Can I Afford to Leave My Federal Job? Retirement, DRP, VERA, & TSP Explained

Описание: In this episode, AFGE Local 17 President Doug Massey sits down with federal retirement expert Josh Silverman of Benefit Architects to unpack the tough question many federal employees are asking right now: Can I afford to leave my job?

With sweeping changes like the Deferred Resignation Program (DRP), VERA (Voluntary Early Retirement Authority), and potential policy shifts in Congress, this conversation breaks down what federal workers need to know about their retirement options, benefits, and planning strategies. Josh dives deep into annuity calculations, insurance eligibility, TSP management, Social Security timing, and the crucial difference between early retirement programs. If you're weighing your next steps, this is a must-watch.

📌 Key Highlights:

00:00 – Introduction: Navigating today’s uncertain federal workforce climate

00:52 – VERA vs. DRP: What are your real options?

02:00 – Meet Josh Silverman: 24 years with AFGE’s retirement team

03:10 – unionretirement.org: How to book a free 1:1 consultation

06:00 – Why DRP isn’t technically retirement and the rights you might waive

10:00 – What VERA does and doesn’t change about your retirement

13:30 – Understanding FERS: Eligibility, annuity formulas, and MRA rules

16:45 – The truth about the FERS supplement and when you’ll actually get it

20:30 – VSIP (Buyouts): Who qualifies and what to expect

24:10 – Survivor benefits, FEHB rules, and the 5-year coverage window

28:00 – Disability retirement: Requirements, benefits, and legal notes

31:40 – TSP: The 3-legged stool of federal retirement explained

35:20 – G, F, C, S, I funds: Which is which and where to invest

40:00 – Age 55 rule for TSP withdrawals and how it can trip you up

44:00 – RMDs, annuities, and installment strategies for post-retirement

📎 Resources Mentioned:

Book a complimentary retirement consult: unionretirement.org

Contact the team: [email protected]

✅ Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and comment below with your questions!

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