Local Employment Policy Handbook - ICASS

PRIOR FEDERAL RATE (PFR) FOR NORS HIRED UNDER A PSA
The International HR Manager in HR/OE/HRM authorizes Prior Federal Rate (PFR) for Eligible Family
Members that don’t meet the definition of Appointment Eligible Family Member and other NORs hired
under a PSA at a salary level above step one of the authorized American FP or GS grade for State and
participating agencies that signed State’s MOA for PSA authority. PFR is based on the highest previous
rate earned on a prior federal government direct hire appointment.
Requesting PFR for any NOR applicant is totally at the discretion of Mission management, and may
include budgetary concerns, employee morale, and other considerations. PFR is not an entitlement for
any NOR applicant.
PFR is based on the rate of basic pay earned while on a regular tour of duty on one or more appointments
of at least 90 calendar days without a break in service. The number of days worked on the appointment is
not an issue. The number of days appointed is what’s important.
PFR may not be based salary earned from a:
--Commissary or Employee Association.
--Personal or Nonpersonal Services Contract or Agreement.
--Non-appropriated fund position.
--Position in private industry.
--An expert or consultant appointment.
--Special rate under 5 USC 5303.
Any allowances or differential are “additional pay” separate from the rate of basic pay and may not be
used in setting the PFR.
How PFR is Authorized
HR, on behalf of the NOR employee, sends a copy of the previous SF-50 personnel action to the
International HR Manager in HR/OE/HRM. HR/OE/HRM may authorize PFR at any step within the
authorized American pay plan grade of the position that isn’t more than the salary listed on the SF-50.
However, if the HPR falls between two steps of the grade, HR/OE/HRM may authorize the higher step. If
the SF-50 salary is more than the highest step of the grade of the position, HR/OE/HRM will authorize