Preparing for the DOGE Workforce Reductions (BONUS: Includes the "Delayed Resignation" option)

[@fedimpact-profeds]

Feel like you need to get your federal retirement plans in order? Find in-person training here: FedImpact.com/attend

[@leet47]

You have no way of knowing how helpful this was to me, even in the general "learning about retirement" sense, regardless of the DOGE component. I've been with DOD for almost a decade and really only fully understood about a quarter of this previously. Thank you!

[@fedimpact-profeds]

Wow - thanks! That means a lot to our team who put all this together!

[@albaptist3385]

How can I contact OPM to ask if we will be fully compensated for unused sick leave?

[@Mike--K]

Great webinar, Chris! I retired six years ago and your podcasts were a great benefit to my planning process. My agency did a very bad job of preparing its employees for retirement, so relevant and accurate information from you was wonderful. Although my agency offered an in-house retirement seminar, it was sponsored by contractors who were making sales pitches for their services wrapped loosely around small nuggets of information. To make matters worse, it was open only to those who were within five years of retiring. This type of seminar should be mandatory for all new employees instead of being wasted on those almost out the door. One good thing that I extracted from the agency seminar was my retirement worksheet prepared by the HR department. I noticed immediately that my military deposit was missing from the estimate. The HR rep later confirmed that the CPAC received my deposit confirmation, but did not process it. This was an easy correction and by the end of the week-long seminar (sales pitch), I had a correct worksheet.

[@fedimpact-profeds]

Mike - you're too kind! Thanks so much. We try to reach as many employees as we can to help them before they retire. I'm glad you were one of them!

[@teeybannister]

Wow!! Your presentation is superb, i don’t think i’ve seen a better presentation on KZbin on government retirement. Thank you for the quick presentation in light to what’s occurring in this new administration.🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽🥂✅!!! You’ve earned my subscription

[@fedimpact-profeds]

Wow, thank you! There's a lot floating around out there, so we're glad to help!

[@clamato54]

I really appreciate the earnest effort to put this together

[@jerryzawistowski9841]

There is gray area regarding what happens to you after you resign. Your agency may or may not put you on admin leave and has to complete a position review to determine suitability. The Fork and the road e-mail statement leaves room for interpretation: I am certain of my decision to resign and my choice to resign is fully voluntary. I understand my employing agency will likely make adjustments in response to my resignation including moving, eliminating, consolidating, reassigning my position and tasks, reducing my official duties, and/or placing me on paid administrative leave until my resignation date. I was also told since we are in a CR and there is no budget to support administrative leave. I was also told OPM has no authority over Agency decisions

[@Lala-lw6pi]

They must GUARANTEE a years pay for me to even consider, given the state of the world. And for parents, I’d say 2 years. This 8 months of maybe getting paid or not and maybe having to work is nonsense.

[@managingmonasmoula9811]

I did take a retirement seminar last August 2024 and found the information very helpful. Thank you for sharing this video with all of us.

[@aarondemming]

Thank you for this. The best explanation of options and impacts I have heard so far.

[@PeterZed2012]

This was a great detailed webinar. You answered all the questions I had. Thank you very much!!!

[@butterflygirl3359]

Social Security was exempted from the “resignation deal”. An “exemption” sounds like a “protection”.

[@bradleynielson3887]

Outstanding presentation! It really helped, thank you so much

[@lorimcmahon407]

Thank you so much for making this. It has been very informative and helpful.

[@Handymanprocess]

This was fantastic. Thank you so much for a job well done.

[@fedimpact-profeds]

Glad you enjoyed it! Lots of moving parts on all of this!

[@brown610]

Thank you so much. The webinar was very helpful.

[@fedimpact-profeds]

You're very welcome!

[@brucecrow1142]

Much appreciation for compiling this excellent information on short notice regarding Deferred Resignation!

[@fedimpact-profeds]

Thank you -- glad it was helpful!

[@kimcrosby9077]

My HR department has not responded or provided any information on the deferred resignation. If I reply 'resign' I see no guarantees that I will receive severance pay until sept 30 other than the vague email from OPM HR.

[@gordonause6956]

Protect yourself! Trust your instincts. This program is modeled after what Musk did to Twitter employees. They did not see a payout. Trump has a long history of stiffing his contractors. His recent rug pull of loyal followers who were suckered into his and Melania's meme coins is the latest of example. They have NO honor.

[@gordonause6956]

I'm contracted at the VA right now. Getting ALL the emails. Folks are being warned not to go after that shiny bauble. It's probably an illusion.

[@fedimpact-profeds]

We hear you! Keep in mind that this is NOT severance pay. This is "stay at home and we keep paying you" pay. Think of it like your current pay just continuing until you're really done on 9/30.

