Federal Uniform Allowance Rises to $1,500 in First Governmentwide Increase Since 2007
For the first time in nearly two decades, the federal government is raising the annual uniform allowance for federal law enforcement officers. The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) says the move will help offset rising uniform costs, support recruitment, and improve oversight.
The new maximum allowance takes effect July 13, 2026.
“Significant Cost Increases”
The rule boosts the maximum annual allowance from $800 to $1,500. It’s the first increase since 2007, when the cap doubled from $400 to $800.
In its direct final rule, OPM wrote that in the past 20 years, “uniform costs have risen significantly due to inflation and advancements in materials that improve durability, comfort, and safety.”
For example, agencies reported that boot costs averaged $157 in October 2024, higher than many commercially available boots because of specific durability, safety, and compliance requirements.
Despite this, OPM noted that many employees will not need the full $1,500 per year and that agencies are in the “best position to identify and manage the specific uniform allowance needs of their employees.”
It also noted the importance of the increase for recruitment and retention.
“Without an increase, employees in these occupations are required to bear a disproportionate share of uniform costs, which can negatively affect recruitment, retention, and morale in occupations such as law enforcement, firefighting, and other uniformed roles,” stated OPM.
Rule Clarifies Eligible Purchases
The rule also tightened the definition of what can be bought under the uniform allowance.
For example, law enforcement officers are not allowed to purchase personal protective equipment (PPE) using the allowance. Officers are also not allowed to use the allowance for services including “tailoring and cleaning, which are not uniform items and are prohibited.”
