USPTO patent attorney and examiner salary
Answer in brief
USPTO patent attorneys and patent examiners earn $55,330 to $197,200 in 2026 under OPM special rate Table 0576, which covers USPTO patent series 1220–1226. Pay rises by grade and step; GS-14 and GS-15 are capped at $197,200.
2026 special rate table
| Grade | Step 1 | Step 10 |
|---|---|---|
| GS-5 | $55,330 | $71,930 |
| GS-7 | $68,539 | $89,102 |
| GS-9 | $80,145 | $104,194 |
| GS-11 | $93,779 | $121,919 |
| GS-12 | $107,813 | $140,160 |
| GS-13 | $131,841 | $171,396 |
| GS-14 | $155,797 | $197,200 |
| GS-15 | $183,257 | $197,200 |
2026 annual special rates for USPTO patent series 1220–1226, OPM Table 0576. GS-14 and GS-15 are capped at $197,200 (Executive Schedule Level IV).
How to read it
Each grade has ten steps. New hires usually start at a lower grade and step depending on education and experience, then move up as they progress. Locality pay may adjust the figures by location; check the OPM table for your area.
Questions & answers
How much does a USPTO patent examiner make?
Sources for this entry
- OPM 2026 special rates, Table 0576 (USPTO patent examiners and patent attorneys) U.S. Office of Personnel Management
2026 annual pay for USPTO series 1220–1226 (incl. 1222 Patent Attorney, 1224 Patent Examiner): GS-5 step 1 $55,330 to GS-14/15 cap $197,200.
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Patent Attorney Salary. “USPTO patent attorney and examiner salary.” Wysebridge Reference. Content reviewed 9 November 2026.
https://patentattorneysalary.com/uspto-patent-attorney-salary/