Short answer: People in federal prison serving more than one year can get up to 54 days of credit for each year of the sentence the judge imposed, if they follow the rules. Life sentences do not get it.
Last checked Oct 16, 2026, 3:00 AM MT. General information, not legal advice.
Federal law says a prisoner serving more than 1 year, other than a life sentence, may receive up to 54 days for each year of the sentence imposed by the court. The Bureau of Prisons must find "exemplary compliance" with disciplinary rules for that year.[1]
Time credits for programs and productive activities are a different system, with their own eligibility rules.[2] See our First Step Act guide.
No. The law says "up to" 54 days, and the BOP can deny credit for rule violations.
More answers: What is the difference between good time and earned time? · Does good time shorten a sentence or just make someone parole eligible sooner? · How do I find out when an inmate will be released? · Can good time be taken away? · Does time spent in jail before sentencing count?
Sources: 18 U.S.C. § 3624(b) (federal good conduct time) · 18 U.S.C. § 3632(d)(4) (First Step Act time credits) · Last verified: · Corrections