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Pay Cap

Understanding Federal Pay Compression: Key Issues and Solutions

FedSmith.com author David FeiBy David FeiDec 23, 2025 9:23 AM Categories Pay & Benefits Leave a comment
Pink piggy bank getting squeezed by a belt wrapped around it

What is pay compression and what impact can it have on federal employee pay?

Pay Cap, Pay Compression, and Potential for Change

FedSmith.com author Ralph R. SmithBy Ralph R. SmithAug 9, 2023 11:12 AM Categories Pay & Benefits Leave a comment
$100 bill in a block of ice

The pay cap impacts a growing number of federal employees every year. A new bill would eliminate it.

Pay Compression, Pay Caps Impacting Federal Employees Frozen at $183,500

FedSmith.com author Ralph R. SmithBy Ralph R. SmithJan 4, 2023 8:07 AM | Updated: Aug 9, 2023 11:03 AM Categories Pay & Benefits Leave a comment
Hundred dollar bills in ice signifying a pay freeze

Pay compression and the pay freeze now impact senior federal employees in 31 GS locality pay areas.

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April 15, 2026

Fund Last % YTD
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