Your Federal Employee Rights Amid Recent Executive Actions

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I'm Attorney Justin Schnitzer. Our commitment is to represent federal employees in cases of employment violations just as we would want to be represented, all with the aim of achieving decisive victories.

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Social Security Benefits in Federal Employee Retirement

Read Time: 5 min read

Understanding the Federal Employee Retirement System (FERS) FERS emerged in 1987 as the replacement for CSRS, reflecting the changing employment landscape where career-long federal service became less common. The system provides more portability for employees who might move between government and private-sector jobs throughout their careers. FERS stands on three distinct legs: This three-pronged approach marks a substantial departure from CSRS, which offers a more generous standalone pension but generally excludes Social Security benefits based on federal employment. CSRS employees …

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What Is the Federal Employee Retirement System (FERS)?

Read Time: 6 min read

The Three Components of FERS What makes your FERS retirement unique is its three-tier structure that balances guaranteed income with personal investment opportunity. Think of it as a three-legged stool supporting your retirement: This plan guarantees you a monthly payment for life after retirement, with the amount determined by your length of service and your “high-3” average – your highest three consecutive years of salary. In an era when private sector pensions have largely vanished, this benefit provides a reliable …

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How Difficult is it to Get Federal Disability Retirement?

Read Time: 7 min read

Managing the complexities of federal disability retirement can be daunting for federal employees, as the process involves navigating a maze of legal and bureaucratic requirements. This article aims to demystify how to apply for federal disability retirement, offering clarity and guidance at every step. From understanding eligibility criteria to preparing a convincing application, our goal is to simplify and explain the intricacies involved. We strive to provide comprehensive insights and practical advice to help federal employees successfully navigate the path …

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What is Reduction in Force in the Federal Government and What To Do

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Before we dive into what you can do in the unlikely event of a Reduction in Force (RIF), let’s define it. When a federal agency chooses to abolish one or more employment positions, this is what is known as a Reduction In Force (RIF) in the federal government. Once an RIF has begun to take place, the agency in question is required to follow strict OPM Guidelines. A federal employee who is affected by a Reduction in Force will also have …

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Can You Lose Federal Retirement If You Are Fired?

Read Time: 7 min read

If you’re at risk of losing your federal job or have already been fired, you might be concerned about your retirement benefits. What happens to them? This is a serious concern, as the loss of your retirement benefits can substantially impact your financial security after retirement. This guide will answer all the questions you might have about getting fired from federal employment and your retirement benefits. It’ll help you understand your options and take appropriate steps to safeguard your financial …

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What Conditions Qualify for Federal Disability Retirement

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Are you a federal employee wondering if your condition qualifies for Federal Disability Retirement? Reach out to our experienced Federal Disability Retirement lawyers at Justin Schnitzer. We can provide the guidance and support you need to navigate this complex process. Call us at 202-964-4878 for detailed legal assistance tailored to your specific situation. Federal disability retirement is a special dispensation for federal workers who become unable to work during their tenure. It is a form of early retirement based on …

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Can You Apply for FERS (Federal Disability Retirement) with a Mental Health Condition?

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Can Mental Health Conditions Qualify for Federal Disability Retirement? Yes. You may be eligible for Federal Disability Retirement if your mental health condition prevents you from being able to perform at least one (1) critical job function and your current agency is unable to provide reasonable accommodations.   Need Legal Help? Contact Us. • Call (202) 964-4878 To maximize your chances of approval, you may want to work with a FERS disability retirement lawyer. At the Law Office of Justin …

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Federal Early Retirement: What You Need to Know

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Federal early retirement is a program that allows eligible federal employees to retire before reaching the standard retirement age and years of service requirements. It’s like getting a head start on your golden years, but with some important caveats to consider. Eligibility requirements for federal early retirement Not everyone can simply decide to call it quits early. The federal government has set specific criteria that you must meet to be eligible for early retirement: These requirements might seem straightforward, but …

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Understanding the Federal Employee Probationary Period

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Starting a career in the federal government is an exciting journey, but it comes with a unique twist – the federal employee probationary period. This crucial first year can make or break your future in public service. Whether you’re a fresh-faced recruit or a seasoned professional transitioning to government work, understanding the ins and outs of this trial period is essential for your success. What is the federal employee probationary period? The federal employee probationary period is generally a one-year …

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Are Federal Employees At-Will Employees?

Read Time: 4 min read

Think of federal employment as a different ballgame altogether. While private sector employees often work under the “at-will” doctrine – where they can be fired for any reason or no reason at all (as long as it’s not discriminatory or against public policy) – federal workers play by a different set of rules. These rules are designed to promote fairness, reward merit, and keep political influence at bay. For those in the private sector facing similar issues, Eldessouky Law in …

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