[@TheSadezoe]

Friends, I’m addressing this post to America’s 2.3 million federal employees. (Perhaps you are one yourself or know someone who is.) My message: Don’t accept Elon’s offer. Yesterday, Musk - via people he’s planted in the Office of Personnel Management - sent an email to all 2.3 million of you, offering to pay you for eight months of work, through September 30, if you’ll resign from the government before February 6. Otherwise, you risk being furloughed (that is, not paid) or fired. You know what this is about. Not slimming the federal workforce, but substituting Trump loyalists for people like you, who are working for the American public. Stephen Miller, the White House deputy chief of staff for policy, said it out loud Tuesday on CNN: "The 2 million employees in the federal government are overwhelmingly left of center.” And now that Trump is elected, "it is essential for him to get control of government.” But the fact is, neither Musk nor even Trump has legal authority to offer you eight months of pay if you’ll resign by February 6. Your salaries are funded by the federal agencies and departments you work for, not by the Office of Personnel Management, not by Musk, and not by Trump. None of them is authorized by Congress to move money from one agency or department to another without Congress’s approval. I know. I used to be a cabinet secretary. Besides, the funding for your agency or department is guaranteed only through March 14, when the government is expected to shut down unless the debt ceiling is lifted. If not, any commitment for additional pay is worthless. In fact, Musk (and Trump) are violating the law by agreeing to spend money that the administration doesn’t have. Congress could declare the entire offer illegal - which it is. Then where would you be? May I also add that you shouldn’t trust Trump or Musk. Trump has a long history of stiffing workers and contractors. So, for that matter, does Musk. During the pandemic, Musk gave Tesla employees permission to remain at home if they didn’t feel comfortable reporting to the factory. Then he sent them termination notices alleging “failure to return to work.” When he bought Twitter in 2022, Musk denied he wanted to lay off 75 percent of its staff (“No way I’m laying off 75 percent of them”) but then fired 80 percent of them (maybe that’s what he meant when he pledged not to fire 75 percent?) In short, it’s a bum offer. Reject it. By the way, thank you for your service. Yours sincerely, Robert Reich Former U.S. Secretary of Labor

[@blkqueenjm]

My HR knows nothing about this offer

[@staceyolsen431]

While I appreciate the information regarding regular and early retirement under normal circumstances, your advice regarding the deferred resignation option is scary. There has been no approval from congress/budget to pay people for not working. Who will pay this compensation? In addition, the government is operating on a continuing resolution until March, funding for March-Sept is not guaranteed. Elon Musk used this tactic when he bought twitter, the employees that resigned were not paid as promised and lost the lawsuit against Elon Musk. Our unions are advising us NOT to resign. Telling folks this is a good option when we don’t have all the answers is reckless.

[@fedimpact-profeds]

To be clear, we're not giving advice. We're explaining this program as it has been laid out. Regardless, this is an option that's on the table that federal employees are considering, so we need to address it. We can speculate it's legitimacy later, but given a 2/6 deadline, we felt it wasn't best to sit idly by and not explain how it works.

[@staceyolsen431]

Well then you should preface your presentation with that. The statements of “this may feel like a punishment but I hope you’ll look at this as an opportunity“, “you’ll be paid for 33 weeks of pay” “this is a generous offer” “Try to look at the silver lining” were made. The point is, this is not a legitimate offer. If you sign your rights away by replying “resign”, there will be no chance to question legitimacy later. You are not addressing the fact that the budget has not been approved by congress for this. Congress holds the purse strings, not OPM. Again, reckless.

[@dwayneward2808]

​@@staceyolsen431Really smh

[@patticummins3819]

​@fedimpact-profeds VA healthcare workers have no informatiin, if they are exempt from this offer, also they said you must work if your supervisor has not informed you that you have been placed in leave...also veteran healthcare would be at risk

[@SeekAliveness]

True that there is no appropriation beyond 3/14. But Administrative Leave is an active pay status and there is now a law on the books that Feds who are furloughed must receive backpay after a shutdown. So wouldn't those on admin pay also receive backpay, by law?

[@FoxyMcFoxFace93]

This was very helpful, thanks. I'm in a weird spot of 23 years and 43 yrs old. Seems my best bet is to try and hold on for 2 more years in the hopes an early retirement is still an option at that point.

[@Victoria.Henderson]

We’re in the same boat. I’m 50 with 18 years, due to a break in service.

[@chriswilliams5459]

Excellent presentation-thanks!

[@fedimpact-profeds]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@Melifter]

I’m 52 with 29 years of service and I only know four things: (1) stay healthy, (2) keep working to at least the bare minimum MRA at age 57, (3) maximize TSP, especially with the over-50 catch up contribution, and (4) seek promotions when possible. I assume I do this, I’ve covered most of what’s needed.

[@fedimpact-profeds]

Well these are the things that you can (at least somewhat) control -- YES! The good news is that you are eligible for an "early out" or a "discontinued service retirement" if it gets to that point! This will allow you to keep all of the benefits as if you had been fully-eligible (with some minor exceptions).

[@Melifter]

@@fedimpact-profeds, agree, Chris! With an “early out” VERA, if that were to happen, I would jump on it, get with a contractor, and pass on the FERS supplement with essentially another career knowing full well I would be making well above the FERS supplement “earning test” amount.

[@joenicklous7140]

I know of a person who volunteered for the "Delayed Resignation" and replied to the email from OPM. His agency took a look at his situation and determine he was of full retirement age and had enough service time so the agency turn his request into a VERA gave him $25,000 and forced him into retirement. He did not get the 8 months to sit around and collect a check and retire at the end of the 8 months. BE CAREFUL!!!

[@susan6336]

Not sure how they could legally do that. It's not the deal he agreed to.

[@fedimpact-profeds]

This seems far-fetched. Most agencies don't have VERA authority right now (at least not yet), so maybe he mixed up some language when he was describing what happened. He would have been given a VERA offer letter and accept it. This is not something the agency can do TO him. The "V" in VERA stands for VOLUNTARY. He should communicate with his agency IN WRITING to fix this.

