Advertise on podcast: The Federal Retirement Show

In episode 164 of The Federal Retirement Show, Val continues the countdown of the most common (and costly) mistakes federal employees make—this week shining a spotlight on neglecting to understand of your TSP options available to you in retirement. Have questions about retirement planning or other financial topics? Connect with Val and the topic could be featured in future episodes! Don't forget to leave a review and share this podcast with anyone looking to boost their financial knowledge. --- Listen to Previous Episodes: https://federalretirementshow.com/podcasts/ Subscribe to the show’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@americanbenefitsexchange --- Connect with Val: Phone --- (512) 582-6050 Email --- [email protected] American Benefits Exchange --- thinkabx.com Federal Retirement Show --- federalretirementshow.com/podcasts LinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-benefits-exchange/ --- About American Benefits Exchange: American Benefits Exchange focuses on providing solid financial solutions to Federal, postal, and state employees as well as members of the United States Armed Forces and small businesses. American Benefits Exchange brings years of experience and knowledge to support these niche markets. American Benefits Exchange, along with its provider companies, truly understands the needs of civil service employees. A portfolio of products is available to address important financial issues such as planning for retirement, FEGLI Option B replacement, Thrift Savings Plan Rollovers, and Pension Maximization. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In episode 163 of The Federal Retirement Show, Val continues the countdown of the most common (and costly) mistakes federal employees make—this week shining a spotlight on mishandling and not properly maximizing TSP matching. Many federal employees carry Option B coverage for years without realizing how dramatically the cost increases with age—or how often better, less expensive alternatives are available. Val breaks down how FEGLI Option B really works, why it becomes one of the most expensive insurance choices in your 40s, 50s, and beyond, and how this single benefit decision can quietly drain your retirement cash flow. Have questions about retirement planning or other financial topics? Connect with Val and the topic could be featured in future episodes! Don't forget to leave a review and share this podcast with anyone looking to boost their financial knowledge. --- Listen to Previous Episodes: https://federalretirementshow.com/podcasts/ Subscribe to the show’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@americanbenefitsexchange --- Connect with Val: Phone --- (512) 582-6050 Email --- [email protected] American Benefits Exchange --- thinkabx.com Federal Retirement Show --- federalretirementshow.com/podcasts LinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-benefits-exchange/ --- About American Benefits Exchange: American Benefits Exchange focuses on providing solid financial solutions to Federal, postal, and state employees as well as members of the United States Armed Forces and small businesses. American Benefits Exchange brings years of experience and knowledge to support these niche markets. American Benefits Exchange, along with its provider companies, truly understands the needs of civil service employees. A portfolio of products is available to address important financial issues such as planning for retirement, FEGLI Option B replacement, Thrift Savings Plan Rollovers, and Pension Maximization.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In episode 162 of The Federal Retirement Show, we continue our countdown of the most common (and costly) mistakes federal employees make—this week shining a spotlight on FEGLI Option B. Many federal employees carry Option B coverage for years without realizing how dramatically the cost increases with age—or how often better, less expensive alternatives are available. Val breaks down how FEGLI Option B really works, why it becomes one of the most expensive insurance choices in your 40s, 50s, and beyond, and how this single benefit decision can quietly drain your retirement cash flow. Have questions about retirement planning or other financial topics? Connect with Val and the topic could be featured in future episodes! Don't forget to leave a review and share this podcast with anyone looking to boost their financial knowledge. --- Listen to Previous Episodes: https://federalretirementshow.com/podcasts/ Subscribe to the show’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@americanbenefitsexchange --- Connect with Val: Phone --- (512) 582-6050 Email --- [email protected] American Benefits Exchange --- thinkabx.com Federal Retirement Show --- federalretirementshow.com/podcasts LinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-benefits-exchange/ ---  About American Benefits Exchange: American Benefits Exchange focuses on providing solid financial solutions to Federal, postal, and state employees as well as members of the United States Armed Forces and small businesses. American Benefits Exchange brings years of experience and knowledge to support these niche markets. American Benefits Exchange, along with its provider companies, truly understands the needs of civil service employees. A portfolio of products is available to address important financial issues such as planning for retirement, FEGLI Option B replacement, Thrift Savings Plan Rollovers, and Pension Maximization.