Claim OwnershipFederal Employee Financial Planning Podcast
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Federal employee benefits are among the most comprehensive and strongest in the country. Financial planning for federal employees requires knowledge of both financial planning concepts and a comprehensive understanding of these benefits. General financial planning advice is just that, general. We speak specifically to federal employees and the unique planning techniques and strategies to help them maximize their benefits. Mason & Associates have over three decades serving as financial planners for federal employees.
116 Episodes
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Are federal employees sitting on far more wealth than they realize? In this episode, financial planners Tommy Blackburn and John Mason break down the fundamentals of the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and explain why your pension is only one piece of a much larger financial picture. You'll learn how the FERS pension formula works, what your "high-three" salary actually means, and how factors like minimum retirement age, years of service, and turning 62 can impact your retirement income. The conversation also covers how employee contributions have changed over time, how the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) match works, and why understanding these core pieces is essential when planning your financial future. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Mentioned: Mason & Associates: LinkedIn Tommy Blackburn: LinkedIn Avoid the Top Financial Mistakes Made by Federal Employees Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) Federal Employee Financial Planning: FERS Part 1 (EP5) Federal Employee Financial Planning: FERS Part 2 (EP6) Federal Employee Financial Planning: FERS Part 3 (EP7)
Are you choosing your Medicare plan based purely on math or on what truly fits your life? In Part 2 of our Medicare 2026 series, Bryan Gay, owner of Boomer Insurance and seasoned Medicare expert, returns to expand your understanding of the options available, especially if you're a federal employee or enrolled in TRICARE for Life. You'll learn why Medicare decisions aren't just about premiums and deductibles, why there's no one-size-fits-all solution, and how to evaluate whether switching plans actually makes sense for your situation. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Mentioned: Mason & Associates: LinkedIn Tommy Blackburn: LinkedIn Bryan Gay: LinkedIn Traditional Medicare vs Advantage: Luxury Ride or Bus Pass? (EP46) FEHB: Shifting Landscape of Medicare, FEHB, and Part D (EP47) The TRICARE For Life Medicare Advantage: Rethinking Options (EP48) Medicare Masterclass on Enrollment and the Inflation Reduction Act (EP87)
Is your Medicare plan still working for you, or are you just hoping it is? In this episode, we're joined by Bryan Gay, owner of Boomer Insurance and a seasoned Medicare expert, fresh off another busy Annual Enrollment Period. Bryan breaks down how Medicare enrollment really works, what changed this past year, and why a "one-size-fits-all" approach often leaves people underinsured or overpaying. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Mentioned: Mason & Associates: LinkedIn Tommy Blackburn: LinkedIn Bryan Gay: LinkedIn Traditional Medicare vs Advantage: Luxury Ride or Bus Pass? (EP46) FEHB: Shifting Landscape of Medicare, FEHB, and Part D (EP47) The TRICARE For Life Medicare Advantage: Rethinking Options (EP48) Medicare Masterclass on Enrollment and the Inflation Reduction Act (EP87)
Ever wondered what actually happens after you book an intro call with Mason & Associates? In this updated episode, we walk you through our new client experience from start to finish, including how our process works, what our fees look like, and what it's really like to work with us long term. Even if you're not ready to become a client, this episode gives you a clear picture of what to expect so you can make informed decisions, whether you hire us or someone else. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Mentioned: Mason & Associates: LinkedIn Tommy Blackburn: LinkedIn John Mason: LinkedIn
Think you have to wait for Open Season to make meaningful financial decisions as a federal employee? This episode breaks that myth wide open. John, Ben, and Tommy walk through the most impactful moves federal employees can make any time of year, from optimizing your TSP and HSA to updating insurance, beneficiaries, and retirement strategies. Whether you're early in your federal career, nearing retirement, or already retired, this episode gives you a practical checklist to help you avoid costly mistakes, spot overlooked opportunities, and make more confident decisions year-round. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Mentioned: Mason & Associates: LinkedIn Tommy Blackburn: LinkedIn John Mason: LinkedIn Ben Raikes: LinkedIn Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) FEGLI (Federal Employees' Group Life Insurance) FEHB (Federal Employees Health Benefits Program) Blue Cross Blue Shield prescription drug tool Federal Long Term Care Insurance Program (FLTCIP) FEFP: Medicare Masterclass on Enrollment and the Inflation Reduction Act (EP87)