[@SpookyEng1]

Sure Random internet guy, this sounds totally legit. Wow, the fear mongering is hilarious😂

[@SeekAliveness]

They processed that within the 4 business days since the Fork email went out to employees on Tuesday? That is the fastest turnaround I've ever heard of, especially since agencies had no idea it was coming. My agency's FAQs page still says "Coming Soon!"

[@TexasMo1]

Great Information!!! Thank you!!!

[@CarGuysINW]

Omg. Do not resign if you are in the Shawn category. Stick it out and aim for that pension with the supplement and keep the health insurance. There are a lot of Shawn's and Shawnas out there. We are really close. Don't resign if you have the age or close to 57 and time put in. Resign and lose the supplement and health insurance. Not worth it. We need to get this video out to everyone via the algorithm. 👍 and a sub

[@fedimpact-profeds]

Yep - this might be tempting for a lot of people to take, but there are VERY real consequences to this decision. There's also some examples we gave in the webinar where SOME people might find this is a REALLY good option. Given the vastness of the scenarios for the millions of federal workers, this will be a very personal decision for everyone. Thanks for subscribing @CarGuysINW!

[@NowWhat7894]

So they're playing word games with us that are 52 and can't retire till 57 😢 I hate these people

[@Melifter]

@@NowWhat7894, I’m 52, as well. 29 years of service.

[@jamesholtz4489]

High 5 coming and Supplement will possibly be going away in the reconciliaton bill. If eligible retire now

[@Melifter]

@@jamesholtz4489 , if, and that’s a big *IF*, the FERS supplement was removed, then the MRA would probably end up being upwardly adjusted. Or, at least, I could see that happening. Time will tell.

[@SpookyEng1]

This presentation highlights the need for employees aged less than 59 1/2 to have a 6-12 month emergency fund outside of TSP!

[@justinjex1]

Yep! Just that easy.

[@Spadeshunni]

While I understand this offer to be quite tempting, to promote "a silver lining" with a delayed resignation without having the legal authority to implement this action is perplexing to me. Why would you even encourage feds to consider this action knowing that any number of possible loopholes exist (or will be enacted via another EO) to screw people out of their pensions, at a minimum? This does not make sense to me. Thank you for explaining the differences in separation scenarios though.

[@fedimpact-profeds]

I get it -- but this isn't all doom and gloom. For CERTAIN people, this can be lucrative. For others, it would be a really bad idea! Loopholes or not, people are making a decision...

[@geezercam9070]

Great presentation! There are a lot of people saying don't trust this offer because nothing is really official. My wife is planning to retire this spring anyway so it would seem like she could get 4 months extra time and pay and not work. But you know if it sounds to good to be true it might not be.

[@kencapps5809]

Great job, thanks!

[@fedimpact-profeds]

You're welcome! We hope this was helpful to federal employees trying to make this important decision with limited information!

[@OleyTube]

Great info, thank you. For me, the deferred resignation is mostly the "cream on the top". I'm 65, 42 years of service, and over a year of saved sick leave. My plans were to retire in July, and to get a part time job. I had a major question, and was happy to learn from your webinar that my health benefits will still apply in a long term admin situation, through 30 Sep. I asked that to my HR yesterday and they couldnt answer me on that. I also asked my boss if I'd be immediately pushed into admin (no work situation) and if i could still have a few months to complete projects, mentor younger staff, etc and thankfully he replied no, providing an interpretation of the letter.

[@fedimpact-profeds]

You are in the strongest of positions, by far! The fact that you are ALREADY eligible makes this a much easier decision for you. Thanks for your lifetime of service. 😁

[@DISCOVER_T]

You are overdue for retirement !! Let others move up. Thank you for your service!!

[@OleyTube]

Appreciate your kind words, I do plan to leave, they've already hired my replacement and I'm helping to train him.

[@DISCOVER_T]

@@OleyTube You should have at least 1M in your TSP. I have 11 years and 450K in the TSP.

[@Channel-kc9dh]

Excellent overview! With the RIF will probationary employees (those with less than a year of service) be first? Being on probation, it seems like the deferred resignation may be a good exit instead of being let go with no severance.

[@GodBlessAmerica55]

Those with the least amount of service are at higher risk in the RIF process.

[@fedimpact-profeds]

The RIF protocol is complicated. Check this out: www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/workforce-restructuring/reductions-in-force/

[@chinoyhealingfoodstravels8888]

This is very helpful more than you ever know. 👍🏽👍🏽Will the 5% per year penalty end when you reach 62? I am referring to Brett’s case 57 with 10 years of service. This is priceless🌷🌷

[@Nancy-w6f]

How much from our eOPF should be download? Just our last SF50 or paperwork from 30+ years of records?

[@fedimpact-profeds]

Get the whole record! You will NOT have access to any of that once you leave service! It is unclear what access employees will have to systems like this once they are in administrative leave status, so it's best to download the entire thing NOW!

[@Alabasterbaks]

Excellent info - thank you

[@fedimpact-profeds]

Thanks -- Glad it was helpful!

[@jasonweishaupt1828]

How do we dodge the DOGE!? 😮

[@fedimpact-profeds]

VERY carefully! 😂

[@jasonweishaupt1828]

@ gotta practice my Matrix moves!

