The 1981 Federation Cup (also known as the 1981 Federation Cup by NEC for sponsorship purposes) was the 19th edition of the most important competition between national teams in women's tennis. The tournament was held at the Tamagawa-en Racquet Club in Tokyo, Japan, from 9–15 November. The United States won their sixth consecutive title, defeating Great Britain in the final, in what was a rematch of the 1967 Federation Cup.
All ties were played at the Tamagawa-en Racquet Club in Tokyo, Japan, on clay courts.
1st and 2nd Round losing teams play in Consolation Rounds