A massive wave of departures is about to hit the federal government, as the “deferred resignation” periods for tens of thousands of employees are set to expire. As reported by FEDweek, this exodus, a core component of a broader government restructuring, is projected to shrink the federal workforce by a staggering one-eighth. This is not a normal cycle of attrition; it is a fundamental and rapid downsizing of the U.S. government, leaving a landscape of uncertainty for both departing and remaining employees.
This historic workforce contraction is the culmination of a months-long program that offered employees incentives to resign at a future date. Now, that date has arrived. This initiative has been a key driver in what has become a significant “brain drain” from public service. Data from the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) already shows a net decrease of over 97,000 federal government jobs since the beginning of the year. This figure is now set to dramatically increase as the deferred resignations are finalized.
For those who remain, the future is fraught with challenges. The 2024 Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey (FEVS) revealed that the Job Security and Satisfaction Index has plummeted to its lowest point in a decade. A smaller workforce will inevitably mean heavier workloads, increased pressure, and a persistent anxiety about future Reductions in Force (RIFs). The very stability that once defined a federal career has been replaced by a climate of constant and unsettling change.
Navigating the New Reality: Your Financial Plan is Your Only Guarantee
Whether you are one of the thousands of employees now transitioning out of federal service or one of those remaining to face the new reality, one thing is crystal clear: your personal financial preparedness is now your most critical asset. Relying on institutional stability is a thing of the past. A powerful, resilient financial plan is your personal guarantee in a world where professional guarantees no longer exist.
This is where the specialized expertise of Internal Benefit Advisors becomes an essential partner in navigating your future. They are dedicated to educating federal and state employees on the intricacies of their benefits, helping them forge a path to financial independence, whether they are leaving the government or staying.
Here’s how they empower you to take control:
For Departing Employees: The decisions you make about your benefits upon separation are permanent and profound. They provide a comprehensive analysis of your FERS/CSRS pension, Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), and other benefits to ensure you make the smartest choices for your post-government life.
For Remaining Employees: With a smaller workforce and greater uncertainty, “RIF-proofing” your finances is essential. They work with you to create a robust financial strategy that can withstand career instability, helping you maximize your benefits and build a strong foundation for the future.
Empowerment Through Education: In a complex and ever-changing environment, knowledge is your greatest asset. Internal Benefit Advisors provides the clear, unbiased education you need to navigate your federal benefits and make confident, proactive decisions for your financial well-being.
The federal government is in the midst of a historic transformation. The only constant in this new era is the need for a solid personal financial plan.
Take the definitive step to secure your future. Contact Internal Benefit Advisors today for a consultation and build the powerful, personal financial strategy your future demands.
References
FEDweek. “Deferred Resignation Periods About to End for Many; Workforce Shrinking by About an Eighth.”
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2025, September). Employment Situation Summary.
Best Places to Work in the Federal Government. (2024). Government-Wide Findings.
Internal Benefit Advisors. Retrieved from https://internalbenefitadvisors.com
