Informed Investor: Ruling on same-sex marriage equalizes benefits for all married employees

A recent Supreme Court ruling makes same-sex marriages legal in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. This week’s column discusses how the Supreme Court decision affects various employee benefits of married same-sex couples in which at least one spouse is a federal employee, including health and life insurance, CSRS or FERS survivor annuities, and the TSP. View More

Informed Investor: What employees should know about a former spouse’s entitlements: Part III

This third of three columns discussing federal employees and divorce examines insurance benefits and the former spouse—including, health, dental, vision, life and long-term care insurance. The discussion focuses on whether a former spouse of an employee can retain these insurances, and how much the premiums will cost. View More

Can a divorce order require my salary or annuity to be garnisheed?Apr 06, 2014

Yes. Virtually all forms of an active employee’s compensation, ranging from basic pay to various forms of premium pay, special allowances and awards, overtime, differentials, special pay adjustments, incentives, and severance pay are subject to garnishment pursuant to an order for child support, alimony, or commercial garnishment include. View More

What impact does a divorce have on Federal Long Term Care Insurance Program benefits?Apr 06, 2014

A change in marital status does not affect your coverage or premiums under the Federal Long Term Care Insurance Program. If you are currently paying the premiums for your spouse, contact the provider to make other billing arrangements. View More

Can a divorce order require me to provide health insurance coverage for my children?Apr 06, 2014

Can I get an estimate of the value of my future benefits for purposes of a divorce?Apr 06, 2014

Will a divorce automatically change the designations of beneficiary I have made in my federal benefits?Apr 06, 2014

Can a divorce order require division of my Thrift Savings Plan Account?Apr 06, 2014

Can a divorce order require me to assign my life insurance benefits to a former spouse?Apr 06, 2014

Can a court order in a divorce provide for a survivor benefit for my former spouse on my death?Apr 06, 2014

Will a standard divorce order suffice to cover issues involving my federal retirement benefits?Apr 06, 2014

Can I change my health insurance coverage when I get divorced?Apr 06, 2014

What impact does a divorce have on Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program benefits?Apr 06, 2014