Rayna Retirement

Happy "America Saves Week!" Guest: Shikha Narula, Head of Consumer Deposit Products at Bank of America Key Takeaways from the Interview: Saving remains a priority—but it’s challenging: ~52% of Americans say saving is a top priority ~72% say inflation and cost of living are impacting finances Automation is one of the easiest wins: Tools like debit round-ups (e.g., “Keep the Change”) Recurring automatic transfers to “pay yourself first” Balance saving with lifestyle (don’t eliminate joy spending): Cut back—not cut out—small treats Identify “joy spending” categories and prioritize intentionally Use the 50/30/20 framework: 50% needs 30% wants 20% savings Make big goals more achievable: Break savings goals into smaller milestones Set deadlines and celebrate progress Use separate accounts for specific goals (reduces temptation) Free up extra cash with small adjustments: Review subscriptions Reduce unnecessary spending (rideshare, etc.) Small changes can compound over time Helpful resources mentioned: America Saves Week BetterMoneyHabits.com Bank of America Life Plan tools -- Contact Rayna directly at 850-450-6500 Or call the American Federal Benefits Consultants team at 1-800-872-8857 Visit: AmericanFederal.org -- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RaynaRetirement Rayna Retirement is the go-to podcast for federal employees – or anyone – looking to make smarter financial decisions with clarity and confidence. Hosted by Rayna Reyes, co-founder of American Federal Benefits Consultants, this show simplifies the complexities of retirement, benefits, and financial planning. Whether you're navigating your FERS or CSRS pension, maximizing your TSP, or seeking expert advice on 401(k)s or IRAs, Rayna is here to guide you every step of the way. Tune in for practical knowledge, ethical solutions, and expert insights as you prepare for a secure and fulfilling retirement.

Divorce can be complicated—but when federal retirement benefits are involved, the stakes get even higher. In this episode, Rayna Reyes walks through the three biggest retirement-related issues you need to understand during a divorce: pension division, survivor benefits, and splitting retirement accounts like the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). She explains how court orders like QDROs determine what a former spouse may be entitled to—and why getting the details right is critical. Rayna also breaks down common formulas used to divide pensions, the potential tax implications of retirement account distributions, and what happens if required documents aren’t properly filed. Whether you’re currently going through a divorce or planning ahead, this episode provides practical guidance to help you avoid costly mistakes and make informed decisions about your financial future. -- Contact Rayna directly at 850-450-6500 Or call the American Federal Benefits Consultants team at 1-800-872-8857 Visit: AmericanFederal.org -- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RaynaRetirement Rayna Retirement is the go-to podcast for federal employees – or anyone – looking to make smarter financial decisions with clarity and confidence. Hosted by Rayna Reyes, co-founder of American Federal Benefits Consultants, this show simplifies the complexities of retirement, benefits, and financial planning. Whether you're navigating your FERS or CSRS pension, maximizing your TSP, or seeking expert advice on 401(k)s or IRAs, Rayna is here to guide you every step of the way. Tune in for practical knowledge, ethical solutions, and expert insights as you prepare for a secure and fulfilling retirement.

Health insurance is one of the biggest concerns for federal employees approaching retirement—but what if the process is simpler than you think? In this episode, Rayna Reyes breaks down what really happens to your Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) when you retire. From the “5-year rule” to how premiums are handled, Rayna explains why many retirees don’t actually need to take any action at all. She also clears up confusion around recent notices about premium payments, explains when you might receive a bill (and when you can ignore it), and highlights important differences when it comes to dental and vision coverage. Plus, Rayna covers what happens to your spouse’s coverage, the role of survivor benefits, and how open enrollment continues even after you retire. If you’re planning your federal retirement and wondering what happens to your healthcare, this episode will give you clarity—and peace of mind. -- Contact Rayna directly at 850-450-6500 Or call the American Federal Benefits Consultants team at 1-800-872-8857 Visit: AmericanFederal.org -- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RaynaRetirement Rayna Retirement is the go-to podcast for federal employees – or anyone – looking to make smarter financial decisions with clarity and confidence. Hosted by Rayna Reyes, co-founder of American Federal Benefits Consultants, this show simplifies the complexities of retirement, benefits, and financial planning. Whether you're navigating your FERS or CSRS pension, maximizing your TSP, or seeking expert advice on 401(k)s or IRAs, Rayna is here to guide you every step of the way. Tune in for practical knowledge, ethical solutions, and expert insights as you prepare for a secure and fulfilling retirement.

