Working in Congress | Must Know Financial Facts

[@MelissaDargan]

Hey all! I want to know what other things you wish you knew before you started working in Congress?! UPDATE: If you liked this, check out the video "TSP 101: Thrift Savings Plan EXPLAINED in 15min" - kzbin.info/www/bejne/oJbHgJlne8x6ZtU

[@MelissaDargan]

@Sapphire Fire good question. I’ll add this request to future content of how to get a job in Congress 👍🏼

[@MelissaDargan]

Quick update, as you asked how people get a job on Capitol Hill, I wanted to share my newly released video on how to find a paid DC internship: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iJS9qJKmj5WIbLM Many staffers in Congress start as interns, so that is one route of how to get a job as a Congressional Staffer. Since most internships are 'unpaid' I share tips on how to find a PAID offer!

[@elizabethmedina2620]

Can you make a "dress for success" video? Tips for interviews, management fits, meeting fits, etc...

[@hamyankee9437]

I am 43 and just changed my career by joining as a district staffer. Thank you for taking the time to make this video with outstanding information!

[@MelissaDargan]

Hope it helped and cheers to working in the district office!

[@brennan7017]

This is so helpful! Thank you!

[@rumerlegendre2680]

I LOVE your videos! some topic suggestions: can you talk about the pros and cons of taking an entry-level staff assistant job on capitol hill despite the low pay, advancing on the hill, making friends on the hill (pre and post covid)

[@MelissaDargan]

Thanks and great suggestions! I'll add to the cue of content I am working on for Spring 2021. Definitely appreciate the feedback and lmk if you have any other ideas!

[@saatalety9384]

Good advice on TSP!

[@MelissaDargan]

Glad you think so! What is crazy is when I first started, there was no ROTH TSP option... #FeelingOld haha

[@belindalei9171]

I never knew about this before! Can't wait to learn more from upcoming videos :)

[@MelissaDargan]

A new video coming each week 👌🏼. Stay tuned!

[@bradfitch00]

Melissa: Great job!

[@MelissaDargan]

Thanks! Hoping it helps Congressional staff know what financial resources are available to them - especially with New Congress around the corner 😉

[@thiagogregory1]

I am a teenager, don't even work at Capital Hill, but I love this video

[@MelissaDargan]

Thanks and glad you enjoyed the content!

[@mrperez7036]

Where can I find the salary for a congress caseworker? I am applying for a posting for a congress person that is seeking a caseworker and in the application they are asking for the applicant to submit the salary requirements. However, i do not know what the pay is. Is there a website that provides accurate salary for this position? Thank you for your video. Highly informative.

[@bxnjxmxn2942]

Hello, I have a question about pay for positions. Say that someone goes to college in DC and does internships practically nonstop for their college years. Will they be able to get more senior positions on the Hill or is it more age-based or based on experience with paid jobs? Thank you!

[@MelissaDargan]

Great question, from my experience it is based on experience and capabilities. Most of the time new college graduates start at Staff Assistant / Legislative Correspondent positions. It is rare for them to jump straight into senior level roles without working in the entry level roles first. Internships are great, but being a paid staffer is valuable. That said there are some outliers of young staffers who worked on campaigns (maybe a campaign manager at 23) and when that new member won, that person got a senior level role - Chief of Staff or Legislative Director - because of their knowledge and close ties with the Member. Overall, it depends but the most common path is starting in an entry level role on the hill and working your way up.

[@personalandinvestment1405]

Do you get to keep your home of Record ( Home state ) for Tax Purpose while working in DC?