Shutdown Over: Senate Bill Signed, RIFs Cancelled, but Financial Scars Remain
President Trump signed the funding package on November 12, 2025, ending the longest shutdown on record. What is restored, and what damage is permanent
Federal Employee Resource Blog — page 22
Your 2026 Retirement Savings Goals Just Got Bigger
The IRS has raised 2026 retirement contribution limits, including for the TSP. What the extra room is worth, and who should actually use all of it.
A Glimmer of Hope Amid Unprecedented Job InsecurityTSP Stock Funds Continue Climbing Despite Shutdown Uncertainty
TSP stock funds rose for a third straight month even as the shutdown froze federal paychecks. Why a rising balance is cold comfort without cash flow.
2026 Federal Retirement COLAs Finalized, Highlighting Inflation’s Impact
The January 2026 COLAs are final: 2.8 percent for CSRS and less for FERS. What cooling inflation means for your annuity's purchasing power next year.
A Costly Open Season: FEHB Premiums Spike, Coverage Changes Loom
FEHB enrollee premiums are rising an average of 12.3 percent. Why this Open Season is the one to actually work through rather than roll over blindly.
A Record-Breaking Shutdown Inflicts Deep and Lasting Scars
The shutdown became the longest in U.S. history with no breakthrough in sight. How the strain moved from hardship into lasting financial damage.
2026 Federal Retirement COLAs Finalized, Highlighting Inflation’s Impact
COLAs for January 2026 have been announced by the Social Security Administration. What CSRS and FERS retirees will each receive, and why they differ.
Shutdown Pain Spreads Beyond Federal Workforce, Affecting Public Services
Four weeks into the shutdown, a new survey shows the public feeling the effects too. How the widening damage changes the politics of ending it.
Shutdown Crisis Deepens: Food Aid Threatened for Millions
The shutdown threatened to cut food assistance for millions from November 1. How a federal funding lapse reaches far past the government payroll.
Shutdown Grounds Flights, Highlighting Financial Strain on Unpaid Feds
Flight delays and ground stops at major hubs traced back to unpaid federal staff. What the disruption revealed about the strain on the workforce.
Shutdown Drags On: Senate Reconvenes Amid Stalemate, Federal Workforce Pays the Price
Another week of frozen paychecks as the Senate reconvenes with the funding stalemate unbroken. What federal employees can do while it continues.
Maximize Your Federal Exit: The Lump-Sum Annual Leave Payout Explained
Your unused annual leave is paid as a lump sum when you separate. How it is calculated, how it is taxed, and why the timing of your exit changes it.