Navigating the USFS Reorganization: Financial Considerations

Four Financial Rules to Consider During Agency ReorganizationCatherine Kirchner, the Pulaski Planner, addresses public land professionals processing news of an agency reorganization and shares four financial considerations for deciding next steps. She explains that refusing a geographic reassignment can be an involuntary separation that may qualify for OPM discontinued service retirement (DSR) with an immediate annuity and continued health insurance if eligibility requirements are met. She advises seeking voluntary programs before leaving, including VERA (early retirement) and VSIP (a buyout capped at $25,000). For mid-career employees considering a deferred FERS pension, she highlights the lack of COLA while waiting and illustrates how inflation can reduce purchasing power. Finally, she reviews retirement options that allow keeping FEHB coverage, notes the costs of temporary continuation coverage, and reminds viewers to prioritize self-care and run the numbers before making major decisions.00:00 Reorg News Overview01:02 Rule One DSR Basics02:18 Rule Two VERA VSIP03:33 Rule Three Deferred Pension04:52 Inflation Impact Demo06:27 Rule Four Keep FEHB08:49 Wrap Up Self CareTo learn more about working with a Fee Only Financial Planner that specializes in public land professionals, check out our website. https://www.donaliesfp.com/pulaski-plannerOr subscribe to the Pulaski Planner newsletter on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7379626330017091584