While this section will help you plan for and navigate your retirement from the department, it does not provide specific advice on investments, taxes, estate planning, or healthcare coverage.

Many people planning their retirement find it helpful to work with a financial advisor as they develop their retirement plan. We strongly recommend working with a qualified financial advisor. Before interviewing advisors, make sure you’re clear about which areas of your life you’d like help with, such as:

• General retirement planning
• Investment and tax planning
• Healthcare coverage planning
• Planning for your dependents (college, special healthcare needs, etc.)

You’ll also want to consider estate planning. For example, you’ll want to weigh the pros and cons of bequeathing your assets through a will versus a trust. If you decide to create a trust, you’ll want to consider the benefits of a living trust versus an irrevocable trust. A qualified financial advisor can help you understand these options and choose the right plan.

If you decide to work with a financial advisor, your family and friends may offer helpful recommendations. But don’t rely solely on others’ recommendations: do your own research. Make sure you’re clear about how the advisor is compensated (fee-only and/or third-party commissions). Check the advisor’s credentials and certifications. Most importantly, decide how much you want to spend on the advisor’s services.

Take the time to interview several advisors to ensure you’re comfortable talking to and working with the advisor you choose. The right financial advisor for you is someone you feel comfortable and confident with as you work together to plan for and achieve your long-term financial goals and ultimately retire to the lifestyle you envision.