2026 Executive Schedule
$253,100
Level I of the 2026 Executive Schedule is $253,100, stepping down to $184,900 at Level V. Level IV, $197,200, is the statutory cap on GS locality-adjusted pay.
Effective January 1, 2026
The Executive Schedule sets pay for senior appointed positions across five levels. For 2026, rates run from Level I at $253,100, the highest, down to Level V at $184,900.
| Level | 2026 |
|---|---|
| Level I (Cabinet secretaries) | $253,100 |
| Level II (deputy secretaries, agency heads) | $228,000 |
| Level III (under secretaries) | $209,600 |
| Level IV (assistant secretaries — the GS pay cap) | $197,200 |
| Level V | $184,900 |
Frequently asked questions
What are the Executive Schedule levels for 2026?
The Executive Schedule has five levels for 2026, from Level I at $253,100 down to Level V at $184,900.
Who is paid on the Executive Schedule?
Senior appointed officials, such as agency heads and their deputies, are paid on the Executive Schedule rather than the General Schedule for 2026.
Does the Executive Schedule include locality pay?
No. Executive Schedule rates are fixed national amounts for 2026 and do not add a locality percentage.
Source: OPM Salary Table 2026-EX / OPM SES · effective January 1, 2026. Rates current as of July 20, 2026. Reference figures for general information — official pay is set by your agency, DFAS or OPM. See methodology.