Fund Your Future with DRS: Recent Episodes
Washington State Department of Retirement Systems
A large part of planning for the future starts with how you approach your finances today. Explore some of the basics of financial planning, tools for managing your money and ideas for sparking conversations with friends and family. Join Retirement System employees as they tackle the stigma around money and share their personal financial journeys.
Medicare doesn't cover every health care expense, but the PEBB retiree insurance can help fill some of the gaps. Additional benefits can include chiropractic care, massage therapy, physical therapy, vision, hearing and naturopathic care. Tune in to find out how to make the most of your coverage.
More information: https://www.hca.wa.gov/employee-retiree-benefits
There are a lot of ways to save for retirement, including pretax and Roth contributions, IRAs, and Washington’s Deferred Compensation Program (DCP), also known as a 457 plan. In this episode, we break down the differences, explain tax and withdrawal rules, required minimum distributions, contribution and income limits, and rollovers. We also share practical strategies, like automating your contributions and how to build flexibility into your retirement plan.
What is the Demographic Experience Study and how does it influence Washington State pensions? We sit down with Frank, one of the actuaries who worked on the study. Turns out, there were small shifts in male and female life expectancy and a trend toward later retirements for many eligible workers. We'll explain what those findings mean and how they're used to ensure pension funding stays on track.
View the survey: 2019-2023 Demographic Experience Study
Retiring before age 65 is a goal for many people, and this summer DRS accounting team member Tracie is doing just that. She shares the steps she took to prepare, including creating retirement estimates, paying off debt and using her DCP savings to purchase an annuity. Tracie also discusses health insurance options, coordinating retirement timing with her spouse and what she's looking forward to most as she settles into a new retirement routine.
Balancing student loans, saving for your child’s education and planning for retirement isn’t easy, but it’s a challenge many parents face. Jacob talks about navigating those competing priorities and the lessons he’s learned while trying to find the right financial balance. He also reflects on his new position as the Executive Director of The Law Enforcement Officers' and Fire Fighters' (LEOFF) Plan 2 Retirement Board.
Last year, Governor Ferguson appointed Kathryn Leathers as director of the Department of Retirement Systems. Now that she’s settled into the role, we talk with her about the experience so far. Kathryn spent more than 30 years as a lawyer and served for seven years as General Counsel to former Governor Jay Inslee. She shares what’s surprised her most about leading DRS and lessons she’s learned from managing her own finances.
As a school district employee in Washington, you have several choices when it comes to health care in retirement. One option is to enroll in PEBB, the Public Employees Benefit Board. You should apply no later than 60 days after your employer sponsored coverage ends and preferably sooner if possible. We talk with Laura from the Health Care Authority about this important decision and what you need to know.
More information: https://www.hca.wa.gov/
Medicare is meant to make health care more affordable in retirement, but if your income is higher, you might pay more than expected. Some retirees are surprised to learn about Medicare surcharges that can add hundreds of dollars to their monthly premiums. In this episode, we talk with Tim, a Medicare expert, to break down these extra costs called IRMAAs (income-related monthly adjustment amounts). Then we walk through what they could mean for your retirement.
Growing up, Malia often heard a simple message about money: Don’t spend it. Over time, she’s come to see just how much more nuanced financial decisions can be. Now the DRS Defined Contribution Plan Manager, Malia reflects on a 20-year career and the lessons she’s learned from working with real people. From starting small and automating savings to prioritizing health and flexibility, she offers a thoughtful perspective on preparing for retirement.
Taking care of your health might be one of the smartest financial moves you can make. In this episode, we talk with Heather from the Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) about preventive screenings and care available to employees enrolled in PEBB and SEBB plans. Many services including well visits, immunizations, mammograms, and colorectal cancer screenings have no out of pocket cost. We discuss when screenings are recommended as you get older and why some important ones are often forgotten.
More information: https://www.hca.wa.gov/employee-retiree-benefits
As you get older, it’s important your adult children understand your finances, so they’re not left guessing if something happens. DRS team member Adam recently had this conversation and shares important things to cover when planning your estate.
