How Colorado PERA “Front-Loads” Service Credit in the School and DPS Divisions

I learned something new this week about how PERA calculates service credit in the School and DPS Divisions. I knew the basics (and the basics are what applies to most people). I knew: To earn a month of service credit, the member must earn at least 80 times the current federal minimum wage in the … Continue reading How Colorado PERA “Front-Loads” Service Credit in the School and DPS Divisions →

Diversifying by Purchasing Service Credit

I've written previously that people with defined benefit pensions who have the option to purchase service credit should seriously consider doing so now. I first wrote about it back in December of 2021, added some more context in April of 2022, and then reiterated in January of this year. Well, stop me if you've heard … Continue reading Diversifying by Purchasing Service Credit →

The Extraordinary Opportunity of Starting Early (and Privilege)

Note: This post is going to assume a lot of privilege. It's not going to address the very real issues of income inequality and systemic disadvantage, as those are a bit beyond my wheelhouse (although I do have pretty strong opinions about policy changes we should make that could at least help address those issues). … Continue reading The Extraordinary Opportunity of Starting Early (and Privilege) →

Podcast Episode 15: Cash Flow in Retirement: Social Security, Pensions, and Safe Withdrawal Rates

I just released Episode 15 of the Teaching You To Fisch podcast. This episode explores how you will generate the income necessary to pay for your lifestyle when you are no longer working. Slides Transcript It's available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube, and I've also embedded it below. As always, feedback is appreciated. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sFLgLcCCxyM … Continue reading Podcast Episode 15: Cash Flow in Retirement: Social Security, Pensions, and Safe Withdrawal Rates →

Appeared on the Teach and Retire Rich Podcast

Dan and Scott had me back on the Teach and Retire Rich podcast for those who might be interested. Apple Podcasts Direct link to the podcast on their site 403bwise 403bwise state 457 ratings Items mentioned in the podcast. Time to Buy! Buy! Buy! (Service Credit, 2025 Edition) (purchasing service credit) Our Current Portfolio and … Continue reading Appeared on the Teach and Retire Rich Podcast →

Should I Do a Transition Year?

Note: This post is specifically for members of Colorado PERA. If you are in a different pension system, you may have a similar option, but every pension system is different. Each pension has unique "return to work" requirements, so make sure you understand those before considering returning to a work for an employer that is … Continue reading Should I Do a Transition Year? →