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Federal Employees Retirement & Benefits Podcast by CD Financial
Federal Employees Retirement & Benefits Podcast by CD Financial
Author: Charles Dzama
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© 2026 Federal Employees Retirement & Benefits Podcast by CD Financial
Description
The objective of this podcast is to educate and enlighten you about your federal benefits and to guide you in creating a well-formed retirement income plan.
Schedule your complimentary 15-minute phone call today! https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/dzamatalk-complimentary-15-min-phone-call
242 Episodes
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You don’t need to work longer, you just need a better plan. Schedule a consultation with this link to tailor a plan that suits your unique financial goals: 👉 https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/dzamatalk-complimentary-15-min-phone-call "The only way your spouse keeps FEHB after you die is by electing the survivor benefit—don’t make this avoidable mistake." 💌 Sign up to my free weekly email newsletter: https://cdfinancial.org/media/#newsletter 🔗 LINKS MENTIONED ▶️ How Survivor Benefits Work: ...
“Not all financial advice is created equal — and for federal employees, the wrong advice can cost you thousands.” You don’t need to work longer, you just need a better plan. Schedule a consultation with this link to tailor a plan that suits your unique financial goals: 👉 https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/dzamatalk-complimentary-15-min-phone-call Why federal employees get bad financial advice – and what to do instead 💌 Sign up to my free weekly email newsletter https://cdfinancial.org/media...
We examine a realistic scenario for a client with a $750,000 TSP/401(K) and a $40,000 pension, focusing on adjustments in fund allocation, and a financial scenario for "Bill" vs. "Jack", one begins withdrawing $3,000 monthly from his TSP and takes Social Security at 62. Understanding crucial aspects like TSP distributions, retirement income, and tax planning is key, and we explore how a bucket strategy retirement approach can help manage these changes effectively. 🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES Che...
“Federal retirement planning doesn’t need to be a 60-page binder. Most near-retirees only face two or three major decisions that truly determine their long-term income, tax efficiency, and peace of mind.” If you’re a federal employee approaching retirement and wondering how to structure your TSP withdrawals, coordinate FEHB with Medicare, or decide when to claim Social Security, this episode breaks down a simpler, step-by-step approach designed to create clarity instead of overwhelm. Click “...
Federal employees near retirement: keeping the same TSP allocation you used at 35 could quietly erode your lifetime income, cost you tax flexibility, and expose your savings to sequence-of-returns risk that drains six figures from your hard-earned balance. Learn the three common TSP mistakes that many federal workers make — and how distribution planning, withdrawal mechanics, and retirement options can make a strategic difference. Get your FREE TSP Retirement Strategy Guide and avoid ...
If you have a defined benefit pension, everything from when you claim Social Security to how you draw your TSP/401k changes — because guaranteed income becomes your foundation for smarter retirement planning. 🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES FREE 15-minute call: https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/complimentary-15-minute-phone-call-youtube Newsletter: https://cdfinancial.com/newsletter Socials: Instagram: https://instagram.com/cdfinancial.llc/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/cdfinancial LinkedIn: https...
Federal retirement planning shouldn’t start when you’re filling out the retirement packet — by then, you’re making lifetime decisions under a deadline. Planning early gives you time to align your benefits with your goals. Learn how to complete your federal retirement paperwork accurately, understand benefit elections, TSP options, survivor benefits, and the retirement submission process before you’re up against the clock. We offer you a FREE 15-minute call to ask questions and start underst...
This special podcast with Ann Wirtz and CD Financial discusses taking control of your financial success. We explore essential aspects of personal finance and financial management to help you make smarter decisions. Learn how to navigate your future with confidence and robust financial planning. Take the quiz: https://lb1nm6qa2sh.typeform.com/to/pKWB4w8b 🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES FREE 15-minute call: https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/complimentary-15-minute-phone-call-youtube Socials: Instagra...
Download the Guide here: https://cdfinancial.com FREE 15-minute call: https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/complimentary-15-minute-phone-call-youtube Are you truly ready to retire? This episode of the CD Financial Podcast dives into key questions about eligibility and financial management, helping you to understand the path to getting ready for retirement. We discuss essential aspects of retirement planning to ensure your financial planning is robust. Newsletter: https://cdfinancial.com/newsle...
