Pay & Benefits

What to expect while you’re expecting (your retirement benefit, that is)

The OPM director uses his weekly updates to detail efforts to replace paper applications, guide employees through the Online Retirement Application system, and address delays and data issues in retirement processing.

Management

The end of the ‘Fork in the Road’

A new online retirement system, coupled with record summer claim volumes, has created delays and confusion for federal employees transitioning to annuitant status, even as OPM works to streamline processing and reduce errors.

Pay & Benefits

The best dates to retire in 2026

Step into retirement on the right day with this annual guide.

Pay & Benefits

What to know before setting your 2026 retirement date

Immediate vs. deferred retirement, the three-day rule, and why the last day of the month often makes the most sense.

Pay & Benefits

The milestone ages that matter most for retirement planning

From catch-up contributions to required distributions, federal employees face key ages that can shape retirement income, benefits and tax planning.

Pay & Benefits

Did you forget to file for Social Security?

Federal employees older than 70 may be leaving thousands on the table. Find out if you or your spouse are missing Social Security benefits.

Pay & Benefits

Bill would give all workers federal-level retirement benefits

A sweeping proposal could extend Federal Employees Retirement System–level pensions to the private sector, reshaping how Americans plan for retirement.

Pay & Benefits

As Social Security turns 90, lessons from the past can guide its future

From hurricane preparedness to policy reform, history shows how learning from past challenges can shape a stronger Social Security system moving forward.

Pay & Benefits

How federal employees can check if their retirement estimate is accurate

Estimating your post-retirement income isn’t just math, it’s about getting the right data, understanding your service credit and avoiding costly missteps.

Pay & Benefits

Why federal retirements are spiking this year

A sharp rise in retirement claims may be tied to fear instead of planning. If you're eyeing the exit, make sure you're not rushing into something you'll regret.

Pay & Benefits

OPM’s digital retirement application is live. What that means for feds planning to retire

The new electronic retirement system promises a faster, more accurate process, but some users are still adjusting to the change.

Pay & Benefits

What’s really going on with Social Security? Here’s what the latest numbers say

Benefits won’t disappear in 2033, but the clock is ticking. Here’s what federal retirees need to know.

Pay & Benefits

Retired and confused about Medicare Part B? You’re not alone

From late penalties to premium reimbursements, here’s what every retired fed should understand about enrolling in Medicare Part B—and how it works with your FEHB plan.

Pay & Benefits

Think you're ready to tap your TSP? Here's what you might be missing

Before touching your Thrift Savings Plan funds, make sure you understand the rules—and the risks—you might not have planned for.

Pay & Benefits

The ‘new deal’ for federal retirement: What the latest FERS proposals really mean for your benefits

Federal retirement has been a hot topic on Capitol Hill lately, with proposed changes sparking plenty of questions. Here’s a look at what’s on the table now.

Pay & Benefits

Getting ready to retire 

What you should do and how you should approach your retirement and health benefits planning before leaving federal service.