I've been told by the FDIC Benefits Office that if I intend to retire or
have put in my papers to retire, I can not work for another federal
agency until after I retire. I was also told that I could begin work at
another federal agency before I retired, if the FDIC and the new agency
approved the situation. Which statement is true? What is the
basis for the appropriate statement - Is this a federal regulation, or
OPM policy, or an FDIC policy?

Let me give you an example. I plan to take the Buyout in May, take
leave without pay until August 31, 2005 when I will take early
retirement. The Benefits Office told me I can not accept a job at
another federal agency while I'm still employed at FDIC between May and
August 31, 2005 in a leave without pay status.