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many federal employees assume they’ll “figure it out later” when it comes to retirement—but later often comes with costly surprises. Val explores a 10-part series of the Top 10 retirement mistakes made by federal employees, and in part one he tackles one of the most common and avoidable errors: not attending a retirement meeting or seminar focused on federal benefits. Have questions about retirement planning or other financial topics? Connect with Val and the topic could be featured in future episodes! Don't forget to leave a review and share this podcast with anyone looking to boost their financial knowledge. --- Listen to Previous Episodes: https://federalretirementshow.com/podcasts/ Subscribe to the show’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@americanbenefitsexchange --- Connect with Val: Phone --- (512) 582-6050 Email --- [email protected] American Benefits Exchange --- thinkabx.com Federal Retirement Show --- federalretirementshow.com/podcasts LinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-benefits-exchange/ --- About American Benefits Exchange: American Benefits Exchange focuses on providing solid financial solutions to Federal, postal, and state employees as well as members of the United States Armed Forces and small businesses. American Benefits Exchange brings years of experience and knowledge to support these niche markets. American Benefits Exchange, along with its provider companies, truly understands the needs of civil service employees. A portfolio of products is available to address important financial issues such as planning for retirement, FEGLI Option B replacement, Thrift Savings Plan Rollovers, and Pension Maximization.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Planning to retire from federal service in 2026 or soon? Episode 160 breaks down a practical, step-by-step retirement checklist designed specifically for federal employees. Val walks you through walk through the TSP checklist, how to address the current debt you may have, and explains the not-so easy online retirement application. Have questions about retirement planning or other financial topics? Connect with Val and the topic could be featured in future episodes! Don't forget to leave a review and share this podcast with anyone looking to boost their financial knowledge. --- Listen to Previous Episodes: https://federalretirementshow.com/podcasts/ Subscribe to the show’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@americanbenefitsexchange ---  Connect with Val: Phone --- (512) 582-6050 Email --- [email protected] American Benefits Exchange --- thinkabx.com Federal Retirement Show --- federalretirementshow.com/podcasts LinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-benefits-exchange/ --- About American Benefits Exchange: American Benefits Exchange focuses on providing solid financial solutions to Federal, postal, and state employees as well as members of the United States Armed Forces and small businesses. American Benefits Exchange brings years of experience and knowledge to support these niche markets. American Benefits Exchange, along with its provider companies, truly understands the needs of civil service employees. A portfolio of products is available to address important financial issues such as planning for retirement, FEGLI Option B replacement, Thrift Savings Plan Rollovers, and Pension Maximization.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In episode 159 of the Federal Retirement Show, Val continues with part three of his TSP series, and breaks down the distribution phase in your TSP! Have questions about retirement planning or other financial topics? Connect with Val and the topic could be featured in future episodes! Don't forget to leave a review and share this podcast with anyone looking to boost their financial knowledge. --- Listen to Previous Episodes: https://federalretirementshow.com/podcasts/ Subscribe to the show’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@americanbenefitsexchange --- Connect with Val: Phone --- (512) 582-6050 Email --- [email protected] American Benefits Exchange --- thinkabx.com Federal Retirement Show --- federalretirementshow.com/podcasts LinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-benefits-exchange/ --- About American Benefits Exchange: American Benefits Exchange focuses on providing solid financial solutions to Federal, postal, and state employees as well as members of the United States Armed Forces and small businesses. American Benefits Exchange brings years of experience and knowledge to support these niche markets. American Benefits Exchange, along with its provider companies, truly understands the needs of civil service employees. A portfolio of products is available to address important financial issues such as planning for retirement, FEGLI Option B replacement, Thrift Savings Plan Rollovers, and Pension Maximization.