April is National Financial Literacy Month. It started back in the early 2000s when Congress realized too many Americans were leaving school without the first clue about how to manage a paycheck, a credit card, or a financial future.  Fast-forward to 2026, and the problem hasn’t gone away. Nearly half of U.S. adults still give themselves a C-minus or worse on money knowledge…Key Points Covered: Review one monthly bill and see if you can cut, renegotiate, or cancel it Set one small savings goal — even twenty bucks a paycheck counts Learn just one new money concept — like how compound interest works for you instead of against you Sit down with your partner or your kids and have one honest conversation about money. No judgment, Just real talk -- Contact Rayna directly at 850-450-6500 Or call the American Federal Benefits Consultants team at 1-800-872-8857 Visit: AmericanFederal.org -- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RaynaRetirement Rayna Retirement is the go-to podcast for federal employees – or anyone – looking to make smarter financial decisions with clarity and confidence. Hosted by Rayna Reyes, co-founder of American Federal Benefits Consultants, this show simplifies the complexities of retirement, benefits, and financial planning. Whether you're navigating your FERS or CSRS pension, maximizing your TSP, or seeking expert advice on 401(k)s or IRAs, Rayna is here to guide you every step of the way. Tune in for practical knowledge, ethical solutions, and expert insights as you prepare for a secure and fulfilling retirement.

With Easter around the corner, it's the perfect time to talk about planning, milestones, and the dates that matter in our lives. In this heartwarming holiday special, Rayna Reyes welcomes a very special guest—her colleague Dr. Dr. Rhonda, a retired Navy veteran who has an unforgettable Easter birthday story that perfectly illustrates why dates matter in retirement planning too. An Easter Birthday Story: Dr. Rhonda was born on Easter Sunday, March 26 at 2:26 a.m.—two days later than her doctor predicted. Her godmother immediately nicknamed her "Bunny," a name that stuck throughout her Navy career (yes, even her superiors called her "Petty Officer Bunny"!) and continues to this day, 59 years later. But here's the twist: Rhonda's father doesn't celebrate her birthday on March 26. He calls her every year on Easter Sunday—whatever day that happens to be—to wish her happy birthday. For nearly 59 years, he's celebrated based on the occasion, not the date. It's a sweet family tradition that raises an important question: when do dates matter, and when do milestones matter more? Why This Matters for Your Retirement: Rayna uses this touching story to illustrate a crucial point about retirement planning: dates DO matter, but we need to understand which ones and why. -- Contact Rayna directly at 850-450-6500 Or call the American Federal Benefits Consultants team at 1-800-872-8857 Visit: AmericanFederal.org -- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RaynaRetirement Rayna Retirement is the go-to podcast for federal employees – or anyone – looking to make smarter financial decisions with clarity and confidence. Hosted by Rayna Reyes, co-founder of American Federal Benefits Consultants, this show simplifies the complexities of retirement, benefits, and financial planning. Whether you're navigating your FERS or CSRS pension, maximizing your TSP, or seeking expert advice on 401(k)s or IRAs, Rayna is here to guide you every step of the way. Tune in for practical knowledge, ethical solutions, and expert insights as you prepare for a secure and fulfilling retirement.

