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OPM Form 1397 – Special Salary Rate Request (Fillable PDF)

  1. Language English
  2. Country USA
  3. Department Office of Personnel Management
  4. Sector OPM Forms
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OPM Form 1397 – Special Salary Rate Request (Fillable PDF)

The OPM Form 1397 is the official worksheet used by federal agencies to request the establishment, modification, or discontinuance of a special salary rate for General Schedule (GS) positions. This form is required whenever an agency needs to address recruiting or retention challenges caused by market pay differences, remote locations, or other special circumstances.

What Is OPM Form 1397?

Form 1397, titled Special Salary Rate Request Form, collects detailed information about the position, the justification for a special rate, and the proposed pay level. OPM reviews each request to ensure it complies with 5 CFR 530.304 and related statutes.

How to Complete the Fillable PDF

Our online Formize PDF Filler makes it easy to fill out Form 1397 without downloading a separate editor. Simply click the "Fill out this form" button below, wait for the filler to load, and enter the required data.

  • Enter agency information and contact details.
  • Provide the GS series, grade, and position title.
  • Describe the justification – e.g., market pay disparity, geographic hardship, or unique job duties.
  • Specify the proposed special rate and the effective date.
  • Attach supporting documentation if required.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To increase the chance of approval, avoid these frequent errors:

  • Missing agency codes – ensure the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) identifier is correct.
  • Incomplete justification – provide quantitative market data and clear narrative.
  • Incorrect dates – the effective date must be within the agency’s fiscal year.
  • Unclear salary calculations – show how the special rate compares to the standard GS step.

Submission Guidelines & Deadlines

Once the form is completed, save a copy for your records, then submit the PDF through your agency’s HR portal or directly to OPM headquarters as instructed by your HR office. Most agencies require submission at least 30 days before the intended effective date.

Need the fillable version now? Click the button below to start filling out OPM Form 1397 instantly.

FAQ
  • Who can submit OPM Form 1397?

    Only authorized HR personnel or agency officials with OPM approval authority may submit a Special Salary Rate Request.

  • Is the Formize filler compatible with all browsers?

    Yes. The filler works in Chrome, Edge, Firefox, and Safari. Ensure JavaScript is enabled for the best experience.

  • Can I save the form before completing it?

    Absolutely. Use the "Save" button in the filler to download a draft PDF and return to it later.

  • What supporting documents are required?

    Typically you need market salary surveys, cost‑of‑living data, or a justification letter. Check your agency’s HR policy for specifics.

  • How long does OPM take to approve a special rate?

    Processing time varies, but most requests are reviewed within 30‑45 days after receipt of a complete submission.

  • Do I need a digital signature?

    Yes. The final page of Form 1397 requires an electronic signature from the approving official.

  • What if my request is denied?

    OPM will provide a written explanation. You may revise the justification and resubmit, addressing the feedback.

HOW TO

How to fill out OPM Form 1397 for free, online in 5 easy steps:

  1. 1
    Click the Fill‑out Button
    Press the "Fill out this form" button on the page to launch the Formize PDF Filler.
  2. 2
    Wait for the Filler to Load
    The fillable PDF will appear in the browser. Loading usually takes a few seconds.
  3. 3
    Enter All Required Information
    Complete each section of OPM Form 1397, following the on‑screen prompts and our step‑by‑step guide.
  4. 4
    Review and Validate
    Use the built‑in validation to check for missing fields or formatting errors before saving.
  5. 5
    Save and Submit
    Save a copy for your records, then follow your agency’s submission process to send the completed form to OPM.
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ABOUT

Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Forms

OPM Form 1397 is one of the official forms that are used by the United States Office of Personnel Management, which is an independent agency of the federal government responsible for managing the civil service workforce and federal employee benefits. The OPM establishes policies and regulations related to federal employment, administers various personnel programs, and provides services to federal employees, retirees, and job applicants.

Here are some examples of Office of Personnel Management forms:

Standard Form 86 (SF-86): This form is used for the background investigation process for individuals applying for a security clearance. It collects comprehensive personal, employment, education, and financial information, as well as details about foreign contacts and activities.

Standard Form 2809 (SF-2809): This form is used to enroll in the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program, which provides health insurance coverage to federal employees, retirees, and their eligible family members.

Standard Form 2817 (SF-2817): This form is used to apply for continuation of coverage under the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP) after retirement or separation from federal service.

Standard Form 3107 (SF-3107): This form is used to apply for retirement benefits under the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS).

Standard Form 2801 (SF-2801): This form is used to apply for retirement benefits under the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).

Standard Form 15 (SF-15): This form is used to apply for veteran's preference in federal employment. It is submitted by veterans or their eligible family members seeking employment opportunities in the federal government.

These examples represent some common OPM forms used in the context of federal employment and employee benefits. However, the OPM has a range of other forms related to various personnel programs, retirement, insurance, and other aspects of federal employment. The specific forms required may vary depending on the nature of the transaction, program, or benefit being sought. It's advisable to consult the official website of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (www.opm.gov) or seek guidance from the OPM or relevant human resources personnel to obtain accurate and up-to-date information regarding the specific OPM forms relevant to your federal employment or benefits-related needs.

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