Fund Your Future with DRS

Ep 28 - Divorce and your pension

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.

Ep 27 - What you need to know about HCA healthcare for 2024

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.

Ep 26 - Save on healthcare costs with HSAs

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.

Ep 25 - Save on healthcare costs with FSA and DCAP

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.

Ep 24 - A Roth option for DCP

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.

Ep 23 - The importance of service credit

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.

Ep 22 - Investing when the stock market is down

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.

Ep 21 - DCP earnings and annuities

Your DCP funds are like a large savings account. When you retire, you have several options for how you can use that money. In this episode, we look at the options for taking money out of the account. One popular choice includes purchasing an annuity that will guarantee the funds last for your lifetime.

Ep 20 - Book review: “Financial Feminist” by Tori Dunlap

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.

Ep 19 - How SHIBA helps with Medicare questions

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.