Federal agencies can now offer bigger bonuses to hire and move staff

The US Office of Personnel Management has made it easier for federal agencies to offer larger recruitment and relocation bonuses. Agencies can now approve higher payments without needing special permission from the central personnel office.

Federal agencies often struggle to compete with private companies for skilled workers, especially in specialized fields. This change gives them more flexibility to attract talent by offering more money upfront. It means agencies can react faster to hiring needs without waiting for extra approvals.