Most jurors receive payment, but the amount varies widely by court and state

Yes, most courts pay jurors, but the amount depends on which court system you're in and how long your service lasts. Federal courts typically pay more than state courts. Some local courts pay nothing for the first few days, then begin payment. A few jurisdictions pay nothing at all. The payment is usually modest — often between $15 and $50 per day — and does not cover lost wages for most people.

Payment comes from the court itself, not from the party in the case. You receive a check or direct deposit after your service ends, or sometimes during a long trial. The court sends payment information with your summons or provides it when you arrive for jury duty.

Key Takeaways

  • Federal courts typically pay $50 per day for the first three days, then $60 per day after that, while state and local courts often pay $15 to $40 per day.
  • Payment usually arrives by check or direct deposit after your service ends, though some courts pay during trials that last more than a week.
  • Some courts pay nothing for the first one to three days of service, then begin payment on day four or later.
  • You should contact your local court directly to learn the exact payment rate, since it varies by jurisdiction and sometimes by case type.

Federal court jury pay

Federal courts operate under a single national pay scale set by Congress. Jurors in federal court receive $50 per day for the first three days of service, then $60 per day for days four through ten, and $75 per day after day ten. This applies to trials in U.S. District Courts and U.S. Courts of Appeals.

Federal courts also reimburse mileage if you drive to court — currently 14 cents per mile, though this rate can change. If your trial lasts longer than a few weeks, the court may provide parking validation or other travel assistance. Payment is issued by check or direct deposit, usually within two to four weeks after your service ends.

State and local court jury pay

State courts set their own jury pay rates, which means the amount you receive depends on which state and county you live in. Most state courts pay between $15 and $50 per day. Some pay a flat rate for all days; others increase the rate after the first few days. A few states pay nothing for the first one to three days, then begin payment on day four.

Local municipal courts often pay less than state district courts. Small claims courts may pay $0 to $25 per day. You can find your court's specific rate by calling the court clerk's office or checking the court's website — the rate is usually listed on the jury information page or in the materials sent with your summons.

When you receive payment

Most courts issue jury pay after your service ends. If you serve for one to five days, you typically receive a check in the mail within two to four weeks. Some courts now offer direct deposit, which arrives faster — usually within one to two weeks.

For trials lasting more than one week, some courts pay you during the trial rather than waiting until the end. Ask the court clerk when you arrive for jury duty. If you need payment sooner because of financial hardship, some courts will issue a check on your last day of service if you ask in advance.

What jury pay does not cover

Jury pay is rarely enough to replace lost wages. If you earn $20 per hour and serve for five days, you lose $800 in income but receive only $100 to $250 from the court. Some employers pay your full salary while you serve on jury duty, but many do not — this depends on your employer's policy and your state's laws.

A few states require employers to pay employees during jury duty, at least for a certain number of days. Check your state's laws or ask your employer before your service date. If your employer does not pay and jury duty creates genuine hardship, you can request postponement or dismissal when you receive your summons.

Employer protections during jury duty

Federal law prohibits employers from firing, threatening, or punishing you for serving on a federal jury. Many states have similar protections for state court jury duty, though the scope varies. Some states protect only the first few days of service; others protect the entire duration.

If your employer retaliates against you for jury service, you may have grounds for a legal claim. Document what happened — dates, what was said, any changes to your pay or schedule — and contact your state's labor department or an employment attorney. You do not need to pay an attorney upfront; many work on contingency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to report jury pay as income on my taxes?

Yes. Jury pay is taxable income and must be reported on your federal tax return. You should receive a Form 1099-MISC from the court if you were paid $600 or more in a calendar year. Even if you receive less than $600, you still must report it as other income.

What if I cannot afford to lose the wages from jury duty?

You can request postponement or dismissal when you receive your summons by explaining the financial hardship in writing. Courts sometimes grant postponement to a later date when you may be better able to serve. You can also raise hardship during jury selection (voir dire) and ask to be dismissed for cause.

Do I get paid if I am dismissed during jury selection?

This varies by court. Federal courts pay jurors for the day they report, even if dismissed during voir dire. Many state courts do the same, but some pay nothing if you are dismissed before the trial begins. Call your court clerk to ask about their specific policy.

Can my employer require me to give them my jury pay?

No. Jury pay belongs to you. Your employer cannot require you to turn over the payment as a condition of keeping your job. If an employer makes this demand, it may violate state law and you should contact your state's labor department.

How do I find out the exact jury pay rate for my court?

Call the jury office or court clerk for your local court and ask for the current daily rate. You can also check the court's website — most post jury pay information in a FAQ or juror information section. The rate may be listed in the materials sent with your summons.