What should I expect when working with an FRC?

An FRC will review your federal employment history and retirement benefits (e.g., FERS, CSRS, TSP, FEGLI), explain options in clear terms, and recommend strategies tailored to your retirement goals. They adhere to FFEBA’s code of ethics, ensuring transparency and professionalism. FRCs may offer complimentary personalized analyses, such as a Federal Retirement Analysis or TSP Overview, with no obligation to proceed.

Am I required to work with the FRC I’m matched with?

No, federal employees are not obligated to work with the FRC matched by FFEBA. Our matchmaking service is designed to provide options, and you may choose to work with the FRC, seek other advisors, or not engage at all.

What are FFEBA’s workshops and webinars like?

FFEBA offers local, regional, and national workshops and webinars to educate federal employees on retirement planning, federal benefits, and related topics like Social Security and TSP. These sessions are purely educational, with no sales presentations. They are led by trained educators, including retired federal employees or federal benefits advocates, and often include a live Q&A portion. No selling occurs during these events, though providing contact information may lead to a follow-up from an FRC sponsor.

Is there a cost to attend FFEBA’s workshops or webinars?

No, FFEBA’s workshops and webinars are free for federal employees. The fee for these events is typically covered by a local FRC professional who sponsors the event and wishes to serve as a resource. Attendees are not obligated to engage with the sponsor.

Can FFEBA provide personalized advice during workshops or webinars?

FFEBA does not provide personalized financial, legal, or tax advice during workshops or webinars, as these sessions are general and educational in nature. For specific questions about your situation, FFEBA may refer you to a licenced FRC sponsor who can offer a complimentary, no-obligation consultation.

Are there any costs for using FFEBA’s matchmaking service?

choose to purchase financial products or services through your selected FRC, and any such engagement is entirely voluntary.