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In episode 158 of the Federal Retirement Show, Val continues with part two of his TSP series, and breaks down the preservation phase of TSP! Have questions about retirement planning or other financial topics? Connect with Val and the topic could be featured in future episodes! Don't forget to leave a review and share this podcast with anyone looking to boost their financial knowledge. --- Listen to Previous Episodes: https://federalretirementshow.com/podcasts/ Subscribe to the show’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@americanbenefitsexchange --- Connect with Val: Phone --- (512) 582-6050 Email --- [email protected] American Benefits Exchange --- thinkabx.com Federal Retirement Show --- federalretirementshow.com/podcasts LinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-benefits-exchange/ --- About American Benefits Exchange: American Benefits Exchange focuses on providing solid financial solutions to Federal, postal, and state employees as well as members of the United States Armed Forces and small businesses. American Benefits Exchange brings years of experience and knowledge to support these niche markets. American Benefits Exchange, along with its provider companies, truly understands the needs of civil service employees. A portfolio of products is available to address important financial issues such as planning for retirement, FEGLI Option B replacement, Thrift Savings Plan Rollovers, and Pension Maximization.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In episode 157 of the Federal Retirement Show, Val break down one of the most important—yet often overlooked—stages of your financial journey: the accumulation phase. He dives deep into how your Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) can become a powerful engine for long-term growth, exploring smart strategies to build your balance year after year. From the benefits of consistent contributions to the advantages of TSP’s low fees and diverse investment options, we’ll show you how to make the most of this essential retirement tool! Have questions about retirement planning or other financial topics? Connect with Val and the topic could be featured in future episodes! Don't forget to leave a review and share this podcast with anyone looking to boost their financial knowledge. --- Listen to Previous Episodes: https://federalretirementshow.com/podcasts/ Subscribe to the show’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@americanbenefitsexchange ---  Connect with Val: Phone --- (512) 582-6050 Email --- [email protected] American Benefits Exchange --- thinkabx.com Federal Retirement Show --- federalretirementshow.com/podcasts LinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-benefits-exchange/ ---  About American Benefits Exchange: American Benefits Exchange focuses on providing solid financial solutions to Federal, postal, and state employees as well as members of the United States Armed Forces and small businesses. American Benefits Exchange brings years of experience and knowledge to support these niche markets. American Benefits Exchange, along with its provider companies, truly understands the needs of civil service employees. A portfolio of products is available to address important financial issues such as planning for retirement, FEGLI Option B replacement, Thrift Savings Plan Rollovers, and Pension Maximization.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In episode 156 of the Federal Retirement Show, Val unveils the latest version of recent questions answered – answering common questions he receives from Federal Employees daily! Have questions about retirement planning or other financial topics? Connect with Val and the topic could be featured in future episodes! Don't forget to leave a review and share this podcast with anyone looking to boost their financial knowledge. --- Listen to Previous Episodes: https://federalretirementshow.com/podcasts/ Subscribe to the show’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@americanbenefitsexchange --- Connect with Val: Phone --- (512) 582-6050 Email --- [email protected] American Benefits Exchange --- thinkabx.com Federal Retirement Show --- federalretirementshow.com/podcasts LinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-benefits-exchange/ --- About American Benefits Exchange: American Benefits Exchange focuses on providing solid financial solutions to Federal, postal, and state employees as well as members of the United States Armed Forces and small businesses. American Benefits Exchange brings years of experience and knowledge to support these niche markets. American Benefits Exchange, along with its provider companies, truly understands the needs of civil service employees. A portfolio of products is available to address important financial issues such as planning for retirement, FEGLI Option B replacement, Thrift Savings Plan Rollovers, and Pension Maximization.