For many federal employees, the question that looms large as retirement approaches is simple: “How much will I have?” Just as important is the follow‑up: “Can I have more?” Unfortunately, there’s no clear answer if you don’t have a plan.
Why planning matters
Federal retirement benefits are generous, but they are also complex. Under the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), your pension is only one part of a three-pronged system. You also receive Social Security and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), and you pay into both with each paycheck. Yet, according to a recent survey summarised by retirement experts, only about 40% of non-retirees with a retirement account feel their savings are on track, and 71% of non-retired adults report moderate concern about the adequacy of their retirement savings.
That’s alarming when you consider that most people will need 70–80 % of their pre‑retirement income to maintain their lifestyle in retirement. With rising costs, longer life expectancies and evolving health‑care needs, winging it isn’t an option. Far too many federal employees fail to take full advantage of the tools and plans available to them. Without a strategy, you could end up working longer than necessary or settling for less than you deserve.
The power of a plan
The good news is that federal benefits can be optimised. Your Basic Benefit Plan, Social Security and TSP contributions work together , and careful planning helps ensure you’re making the most of them. That’s where a Comprehensive Annual Benefits Report (CABS) comes in. Think of CABS as your personal roadmap. It shows where you are now and outlines how to get where you want to be.
- Personalised snapshot: CABS factors in your FERS or CSRS pension, Social Security estimates, TSP balance and any other savings or investments you may have.
- Gap analysis: You can see exactly how close you are to reaching your retirement income goal and identify ways to close any shortfall.
- Actionable recommendations: Whether you’re decades away from retirement or only a few years out, CABS delivers strategies tailored to your age, agency and desired lifestyle.
- Protection for your family: Part of planning is ensuring your loved ones will be OK if something happens to you. CABS helps you evaluate survivor benefits and life‑insurance options.
Make it happen on your terms
Our team at Federal Benefits Information Center (FBIC) has helped thousands of federal employees craft their retirement story. We listen to your goals, analyse your benefits and create a clear, step‑by‑step plan. Many of our clients are surprised to discover that they can not only sustain but even improve their lifestyle in retirement — once they understand how to leverage every piece of their benefits package.
Get your free report
To help you get started, we offer a Free Comprehensive Annual Benefits Report with no hidden fees or strings attached. It’s your blueprint for retiring when you want to — not when you have to.
Ready to see where you stand? Schedule a free benefits review with one of our specialists and start planning a retirement that fits your dreams.