[@kerriedufseth8893]

Since this deferred resignation was not approved by congress or have budget approval is it legal or binding?

[@jim2329]

I have never seen an HR department ever work for the betterment of the employees. That said I'm secheduled to retire at the end of Feb and I think I'll stick to that date. Pulling the retiremetn paperwork allows OPM time to alter the retirement benefits.

[@fedimpact-profeds]

For many people, the "unknowns" are just too big to feel comfortable with this offer. Sounds like retiring in February will be the right thing for you (and your stress level)! Good luck and thank you for your service!

[@raidernumber42]

Wow what a video! I have a follow up: what if they shut down the government? Can people who take the deferred resignation still be paid (or paid back) along side normal federal employees?

[@fedimpact-profeds]

You'll be considered an employee until 9/30 and treated like everyone else. So if the government shuts down and doesn't pay their people for a while, you'll be part of that group, but will receive the back pay (just like you would have in any other year where that has happened).

[@blkqueenjm]

​@fedimpact-profeds do you know this for sure?

[@raidernumber42]

@@blkqueenjm she is right. I actually got an email from my department today clarifying this unequivocally. Sent to the entire department.

[@raidernumber42]

@@fedimpact-profeds I resigned a few hours ago

[@lesliejackson7971]

I’m not in any category. I’m 61 with a little over 3 years toward my pension. It seems staying I will be definitely let go because I am insignificant in the scheme of things. The “offer” is attractive but not legal. This is the most important part. Although the last email literally said it was legal- there is no evidence that it is. Oddly, the President is not saying a word about it……

[@fedimpact-profeds]

In most ways, you are like Aaron in our example. Meaning, you having less than 5 years of service makes you currently ineligible for a pension because you are not vested. There's definitely a lot to consider!

[@cheliospanama9786]

Thank you 😮

[@davidbanner425]

Excellent!

[@StephenStollmeyer]

I’m 57 with 15 years in. I took the deal.

[@S_Blunt]

I'm 39 with 14 years, and I'm considering. Did the follow-up email provide a bit more clarity?

[@fedimpact-profeds]

Sounds like this felt like the right offer for you. Thank you for your service!

[@fedimpact-profeds]

At age 39 with 14 years of service, you're like Carolyn in this example. You'll have a pension at age 62 if you take this offer. Of course, there are a lot of factors that go into this decision, but we're glad you're thinking through the details.

[@SpookyEng1]

I’m 60 with 13 and am considering (26 years in the military). Waiting on some HR clarification and some better guidance. I have two coworkers doing the same.

[@elbonnoble1391]

Great presentation, thank you. I'm 56, VA, employed for 6 years. I think taking the offer on the table is in my best interest and find another position.

[@lindabranch8294]

Will those who accept newly proposed delayed resignation be grandfathered and not be subject to other changes.

[@fedimpact-profeds]

There's no guarantee of that, but most of the new legislation (mentioned at the end of the video) is aiming to change benefits for how benefits for NEWLY hired employees are changed.

[@edblaus4869]

I will have 20 years on 9/19/2025 and will be 61 yrs old. If I take the deferred resignation will I still be able apply for retirement and when would be a strategic time to submit my retirement paperwork? Will I still get paid with this special deal on administrative leave after I submit my retirement for September? (Excellent Presentation - I shared with all my co-workers)

[@apljoe]

I basically have the same question regarding resigning and being able to pull the trigger on full retirement.

[@kracticuspotts9686]

Do you have a video that deeply explains the RIF that looks eminent? My question is I am not a veteran but have more years of service than all of the veterans I work with? Will i be cut before them?

[@fedimpact-profeds]

We don't have a video on that, but here's an OPM guide that describes the pecking order for RIF: www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/workforce-restructuring/reductions-in-force/

[@kracticuspotts9686]

@fedimpact-profeds thank you

[@TheToxicP]

From reading the link below previously, my interpretation is that you'd share the same Group 1 but than you'd be in subgroup B while a Veteran would be subgroup A or AD. Your rankings within the subgroups would be based upon time in service & your performance scores. They'd eliminate all members of subgroup B before moving up to subgroup A or AD. In other words, you aren't beating out someone with Veterans Preference. Of course there's also a little note that I noticed that many military retirees wouldn't get the Veterans Preference for RIF purposes. The relevant passage was: Determining Retention Standing-Veterans' Preference for Retired Members of the Armed Forces By law (i.e., the Dual Compensation Act of 1964, as presently codified in section 3501(a) of title 5, United States Code), a retired member of the Armed Forces is a veteran under the RIF regulations only if the employee meets one of the following three conditions: The Armed Forces retirement (without regard to benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs) is directly based upon a combat‑incurred disability or injury; or The Armed Forces retirement is based upon less than 20 years of active duty; or The employee has been working for the Government since November 30, 1964, without a break in service of more than 30 days.

[@parler8698]

Nancy is living 😂her best life!!!

[@fedimpact-profeds]

😎 She is indeed!

[@passportology]

I subscribed for the good content.

[@JaniceMitchell-z4z]

So if there is a government shutdown how will this effect the people who take this offer? Will they choose not to pay? I just don't have a good and fuzzy feeling about the DOGE offer!

[@fedimpact-profeds]

If there's a government shutdown, you may not get paid right away, but you'll still get the back pay (just like what happens every time there's a government shutdown). You'll be in the same boat as employees who didn't take the resignation.

