The NIH has released NOT-OD-26-034, establishing the salary limitation for Executive Level II as $228,000, effective January 11, 2026.

What do I need to know?

Grant Applications:

Effective immediately, when preparing budgets for all grant applications to NIH/AHRQ, and any other agency limiting salary to the Executive Level II salary cap, applicants should employ this new cost cap for all personnel with a base salary at or over $228,000.

This is not a requirement if your budget has already been finalized for any NIH applications due between now and February 5th. Departments may chose to proceed as is to minimize edits and adjust at the award stage. 

Award Management:

All awards received with a start date on or after January 11 should employ this new cost cap for all personnel with a base salary at or over $228,000.

For awards with active periods both before and after January 11th (i.e. 07/01/2025 – 06/30/2026) it is highly recommended that departments prorate salary, employing the $225,700 salary base prior to January 11th, and $228,000 salary base after that date.