Sometimes, confidence in your future can bring peace of mind in the present. That’s been Seth’s philosophy when it comes to saving for retirement. After starting early with a Roth IRA and planning to retire in his mid-40s, Seth shares why he’s still working and why helping people at DRS is so meaningful to him. From a daily running habit, to making homemade pizza each week, he offers a thoughtful look at planning ahead.
In this special episode, the mic gets turned around. Jenny steps down from the host chair as co-worker Christine interviews her about how the conversations she’s had on the show have shaped her own habits and view of retirement. She shares what she hopes listeners take away from the show beyond dollars and cents.
Your retirement health may depend on your social life. In this episode, we unpack the Kevin Bacon Rule of Retirement: why staying connected after you leave the workforce could be one of your most powerful retirement strategies. We chat with DRS team member Mike about his plans for staying connected in retirement.
Thousands of DRS customers log in every day to manage their retirement, so keeping those accounts secure matters. We’re joined by Michael from our Contact Center to walk through recent online security updates including removing email as an MFA option and adding the ability to use authenticator apps. He shares simple steps you can take to help protect your identity online.
Want to save more for retirement in 2026? In this episode, we break down the new Deferred Compensation Program (DCP) limits: $24,500 annually, or $32,500 if you’re age 50+ and even more if you’re within 3 years of retirement. Find out how pretax and Roth contributions work together - what counts toward the limit and what doesn’t - so you can make the most of your savings next year.
What if one conversation could change your financial future? We talk with Anthony, a Yakima School District leader whose passion for retirement education stems from his family history and years in labor advocacy. He shares how his path from delivery driver to union rep to HR leader shapes his mission to help school employees understand their benefits, start meaningful conversations about saving, and navigate the unique challenges of planning for retirement.
Every two years, contribution rates for Washington’s retirement plans change and that can raise questions. When a relative asked Amber why employer rates went down, she realized it’s just as important to understand decreases as increases. In this episode, we unpack how these rates are set, why they fluctuate, and how you can feel confident that Washington’s pensions remain a reliable, guaranteed source of income.
If you have a DCP or Plan 3 investment account, you're required by the IRS to withdraw a minimum distribution (RMD) from your pretax balance when you reach age 73. We take a look at how the amount you're required to withdraw is calculated. We also look at special cases like inherited accounts and exceptions for those still working.
There are a lot of reasons people choose to convert money within their DCP account from pretax to Roth option. We discuss the process of how this is done as well as the pros and cons, including timing and tax rules.
Sometimes people get overwhelmed trying to find the “right” financial advice. But for a simple and effective method, look no further than "The Simple Path to Wealth" by JL Collins. His three core rules - spend less than you earn, invest the extra in low-cost index funds, and avoid debt - have become a strong foundation for those looking to grow financially. We discuss Collins’ approach to compound interest and simplifying your finances.
Washington state has some of the strongest-funded pensions in the nation. In this episode, we sit down with Washington State Actuary, Matt Smith, to unpack why the Law Enforcement Officers' and Fire Fighters' (LEOFF) Plan 1 has an expected surplus. Matt breaks down simple ways to measure pension health, why LEOFF 1 now looks more like an endowment, and the policy and legal questions lawmakers face when deciding how to use expected surplus pension funds.
What does it really mean to retire early? Is it about leaving work behind completely, or is it more about creating flexibility, freedom, and balance sooner rather than later? We’re joined by Christine, a DRS employee who’s been carefully planning for her future since her mid-20s. She shares how her perspective on retirement has evolved: from imagining it as “stopping work altogether” to thinking about it as a chance to downshift: maybe working part-time, pursuing a different role, or finding new ways to stay engaged without the 9-to-5 grind.
The term micro-retirement is becoming popular with people of all ages. The idea involves stepping away from the workforce for an extended period to pursue passions, travel, recharge, or learn new skills, essentially hitting the reset button on life. We look at perspectives and planning strategies to help you make micro-retirement a viable, enriching option.
