The AF literally paid RAND to do the same type of analysis, and their findings resulted in a similar figure. Yet here we are at half rate lol.
And I agree, toting this thing as $35k (or any figure) is almost insulting... No, it’s really just $26k.
So, I’m tracking the initial 25% tax. But, with regard to these lump sum options, does the remaining cash count against you as income during tax season? Concern would be with getting pushed to higher tax brackets.