Arbitration and the Arbitrator Roster
FMCS does not issue arbitration decisions. Arbitrators are not FMCS employees.
Voluntary arbitration and fact-finding are widely used in labor-management relations. The FMCS Arbitration Services provides valuable services for parties seeking arbitration through its roster of approximately 1,000 arbitrators. It also oversees the roster to assure compliance with FMCS policies and procedures and with the Code of Professional Responsibility for Arbitrators of Labor-Management Disputes.
Upon request, FMCS provides panels of arbitrators experienced in labor relations issues, from which the parties can select as provided in their collective bargaining agreement or other mutual agreement. Requests can be tailored to accommodate a variety of requirements, including for expertise, fees, and geography, provided both parties agree. Other kinds of customization are available.
For general information about our arbitration program and its leadership, click Arbitration-about us. Use the side navigation on the left for other categories of information, including Requesting a Panel. For frequently asked questions, click FAQs.
You may reach Arbitration Services at 202-606-5111. The Supervisor of Arbitration, Karen Pierce, and other arbitration personnel may be reached at this number. For more specific contact information and areas of responsibility among Arbitration Department personnel, contact Karen Pierce at arbitration@fmcs.gov.
Arbitration Policy Guidance regarding federal sector panel requests
As of April 22, 2026, FMCS issued the guidance document below. Please email arbitration@fmcs.gov with any questions.
Arbitration Guidance Document
NOTE: There is a new fee structure as of 10/01/2023 as follows:
Annual listing fee for arbitrators who have completed less than 5 years on the Roster: $200 for the first address and $75 for each additional address.
Annual listing fee for arbitrators who have completed 5 or more years on the Roster: $300 for the first address and $125 for each additional address.
A Request for a “Panel” of arbitrators (up to seven) processed online: $100
Request for “Panel” of arbitrators (up to 13) processed manually by FMCS staff: $175.
Request for a “List” of arbitrators (up to 13) processed manually by FMCS staff: $175.
Direct manual appointment of an arbitrator when a panel is not used: $100.