If you’ve ever seen the name Voya Financial with your DCP or Plan 3 account and wondered what they do, this episode is for you. We look at the role of a record keeper: helping process transactions, maintain accounts, and support over 400,000 customers! We also look at what record keepers don’t do and how they differ from investment managers. Tune in to find out how record keepers play a key role in making your retirement accounts run smoothly.
Why do pensions sometimes go up? In this episode, we talk with Matt Smith, the state actuary, about COLAs (Cost of Living Adjustment) and how it’s tied to inflation. Matt explains how prices are tracked using the Consumer Price Index for Urban Workers (CPI-U) and why that matters for your pension. We also look at why COLAs are based on prices in the Seattle area, even if you live somewhere else. Tune in to find out how inflation and COLAs work together to shape your retirement income.
If you ever wanted a quick way to estimate how many years it’ll take for your investments to double, take 72 and divide it by the interest rate. In this episode, we explore how this a great way to think about the power of compound interest. If you’re early in your career, it may encourage you to set aside more money now. And if you’re close to retirement, it can be reassuring to know your investment could double in the next 7-10 years.
You have options when it comes to accessing your DCP funds. In this episode, we cover smart ways to manage your funds, including monthly payouts, rollovers, lump sums and annuities. Plus, find out about required minimum distributions, emergency access and managing beneficiaries.
Resources:
Withdrawals in retirement calculator
DCP Roth vs pretax calculator
DCP savings calculator
According to a study by Allianz Life Insurance, Americans are more afraid of running out of money than of dying. We unpack the emotional toll of financial stress and talk about practical ways to regain a sense of control. Whether you’re living paycheck to paycheck, or simply overwhelmed by rising costs, this episode offers real talk to help you breathe a little easier when it comes to your money.
In this timely episode, we dive into the reality many are facing: economic uncertainty and its impact on personal finances and retirement plans. We discuss practical steps to manage stress, maintain financial stability, and make informed decisions. We also explore how tools like Washington's Deferred Compensation Program (DCP) can provide flexibility and serve as a financial safety net when you need it most.
Are there some groups of public employees that do a better job of saving for retirement? In this episode, our guest AJ shares why firefighters are proactive when it comes to retirement planning. Find out about their approach and how you can apply it to your own long-term planning.
It can be scary to look at your DCP or Plan 3 investments and see that your balance has suddenly gone down. However, even if stocks are low, that doesn’t necessarily mean you should panic. In this episode, we talk about how to mentally deal with the stock market during uncertain times. Our guest, Malia, highlights the importance of long-term investment planning and what you should consider if you’re close to retirement age.
Ever wonder why prices rise, how the stock market shapes our world, or what drives the financial decisions? This is the study of economics. In this episode, we sit down with Chris Clarke, an economics professor from Washington State University. Chris has gained a large online following from his videos by making economics relatable for the younger generation. You can follow him @EconChrisClarke on TikTok and Instagram.
In our discussion we tackle misconceptions about the economy, the unpredictability of recessions, and the persistent myths surrounding inflation and stock markets. Chris shares his journey into teaching economics and his passion for making daunting economic topics relatable and understandable for everyone.
Find out more on Chris’ personal website.
As you plan for health care in retirement, a VEBA or HRA can be a helpful tool. Many public employers participate to help you save for your out-of-pocket healthcare expenses and premiums.
Our guest Brian, from Gallagher (consultant for VEBA trusts), shares insights on how these tax-advantaged accounts work including how to enroll, investment options and the flexibility the account offers.
Official website: HRAVEBA.org, VEBA.org
When you decide to separate from service - either to retire, or work elsewhere - there's a good chance you'll have a balance of sick leave and annual leave. You may have the option to cash-out this leave, but you'll still have to pay the taxes on the extra income. Luckily, some employers allow you to roll over leave into your DCP account.
Our guest Malia shares insights on transferring leave balances into the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP), offering potential tax savings and investment opportunities.
As a retiree, you can go back to work for a Department of Retirement Systems (DRS) employer and still receive your pension benefit as long as you follow a few rules. In this episode, our guest Kumano, sheds light on considerations for retirees who wish to work for a DRS employer post-retirement. From separating employment to navigating hours, Kumano guides us through the must-know details for retirees contemplating a return to public employment. Listen and explore how to effectively plan this stage of your retirement journey.
