Q. My wife and I are both long-time feds with 35-plus years and significant TSP accounts (more than $1 million). We both are inclined not to elect a survivor benefit because it seems we will have ample funds in retirement if either of us passes. Are we being short-sighted or is this a practical approach?
A. Each of you, as the potential survivor, should carefully consider the worst-case scenario you might face in the various factors you can’t control, like how long each of you will live, how your investments will perform, inflation rates, spending needs, etc., before you decide to waive your right to a survivor benefit.
