Resources news
DailyFED's resources section collects practical articles for federal employees: how to find and read your records, which forms to file and when, checklists for retirement and life events, and explainers on everyday benefits questions. For the full rules, each piece links to an FFEBA guide.
December20242 stories
- Finding Balance in Your BalanceIt’s no doubt reassuring to log in to your checking account and find a healthy balance, but when that amount gets too high, it might be time to put your money to work.
- HELOCs - Powerful Tool or Risky GambleAs inflation and rising costs continue to plague consumers, home equity lines of credit (HELOCs) have surged in popularity, with balances reaching $387 billion between mid-2023...
November20244 stories
- Student Loan Forgiveness For Public Service WorkersIn 2007, Congress passed the College Cost Reduction and Access Act.
- Medicare Part B Premiums & Deductions Expected To IncreaseEven though the 2025 increases for Medicare Part B coverage have not been officially announced by the CMS, reliable sources have estimated what we can expect next year.
- Understanding Taxable Income vs. Earned IncomeWhen it comes to taxes and benefits, it’s essential to understand the difference between taxable income and earned income.
- IRS Announces Inflation-Adjusted Tax Brackets For 2025Each year, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) adjusts income tax brackets to offset inflation.
October20248 stories
- 5 Crucial Reasons To Purchase Long-Term Care InsuranceThe United States is in the midst of a Long-Term Care (LTC) crisis as more and more Baby Boomers reach the age they’ll most likely need custodial care in a nursing home.
- Important Reasons To Update Your Last Will And TestamentIf you have a Will, congratulations - you’re among the 32% of Americans who have wisely taken the initiative to protect your assets and make sure they’re distributed according...
- The 2025 Cost-Of-Living-Adjustment (COLA)The Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced the Cost-Of-Living-Adjustment (COLA) for 2025.
- 6 Different Types Of Power Of AttorneyA Power of Attorney (POA) is a legal document that allows you to select an agent to act on your behalf for financial or health-related reasons.
- Top 4 Reasons Grey Divorces Are On The RiseThough it’s important to understand how a Grey Divorce can impact your federal retirement benefits, learning why this phenomenon is on the rise may help save your marriage.
- Leaving An Inheritance For Your KidsBefore you rush into handing your kids their inheritance, it’s important to make sure you and your spouse have enough to cover your retirement needs - including unexpected...
- Creating An Estate PlanIf you’ve been putting off creating an estate plan because it seems too time consuming, here’s a basic step-by-step guide to help streamline the process.
- The Annual Leave Dates for 2025Though accrued annual leave doesn’t count toward retirement eligibility with strategic planning you can turn it into a sizable lump-sum payment when you retire.
September20246 stories
- If You Plan To Age In Place, Consider A Home WarrantyWith more and more retirees choosing to remain in their homes and age in place, one reality to consider is the cost of home repairs.
- Pros & Cons Of A Reverse MortgageYou’ve seen TV ads for Reverse Mortgages - government-insured loans that allow seniors to cash in on their home’s equity.
- Negotiating The Best Sale Price For Your HomeIf you’re planning to sell your house as you near retirement, this may be the ideal time.
- Is Your Liability Insurance Enough To Protect Your Assets?Although liability coverage comes with most auto and homeowners insurance, will it be enough to protect your retirement savings and other assets if you get sued beyond the...
- Popular Retailers Who Offer Senior DiscountsGoodwill Kohl’s Michaels Pep Boys PetSmart Ross Dress for Less Savers Walgreens
- 4 Ways To Leave A Legacy For Your BeneficiariesWhat’s the best gift you can leave your loved ones when your time comes?
What we cover here
- Records. Finding your SF-50, eOPF and service history.
- Forms. Beneficiary designations, retirement forms and when to file them.
- Checklists. Before you retire, after a life event, at Open Season.
- Everyday questions. Leave, pay stubs and benefits basics.
Start with the guides
Our evergreen guides are the fullest version of these topics, updated when rules change:
- Your SF-50 and service computation date
- Beneficiary designations, all four forms
- The retirement application
- The full learning library
New to all of this? Start with your career stage, or try the calculators.
When you want a second set of eyes
Checklists cover the general case. A Federal Retirement Consultant (FRC®) can go through your own paperwork with you. Get matched with an FRC, free.
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