In this episode, we delve into the crucial distinctions between separation date and retirement date, specifically for those retiring with DRS. Understanding these dates will help you determine when you can start collecting your pension benefits.
Learn why timing matters, especially if you're planning around health insurance coverage or have accumulated leave. Whether you're months or years away from retirement, this episode provides guidance on making informed decisions about your retirement journey.
Retirement checklist: https://www.drs.wa.gov/life/retire/check/
During the chilly winter months, you might be thinking about planning that spring or summer vacation. But you don't have to spend money on an expensive flight to get away. Sometimes it's nice to do a staycation and explore Washington state! From arid deserts to moss-covered rainforests, there's plenty to explore in your own backyard. Tune in to get some ideas for your next adventure.
Links related to this episode:
VisitSpokane.com
Stehekin, Wa
VisitRainier.com
OlympicPeninsula.org
Washington State Parks
Los Hernandez Tamales in Yakima
Millions of people with disabilities rely on federal programs. However, if they're receiving benefits like Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Medicaid, they're restricted to having only $2,000 in assets.
As a result, the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) act was passed in 2014. A Washington State ABLE Savings Plan allows people with disabilities to save, invest and prepare for the future without losing their state or federal benefits. We sit down with Katie who works for the Department of Commerce to learn about this wonderful program.
https://www.washingtonstateable.com/
Washington state pensions are calculated to be 94% funded. That rate is one of the highest rates in the country. We welcome Matt Smith, the Washington State Actuary, to talk about the latest Actuarial Valuation Report recently released by his office. He explains the significance of funded status, often misunderstood by many. Discover how ongoing evaluations and adjustments ensure long-term pension security for Washington's retirement plans.
View the full Actuarial Valuation Report
A new Retirement Strategy Fund (RSF) is coming to the lineup of investment options in Plan 3 and the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). The most recent addition – the 2070 Retirement Strategy Fund – will be available beginning Jan. 6, 2025. We sit down with Chris from AllianceBernstein to talk about how these funds work and support you through retirement.
Planning a get-a-way doesn't have to be expensive. In this episode, we're joined by Ariel from Washington State Parks to explore the budget-friendly recreational opportunities available across 140 state parks. From the popular Discover Pass to several discounted options for those over age 62 and multiple free days in the year, you can access these natural treasures without breaking the bank.
We chat about diverse accommodations offered, including cabins, yurts, and even historic vacation homes. Ariel shares unique experiences like staying at a lighthouse keeper's residence or a fire lookout. Everything you need to get started on your next outdoor adventure.
Parks highlighted in the episode (alphabetically): Brooks Memorial State Park, Cape Disappointment, Conconully State Park, Curlew State Park, Deception Pass, Fort Ebey, Fort Flagler, Fort Worden, Ginkgo Petrified Forest, Goldendale Observatory, Ike Kinswa State Park, Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center, Millersylvania State Park, Mount Spokane State Park, Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail.
Your credit score plays a crucial role in your financial health. So, it’s important to know how to manage and improve your credit. Our guests, Lyn and Nathan from the Department of Financial Institutions, break down the differences between credit scores and credit reports. They also share insights into the importance of checking your credit report regularly and the benefits of freezing your credit to safeguard against identity theft.
Continuing our discussion of Social Security benefits, we focus on unique provisions that can apply to public employees. Some people assume all public employees participate in Social Security, but this isn't always the case. We explore why some government workers, such as police officers and firefighters, might not be part of Social Security due to their unique pension plans.
We discuss two critical provisions that can impact Social Security benefits: the Government Pension Offset (GPO) and the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP). Our guest, Kirk, from the Social Security Administration explains how these rules apply to folks trying to claim benefits on their own or a spouse's record while receiving a government pension.
More about the GPO: https://www.ssa.gov/policy/docs/program-explainers/government-pension-offset.html
More about the WEP: https://www.ssa.gov/policy/docs/program-explainers/windfall-elimination-provision.html
We dive into the essentials of Social Security benefits with special guest Kirk from the Social Security Administration. Kirk answers frequently asked questions about creating a My Social Security account, its benefits, and how to use online resources for your retirement planning.
