Episode Summary:

In this informative episode, federal employment attorney Eric L. Pines discusses the implications of federal buyouts, retirement benefits, and disability rights for federal employees. He explains different types of separation programs, including VERA (Voluntary Early Retirement Authority) and VSIP (Voluntary Separation Incentive Pay), and their impacts on retirement benefits. The episode also covers important considerations for federal workers facing buyout decisions and the intersection with disability benefits.

Key Timestamps:

00:01 - Show Introduction

00:42 - Defining federal buyouts and RIF (Reduction in Force)

03:14 - Impact on OPM retirement benefits

07:15 - SSDI vs. Federal Disability Retirement

09:33 - Differences between voluntary separation and RIF

11:45 - Factors to consider when facing buyout decisions

13:07 - Disability considerations in buyout situations

14:54 - Final advice for federal workers

About the Show:

"Empowering Workers: Federal Employees' Disability and Employment Rights and Social Security Disability for All" features Eric L. Pines, a nationally recognized federal employment lawyer, mediator, and attorney business coach. The show provides valuable insights for federal employees about their rights, benefits, and important employment decisions.