Federal Benefits Made Simple - January 2025

When life feels overwhelming, or you just aren’t feeling your best, it can be difficult to find hope or joy. Sometimes, the best medicine is a little self-care in the form of activities and treats that you enjoy most. Looking forward to something enjoyable is one of the best ways to boost your mood. Whether it’s a favorite movie, a new painting class, or a tasty latte, prioritizing things that bring happiness can empower us with hope. It’s adding a bright spot in the future, making tough days more manageable. What do you love? The activity doesn’t have to be intricate. Start by identifying things that make you happy or interest you. Love comedy movies or enjoy going to concerts? You might sign up for an improv class or buy tickets to see a play. What you love can be anything that brings a smile to your face. Plan it. Once you know the activity, start planning. Our busy lives sometimes lack time for the little things that make us feel good. Treat your happiness as a necessity and put it on your calendar. Spending time with your loved ones and friends has a wealth of benefits for your mental health, so decide whether you want someone to join you. Why Small Plans Can Make a Big Difference THE HAPPINESS HACK

By planning to do things that bring you joy, you’ll feel more hopeful, balanced, and better equipped to handle whatever life throws your way.

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TSP CONTRIBUTION LIMITS ARE GOING UP

As we begin 2025, federal employees need to be aware of the significant changes coming to the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). The TSP contribution limits are getting a considerable boost, allowing you to save even more for your future, especially for those 60 or older. This is good news for employees who meet eligibility requirements and want to maximize their retirement savings. Here’s what you need to know about the latest update and what it may mean for your saving strategy. Standard Employee Contribution Limit The contribution limit for federal employees under 50 is increasing slightly from $23,000 to $23,500 allowing you to save an additional $500 in your TSP. You can contribute to the traditional side of your TSP, the Roth side, or split the contributions between the two with a maximum total contribution of $23,500. Catch-Up Contribution Limit For those 50 or older, you are eligible for catch-up contributions, which are additional tax-deferred contributions you can make over the standard limit to help you save more as you near retirement. In 2025, the catch-up limit remains at $7,500, meaning you can contribute a maximum of $31,000 to your TSP, divided however you choose. Secure Act 2.0 The most significant change coming to the TSP this year is for those who will be 60, 61, 62, or 63 in 2025. Thanks to the Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement (SECURE) Act 2.0, people in this age bracket can contribute a total of $11,250 to their standard contribution for their TSP. This means you can save $34,750 if you are between 60 and 63. Those turning 64 or older this year are

ineligible for this additional contribution, but you can still contribute the standard catch- up contribution of $7,500. The TSP is an essential retirement savings tool for federal employees, and 2025 could be an opportunity to save even more. Review your current TSP contributions to see if you qualify for additional contributions this year. If you are ready to develop your financial strategy for retirement, contact us at Federal Benefits Made Simple.

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