What if getting hacked isn't a question of if, but when? In this episode, Tommy Blackburn and John Mason break down the real-world cybersecurity risks they're seeing—not in theory, but from personal experience. After being compromised multiple times in a single year, John shares why even people with strong security habits can still be targeted, as well as what that means for retirees, business owners, and anyone managing meaningful assets. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Mentioned: Mason & Associates: LinkedIn Tommy Blackburn: LinkedIn John Mason: LinkedIn
Do Roth conversions make sense for everyone? In this episode, we unpack the rules, strategies, and potential pitfalls of Roth conversions, as well as the role of taxes, spending, and charitable goals. You'll learn why it's not always wise to "just convert everything now" and why flexibility is a crucial part of any financial strategy. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Mentioned: Mason & Associates: LinkedIn Tommy Blackburn: LinkedIn John Mason: LinkedIn
What would your life look like if you actually used the money you spent years saving? In this episode, Tommy and John break down the idea of "flexing your money muscles" and why those muscles can mean tightening your spending or giving yourself permission to enjoy more. You'll learn how habits, confidence, and values shape our decisions, and why many people struggle to spend even when they can afford to. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Mentioned: Mason & Associates: LinkedIn Tommy Blackburn: LinkedIn John Mason: LinkedIn
What really happens after someone passes away—and why are so many families blindsided even when they think everything was "set up correctly"? In this episode, John and Tommy pull back the curtain on the messy, emotional, and often confusing reality of settling an estate. You'll learn why wills and trusts don't operate the way most people assume, as well as the true challenges in modern estate planning. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Mentioned: Federal Employee Financial Planning: Intro to Estate Planning (EP23) FEFP: Estate Planning Across State Lines for Federal Employees (EP76) FEFP: One Big Beautiful Bill Part 2 (EP100) FEFP: One Big Beautiful Bill Part 1 (EP99) HIPAA SSI (Supplemental Security Income) Mason & Associates: LinkedIn Tommy Blackburn: LinkedIn John Mason: LinkedIn
Are you making the most of your federal health benefits this open season? Whether you're an active federal employee or retired, this time of year can feel overwhelming, but understanding your options can save you thousands and help you plan smarter for the future. You'll learn how to evaluate your current plan, balance premiums and out-of-pocket costs, and make confident, informed decisions before open season ends. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Mentioned: Medicare Masterclass on Enrollment, Costs, and the Inflation Reduction Act with Bryan Gay 10 Things Federal Employees Can Do Outside Of An Open Season Mason & Associates: LinkedIn Tommy Blackburn: LinkedIn John Mason: LinkedIn Ben Raikes: Website
What role should the G Fund really play in your TSP strategy? In this episode, Tommy, John, and Ben tackle one of the biggest questions federal employees ask during uncertain markets. You'll learn what to consider before making changes, how to rebalance your TSP effectively, and why trying to "time the market" often does more harm than good. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Mentioned: Federal Employee Listener Mail - Survivor Benefits, IRA Rollovers, and Small Pensions Lifcycle Funds Mason & Associates: LinkedIn Tommy Blackburn: LinkedIn John Mason: LinkedIn Ben Raikes: Website
What's really changing for federal employees retiring in 2025? In this episode, Tommy and John break down the new retirement process, including survivor benefits, electronic filing, and the realities of interest rates, refinancing, and investment risks. You'll hear clear guidance on how to navigate these updates, what to watch out for in "no closing cost" mortgage offers, and how to make confident financial choices during this pivotal transition. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Mentioned: FEFP: Fork in the Road: Understanding Your Federal Retirement Options (EP86) FEFP: Social Security: Family and Survivor Benefits (EP37) Mason & Associates: LinkedIn Tommy Blackburn: LinkedIn John Mason: LinkedIn