[@roverbeagle]

Question about Brett's options during a RIF. Brett is eligible for an immediate pension based on his MRA but with a 25% penalty, does he have the option to take a Postponed pension to avoid the MRA penalty? Thanks

[@fedimpact-profeds]

Great question -- Brett DOES have the same options to postpone to avoid the penalty (just like he would normally be able to do)!

[@patticummins3819]

VHA Healthcare no info on providers, they will need to stay

[@kevinhanson48]

Under deferred retirement, would an employee with 30 or more years of service get cost of living increases before age 62 since they lose the FERS supplement?

[@fedimpact-profeds]

FERS employees do not get COLAs on their pensions until reaching age 62. There are some exceptions to that (like for law enforcement officers), but that is the standard.

[@marcb3181]

Great presentation - I was a little confused by one point. I thought a RIF is considered a triggering event for a Discontinued Service Retirement (at least that is what it currently says on OPM's website), so wouldn't that mean that employees who are RIF'd are not eligble for severance pay since they are eligible for DSR (Shawn and Jackie in your example)

[@sinepari9160]

Who will do the work? I'm guessing contractors.

[@curtis3129]

I will be age 62 on Jan 10, 2026 with 39 years of service and wanted to retire then to get the 10% bump in my pension (to offset the spousal benefit which is a 10% reduction) - Will be a wash. If I retire by 9/30/25 under this deferred retirement my pension will be reduced $7,000 per year for the rest of my life. I am thinking of staying and taking my retirement on Jan 10, 2026 which is when I turn 62 and is also the leave year end. Maybe they will offer a VSIP before then to cover the Jan 10, 2026 date.

[@Mike--K]

Are you sure about your calculation? The FERS years of service multiplier is 1% for those under the age of 62 and 1.1% for those 62 and older. It is a 0.1% increase, not a 10% increase.

[@curtis3129]

@@Mike--K Yes it is a 10% increase (1.1% factor versus 1.0%) 39 years * 1.10 = 42.9% of high 3 versus 39 years*1.0=39% of high 3. (This difference is approx. a $7,000 dollar a year diff in my pension). You do not get the FERS supplement at 62 or older but you do get the 10% increase to your years of service which increases your pension.

[@fedimpact-profeds]

I see the confusion, Mike. The difference between the 1% and the 1.1% calculation yields a 10% difference in the pension when all the math is done.

[@nikiseptember]

I would love your input I’m 44 with 12 years creditable service. I don’t enjoy working for the government. I love working with Vets because I am one. I’m ready to try something new and different. Maybe state or county or even go back to school. 🤷🏽‍♀️

[@frankfitzmaurice2759]

Are any of these legislative proposals grandfathered in?

[@Dozerd6t]

I’m a Shawn 53.5 years old and 30 years vested. Veteran 5 points. I bought back military time. Nervous. Just got VRA promotion to a supervisor. Got 700k in tsp. What should I do?

[@fedimpact-profeds]

I can't tell you what you SHOULD do, but you are in (what I believe to be) the most vulnerable group for this offer. If you leave now, you only get a DEFERRED retirement. Don't confuse this with this "Deferred/Delayed Resignation" offer. With a Deferred retirement, you lose your FEGLI, FEHB and the Supplement. Plus, in your case, because you're not in the calendar year that you turn age 55, you'll be hit with a 10% early withdrawal penalty for any money you take from TSP between now and age 59 1/2.

[@Dozerd6t]

What if I get offered a VERA?

[@fedimpact-profeds]

VERAs aren't on the table yet (for the vast majority of agencies), but a VERA would put you in a pretty good spot. You would get an immediate pension through a VERA.

[@Dozerd6t]

I’ll wait it out. I was deemed essential. Telework was never an option in my position. I worked day one during Covid. Thanks and I’ll sign up for your service. ❤

[@damesters12]

What if Sept 30 2025 is 25 days shy of one's 62 birthday. Eligible for MRA + 10.... What % of reduction for being under age 62?

[@lorimcmahon407]

I believe they would only penalize 5/12 percent. I'm shy 60 days.

[@fedimpact-profeds]

This is one of the instances where you should contact your agency to ask for a short extension to the 9/30 deadline for a retirement date by 10/31. Do this in writing (email) so you are documenting their response!

[@ctguy3963]

This has been the best/most information I've received since the notification. I just crossed over 5 years of service in Oct. 2024. My question is two-fold: This additional 33 weeks of creditable service (if I accept the offer) wont take me to a full sixth year for FERS calculation; will the additional 33 weeks be calculated to/for benefit my FERS retirement benefit? Or do I have to have another full year (52 weeks), not a fractional year, to be counted for FERS years calculation? My second question is: I have over 500 hours of sick leave banked; I was told that this can be credited toward time that is calculated to my FERS retirement calculation. Will that still be the case with the final amount of sick leave I have/will acrue as of 09-3--2025 (if I accept the offer) ? Thank you in advance for your guidance on this.

