What Is Jury Duty Pay?
When you're called to serve on a jury, the court typically provides a small daily stipend to compensate for your time. However, "jury duty pay" is rarely enough to replace a full day's wages — it's more of a token acknowledgment of your civic contribution. Understanding exactly what you'll receive helps you plan ahead and avoid financial surprises.
Federal Jury Duty Pay
Federal courts set a uniform pay rate across the United States. As of recent years, federal jurors receive:
- $50 per day for the first 10 days of service
- $60 per day after 10 days of service on lengthy trials
- Mileage reimbursement for travel to and from the courthouse
- Parking or public transit costs may also be reimbursed depending on the district
Federal grand jurors typically receive the same base daily rate. If a federal trial extends for weeks or months, the court may also provide additional allowances for meals and lodging.
State Jury Duty Pay
State courts are where compensation varies most dramatically. Each state sets its own daily juror fee, and the range can be striking:
| Compensation Level | Typical Daily Rate | Example States |
|---|---|---|
| Very Low | $5 – $15 per day | Some Southern and Midwestern states |
| Moderate | $15 – $40 per day | Many Northeastern and Western states |
| Higher | $40 – $50 per day | A handful of states with updated statutes
|