How Early Should You Submit Your Retirement Packet? Here’s Why You Shouldn’t Wait

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If you’re planning your federal retirement, one of the first big questions you might ask is:

““How long do I have before I have to process my retirement packet?””

It’s a fair question — most people think they have all the time in the world. But the truth is, not as long as you think.

Let’s break down why submitting your packet early isn’t just recommended — it’s critical to avoid delays, confusion, and months of stress you don’t need.

The Myth of Endless Time

Believe me when I tell you — you need to get that retirement packet in as soon as you can.

Here’s why:

When you submit your paperwork, you’re going to enter a long queue of others trying to do the same thing.

And what I really don’t want is for you to be sitting there waiting four or five months for your first pension check — or your annuity, as it’s officially called.

Imagine you’ve wrapped up your federal career, you’re ready to finally enjoy some freedom, and then…nothing. No payments. No clarity on when the money will arrive.

“I Don’t Know What Elections to Make…”

I hear this all the time:

““Charles, I don’t know what elections to make. I’m confused, and nobody’s there to help.””

This confusion is exactly why so many people put off submitting the packet. It feels safer to wait than to make a wrong decision.

I remember being at an Army base. The GRB screen was right there in front of us, and the person said to me,

““Please, please just come with me to my desk.””

When we sat down, they looked at me and said,

““I just want to make sure of these elections. I don’t want to do anything wrong.””

That moment stuck with me. You shouldn’t have to feel alone in making decisions that impact your financial life for decades to come.

The Real Cost of Waiting

If you wait too long to start this process, you don’t just risk delays — you also increase the chance of making hurried choices you’ll regret later.

The pressure of having nobody to ask questions leads to mistakes. It leads to stress. And it leads to the same outcome for too many retirees: months without your annuity while you try to sort everything out.

How to Avoid the Most Common Mistakes

I want you to feel confident about your decisions, not second-guessing them.

This is why I always recommend:

✅ Submit your packet early — well before your retirement date.

✅ Talk to someone who understands your benefits inside and out.

✅ Get clarity on your elections before you sign.

If you’re wondering what the most common errors look like, I’ve made a short video about the three mistakes I

see federal retirees make over and over again. You can watch it here.

You Don’t Have to Do This Alone

We’re here to help.

If you’re unsure about your elections, or you’re worried you’ll make the wrong choice, I will make time for a complimentary 15-minute phone call to answer your questions.

At least you’ll have an intelligent, informed conversation with someone who deeply understands your benefits package and what every election means for your future.

Final Thoughts

Submitting your retirement packet early is the smartest way to avoid a delayed first pension check.

Don’t let uncertainty or fear of mistakes keep you from getting this done. You’ve worked too hard to let paperwork stand between you and your financial security.

If you’re ready to take the next step, use the link below to schedule your call. We’re here to make this process clear, simple, and stress-free.

🎯 Schedule Your Complimentary 15-Minute Call Here

Advisory services are offered through CD Financial LLC dba CD Financial, an Investment Advisor in the State of California. Insurance products and services are offered through CD Financial & Insurance Services LLC, an affiliated company. Opinions expressed herein are solely those of CD Financial and our editorial staff. The information contained in this material has been derived from sources believed to be reliable but is not guaranteed as to accuracy and completeness and does not purport to be a complete analysis of the materials discussed. All information and ideas should be discussed in detail with your individual adviser prior to implementation.