[@fedimpact-profeds]

I'm glad we can help! You ask some great questions here... The extra 33 weeks (between now and 9/30) WILL be added to your creditable service for when your pension is calculated. This is true even if it's not a full year (full months are also included in this calculation, so you don't need to have a full year for any of it to count). The answer to the sick leave question will be dependent on how old you are on 9/30! --If you are AT LEAST AGE 62 by 9/30, then your sick leave WILL be included in your pension calculation because you'll be receiving an immediate pension. --If you are UNDER AGE 62 by 9/30, then your sick leave WILL NOT be included in your pension calculation because you'll be receiving a deferred pension (you'll be able to start it at age 62).

[@ctguy3963]

@@fedimpact-profeds Thank you for the quick reply and answer. This is very helpful. One last question?? During this 33 week deferred `resignation period; my understanding is that all normal benefits and retirement accrual will continue to include accrual of PTO I'm assuming, is that correct? And if so we will I receive that as an additional payment whatever PTO we have accrued up until 09-30-25 ?

[@jwil3284]

If someone has 4.5 years of service and would make it to 5 during the delayed resignation, would they have a pension available?

[@fedimpact-profeds]

Yes - your service will continue to accrue during the time between now and 9/30. If by 9/30 you have at least 5 years of service, you will be vested to receive a pension at age 62. Spoiler alert: It won't be a giant pension, but it's something.

[@usandmexico]

For those that are vested in FERS but are far from reaching retirement, how can they determine how much they get when they retire? I'm thinking of Carolyn among the examples provided.

[@fedimpact-profeds]

The general retirement formula is: High-3 average salary X # years/months of service X 1% = Pension Let's say the average of your highest 3 years of pay was $50,000 and you had 5.5 years of service, then it would look like this: $50,000 X 5.5 years X 1% = $2,750/year

[@Merbella]

I have 2 years of service and I'm 51. I'm thinking to roll the dice and stay working. I hope I don't get RIF'D later. Any advice?

[@mackenzie3331]

What makes you believe OPM has the legal cover to offer 33months. Isn’t this possibly a violate of the the Anti-Deficiency Act?

[@duongbellaire]

I am in the same category as Nancy, should I choose my retirement date on 9/30/2025 the same date as the deferred resignation date will I lose retirement benefits (fehb fegli)? .

[@fedimpact-profeds]

If you're like Nancy (who is already eligible to retire), you can reset your retirement papers to reflect a 9/30 retirement date. You won't lose any of your benefits, but you will have the benefit of not coming to work during that time. Seems crazy that this is the plan, but that's what the OPM guidance says!

[@duongbellaire]

Thank you so much

[@ctguy3963]

Thank you for the quick reply and answer to my last question. Very helpful. One last question?? During this 33 week deferred `resignation period; my understanding is that all normal benefits and retirement accrual will continue to include continued accrual of PTO to be added to my currently accrued hours, I'm assuming, is that correct? And if so we will I receive that as an additional payment whatever PTO we have accrued up until 09-30-25 ?

[@Ben78255]

I thought you can access TSP penalty free under 55 if you elect withdrawal based on life expectancy

[@fedimpact-profeds]

You're right, but that locks you into a certain way of taking TSP money that may not be good for you (think taxes, when you need larger lump sums of cash, etc)

[@Ben78255]

​​​@@fedimpact-profedsyes, but it's good to know it's out there. It must be kept for years or until 59 1/2 whichever is later then we can change the withdrawal method. 1:17:41 Good webinar...shared!

[@rickbatulan9535]

I am not in any of the categories you mentioned I only have a year and 3 months in government service. I am older but don’t qualify to anything due to my short time in service. Is it more likely that I will be part of the RIF? I’m thinking the answer is yes. So should I wait to see what happens after Feb 6 or take the Delayed Resignation?

[@fedimpact-profeds]

You're in an interesting spot (you're like Aaron in the video). You have less than 5 years of service, so you're not vested for a pension yet. If you don't believe that you'll survive a RIF, taking this 33 weeks of continued pay (vs. the 1-2 weeks of severance pay that you'd receive if you were RIFed), may give you a better exit. This is all a very personal decision that each person needs to make, but I'm glad you're giving this a lot of thought!

[@PhongTran72]

How about Substantially Equal Periodic Payment (SEPP)? This plan let you avoid the 10% TSP withdrawal penalty on TSP if you retire before age 55.

[@Wi77iam]

I’m 47 with 25 years of service and over 30% VA disability. I hope my agency offers VERA.

[@marcb3181]

Sorry for asking this again, but is someone who is RIF'd eligible for DSR? Your examples on the presenation seem to indicate no, as VERA eligble folks seem to get severance only as a result of a RIF, but OPM's guidance seems to indicate that if you are RIF'd and meet the age/time in service requirements, you would be eligible for a DSR (which seems to be the same as a VERA). Thanks.

[@mikeb1336]

I'm in strange spot - I get 10 years in September 15, but my age will be 57 in August. So I qualified for a pension because of the years but not eligible because I don't have the age 57 1/2 😬 - I'm not sure what my options with the drawdown and Riffs around the corner...

[@TomG1555]

Note that some things, like the FERS Special Retirement Supplement, have been on a list circulated by the GOP in Congress as items to either reform or eliminate entirely. Unfortunately, a lot of the rules and standards that typical fed retirement advice are based on may not be the same in short order...or, nothing may come of it. Though, in the current environment, the "don't worry, things aren't likely to change a lot" advice seems out of date.