Learn how to qualify for Social Security retirement benefits, understand the calculations behind your benefit amounts, and get insights into the financial health of the Social Security system. Kirk also discusses the best age to start receiving benefits and how to maximize your Social Security income.
Stay tuned for the next episode where we'll explore more specifics with provisions of Social Security that may impact public employees.
Official Social Security website: https://www.ssa.gov/
Significant changes are coming to PEBB Medicare Part D in 2025. Discover why these changes are being implemented, how they aim to reduce premiums and what specific plans will include Medicare Part D. Our guest is Ellen, who works as a Retiree Benefits Manager at the Washington State Healthcare Authority. She explains what this new change means for retirees and where to go for more information.
Open enrollment is Oct. 28, 2024 – Nov. 25, 2024.
Your auto and home insurance can have a significant impact on your budget, but it’s hard to know if you’re getting the best rate. Our guest, Amy from the Office of the Insurance Commissioner (OIC), joins us to provide tips on shopping around for insurance and the value of having an agent.
Resources:
Office of the Insurance Commissioner
Podcast: OIC Answers
The amount of service credit, or time that you’ve been teaching, has a huge impact on your pension. In this episode, we explore the details of service credit for teachers in Washington state. Our guest, Jon from the DRS Contact Center, joins us to discuss options for teachers who have worked in other states and wish to transfer or purchase service credits.
We dive into the common challenges faced right after retirement. DRS team member John shares insights about handling the transition period and offers practical advice to avoid pitfalls. Whether you're planning to buy a house, plan to travel, or trying to navigate insurance coverage, this episode provides valuable tips to help ensure a smooth post-retirement experience.
Do you know how much you can spend from your investment account once you retire? Some people choose to purchase an annuity for peace of mind. Plan 3 members have access to a TAP Annuity with a lifetime cost of living adjustment (COLA). Find out more about this and other unique advantages of the TAP Annuity.
Millennial and DRS team member Durin recently got married and says that changed how he thinks about planning for the future. He shares his love of food and tips for budgeting when it comes to cooking and grocery shopping.
We talk with two DRS team members from the baby boomer generation who are less than five years from retiring. Hear what they’re doing in this critical time to prepare for their next stage of life.
People from Generation X grew up in a time where people didn’t talk about money and you couldn’t ask the internet. As a result, Mark and Sherry — two DRS team members from Gen X — are committed to making sure their kids know how to budget. Hear their advice on what you should be sharing with your kids.
We chat with two DRS team members from Gen X, Devi and Corinne, who started saving for retirement a few years ago. They both share how they started shifting priorities after having an "ah-ha moment," and now saving for retirement is their top priority.
We’ve received some great questions from our listeners asking about retirement. We jump into answering your questions:
If you leave state service, what are the options for your retirement money and how does that affect service credit if you come back to work for the state?
If I die before retiring, will my spouse have an option to receive a pension benefit?
Is my pension benefit based on the last five years of my career?
How do I retire with DRS?
Generation Z recently joined the work force and they bring a new perspective. DRS team member Jacob describes his generation as growing up with “all internet, all the time.” He opens up about how he and his friends are strapping down to pay for rising rent costs and getting creative with their budgets.
Generation X was dubbed the "MTV Generation," and now some of them are getting ready to retire. We sit down with Terri, a DRS team member from Gen X. She shares that saving for retirement when you’re single can present its own challenges. Terri discusses her experience and tips for saving.
In April 2024, the Socially Responsible Balanced Fund (SRI) will change from a balanced fund – invested in stocks and bonds – to a new SRI that solely invests in stocks. Managed by AllianceBernstein (AB), the new Socially Responsible Equity Fund's strategy uses the UN Sustainable Development Goals to identify and invest in key sustainability themes. We sit down with Dan who works at AB to find out more.
These two terms are commonly used for retirement plans, but what's the difference? If you haven’t retired from your plan, you only have beneficiaries. If you are retired, you could have both. In this episode, we take a look at the difference between these two terms and what they can provide for your loved ones.
