Staying Ahead of the Curve

Performance appraisal season is here, and this year the rules have changed. In July 2026, OPM finalized a rule that allows agencies to rate federal employees against their co-workers, and a September memo capped Level 4 and Level 5 ratings to 40% of each agency's workforce for the 2026 performance cycle. The rule also eliminates Level 2 ratings, limits the use of pass/fail ratings, and phases out the negotiated grievance process for ratings. These changes arrive alongside new RIF rules that put performance first. So, how will you stack up against your peers? Keep reading to see what to expect from your 2026 rating, and what options you have if you disagree.