[@dark-matter-tek]

I’m in Carolyn category and considering taking the “delayed resignation” and our agency leadership has said it’s legal and lawful. I was considering leaving once I hit my 5 years to get pension later regardless in May 2025. But it sounds fishy, congress says there’s no guaranteed money past march 15 and also there’s a law that was just passed for admin leave to only be a certain length, not 7 months. What would you advise?

[@fedimpact-profeds]

Well, right now there's no guaranteed money beyond March for the government PERIOD. 😵 That's true whether this offer is legit or not. I'm glad to hear that your agency is giving some reassurance that this is legitimate. As for the "admin leave" regulation, there are exceptions being made to lots of things right now. Perhaps this is one of them (meaning, they'll find a reason this time limitation doesn't apply here).

[@artkids8338]

Is the VERA offer available if someone is 7/8 FTE (not full time)?

[@mconnors211]

Here’s the question to ask: “Have any of the letters from OPM been signed?” The answer is NO. So don’t be surprised when, rather than pay, you receive a signed letter from OPM saying: “A rogue employee sent correspondence that should not have been sent. This employee has been dismissed. We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused. But rest assured your resignation date of Sept 30, 2025 will not be changed.”

[@RiseSparkleJoy]

Agreed. It’s very irresponsible for the presenter to tell people this made up delayed resignation foolishness is a viable option.

[@fedimpact-profeds]

Many employees are reporting more "official" correspondence that they're getting from their agency. Perhaps you'll get something like that to ease your concerns of the legitimacy of this offer. The offer was certainly made in an unorthodox way (very "un-government" like)!

[@fedimpact-profeds]

Call us irresponsible, but not addressing any of this would be more irresponsible. There are MILLIONS of federal employees considering taking this offer (regardless how legit you believe it is). We felt it was important to lay out what the offer is and some very important things to consider.

[@SpookyEng1]

@@fedimpact-profeds My agency (DoD) is sending out guidance.

[@mconnors211]

@ it’s no much targeted at the presenter, rather it’s aimed at Federal workers.

[@tomatodo8334]

I wish you had a person in your case studies of 56 years old (MRA of 56yrs 8 months) and with 19 years of service.

[@fedimpact-profeds]

"Brett" is close to your situation. Both of you would be considered "MRA+10" if you take the offer.

[@MsShawann]

Are part time employees able to take advantage of this offer and continue to accrue part time benefits and pay?

[@denbren2010]

When can we find out about disability retirement

[@fedimpact-profeds]

Disability retirements are complicated, but this link will give you an idea of the process. fedimpact.com/filing-for-federal-disability/ Spoiler alert: it's not fast!

[@lauriecole5976]

Do you know if a NAF retirement plan vs FERS would not have the MRA 10 rule if subjected to RIF at 59 with 13 years. Would rather get severance and defer pension to after 62 to get the 1.1 calc.

[@DISCOVER_T]

You need 20 years of service to get the 1.1

[@TX12321]

I am 57 years old with 4+ years of service, completing 5 years before September. If I take the current offer, will I be keep my health and life insurance ? Thank you in advance

[@zm5513]

Are 1811 Federal Agent like in HSI, ATF , NCIS that are on probation at risk of being let go

[@manchitas3531]

Starts at 12:12

[@JP5411]

Can any of the proposed retirement changes be done in the federal budget or do they have to be introduced as bills?

[@bekindandhappy80]

How can each federal agency pay the individuals who take the deferred resignation if their budget gets cut after the CR? These people who take it may not get paid. 😢 Oh, and there is a statute that limits federal agencies to pay only up to 10 days of administrative leave. What happens on day 11? Agencies should ignore the law? Will they? I am not certain they will.

[@TW-ii5hh]

Thanks for doing this but I’ll say this is probably too important to have done during the middle of the workday. I suspect you would’ve had ten times the participation if done outside work hours.

[@fedimpact-profeds]

We maxed out every webinar room we had available with THOUSANDS of people present and THOUSANDS of questions. We needed to get this out quickly (given the urgent nature of this offer). Luckily, the replay is available for many more to watch when it's convenient to them!

[@OfAvernus]

Great video. A little disappointed that there isnt a 15 year example, though.

[@SeekAliveness]

same, no examples of people in their 30s or 40s with less than 25 yrs of service. I guess because there's nothing different in our case than the person with 5 yrs of service (just our pension at 62 will be higher because we have more years of service).

[@libbyjames1263]

I’m like Nancy 41 years of federal service and age 64 turning 65 in August so that offer is perfect for me - I should make make retirement date 30 Sep - Correct????

[@fedimpact-profeds]

First, you will submit the resignation by replying to the OPM email as described at opm.gov/fork You will get an email confirmation from your agency that they have received the resignation (OPM is updating the agencies) Then, you will submit a normal retirement package with a retirement date of 9/30.

[@libbyjames1263]

@ thanks😀

[@dulblades1]

I thought if u go out on Vera your pension is reduced vs full retirement age - 1% vs 1.1% x yrs of service x high 3

[@fedimpact-profeds]

If you go out on VERA, your pension would be calculated at the 1% level. This is true because you didn't make it to the age (62) that would have allowed you to reach the 1.1% calculation. Your pension will also naturally be lower than if you served several more years to be fully-eligible because your high-3 won't be as high and you won't have as many years of service. However, this is NOT considered a "penalty" for purposes of this conversation. In the webinar, we talked about Brett's scenario (MRA+10)... He suffers an actual penalty because his pension is calculated at the 1% level, but then his pension is penalized 5% for every year he is under age 62. Hope that clarifies that point better!

