Federal Jury Duty Pay 2026: $50/Day — Everything You Need to Know

Updated July 2026 · 7 min read

Getting summoned for federal jury duty feels different from state jury duty — and the pay reflects that. Federal courts pay significantly more than most state courts, and the rules are consistent nationwide.

Here's everything you need to know about federal juror compensation for 2026.

Federal Jury Duty Pay Rates (2026)

These rates apply to all US District Courts — whether you're in New York, Texas, or rural Montana. Federal rates are set by Congress and apply uniformly.

Mileage and Travel Reimbursement

In addition to your daily fee, federal courts reimburse travel costs:

• Mileage: $0.67 per mile (each way) if you drive
• Parking: Actual reasonable cost, with receipts
• Public transit: Actual cost reimbursed
• Lodging: If the court requires you to stay overnight, accommodations are provided or reimbursed

How Federal Pay Compares to State Pay

This is where the difference gets stark. While federal courts pay $50/day, here's what state courts typically pay:

• California: $15/day (starting day 2)
• Florida: $15/day
• Texas: $6/day (first 3 days), then $40/day
• Pennsylvania: $9/day
• New York: $40/day (from day 4; employer pays days 1-3)

If you're called to federal court, you're actually in a better financial position than most state court jurors.

When Does the Pay Change to $60/Day?

If your service extends beyond 10 days, your daily fee automatically increases to $60 starting on day 11. You don't need to request this — the court tracks your service days and adjusts your payment accordingly.

This higher rate applies to long civil trials, complex criminal cases, and grand jury service that extends beyond the standard term.

Federal Grand Jury Pay

Federal grand jurors receive the same daily rate as trial jurors: $50/day for the first 10 days, $60/day after that. The difference is that grand jury service can last much longer — federal grand juries sit for 18 months and typically meet 1-2 days per month.

That means if you're on a federal grand jury for a full term, you might receive only a few hundred dollars total — spread across 18 months of sporadic service.

Does Your Employer Have to Pay You During Federal Jury Duty?

Federal law doesn't require employers to pay employees during jury duty. However, many states have their own laws that apply even to federal jury service. Check your state's employer pay requirements — for example, New York employers must pay the first 3 days of wages for any jury service, including federal.

Also check your employer's HR policy. Many larger companies continue full pay during jury duty regardless of whether they're legally required to.

How and When You Get Paid

Federal courts issue payment by check, mailed to the address on file. Most jurors receive their check within 2-4 weeks of completing service. Some courts have moved to direct deposit — ask the clerk's office when you check in.