Government Severance Pay: 2026 Guide & Calculator
Government typically offers 1-2 weeks per year of service. Calculate your estimated package below.
Free Severance Pay Calculator
Estimate your severance package based on your salary, years of service, and industry
How Government Severance Packages Work
Federal employees follow OPM guidelines with specific formulas based on years of service and age. State/local government varies by jurisdiction.
Government Severance by Position Level
Example: 5 years, $100,000 salary, typical range
| Position | Multiplier | Weeks | Estimated Package |
|---|---|---|---|
| Individual Contributor | 1x | 5.0 weeks | $9,615 |
| Manager | 1.1x | 5.5 weeks | $10,577 |
| Director | 1.25x | 6.3 weeks | $12,019 |
| Vice President | 1.5x | 7.5 weeks | $14,423 |
| Executive / C-Suite | 2x | 10.0 weeks | $19,231 |
Government Severance After Tax by State
Top states for government workers. Same package, different take-home.
| State | State Tax | Total Tax | After-Tax (on $50K) |
|---|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | 10.8% | 32.8% | $33,625 |
| Virginia | 5.8% | 27.8% | $36,125 |
| Maryland | 5.8% | 27.8% | $36,125 |
| California | 12.3% | 34.3% | $32,850 |
| Texas | 0.0% | 22.0% | $39,000 |
| New York | 10.9% | 32.9% | $33,550 |
| Florida | 0.0% | 22.0% | $39,000 |
| Illinois | 5.0% | 27.0% | $36,525 |
| Pennsylvania | 3.1% | 25.1% | $37,465 |
| Georgia | 5.5% | 27.5% | $36,250 |
Negotiating Government Severance
Industry-specific strategies to maximize your government severance package:
- ✓Federal employees: review OPM guidelines for your specific severance formula
- ✓Check if your position qualifies for early retirement options
- ✓Negotiate for priority rehire status on future positions
- ✓Request extension of security clearance maintenance if applicable
Think Your Severance Is Too Low?
Employment lawyers have helped workers negotiate 2-5x their original offers. Get a free consultation.
Government Severance FAQ
How much severance do government workers typically get?▼
Government companies typically offer 1-2 weeks of pay per year of service. For example, an employee with 5 years of service earning $100,000 would receive approximately $9,615 at the typical rate.
Is severance mandatory in the government industry?▼
No, severance is not legally required in any industry at the federal level. However, many government companies offer it as standard practice, and it may be included in employment contracts. The WARN Act may also require 60 days notice or pay for mass layoffs.
Can I negotiate my government severance package?▼
Absolutely. Most severance packages in government are negotiable. An employment lawyer experienced in government can typically negotiate 2-5x the initial offer, especially if there are potential legal claims. Many offer free initial consultations.
📋 Free Severance Negotiation Checklist
The exact steps employment lawyers use to negotiate higher severance. Used by 10,000+ employees.