[@lindalufkin6404]

I'm considering taking the deferred resignation offer. But what would be the best retirement date to use if you're paid through September 30? Would you put your retirement date as October 1? By the way, I was leary of the offer until this afternoon when we received an official email from the Department of Interior.

[@fedimpact-profeds]

You would put a retirement date of 9/30! 1-Accept the resignation offer by replying "resign" to the OPM email, then 2-Submit retirement papers showing a retirement date of 9/30

[@splc2010]

Age 61, with 22yrs 9/30/ 25 and FERS, Am I eligible for Special Retirement Supplement ?

[@hawajop]

yes, you are eligible due to meeting one of the fully eligible 'immediate' retirement criteria and that is being at least 60yo with 20 years of service. You are eligible but SRS payments stops when you turn 62yo.

[@fedimpact-profeds]

Yep - What @hawajop said!

[@calvinwallace876]

I am 63 years old with 12 years of service? with TSP, will I be able to retired.

[@fedimpact-profeds]

If the question is "are you eligible to retire?" then the answer is yes. Being "able" to retire and have enough money is a completely different question! 🙂

[@SpookyEng1]

You meet the MRA+ 10 requirement with no pre-age 62 deduction.

[@fedimpact-profeds]

@@SpookyEng1 Not exactly -- this employee is already full eligible because he meets the "age 62 with 5 years of service" eligibility requirement. But you're right that there won't be any penalty!

[@jgill1964]

60 years old 11 years of service. Eligible?

[@kerriedufseth8893]

Can a term full time employee take the deferred resignation?

[@fedimpact-profeds]

Yes - the offer states that you must be a full-time employee, but it does not delineate between "permanent" or "temporary"

[@Nunya-l7n]

Is it correct that the offer from DOGE (Musk) is not official and that DOGE can’t enforce, support or honor the offer?

[@fedimpact-profeds]

Many employees are reporting more "official" correspondence that they're getting from their agency. Perhaps you'll get something like that to ease your concerns of the legitimacy of this offer. The offer was certainly made in an unorthodox way (very "un-government" like)!

[@JosephC-b2c]

If you were riffed from active duty, does that count as the severance pay that would make me ineligible for civilian federal service severance pay? Does the fact I can normally retire make me ineligible for a severance regardless? Are we sure you will accrue FERS time while on admin leave? What if a continuing resolution isn't extended or budget approved? can they just not pay you, Can Chris or anyone speak with me?

[@baochauduong6329]

I have just been hired as a federal employee couple months ago. Am I in the risk of federal workforce reduction later on?

[@fedimpact-profeds]

Oh yes - you'll be one of the first to go.

[@henryjoseph2576]

@@fedimpact-profedsis that true with 18 months of service?

[@beezab8569]

I am 60 with 1 year and 7 months left to hit 20 years (just when I hit 62). I feel like I am in a bad place right now. I am so confused.

[@fedimpact-profeds]

You are like "Brett" in the example in that you have met your minimum retirement age and you have at least 10 years of service. If you were to take the special resignation on 9/30, you would be able to either take a penalized pension now (the penalty would be between 5-10% and it is forever), or you could wait to draw your pension until you reach age 62. We did a webinar on MRA+10 retirements a while back, so maybe it will help for you to watch that! Here it is: fedimpact.com/webinar/replay-retiring-early-under-the-mra10-rules/

[@lanahaley7954]

Curious, i resigned last year and plan to apply for a deferred retirement in 5 years. Will the possible legislative changes apply in this case?

[@fedimpact-profeds]

I like where you're head is at, but no. If you've already left last year, this legislation will have no effect on your pension or other benefits!

[@AnneCarter-i2l]

I thought you needed 30 years of service and MRA to qualify for the supplement under VERA - is this correct?

[@fedimpact-profeds]

Nope - you just need to be entitled to an immediate annuity (which VERA is). The difference is that you won't receive the Supplement until you reach your MRA (55-57 depending on your year of birth). So if you take an early out (VERA) at age 50 with 20 years of service, you'll get the Supplement from your MRA until you reach age 62!

[@chrisperry8220]

So if I am fully eligible to retire now can I elect to retire in lieu of any RIF when notified of said RIF?

[@fedimpact-profeds]

That's exactly right! Even if we go into RIF mode (which we're not technically in right now), if you're already eligible, you just submit your retirement paperwork and go about your life!

[@susan6336]

Be like Nancy, who was going to retire before 9/30 anyway! Yay Nancy! Excellent workshop!

[@fedimpact-profeds]

#NancyLivingHerBestLife 😎

[@esteemedmortal5917]

Helpful in some ways but makes a HUGE assumption that this deferred resignation is 1) legal 2) will be funded. Given that there are a lot of caveats and I trust Elon Musk as far as I can throw him, I have little to no faith in this offer.

[@blacklovelyme9326]

Yep

[@keyskeyboard]

Agreed

[@fedimpact-profeds]

I respect that comment AND there are a lot of people who are trying to make this decision for themselves. We're explaining this program as it has been laid out. Regardless, this is an option that's on the table that federal employees are considering, so we need to address it. We can speculate it's legitimacy later, but given a 2/6 deadline, we felt it wasn't best to sit idly by and not explain how it works.