The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) — a division of the Federal Reserve responsible for setting monetary policy — will soon meet again to evaluate the health of the economy and make key decisions regarding the federal funds rate.
So far this year, the Fed has decided to hold its benchmark rate steady. However, there may be rate cuts at some point in 2026.
These decisions impact not only how the economy functions as a whole but also everyday consumers, as they influence rates on savings accounts, credit cards, mortgages, and more.
Statements and forecasts released during FOMC meetings provide valuable information on the economic outlook. Knowing when the Fed meets to discuss monetary policy and make important decisions can help you get a snapshot of the economy’s overall health and adjust your own financial strategy accordingly.
When is the next Fed meeting?
The FOMC holds eight regularly scheduled meetings per year. Its most recent meeting took place March 17-18 2026. The next one is scheduled for April 28-29.
Here’s the Fed’s full meeting schedule for 2026:
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January 27-28
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March 17-18*
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April 28-29
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June 16-17*
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July 28-29
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September 15-16*
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October 27-28
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December 8-9*
* Meeting associated with a Summary of Economic Projections.
At these meetings, policymakers assess the health of the economy by evaluating economic indicators such as the Consumer Price Index (CPI), gross domestic product (GDP), and the unemployment rate to shape monetary policy.
The minutes of regularly scheduled meetings are released three weeks after the date of the policy decision. The live press conferences held by Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell are also livestreamed and recorded.
Once each meeting concludes, the FOMC releases its policy decisions at 2 p.m. Eastern time. Then the Fed Chairman holds a press conference at 2:30 p.m.
What to expect from the next Fed meeting
The next meeting is expected to provide Americans with an update on the federal funds rate. The Fed lowered its target rate three times in 2024, and three more times in 2025. However, it did not change the federal funds rate after its most recent meeting in March 2026 and issued the following statement:
“In support of its goals, the Committee decided to maintain the target range for the federal funds rate at 3‑1/2 to 3‑3/4 percent. In considering the extent and timing of additional adjustments to the target range for the federal funds rate, the Committee will carefully assess incoming data, the evolving outlook, and the balance of risks. The Committee is strongly committed to supporting maximum employment and returning inflation to its 2 percent objective”
Experts believe that the Fed will reduce the federal funds rate again in 2026. However, the number and size of these rate cuts remain to be seen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Fed going to cut rates again?
It’s not possible to predict with certainty what the Fed will decide regarding the federal funds rate. That said, many economists expect a rate cut later in 2026.
How often does the Fed meet to change interest rates?
The FOMC holds eight regularly scheduled meetings per year. But this doesn’t necessarily mean the committee will decide to change rates at every meeting. Members assess the economy’s performance and the committee adjusts monetary policy accordingly.
What is the Fed’s target interest rate?
The Fed’s current target range is 3.5%-3.75%.
