There are several new changes to federal employment that federal employees should be aware of going into 2023.
Let’s explore what federal employees should understand about changes in 2023.
Federal Employee Pay Raise
In late December, President Biden signed an executive order granting a federal pay raise for federal employees, starting with the first pay period of 2023. This pay increase averages out to 4.6% of each federal employee’s salary and is a substantial increase from the 2.7% increase seen in 2022.
You can view the general schedule increase on the OPM website.
COLA Increase for Retired Federal Employees
Retired federal employees may see an increase in their benefits come 2023 due to a Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) increase for Social Security beneficiaries and Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) annuitants. The COLA for 2023 is 8.7% for federal employees who retired under CSRS and 7.7% for federal employees who retired under FERS. This would help retired federal employees stay ahead of inflation and help them better afford the increasing healthcare costs associated with aging.
Other Changes Coming to Federal Employment
In addition to those two major changes coming up in 2023, there are other changes that are expected as well. For example, President Biden has also proposed increasing paid parental leave from 12 weeks for up to 12 months after birth or placement of adopted children for all civilian federal employees and creating additional training opportunities and increased access to telework options within the agency workforce.
These changes could have a significant impact on how agencies recruit and retain talent as well as how they support their current workforce in terms of career development opportunities and resources available through telework options or flexible work schedules.
Defending Your Rights & Your Career
All in all, there are many exciting changes coming up in 2023 regarding federal employment! From potential increases in salary and retirement benefits to additional training opportunities and increased access to telework options within the agency workforce - there are plenty of reasons why now might be the perfect time for current or prospective federal employees to start thinking about their careers! While these proposals still have yet to become law, it’s essential for all current and future government workers alike to stay informed about any potential changes coming up so they can make sure they’re prepared no matter what happens!
