Trump Sets 2026 Pay Rates for Federal Workers, Military, and Top Officials
How this policy affects specific groups of people
President Trump signed the 2026 NDAA, confirming a 3.8% raise in military basic pay starting January 1. The raise increases monthly pay for an enlisted E-1 by about $88, while also boosting housing and subsistence allowances for active-duty troops and reservists.
The 2026 federal pay raise is officially set at 1% for most employees following a new executive order. The order supersedes previous pay tables and establishes new rates for the General Schedule, Senior Executive Service, and top officials including members of Congress and federal judges.
While Trump touted the 3.8% military pay raise for 2026 as a historic achievement, the increase actually falls short of the 4.5% to 5.2% raises seen in the previous three years. The raise is largely determined by a legal formula tied to the Employment Cost Index.
Document Type
Executive Order
Official Title
Adjustments of Certain Rates of Pay
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