What's the difference between reacting to taxes and truly planning for them? In this episode, Tommy and John break down the latest year-end financial planning and tax strategies every federal employee needs to know. With recent tax law changes and shifting financial dynamics, they tackle big questions like how the enhanced senior deduction works, when a Roth conversion makes sense, and why timing matters when harvesting capital gains. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Mentioned: FEFP: One Big Beautiful Bill Part 2 (EP100) FEFP: One Big Beautiful Bill Part 1 (EP99) FEFP: An Inside Look at Strategic Planning Season (EP94) FEFP: Mortgage Strategies for Federal Employees with James Anderson (EP80) Mason & Associates: LinkedIn Tommy Blackburn: LinkedIn John Mason: LinkedIn
What does the One Big Beautiful Bill mean for everyday taxpayers? And how will it shape the financial future of federal employees across the country? In this episode, we continue our deep dive into the bill with Stephen Kimberlin of Forvis Mazars US, breaking down what it really means for people. Listen in as Stephen explains the nuances, clarifies common misconceptions, and provides practical insights to help you navigate this new tax landscape with confidence. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Mentioned: Stephen Kimberlin: LinkedIn Forvis Mazars Mason & Associates: LinkedIn Tommy Blackburn: LinkedIn John Mason: LinkedIn
What does the new One Big Beautiful Bill really mean for federal employees nearing retirement? Passed on July 4th, 2025, this sweeping tax legislation has stirred conversations across the country, but today we're zeroing in on how it impacts federal employees with significant investable assets. While business owners and high-income earners also feel the effects, our focus is on helping you understand what this bill means for your retirement planning, your tax strategy, and your financial future. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Mentioned: Stephen Kimberlin: LinkedIn Forvis Mazars Mason & Associates: LinkedIn Tommy Blackburn: LinkedIn John Mason: LinkedIn
What if the biggest threat to your financial plan isn't the stock market or taxes, but being underinsured? In this episode, Tommy and John sit down with Broc Buckles, co-founder of BC Brokerage, to talk about why insurance is a critical cornerstone of any financial strategy. Listen in to learn how to avoid overpaying, why working with a broker can uncover better coverage and rates than sticking with a single provider, and why the right insurance coverage could save you thousands while giving you peace of mind. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Mentioned: Broc Buckles: LinkedIn BC Brokerage Mason & Associates: LinkedIn Tommy Blackburn: LinkedIn John Mason: LinkedIn
What if your federal pension is small and you're not relying on it—should you still elect survivor benefits? In this episode, John and Tommy respond to a listener's detailed YouTube question about pensions, TSP, and survivor benefits when service time is short and other retirement savings are strong. They break down the real value of keeping survivor benefits, even when your pension isn't your main income stream. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Mentioned: Mason & Associates: LinkedIn Tommy Blackburn: LinkedIn John Mason: LinkedIn Federal Employees - DO NOT Decline Survivor Benefits!
Are credit cards still worth using with all the fees being passed on to consumers? In this episode, Tommy and John dive into a hot topic on their minds lately: the real pros and cons of credit cards, debit cards, and cash. They share their personal credit card habits, how many cards they each use, and the strategy behind maximizing rewards without falling into the trap of overspending. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Mentioned: Mason & Associates: LinkedIn Tommy Blackburn: LinkedIn John Mason: LinkedIn
What's the difference between active and passive investing, and when should you use mutual funds versus ETFs? In this episode, John and Tommy break down essential investing concepts that federal employees need to know, covering everything from the fundamentals of stocks and bonds to practical cash management strategies. You'll learn about active versus passive investing philosophies, the mechanics and tax implications of mutual funds and ETFs, and why dollar-cost averaging can help overcome emotional barriers in investing. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Mentioned: Mason & Associates: LinkedIn Tommy Blackburn: LinkedIn John Mason: LinkedIn
What does it really look like to work with a financial planning team that knows your federal benefits inside and out—and shows up for you year after year? In this episode, John and Tommy take you behind the scenes of Mason & Associates' Strategic Planning Meeting Season (SPM), where they conduct over 400 client meetings in just six weeks. They share real conversations, real actions, and the process that makes it all work. Access the full show notes at Mason & Associates, LLC Resources Mentioned: Mason & Associates: LinkedIn Tommy Blackburn: LinkedIn John Mason: LinkedIn
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