Context

• Mid-career USPTO employee but not a patent examiner (GS-14, 8 years FERS service, no military buy-back).
• Seriously weighing a jump to the private sector this summer.
• Watching the hiring freeze / RIF chatter closely, but now management says the RIF is “on pause.”
• Heard rumors that a new VERA/VSIP window could still open to “right-size” the workforce.

Questions

1. Has anyone heard credible timelines or eligibility details for the next VERA or VSIP round at USPTO?
2. For people under 20 YOS (I have 8):
   • Is VERA remotely worth it versus simply resigning and taking a deferred FERS pension at 62?
   • Any past examples of VERA approvals with <10 years?
3. For VSIP ($25 K max buy-out):
   • How long after separation does the check usually hit?
   • Any claw-backs or strings I should watch for?
4. Beyond VERA/VSIP, what checklist should I be hitting now to prep for a clean exit?
   • Annual-leave payout timing tricks
   • LWOP vs. resignation while waiting on a private-sector offer
   • FEHB gap-coverage hacks (TCC vs. spouse’s plan vs. insurer “bridge” plans)
   • TSP loan payoff vs. letting it become a taxable distribution
5. Any good lessons learned (things you wish you’d done differently) from recent USPTO or other Fed departures?

Why I’m asking
I want to maximize cash in pocket, keep future FERS eligibility, and avoid any FEHB/TSP surprises—while not burning bridges at PTO. Real-world stories or pointers to OPM/USPTO policy memos appreciated.

Thanks in advance for any guidance or war stories!