Don't go rogue on Medicare! In Episode 81 of Rayna Retirement, host Rayna Reyes breaks down one of the most confusing aspects of federal retirement: Medicare enrollment and how it works with your federal or postal health benefits. Using her signature straightforward style, Rayna explains the critical differences between what postal employees MUST do versus what federal employees have the flexibility to choose when it comes to Medicare Part A and Part B. What You'll Learn in This Episode: For Postal Employees: Here's the non-negotiable truth—if you're a postal employee retiring, you MUST turn on Medicare Parts A and B to keep your postal service health benefit plan. This applies to both you and your spouse. There's no wiggle room here, and Rayna explains exactly why this mandate exists and what happens if you don't comply. For Federal Employees: You have options! Unlike postal employees, federal employees aren't required to enroll in Medicare Part B to maintain their FEHB coverage. However, many still choose to do so for three main reasons: They thought they had to They want to avoid future penalties Having two health insurance plans working together sounds appealing But is it the right choice for YOU? That's what this episode helps you figure out. -- Contact Rayna directly at 850-450-6500 Or call the American Federal Benefits Consultants team at 1-800-872-8857 Visit: AmericanFederal.org -- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RaynaRetirement Rayna Retirement is the go-to podcast for federal employees – or anyone – looking to make smarter financial decisions with clarity and confidence. Hosted by Rayna Reyes, co-founder of American Federal Benefits Consultants, this show simplifies the complexities of retirement, benefits, and financial planning. Whether you're navigating your FERS or CSRS pension, maximizing your TSP, or seeking expert advice on 401(k)s or IRAs, Rayna is here to guide you every step of the way. Tune in for practical knowledge, ethical solutions, and expert insights as you prepare for a secure and fulfilling retirement.

In this urgent bonus episode recorded on March 27, 2026, Rayna Reyes addresses the breaking news about TSA funding and the Department of Homeland Security bill moving through Congress. If you're planning to travel or work in federal service, this is critical information you need to hear. What's Covered: Senate passage of the DHS funding bill and President Trump's commitment to sign Real impact on travelers: 2-hour TSA wait times reported at major airports What's included (and excluded) from the current funding proposal Immigration enforcement funding still pending Special message for TSA employees approaching retirement eligibility Key Takeaway: While uncertainty remains, there's reason for optimism as the funding bill moves to the House. TSA employees who've been with the agency since its post-9/11 inception are now reaching significant retirement milestones, and Rayna's here to help navigate those decisions if you're ready to "get out of Dodge." -- Contact Rayna directly at 850-450-6500 Or call the American Federal Benefits Consultants team at 1-800-872-8857 Visit: AmericanFederal.org -- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RaynaRetirement Rayna Retirement is the go-to podcast for federal employees – or anyone – looking to make smarter financial decisions with clarity and confidence. Hosted by Rayna Reyes, co-founder of American Federal Benefits Consultants, this show simplifies the complexities of retirement, benefits, and financial planning. Whether you're navigating your FERS or CSRS pension, maximizing your TSP, or seeking expert advice on 401(k)s or IRAs, Rayna is here to guide you every step of the way. Tune in for practical knowledge, ethical solutions, and expert insights as you prepare for a secure and fulfilling retirement.

You've heard about the "three-legged stool" of FERS retirement—pension, Social Security, and TSP—but what happens when two of those legs don't provide enough monthly income to cover your expenses? In this essential episode, Rayna Reyes tackles one of the biggest challenges federal retirees face: income gaps. Before you make any decisions about your TSP, Rayna explains why you must first calculate your actual take-home income from your pension (after taxes, health insurance, FEHB, FEGLI, and survivor benefits) and understand your Social Security or FERS supplement situation. You'll discover: ✓ Why advisors who only discuss TSP without reviewing your total income are missing the big picture ✓ How to identify if you'll have a monthly income shortfall ✓ When and how to use TSP or outside IRAs to fill income gaps ✓ Special considerations for those retiring at 60 with only 20 years of service ✓ Why the FERS supplement may only be half of what you expect -- Contact Rayna directly at 850-450-6500 Or call the American Federal Benefits Consultants team at 1-800-872-8857 Visit: AmericanFederal.org -- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RaynaRetirement Rayna Retirement is the go-to podcast for federal employees – or anyone – looking to make smarter financial decisions with clarity and confidence. Hosted by Rayna Reyes, co-founder of American Federal Benefits Consultants, this show simplifies the complexities of retirement, benefits, and financial planning. Whether you're navigating your FERS or CSRS pension, maximizing your TSP, or seeking expert advice on 401(k)s or IRAs, Rayna is here to guide you every step of the way. Tune in for practical knowledge, ethical solutions, and expert insights as you prepare for a secure and fulfilling retirement.

