Author: Joel Schofer, MD, MBA, CPE
A Message from the Acting Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs
Dear Colleagues,
On this 81st Anniversary of the Normandy invasion, I wanted to share a brief note of thanks for all you do.
In MTFs across the globe, our team is easing suffering and saving lives, welcoming new beginnings and providing compassionate care during life’s final moments.
I talk about the importance of strengthening our chain. Today serves as both a solemn and proud reminder of the strength of our collective purpose. The sacrifices made by so many Americans in France, and throughout history, resonate with our own commitment to freedom. Like an invisible guidon, we carry their legacy and represent their values.
In praying for peace and preparing for war, we honor those who sacrificed everything.
I know your days are frenetic and the work can seem unrelenting, but please take a moment today to reflect on the significance of our Mission, the sacrifices of those who precede us, and the Honor of sharing in such a proud tradition.
Very respectfully,
Steve
Stephen Ferrara, M.D.
Acting Assistant Secretary of Defense for Health Affairs
Finance Friday Articles and New SGLI Discounts
- 10 Reasons NOT to Take Social Security Early
- Balancing Retirement and College Savings
- Beyond PSLF: The Top Student Loan Repayment Alternatives for Doctors
- Is It Finally a Buyer’s Market in Housing?
- One TSP Fund Ending, Another Beginning; Preparations Underway for In-Plan Roth Conversions
- On the Inevitability of Bear Markets
- State Tax Update: Big News in Georgia, Plus Updates From 4 Other States on Retirement Pay Exemptions
- What’s the Best Withdrawal Strategy in Retirement?
Plus here’s some info on SGLI/FSGLI:
SGLI/FSGLI Premium Discounts
Effective July 1, 2025, the premiums for Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance and Family Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance will be automatically discounted. All active duty, Reserve, and National Guard Service members with active SGLI coverage will automatically receive the premium discount.
How much will SGLI premiums be discounted?
The SGLI premium discount lowers the rate from 6 cents per $1,000 of coverage to 5 cents per $1,000 of coverage. Therefore, the new premium for the maximum amount of SGLI coverage of $500,000 will be $25.00 per month, plus $1.00 for Traumatic Injury Protection (TSGLI) coverage.
How much will FSGLI premiums be discounted?
The FSGLI premium discount will occur across all age brackets, ranging from 11% to 22%, with the average premium discount at approximately 13%.
Where can I view the new discounted premiums?
https://www.benefits.va.gov/INSURANCE/spring2025-discount-faqs.asp
Joel Schofer's Career Planning Blog 