Feds Nearly Double Uniform Allowance to $1,500 for Workers
Published Date: 4/14/2026
Rule
Summary
The Office of Personnel Management is boosting the yearly uniform allowance from $800 to $1,500 for federal employees who need uniforms. This change starts July 13, 2026, and helps agencies better manage uniform programs while clarifying what counts as a uniform versus protective gear. If no big complaints come in by May 14, 2026, the new rules will roll out smoothly, putting more money and clearer rules in employees’ pockets.
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Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Federal Uniform Allowance Raised to $1,500
The Office of Personnel Management raises the maximum annual uniform allowance (or maximum cost an agency may pay to furnish uniforms) from $800 to $1,500. This change is scheduled to take effect July 13, 2026, unless significant adverse comments are received by May 14, 2026.
Uniform Definition Excludes PPE and Tools
The rule clarifies that a ``uniform'' means clothing or items worn to provide a distinctive and identifiable appearance and explicitly excludes personal protective equipment (PPE), tools, tailoring/cleaning services, and items required solely for job performance. Examples listed include ballistic vests, face shields, motor helmets, and safety footwear as PPE that cannot be paid for with uniform-allowance funds.
4% Cap on Vendor Service Charges
If an agency purchases uniforms directly from a vendor, it may pay service charges up to 4 percent, but the combined cost of the uniform and any service charges cannot exceed $1,500 per year. The rule codifies this limit as part of the revised maximum allowance.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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