The ‘Phantom’ COLA and other retirement mysteries

The good news about the federal retirement programs — FERS or CSRS — is that they have many moving parts. The downside is you need to do some homework — preferably starting from day one on the payroll — to get the most out of your service. Both in starting annuity and maximum annuity. Again, not rocket science, but also not a walk in the park. Not something you can delay (if you want to get the most) by waiting until the gang at the office is planning your final work sendoff.

So what to do? A good start is right here. We talk with lots of experts (including current and former feds) to find the best deal or deals for you. Like benefits expert Tammy Flanagan. When her husband retired in 2015, they moved to Florida and Tammy started her own consulting business to help active and retired federal employees called Retire Federal. He’s a retired LEO (law enforcement officer). She knows the retirement pathway and is a full-time consultant for feds planning to retire. Or those who’ve pulled the plug but still need help.