If you're a member of more than one Washington state retirement system, you're a member of multiple systems - also known as a dual member. In this episode, we look at what you should be aware of when you're approaching retirement. Our guest is Wendy, a DRS team member, who explains some of the advantages of being a dual member.
Did you know not all states manage pensions the same way? Washington state is 94% on track to meet the funding goals of pension plans. That rate is one of the highest in the country. Your pension is a guarantee. Our guest is Mitch from the Office of State Actuary who explains how pensions are funded in Washington in order to meet that guarantee.
New legislation allows some employees to earn retirement service credit if their employment was interrupted by service in the US Military. Find out how this can increase your retirement benefit and why you shouldn't wait more than five years to report it.
As a retired public employee, you have access to insurance options through the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB). And when you retire at age 65 or more, you're required to enroll in Medicare. Find out more about Medicare and what options you have for a PEBB retiree health plan. Our guest is Ellen, from the Washington State Health Care Authority.
Is your pension benefit taxed? The short answer is: yes. But there are a lot fewer deductions taken out of your pay in retirement. When you retire, you're no longer paying into programs like Medicare and FICA which could result in you seeing more money.
When it comes to preparing for retirement, women often face different challenges than men. Women tend to live longer but typically earn 21% less, often with fewer years of work due to caring for a child or elderly parent. Our guest is Catherine, a DRS team member who gives some insight on how women can be better prepared both financially and socially.
Upon divorce or separation, your monthly benefit is not subject to sharing or division unless it is court-ordered. If you are going though a separation, you can call DRS to find out what resources are available to you. Our guest is Kumano, a DRS team member who talks about common mistakes and misconceptions that can happen in this process.
Deciding on healthcare can be one of the most important decisions you make — both when you're working and when you're a retiree on Medicare. Luckily, you have the option to change your plan during each fall open enrollment period. In 2024, costs for plans are changing. It's important to see if your current plan is still right for you. Our guest on the show is Dave from the Health Care Authority, who explains how these plans are structured and what you need to know.
We continue to explore programs that can help you pay for medical expenses with pretax money. A Health Savings Account (HSA) has a higher deductible but has advantages for those with lower medical expenses. Our guest is Leanna from the Health Care Authority, who talks about the pros and cons of the program.
Paying for healthcare can be expensive, but there is help. Flexible Spending Arrangements (FSA) and the Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP) allow you to set aside pretax money from your paycheck to help pay for qualifying medical expenses.Our guest on the show is Kelsie from the Health Care Authority who explains the benefits of these programs.
The Deferred Compensation Program now offers pretax and Roth options. Both help you save more for retirement. We look at the difference between the two as well as your options for converting funds from pretax to Roth.
The amount of service credit you have has a direct impact to your retirement benefit. So, if you miss some credits because of maternity/paternity leave, National Guard service or taking a sabbatical, you have the option to restore that credit. In this episode, we discuss how service credit is accrued, how it affects your pension and how to see if you have missing credits.
It can be frustrating to invest when the stock market is going down or sideways. Find out how to stay calm, invest for the long-run and take advantage of compound interest.
Your DCP funds are like a large savings account. When you retire, you have a several options for how you can use that money. In this episode, we look at the options for taking money out the account. One popular choice includes purchasing an annuity that will guarantee the funds last for your lifetime.
A recent survey found that only 28% of women feel confident investing in the stock market. In our first ever book review, we discuss New York Times bestseller: "Financial Feminist" by Tori Dunlap. Tori's shame-free approach has helped over 3 million women feel financially confident.
Some of the biggest decisions you'll make in retirement are around your health care. Luckily, the Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA) offer a free, unbiased service. Our guest Tim, explains how SHIBA volunteers help people of all ages and backgrounds with their Medicare questions and options.
Paying off student loan debt can be challenging, but there's help. PSLF (Public Service Loan Forgiveness) is a program that can help you with debt. If you have federal student loans, you may be eligible to have those loans forgiven. Our guest is Jessica from the Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC) with the PSLF program. She talks about how to qualify for loan forgiveness and common mistakes people make when applying for the program.