Thinking about retirement but worried about the transition from your agency to OPM? In this episode of Rayna Retirement, host Rayna Reyes breaks down exactly what happens after you submit your retirement paperwork—and how to avoid common delays that could impact your payments. You'll learn: ✓ The 4 critical steps to complete before retiring ✓ What causes payment delays (court orders, special categories, missing documents) ✓ The complete timeline from application to final payment ✓ When you'll receive your CSA number and online portal access ✓ The difference between interim payments and your finalized annuity ✓ How to access Services Online through Login.gov Whether you're retiring next month or planning years ahead, this episode provides the roadmap you need to transition smoothly from federal employee to retiree. Don't let avoidable mistakes delay your retirement income—get your documents right the first time. -- Contact Rayna directly at 850-450-6500 Or call the American Federal Benefits Consultants team at 1-800-872-8857 Visit: AmericanFederal.org -- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RaynaRetirement Rayna Retirement is the go-to podcast for federal employees – or anyone – looking to make smarter financial decisions with clarity and confidence. Hosted by Rayna Reyes, co-founder of American Federal Benefits Consultants, this show simplifies the complexities of retirement, benefits, and financial planning. Whether you're navigating your FERS or CSRS pension, maximizing your TSP, or seeking expert advice on 401(k)s or IRAs, Rayna is here to guide you every step of the way. Tune in for practical knowledge, ethical solutions, and expert insights as you prepare for a secure and fulfilling retirement.

Remember Joe Friday from Dragnet? "Just the facts, ma'am!" Well, that's exactly what you're getting in this information-packed episode of Rayna Retirement. We're tackling the most frequently asked questions about federal retirement head-on, with clear, practical answers you can use. In this FAQ-style episode, we cover the questions that keep federal employees up at night: How is my pension actually calculated, and what's this "high-3" everyone talks about? What deductions will come out of my retirement check—and why is health insurance such a big bite? Can I add a survivor benefit after I retire if I get married? W hat happens if my spouse dies first—do I get a raise? Who gets my TSP when I die, and why does it matter who I name as beneficiaries? Should I buy back my military time, and is it really as expensive as I've heard? Is TSP wrapped into my monthly pension payment? What's the deal with these new Roth conversions in TSP—should I do one? What happens to my spouse when I die, and how do they access benefits? What about health insurance—especially for "Twinkies" (our term for two federal employees married to each other)? This episode delivers straight talk without the confusion. If you've ever had a question about federal retirement (and who hasn't?), this episode is your go-to resource. Plus, you'll learn Rayna's favorite Dragnet episode... well, maybe not, but you'll get all the retirement facts you need! -- Contact Rayna directly at 850-450-6500 Or call the American Federal Benefits Consultants team at 1-800-872-8857 Visit: AmericanFederal.org -- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RaynaRetirement Rayna Retirement is the go-to podcast for federal employees – or anyone – looking to make smarter financial decisions with clarity and confidence. Hosted by Rayna Reyes, co-founder of American Federal Benefits Consultants, this show simplifies the complexities of retirement, benefits, and financial planning. Whether you're navigating your FERS or CSRS pension, maximizing your TSP, or seeking expert advice on 401(k)s or IRAs, Rayna is here to guide you every step of the way. Tune in for practical knowledge, ethical solutions, and expert insights as you prepare for a secure and fulfilling retirement.

