Feds aren't that smart. I was transferred to an office 25 miles from my house, but I go against traffic on Hwy 114, so my commute is usually 30 minutes.
If I qualify for the $40K, I'm gone. Within two miles of my house are 10-15 new office buildings, I'll be fine. I've already calculated I can pay all the household bills on my pension and SS.
First I’ve heard of this 40K buyout. I’d take it as well. Plenty of tech firms here, many with great telework policies.