Federal Employee Health Benefits (FEHB) & Medicare Part B Explained: What Every Federal Worker and Retiree Must Know in 2025” — get the facts on FEHB cost changes, Medicare coordination, and retirement health planning to avoid unnecessary premium spending and coverage gaps. Discover whether combining FEHB with Medicare Part B or supplements makes sense for you. 👇 Understanding how FEHB works with Medicare Part B and retirement is one of the most important financial planning decisions fed...
Most people never talk about the retirement income gap — the difference between what you think you’ll need and what you actually have saved, and that’s exactly why most retirements fall short. Using disciplined retirement strategies like dollar cost averaging and optimizing employer matches can dramatically improve your long-term success. FREE 15-minute call: https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/complimentary-15-minute-phone-call-youtube Newsletter: https://cdfinancial.com/newsletter Socials:...
2026 TSP and 401(k) contribution limits just increased—here’s how much you can put away, what catch-up really means, and how to set your payroll so you don’t miss it. If you’ve heard the “15% max” myth or you’re unsure whether you’re actually doing catch-up contributions, this episode clears it up—fast. 🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES IRS: 401(k) limit increases to $24,500 for 2026; IRA limit increases to $7,500: https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/401k-limit-increases-to-24500-for-2026-ira-limit-increases...
In this important discussion, we focus on "long term care awareness", especially relevant during Long-Term Care Awareness Month. We examine the critical aspects of "long term care" and effective "financial planning" strategies that align with a minimalist approach to "personal finance". Learn practical insights on "how to save money", drawing from a thoughtful, careful spending philosophy. PS. Asset-based long-term care combines care coverage with savings or life insurance, so you don’t risk...
In this episode of the CD Financial Podcast, Chuck D and Marcus C delve into the implications of the new Secure Act 2.0, particularly focusing on catch-up contributions to retirement accounts. They discuss the differences between Roth and traditional contributions, the tax implications of forced Roth contributions, and the concerns that high earners may have regarding their tax bills. The conversation also touches on the challenges of payroll setup for federal employees and the perceived unfa...
In this episode, Chuck D and Marcus C discuss the recent government shutdown, its effects on employees and retirees, and the importance of having a financial plan. They explore the challenges faced by those returning to work, the uncertainty for retirees, and the mental health benefits of planning and communication in relationships. The conversation emphasizes the need for preparation in the face of potential future shutdowns and the value of having a solid strategy for retirement. The gover...
Should you leave your Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) untouched, roll it to an IRA, or turn it into a lifetime income stream? In this episode, we break down the real-world pros and cons of each TSP retirement option so you don’t accidentally trade away flexibility, tax control, or your spouse’s future security. Most federal employees pick the “simple” choice with TSP—and it can quietly cost them in taxes and lost options later. 👉 FREE 15-minute call: https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/complimentary...
Discover how charitable donations can maximize your tax benefits and support causes you care about. In this video, we unpack: Strategies for effective charitable giving Tax deductions for retirees and business owners Donor-advised funds and philanthropy tips Common mistakes to avoid when giving IRS rules and documentation best practices Key Links & Resources: Book a FREE 15-minute call: https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/complimentary-15-minute-phone-call-youtube Subscribe for weekly t...
Curious about how financial advisors actually earn their income—especially for federal employees and retirees? This video demystifies how advisors are paid, explains fee structures, and helps you choose the best financial guidance for your retirement planning. KEY TOPICS COVERED: Financial advisor fees explained Commission, fee-only, and hybrid models Pros and cons for federal employees and retirees 401K, FERS, TSP, Social Security timing tips How to avoid common advisor pitfalls 🔗 LINKS &a...
Should you work with a financial advisor? Discover when hiring a certified financial planner makes sense for federal employees and retirees—and when DIY investing might be enough. Learn the real value a fiduciary financial advisor brings to your retirement planning, from tax-smart strategies to FERS benefits optimization. Whether you're nearing retirement or managing TSP withdrawals, this guide covers what to expect when working with a professional advisor. 🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES 📞 FREE 15...
Medicare Part B premium costs can jump because of IRMAA (Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount) when your MAGI crosses key thresholds—especially for federal retirees with pensions, Social Security, and RMDs. Learn how timing, Roth conversions, and TRICARE for Life choices can influence your Medicare Part B and Part D costs without panic or fear-mongering. IRMAA isn’t a penalty—it’s a higher Medicare Part B and D premium triggered by income. With smart tax planning, you can navigate the th...