In this heartfelt episode, Rayna tackles a difficult but essential topic: preparing your spouse for what happens if something happens to you. Drawing from years of experience meeting with federal employees and their families, she explains why these conversations aren't morbid—they're gifts of love and security. Learn about survivor benefits, TSP beneficiary rules, Social Security continuation, military retirement benefits, and why creating a comprehensive financial roadmap for your loved ones is one of the most important things you'll ever do. If you're married to a federal employee or are one yourself, this episode is a must-listen. -- Contact Rayna directly at 850-450-6500 Or call the American Federal Benefits Consultants team at 1-800-872-8857 Visit: AmericanFederal.org -- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RaynaRetirement Rayna Retirement is the go-to podcast for federal employees – or anyone – looking to make smarter financial decisions with clarity and confidence. Hosted by Rayna Reyes, co-founder of American Federal Benefits Consultants, this show simplifies the complexities of retirement, benefits, and financial planning. Whether you're navigating your FERS or CSRS pension, maximizing your TSP, or seeking expert advice on 401(k)s or IRAs, Rayna is here to guide you every step of the way. Tune in for practical knowledge, ethical solutions, and expert insights as you prepare for a secure and fulfilling retirement.

Spring has arrived, and while your home gets its annual refresh, your finances might be collecting their own quiet clutter… First, clean up your accounts - If your money is scattered across multiple banks, and brokerage firms, it can feel chaotic. Next, declutter your debt - Multiple credit cards, loans with varying interest rates, and different due dates can create unnecessary pressure. Organize your income and expenses - Take a hard look at where your money actually goes each month -- Contact Rayna directly at 850-450-6500 Or call the American Federal Benefits Consultants team at 1-800-872-8857 Visit: AmericanFederal.org -- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RaynaRetirement Rayna Retirement is the go-to podcast for federal employees – or anyone – looking to make smarter financial decisions with clarity and confidence. Hosted by Rayna Reyes, co-founder of American Federal Benefits Consultants, this show simplifies the complexities of retirement, benefits, and financial planning. Whether you're navigating your FERS or CSRS pension, maximizing your TSP, or seeking expert advice on 401(k)s or IRAs, Rayna is here to guide you every step of the way. Tune in for practical knowledge, ethical solutions, and expert insights as you prepare for a secure and fulfilling retirement.

Nobody wants to think about death, but federal employees need to understand how survivor benefits work—because timing can mean tens of thousands of dollars for your family. Rayna Reyes addresses the uncomfortable question: what happens if a federal employee passes away while still working versus after retirement? In this essential episode, Rayna covers: • The Basic Employee Death Benefit: Half your salary PLUS $43,800+ (only for active employees, not retirees) • Automatic survivor benefits for spouses: 50% of your pension, paid for life • Why timing matters: Benefits available to employees that retirees don't receive • Real story: A family that received significantly more because the employee hadn't retired yet • Who qualifies: Spouse (married 9+ months), former spouse (if court-ordered), children (special circumstances) • Life insurance continuation while employed • The "order of precedence" for beneficiaries without designations Critical Planning Point: When you're an employee, your spouse automatically receives survivor benefits. You never had to pay for them out of your pension. Plus, the lump-sum Basic Employee Death Benefit provides immediate financial support. Rayna emphasizes having her number ready for your family: (850) 450-6500. Her team walks families through every claim form and process during the most difficult times. -- Contact Rayna directly at 850-450-6500 Or call the American Federal Benefits Consultants team at 1-800-872-8857 Visit: AmericanFederal.org -- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RaynaRetirement Rayna Retirement is the go-to podcast for federal employees – or anyone – looking to make smarter financial decisions with clarity and confidence. Hosted by Rayna Reyes, co-founder of American Federal Benefits Consultants, this show simplifies the complexities of retirement, benefits, and financial planning. Whether you're navigating your FERS or CSRS pension, maximizing your TSP, or seeking expert advice on 401(k)s or IRAs, Rayna is here to guide you every step of the way. Tune in for practical knowledge, ethical solutions, and expert insights as you prepare for a secure and fulfilling retirement.

