Are you eyeing a stable government job? The 7th Pay Commission has transformed salaries for over 30 lakh central government employees in India. But with talks of the 8th Pay Commission on the horizon, many are scrambling to understand the current structure. Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. This guide breaks down the salary matrix post-wise, so you know exactly what to expect in 2026.
Whether you’re preparing for UPSC, SSC, or other exams, knowing these figures can help you plan your career. Let’s dive in and see how much you could earn.
Quick Overview: 7th Pay Commission Pay Levels
Here’s a snapshot of key pay levels under the 7th Pay Commission. These form the base for all salaries, with increments over time.
| Pay Level | Basic Pay Range (INR) | Typical Posts |
|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | 18,000 – 56,900 | Multi-Tasking Staff (MTS), Peons |
| Level 2 | 19,900 – 63,200 | Lower Division Clerks (LDC) |
| Level 3 | 21,700 – 69,100 | Upper Division Clerks (UDC) |
| Level 4 | 25,500 – 81,100 | Tax Assistants, Sub-Inspectors |
| Level 5 | 29,200 – 92,300 | Auditors, Accountants |
| Level 6 | 35,400 – 1,12,400 | Assistants, Junior Statistical Officers |
| Level 7 | 44,900 – 1,42,400 | Inspectors, Assistant Section Officers |
| Level 8 | 47,600 – 1,51,100 | Senior Secretariat Assistants |
| Level 9 | 53,100 – 1,67,800 | Deputy Section Officers |
| Level 10 | 56,100 – 1,77,500 | IAS/IPS Entry Level, Income Tax Officers |
| Level 11 | 67,700 – 2,08,700 | Superintendents, Assistant Directors |
| Level 12 | 78,800 – 2,09,200 | Deputy Secretaries |
| Level 13 | 1,23,100 – 2,15,900 | Directors, Joint Secretaries |
| Level 14 | 1,44,200 – 2,18,200 | Additional Secretaries |
| Level 15 | 1,82,200 – 2,24,100 | Secretaries |
| Level 16 | 2,05,400 – 2,24,400 | Distinguished Scientists |
| Level 17 | 2,25,000 (Fixed) | Cabinet Secretary Equivalent |
| Level 18 | 2,50,000 (Fixed) | Cabinet Secretary |
This table uses the pay matrix introduced in 2016, still active in 2026. Basic pay starts at the entry index and rises annually by about 3%.
What is the 7th Pay Commission?
The 7th Pay Commission, implemented from January 2016, revamped salaries for central government workers. It replaced the old pay bands with a simple matrix system. This makes it easier to track promotions and increments.
Why does it matter now? In 2026, Dearness Allowance (DA) is at 58%, boosting take-home pay. Plus, rumors of the 8th Pay Commission could mean hikes soon—stay updated to maximize your benefits.
Understanding the Pay Matrix
The pay matrix is a grid with 18 levels and 40 stages. Your salary starts at stage 1 of your level and moves up each year.
- Entry Pay: Lowest amount in a level.
- Increments: 3% annual raise, rounded to the nearest 100.
- Fitment Factor: 2.57 times the 6th Pay Commission basic pay.
For example, if you’re at Level 10, stage 1: Basic pay is ₹56,100. After one year? It jumps to ₹57,800.
Post-Wise Salary Structure
Salaries vary by post group. Here’s a breakdown with examples. Gross salary includes basic pay + DA (58%) + HRA (up to 27% in metros) + other allowances.
Group A Posts (High-Level Officers)
These are elite roles like IAS, IPS, and IFS. They start at higher levels.
- IAS Officer (Entry Level): Level 10, Basic ₹56,100. Gross: ₹70,000-₹80,000 (with allowances). Rises to ₹2,50,000 at apex.
- IPS Officer: Similar to IAS, Level 10 start.
- Income Tax Officer: Level 10, Basic ₹56,100.
- Director/Joint Secretary: Level 13, Basic ₹1,23,100. Gross: Over ₹2 lakh.
Career growth is fast—promotions every 4-5 years.
Group B Posts (Gazetted/Non-Gazetted)
Common in SSC CGL, these offer solid pay with perks.
- Assistant Section Officer (ASO): Level 7, Basic ₹44,900. Gross: ₹60,000-₹70,000.
- Inspector (Income Tax/Central Excise): Level 7, Basic ₹44,900.
- Sub-Inspector (CBI): Level 6, Basic ₹35,400. Gross: ₹50,000+.
- Junior Statistical Officer: Level 6, Basic ₹35,400.
Expect travel allowances and housing in these roles.
Group C Posts (Clerical/Technical)
Entry-level jobs with steady growth.
- Tax Assistant: Level 4, Basic ₹25,500. Gross: ₹35,000-₹45,000.
- Auditor/Accountant: Level 5, Basic ₹29,200.
- Upper Division Clerk (UDC): Level 3, Basic ₹21,700.
- Multi-Tasking Staff (MTS): Level 1, Basic ₹18,000. Gross: ₹25,000+.
These posts have fewer responsibilities but good job security.
Scientific and Technical Posts
For specialized fields like DRDO or ISRO.
- Scientific Officer H: Level 14, Basic ₹1,44,200.
- Outstanding Scientist: Level 15, Basic ₹1,82,200.
- Distinguished Scientist: Level 16, Basic ₹2,05,400.
These come with research grants and international exposure.
Key Allowances Under 7th Pay Commission
Your total pay isn’t just basic—add these:
- Dearness Allowance (DA): 58% of basic pay (as of 2026). Protects against inflation.
- House Rent Allowance (HRA): 27% in cities like Delhi, 18% in smaller towns.
- Transport Allowance (TA): ₹3,600-₹7,200 + DA.
- Other Perks: Medical, pension, leaves, and loans.
Calculate gross salary: Basic + DA + HRA + TA. For a Level 7 post in Delhi: ₹44,900 + ₹26,042 (DA) + ₹12,123 (HRA) + ₹7,200 (TA) ≈ ₹90,000.
How to Calculate Your Salary
Use online calculators for precision. Input your pay level, city, and stage. Tools factor in the latest DA hikes. Pro tip: Check for arrears if you’re switching from 6th CPC.
Important Links
- [Link to Official 7th Pay Commission Notification]
- [Link to DoPT Website for Pay Matrix]
- [Link to Salary Calculator Tool]
FAQs
Q1: What is the starting salary for an IAS officer in 2026? It starts at ₹56,100 basic pay (Level 10), with gross around ₹70,000 including allowances.
Q2: How often does DA increase under 7th Pay Commission? Twice a year, based on inflation. It’s currently 58% in 2026.
Q3: Is the 8th Pay Commission coming soon? Discussions are ongoing, but no official date yet. Expect potential hikes from 2026.
Q4: What’s the highest salary in the pay matrix? ₹2,50,000 fixed at Level 18, for top posts like Cabinet Secretary.
Q5: How do I find my pay level for a specific post? Check the recruitment notification or official gazette for your department.