Blackmouth,

Federal new hires since 1984 (thanks to Reagan's policy) federal workers have been in the same Social Security system as the private sector. Prior to that, federal employees retirement benefits were covered under Civil Service, which was a better deal for employees than the system that's now been in place for 28 years.

Most federal employees under the old CSRS have retired or will soon. Are they getting a good deal? Absolutely! The rest of the federal service employees are doing very much like the private sector, working to an older age to increase their SS benefits and to build up their TSP (sorta' like a 401(k)) to have a better retirement income.

Thanks Stam! I thought it was American citizens collectively paying the other 75%. I didn't know it was just you covering the tab. I'll be sure to buy you a beer next time we get together.

Sg