Saving money for a child’s education can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. The WA529 program allows families to set money aside where it will grow tax-free. Find out who can put money into the plan and how a child can use the money for a variety of educational expenses after high school. Some uses might surprise you such as books, housing and even rolling over funds to a Roth IRA.
We welcome our guests Luke and Jackie from the Washington Student Achievement Council.
For most plans, you need to work at least 5 years as a state employee to qualify for a retirement plan. But what if you leave state service before then? Or leave, and return a few years later? In this episode, you’ll learn the different options you have for the money in your retirement account. We also look at the details of restoring service credit if you do decide to come back to work. Our guest on the show is Nitia who works for DRS. She helps people navigate these important choices.
Having a financial advisor can help you plan for your future, especially after a major life event such as a marriage, divorce or birth of a child. Learn the difference between a financial advisor and a money manager, and find out what questions you need to ask. Our guest on the show is Bruce, who’s had a long career as a financial advisor and now works for DRS.
As a new employee, you get to choose what type of retirement account you’d like. You have 90 days to decide between Plan 2 and 3. In this episode, you’ll learn the key differences between these two plans. Our guest on the show is Kimm who works for DRS. She talks to people every day who are trying to make this important decision. This choice applies to those who are starting employment in Washington state in: Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS), Teachers' Retirement System (TRS), or the School Employees' Retirement System (SERS).
Unclaimed Property is a program that reunites owners with their lost or missing money. This can be in the form of an old pay stub or an overpaid utility bill. Our guest on the show is Joe from the Unclaimed Property division at the Washington State Department of Revenue. He explains how the program works and how you can quickly and safely find your missing money at ClaimYourCash.org
You can use automatic transfers and payments to help you manage your budget and make life easier, but there are a few things to be aware of before you automate all your bills. We look at different strategies for saving and paying bills on time — so you can create a system that works for you.
The Deferred Compensation Program (DCP) is similar to a 401K and can help you save more for retirement. In this episode you’ll learn how taxes are applied, the importance of contributing with a percentage of your income and tools for maximizing your investment.
We’ve received some great questions from our listeners asking how they can improve their finances. We jump into answering your questions:* 0:23 - Is there any advantage to waiting past age 65 to start taking my pension? * 3:38 - With inflation so high, do you have any tips on saving for retirement? * 9:03 - What's the rule of 85? Does it apply in Washington state?
Some public employees separate from work at age 55 and choose to start collecting their pension at age 65. We look at the pros and cons of this approach to retirement.
If you’re under 40 and thinking about this path, learn what factors you need to consider and how to plan.
Financial independence means a lot of things to different people. For some, it means you stop working and begin new adventures. For others, it means you’ve paid off your loans and can put that money towards other goals. Discover the steps you can take today to move towards this milestone.
Net worth is a popular term these days. But how do you figure out what your net worth is? And what if your net worth is a negative number?Our hosts discuss the two factors of new worth: what you owe - liabilities - and what you have - assets. Hint: you may have some valuable assets hiding in your garage.
If you want to save more for retirement, it might be time to look at where and how you’re saving. A supplemental account such as the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP) or a Roth IRA can boost your savings. We examine some of the best options for your retirement savings — including specific recommendations if you work in a school district.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by debt, you may have some questions about where to start. How do you decide which debt to pay first? Does the interest rate matter? What is APR? We look at some of the best tools and strategies for paying down your debt and what do after it’s paid off.
There are so many “What ifs” when it comes to managing your money. What if your car breaks down? What if you need to go to the hospital?
An emergency fund can help you prepare for the unexpected. So, how much should you save and where do you start? We offer some tips on how to master this crucial piece of budgeting.
When most people think about budgeting, they examine their spending. But it’s also important to look at your income. We take a peek at different ways to think about income including changing your tax withholdings, side hustles and how to estimate your retirement income.
We all spend money, so you might as well know where it’s going. In this episode, we take a look at a few different approaches to budgeting and how you can make it work for you.
Money talk seems to be everywhere these days, even TikTok. Turns out, talking about your finances can lead to new insights. Our hosts share their first experience with money.