2026 Federal Pay Raise: What Employees Need to Know
federal employment federal pay raise law enforcement pay mindfulness at work opm guidance Sep 02, 2025Federal employees have been bracing for a pay freeze in 2026. But the White House’s just-released alternative pay plan delivers a modest surprise: a raise is back on the table—though not equally for everyone.
The Baseline: 1% Across-the-Board
Instead of zero, most civilian federal employees will see a 1% general increase in base pay. While that’s far below the statutory formula you may see circulating online, remember: presidents almost always invoke the alternative pay plan authority to avoid those larger statutory numbers. This 1% is real; the formula is theoretical.
The Twist: Law Enforcement Boost
For a yet-to-be-defined group of federal law enforcement officers, the raise could be much higher—3.8%, mirroring the military increase. The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) has begun consulting with agencies to determine which positions fall into that category. That process will unfold through the fall.
If your role is law-enforcement-adjacent—think criminal investigators, inspectors, or positions with arrest authority—this development matters. The classification details are still unsettled, and outcomes often turn on your official position description and occupational series.
Don’t Forget Locality Pay
Under this plan, locality adjustments remain frozen. That means your paycheck will not reflect the larger increases sometimes predicted under statutory formulas. Focus on what’s in writing: the 1% general increase, plus any special law enforcement category OPM identifies.
Practical Steps You Can Take Now
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Stay Calm: This raise is separate from your within-grade step increases or promotions, which remain tied to performance and eligibility.
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Review Your Position: If you think your duties may qualify as law enforcement, pull your SF-50, check your series, and compare it to your actual daily work.
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Watch for Guidance: OPM and your agency’s HR office will issue clarifications this fall. Stay alert to those updates before assuming you’re covered.
A Mindful Perspective
Pay changes often stir frustration—especially when the numbers feel small compared to inflation or private-sector wages. But clarity comes from grounding yourself in the facts, not the headlines. By calmly reviewing your documentation and staying engaged with guidance as it emerges, you put yourself in the strongest position to claim every dollar you’ve earned.
Legal Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. While I am a federal employment attorney, this post does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every situation is unique, and legal outcomes depend on specific facts and circumstances.
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