Beginning August 17, 2026, PACER users who have not updated their passwords in the last 18 months will be randomly selected to update their passwords to comply with the updated password standards. Strong passwords are essential in safeguarding systems from unauthorized access.
According to the updated standards, new passwords must contain:
14-45 characters
At least one lowercase letter, one uppercase letter, and one special character (all special characters are allowed)
Not contain any part of your first name, last name, username, or email address
IMPORTANT: All PACER users must update their passwords every 180 days to reduce the risk of extended use of compromised passwords.
NOTE: Impacted users will be prompted to update their passwords upon login. Users can skip the process three times before their account is locked. Once an account is locked, users will not be able to perform any activity until they change their passwords.
In preparation, users should ensure that they know their security questions and answers and have access to the email address associated with their PACER account in the event they need to reset their passwords. If users do not know their security questions and answers, they should contact the PACER Service Center for assistance. Users sharing their account should coordinate with their teams to avoid locking each other out. Finally, if using third-party software, users should check if they need to take any additional action as it relates to that software.
If you have any questions, please contact the PACER Service Center at (800) 676-6856 or pacer@psc.uscourts.gov. The PACER Service Center hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 8:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. Central Time.