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In episode 155 of the Federal Retirement Show, Val explains the 2026 TSP Contribution Limits and the intricate details you need to know to get you further prepared for your tax-free retirement. Have questions about retirement planning or other financial topics? Connect with Val and the topic could be featured in future episodes! Don't forget to leave a review and share this podcast with anyone looking to boost their financial knowledge. --- Listen to Previous Episodes: https://federalretirementshow.com/podcasts/ Subscribe to the show’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@americanbenefitsexchange --- Connect with Val: Phone --- (512) 582-6050 Email --- [email protected] American Benefits Exchange --- thinkabx.com Federal Retirement Show --- federalretirementshow.com/podcasts LinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-benefits-exchange/ ---  About American Benefits Exchange: American Benefits Exchange focuses on providing solid financial solutions to Federal, postal, and state employees as well as members of the United States Armed Forces and small businesses. American Benefits Exchange brings years of experience and knowledge to support these niche markets. American Benefits Exchange, along with its provider companies, truly understands the needs of civil service employees. A portfolio of products is available to address important financial issues such as planning for retirement, FEGLI Option B replacement, Thrift Savings Plan Rollovers, and Pension Maximization.     See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In episode 154 of the Federal Retirement Show, Val takes a deep dive into a recent conversation he had with a federal employee pertaining to Survivor-Benefit options for federal employees, a crucial but often misunderstood part of retirement planning. Join Val as he walks you through the key decisions, costs, and implications that can make all the difference for you and your loved ones. Have questions about retirement planning or other financial topics? Connect with Val and the topic could be featured in future episodes! Don't forget to leave a review and share this podcast with anyone looking to boost their financial knowledge. --- Listen to Previous Episodes: https://federalretirementshow.com/podcasts/ Subscribe to the show’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@americanbenefitsexchange ---  Connect with Val: Phone --- (512) 582-6050 Email --- [email protected] American Benefits Exchange --- thinkabx.com Federal Retirement Show --- federalretirementshow.com/podcasts LinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-benefits-exchange/ --- About American Benefits Exchange:American Benefits Exchange focuses on providing solid financial solutions to Federal, postal, and state employees as well as members of the United States Armed Forces and small businesses. American Benefits Exchange brings years of experience and knowledge to support these niche markets. American Benefits Exchange, along with its provider companies, truly understands the needs of civil service employees. A portfolio of products is available to address important financial issues such as planning for retirement, FEGLI Option B replacement, Thrift Savings Plan Rollovers, and Pension Maximization.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever wonder how part-time federal work affects your retirement? In episode 153 of The Federal Retirement Show, Val breaks down some of the most misunderstood aspects of part-time service under FERS — including how the Proration Factor impacts your pension, how your High-3 average salary is calculated when you’ve worked a mix of full- and part-time schedules, and what this all means for your FERS Supplement and Survivor Benefits. Have questions about retirement planning or other financial topics? Connect with Val and the topic could be featured in future episodes! Don't forget to leave a review and share this podcast with anyone looking to boost their financial knowledge. --- Listen to Previous Episodes: https://federalretirementshow.com/podcasts/ Subscribe to the show’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@americanbenefitsexchange --- Connect with Val: Phone --- (512) 582-6050 Email --- [email protected] American Benefits Exchange --- thinkabx.com Federal Retirement Show --- federalretirementshow.com/podcasts LinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-benefits-exchange/ --- About American Benefits Exchange: American Benefits Exchange focuses on providing solid financial solutions to Federal, postal, and state employees as well as members of the United States Armed Forces and small businesses. American Benefits Exchange brings years of experience and knowledge to support these niche markets. American Benefits Exchange, along with its provider companies, truly understands the needs of civil service employees. A portfolio of products is available to address important financial issues such as planning for retirement, FEGLI Option B replacement, Thrift Savings Plan Rollovers, and Pension Maximization.     