If you're a federal employee planning to leave your TSP to your adult children, you need to hear this. Rayna Reyes exposes a little-known TSP rule that could cost your beneficiaries thousands—or even tens of thousands—in unnecessary taxes. In this critical episode, Rayna reveals: • The TSP "lump sum trap" for non-spouse beneficiaries • Why your spouse is protected but your kids aren't • Real tax impact: How a $200K inheritance can spike a child's tax bracket by 10-15% • The inherited IRA alternative: Stretch distributions over 10 years instead of taking it all at once • Why TSP forces taxation while other retirement accounts offer flexibility • Strategic planning to protect your family's inheritance Real Example: Your daughter makes $100K/year. She inherits $200K from TSP. Her taxable income for that year? $300K—jumping her from a 24% to 35% tax bracket. On an inherited IRA? She could take $20K/year for 10 years, staying in her normal bracket. The Government's Design: TSP was created by the government. When do they get paid? When you pay taxes. This lump-sum rule generates massive tax revenue—at your family's expense. Rayna explains why many federal retirees are exploring outside IRAs for legacy planning while keeping TSP advantages during their lifetime. -- Contact Rayna directly at 850-450-6500 Or call the American Federal Benefits Consultants team at 1-800-872-8857 Visit: AmericanFederal.org -- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RaynaRetirement Rayna Retirement is the go-to podcast for federal employees – or anyone – looking to make smarter financial decisions with clarity and confidence. Hosted by Rayna Reyes, co-founder of American Federal Benefits Consultants, this show simplifies the complexities of retirement, benefits, and financial planning. Whether you're navigating your FERS or CSRS pension, maximizing your TSP, or seeking expert advice on 401(k)s or IRAs, Rayna is here to guide you every step of the way. Tune in for practical knowledge, ethical solutions, and expert insights as you prepare for a secure and fulfilling retirement.

Should you pay off all your debt before retirement? The answer might surprise you. In this candid episode, Rayna Reyes breaks down the difference between good debt and bad debt, and shares strategic approaches to managing both as you approach retirement. What You'll Learn: • Why TSP loans (under 4.5% interest in 2026) can be smarter than traditional bank loans • The tax trap of TSP withdrawals—how a $20K withdrawal could bump you into a higher tax bracket • Which debts to eliminate (high-interest credit cards, student loans) vs which to keep (low-rate mortgages) • The "opportunity cost" concept: Why paying off a 3% mortgage with TSP money could cost you future growth • Strategic timing: How to split large withdrawals across tax years to minimize tax impact • Real-world budgeting considerations before making major debt payoff decisions Critical Tax Insight: Taking a TSP withdrawal adds to your taxable income. A $20K withdrawal on an $80K salary means the IRS sees $100K income—potentially pushing you into a higher tax bracket. Rayna emphasizes this isn't one-size-fits-all advice. Your debt strategy depends on interest rates, spending habits, retirement timeline, and whether you have Roth or Traditional TSP funds. -- Contact Rayna directly at 850-450-6500 Or call the American Federal Benefits Consultants team at 1-800-872-8857 Visit: AmericanFederal.org -- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RaynaRetirement Rayna Retirement is the go-to podcast for federal employees – or anyone – looking to make smarter financial decisions with clarity and confidence. Hosted by Rayna Reyes, co-founder of American Federal Benefits Consultants, this show simplifies the complexities of retirement, benefits, and financial planning. Whether you're navigating your FERS or CSRS pension, maximizing your TSP, or seeking expert advice on 401(k)s or IRAs, Rayna is here to guide you every step of the way. Tune in for practical knowledge, ethical solutions, and expert insights as you prepare for a secure and fulfilling retirement.