See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In episode 152 of the Federal Retirement Show, Val is breaking down everything federal employees need to know to retire with confidence and peace of mind. Whether you’re just a few months from your retirement date or planning years ahead, this discussion is packed with expert insights and practical steps to help you prepare. Val covers: Proper advice for retiring federal employees — from understanding your retirement eligibility to maximizing your benefits. Completing retirement paperwork on time — what forms you’ll need, how far in advance to file, and tips to avoid common delays. FEHB and Medicare — how your Federal Employees Health Benefits work with Medicare, and what decisions you’ll need to make before age 65. Setting up your TSP for retirement — managing withdrawals, annuities, and investment strategies to make your savings last. Disability in retirement — understanding options and benefits if disability affects your retirement planning. Have questions about retirement planning or other financial topics? Connect with Val and the topic could be featured in future episodes! Don't forget to leave a review and share this podcast with anyone looking to boost their financial knowledge. --- Listen to Previous Episodes: https://federalretirementshow.com/podcasts/ Subscribe to the show’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@americanbenefitsexchange --- Connect with Val: Phone --- (512) 582-6050 Email --- [email protected] American Benefits Exchange --- thinkabx.com Federal Retirement Show --- federalretirementshow.com/podcasts LinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-benefits-exchange/ --- About American Benefits Exchange: American Benefits Exchange focuses on providing solid financial solutions to Federal, postal, and state employees as well as members of the United States Armed Forces and small businesses. American Benefits Exchange brings years of experience and knowledge to support these niche markets. American Benefits Exchange, along with its provider companies, truly understands the needs of civil service employees. A portfolio of products is available to address important financial issues such as planning for retirement, FEGLI Option B replacement, Thrift Savings Plan Rollovers, and Pension Maximization.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In episode 151 of the Federal Retirement Show, Val tackles the growing concerns and widespread misinformation surrounding federal retirement and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). Whether you're nearing retirement or just getting started in your federal career, it's crucial to separate fact from fiction. Val provides clarity on what federal employees really need to know to make informed decisions. Have questions about retirement planning or other financial topics? Connect with Val and the topic could be featured in future episodes! Don't forget to leave a review and share this podcast with anyone looking to boost their financial knowledge. --- Listen to Previous Episodes: https://federalretirementshow.com/podcasts/ Subscribe to the show’s YouTube channel:www.youtube.com/@americanbenefitsexchange --- Connect with Val:Phone --- (512) 582-6050Email --- [email protected] Benefits Exchange --- thinkabx.comFederal Retirement Show --- federalretirementshow.com/podcastsLinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-benefits-exchange/ --- About American Benefits Exchange: American Benefits Exchange focuses on providing solid financial solutions to Federal, postal, and state employees as well as members of the United States Armed Forces and small businesses. American Benefits Exchange brings years of experience and knowledge to support these niche markets. American Benefits Exchange, along with its provider companies, truly understands the needs of civil service employees. A portfolio of products is available to address important financial issues such as planning for retirement, FEGLI Option B replacement, Thrift Savings Plan Rollovers, and Pension Maximization.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In episode 150 of the Federal Retirement Show, Val is cutting through the noise and getting real about retirement planning for federal employees. There's a lot of information out there—but not all of it is accurate. We're tackling common myths and misinformation that could be steering you off course. Val also dive into a hot topic: Roth conversions. Should you consider one? When does it make sense? And how could it impact your TSP, taxes, and long-term retirement goals? Have questions about retirement planning or other financial topics? Connect with Val and the topic could be featured in future episodes! Don't forget to leave a review and share this podcast with anyone looking to boost their financial knowledge. --- Listen to Previous Episodes: https://federalretirementshow.com/podcasts/ Subscribe to the show’s YouTube channel:www.youtube.com/@americanbenefitsexchange --- Connect with Val:Phone --- (512) 582-6050Email --- [email protected] Benefits Exchange --- thinkabx.comFederal Retirement Show --- federalretirementshow.com/podcastsLinkedIn --- https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-benefits-exchange/ --- About American Benefits Exchange: American Benefits Exchange focuses on providing solid financial solutions to Federal, postal, and state employees as well as members of the United States Armed Forces and small businesses. American Benefits Exchange brings years of experience and knowledge to support these niche markets. American Benefits Exchange, along with its provider companies, truly understands the needs of civil service employees. A portfolio of products is available to address important financial issues such as planning for retirement, FEGLI Option B replacement, Thrift Savings Plan Rollovers, and Pension Maximization. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.