Should you contribute to Traditional or Roth TSP? Federal employees face this critical decision every pay period, and the choice you make today impacts your retirement income for decades. In this essential episode, Rayna Reyes breaks down: • The fundamental difference between Traditional and Roth TSP contributions • Why you don't have to choose just one—tax diversification strategies • How current tax rates compare to historical levels (hint: they're historically low!) • The compound interest advantage of Roth contributions for younger employees • Real-world scenarios: when to prioritize Traditional vs Roth • Why having tax-free money in retirement is "a very nice gift to yourself" Rayna shares eye-opening historical context: during the Reagan years, the highest tax bracket was over 90%—today it's under 40%. With the concept of "taxes are on sale," now may be the ideal time to lock in tax-free growth through Roth contributions. Key Strategy: Consider contributing to BOTH Traditional (for immediate tax reduction) and Roth (for tax-free retirement income). The balance depends on your age, income, and retirement timeframe. Don't guess with your retirement savings—get personalized guidance! -- Contact Rayna directly at 850-450-6500 Or call the American Federal Benefits Consultants team at 1-800-872-8857 Visit: AmericanFederal.org -- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RaynaRetirement Rayna Retirement is the go-to podcast for federal employees – or anyone – looking to make smarter financial decisions with clarity and confidence. Hosted by Rayna Reyes, co-founder of American Federal Benefits Consultants, this show simplifies the complexities of retirement, benefits, and financial planning. Whether you're navigating your FERS or CSRS pension, maximizing your TSP, or seeking expert advice on 401(k)s or IRAs, Rayna is here to guide you every step of the way. Tune in for practical knowledge, ethical solutions, and expert insights as you prepare for a secure and fulfilling retirement.

Artificial intelligence is transforming the workplace faster than ever — and for older workers, that shift can feel both exciting and intimidating. Retirement.Radio’s Matt McClure sits down with Carly Roszkowski, VP of Financial Resilience Programming at AARP, to unpack how AI is reshaping the job market and what it means for workers over 50. They explore new research showing that many older workers are worried about job security and finding new employment — and why AI is becoming both a challenge and a powerful opportunity. Carly shares practical ways job seekers can use AI tools to research companies, tailor resumes, prepare for interviews, and stay competitive in a rapidly evolving workforce. The conversation also highlights the growing value of multigenerational workplaces and why experience still matters in an AI-driven world. Plus, Carly points listeners to AARP’s free resources designed to help older adults navigate career transitions with confidence.If you’re thinking about career longevity, job security, or how technology is reshaping the future of work, this episode offers timely insights and practical guidance you can use right now. -- Contact Rayna directly at 850-450-6500 Or call the American Federal Benefits Consultants team at 1-800-872-8857 Visit: AmericanFederal.org -- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RaynaRetirement Rayna Retirement is the go-to podcast for federal employees – or anyone – looking to make smarter financial decisions with clarity and confidence. Hosted by Rayna Reyes, co-founder of American Federal Benefits Consultants, this show simplifies the complexities of retirement, benefits, and financial planning. Whether you're navigating your FERS or CSRS pension, maximizing your TSP, or seeking expert advice on 401(k)s or IRAs, Rayna is here to guide you every step of the way. Tune in for practical knowledge, ethical solutions, and expert insights as you prepare for a secure and fulfilling retirement.

Are you a federal employee sitting on hundreds (or thousands) of sick leave hours? Before you carry that time into retirement, Rayna Reyes has critical information that could impact your financial future. In this eye-opening episode, Rayna covers: Why burning sick leave before retirement puts more money in your pocket The 100% vs 1% calculation that changes everything A cautionary tale about sick leave NOT counting toward retirement eligibility How to strategically schedule preventative health appointments The difference between using sick leave as an active employee vs. in retirement Important guidance on who should save their sick leave (and who should use it) Rayna shares real stories, including a federal employee who lost thousands by taking bad advice from another advisor. She breaks down the math: when you use sick leave while employed, you receive 100% of your salary PLUS it still counts in your pension calculation. Take that same leave into retirement? You only get 1-1.1% of your high-three salary. Key Insight: Schedule those colonoscopies, mammograms, dermatology checks, and wellness visits now. Your sick leave is meant to be used—and using it smartly can significantly boost your retirement income. -- Contact Rayna directly at 850-450-6500 Or call the American Federal Benefits Consultants team at 1-800-872-8857 Visit: AmericanFederal.org -- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RaynaRetirement Rayna Retirement is the go-to podcast for federal employees – or anyone – looking to make smarter financial decisions with clarity and confidence. Hosted by Rayna Reyes, co-founder of American Federal Benefits Consultants, this show simplifies the complexities of retirement, benefits, and financial planning. Whether you're navigating your FERS or CSRS pension, maximizing your TSP, or seeking expert advice on 401(k)s or IRAs, Rayna is here to guide you every step of the way. Tune in for practical knowledge, ethical solutions, and expert insights as you prepare for a secure and fulfilling retirement.

Are new early retirement opportunities heading your way in 2026? In this essential episode, Rayna Reyes breaks down the latest VERA (Voluntary Early Retirement Authority) offers rolling out to federal employees across various agencies. What You'll Learn: VERA eligibility requirements: Age 50+ with 20 years of service, OR any age with 25+ years of service The difference between VERA and DSR (Discontinued Service Retirement) What happens if you decline a VERA offer and face a RIF (Reduction in Force) Understanding VSIP (Voluntary Service Incentive Payment) and when it applies Why some employees might still have retirement options even after being RIF'd Rayna explains the critical distinction between accepting a VERA with incentive pay versus being subject to a RIF and taking a DSR. If you're a federal employee wondering whether these new opportunities apply to you, this episode provides the clarity you need to make an informed decision. If you receive a VERA, RIF, or early retirement offer, contact American Federal Benefits Consultants to discuss your specific situation and explore your options. -- Contact Rayna directly at 850-450-6500 Or call the American Federal Benefits Consultants team at 1-800-872-8857 Visit: AmericanFederal.org -- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RaynaRetirement Rayna Retirement is the go-to podcast for federal employees – or anyone – looking to make smarter financial decisions with clarity and confidence. Hosted by Rayna Reyes, co-founder of American Federal Benefits Consultants, this show simplifies the complexities of retirement, benefits, and financial planning. Whether you're navigating your FERS or CSRS pension, maximizing your TSP, or seeking expert advice on 401(k)s or IRAs, Rayna is here to guide you every step of the way. Tune in for practical knowledge, ethical solutions, and expert insights as you prepare for a secure and fulfilling retirement.

Recession talk is back for 2026—it may not be in every headline, but the odds aren’t at zero percent. You need to be prepared for the scenario of a possible recession.Key Points Covered: Emergency Funds --- Start by building (or topping off) an emergency fund that covers three to six months of living expenses. Picking the Right Budgeting System – Whether old or new, using a budgeting system can help consolidate while keeping stress away. Configure your Financial Portfolio – Strategies to ensure your financial portfolio remains in a strong position. -- Contact Rayna directly at 850-450-6500 Or call the American Federal Benefits Consultants team at 1-800-872-8857 Visit: AmericanFederal.org -- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RaynaRetirement Rayna Retirement is the go-to podcast for federal employees – or anyone – looking to make smarter financial decisions with clarity and confidence. Hosted by Rayna Reyes, co-founder of American Federal Benefits Consultants, this show simplifies the complexities of retirement, benefits, and financial planning. Whether you're navigating your FERS or CSRS pension, maximizing your TSP, or seeking expert advice on 401(k)s or IRAs, Rayna is here to guide you every step of the way. Tune in for practical knowledge, ethical solutions, and expert insights as you prepare for a secure and fulfilling retirement.