• Search Search Please fill out this field.
  • Career Planning
  • Succeeding at Work
  • Pay & Getting a Raise

How To Write a Letter Requesting a Pay Raise

letter to request raise in salary

Is It Acceptable To Negotiate Salary by Email or Letter?

What to include in your letter or email message, sample letter requesting a raise, how to send your letter via email, frequently asked questions (faqs).

Nervous about asking for a pay raise? Putting your request in writing might make it easier. 

A written request gives you a chance to pitch the reasons why you’re worth more than what you’re currently getting paid, without stammering over your choice of words. It may also offer your manager a chance to review your situation before answering. 

But to make the best impression on your boss, you need to write a letter that makes a good case for giving you a raise. Here’s what to keep in mind. 

Key Takeaways

  • Your boss may welcome a written request as it gives them the chance to consider your case before meeting in person.
  • Conduct salary research to set a pay range that’s based on your experience, skills, education, and location.
  • List and quantify your accomplishments, paying particular attention to goals exceeded and money saved or earned by the company.

Some career experts will tell you that in-person is the only way to go when it comes to negotiating a raise . That’s not necessarily the case.

Many (if not most) people are uncomfortable talking about salary. This is true for both the people in charge of giving out raises and the people hoping to receive them. In fact, data collected for Payscale’s Salary Negotiation Guide showed that only 43% of respondents had ever negotiated salary in their current field. Twenty-eight percent of folks who didn’t ask for a raise listed discomfort talking about salary as their reason for holding back.

Making the request in writing helps ease any discomfort you or your boss might feel. It also gives your manager a chance to consider your request before he or she responds.

Sending a written request avoids putting your supervisor on the spot, and it can pave the way for a discussion about your wages and a potential increase.

It also gives you the chance to do your homework and make your request as smoothly as possible. No need to worry about forgetting what you want to say or stumbling over the words when you can write it all down.

In addition, your letter provides formal documentation of your request for a pay increase. It’s always best to have a paper trail for important business communications. Unlike a verbal conversation, a letter requesting a pay raise documents exactly what you’ve asked for and how you’ve asked for it.

Before you even begin writing your letter, make sure that your salary request is reasonable. Conduct salary research to determine the appropriate range for your position, experience, and accomplishments. Remember that the goal is to show that you deserve a raise—that you’ve earned it and that it’s in line with the market for your skills, experience, and job title.

Once you’ve determined an appropriate range, it’s time to build your case.

It’s crucial to be specific when you’re asking for a salary increase. Quantify your accomplishments and achievements whenever possible.

Don’t expect your manager to know everything you’ve done on the job. (In fact, as an ongoing practice, it’s a good idea to get in the habit of writing down everything you accomplish on a daily or weekly basis so that you can refer to your achievements at review time or when you’re asking for a raise.)

Take the time to spell it out for them so they can clearly see why you may warrant a raise. This also provides support for your request if your manager needs to get approval from their boss or the human resources department. The more solid information you can provide, the more likely you are to get the increase you're asking for.

This is a raise request letter example. Download the letter template for requesting a raise (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for more examples.

The Balance

Sample Letter Requesting a Raise (Text Version)

Melody Brown 123 North St. Miami, FL 33151  555-555-5555 melody.brown@email.com

September 22, 2022

Lydia Smith, Manager  XYZ Sales Company  321 South St.  Miami, FL 33125

Dear Lydia, 

I have greatly enjoyed working at XYZ Sales Company for the past three years. In those years, I have become an integral member of the sales team and have developed innovative ways to contribute to the company.

For example, in the past year alone, I have achieved the following goals:

  • Highest-ranking salesperson in customer satisfaction last quarter
  • Brought two new high-profile clients to the company, increasing total company sales revenue by 10%
  • Voluntarily trained incoming sales staff, totaling 80 hours of voluntary service

I believe I have gone above and beyond the benchmarks we set for my position when I arrived at the company three years ago.

I would therefore appreciate the opportunity to meet with you to discuss increasing my salary so that it is commensurate with my current performance. I request a pay raise of 6%, which I believe reflects both my current competencies and industry averages.

Once again, I am grateful to be a member of this organization, and I enjoy taking on assignments that allow me to contribute to the company.

Thank you for your time. I look forward to speaking with you soon.

Signature (hard copy letter)

Melody Brown

Sample Email Letter Requesting a Pay Raise

Subject Line: George Smith – Meeting Request

Now that the XYZ project is in the rearview and we're all settling back into our regular routines, I wanted to drop you a line to ask if we can have a meeting to discuss my compensation.

As you know, I started at ABC Corp two years ago as an intern and came on board at a salary that was slightly low in the pay band, with the understanding that we would revisit my pay at review time. Since then, of course, we’ve all been too busy to think much about anything but hitting our deadlines.

I feel so fortunate to have had the opportunity to start my career with mentors like you and Jack and to continue to learn in a company that's growing so fast. Over the past two years, I've gladly worn many hats, including lead on our latest project. In addition, I've always exceeded my own goals without missing a single deadline. I've also continued developing my skillset by taking classes in UX design.

My research indicates that a raise of 10% would be appropriate. I'd love the opportunity to meet with you and discuss this in person.

George Smith

Most offices rely on email for written communication. If you send your request for a raise via email, the bulk of your letter will be the same as in a hard copy. There are, however, some small differences to keep in mind:

  • Omit the paragraphs at the top with your address and your manager’s address.
  • Choose an appropriate subject line , e.g., “Your Name - Request.”
  • Keep your note concise and to the point.

Proofread your letter and send yourself a test copy to make sure that your formatting comes out the way you intended. Only when you’re sure that everything is correct should you send it to your manager.

How much should I ask for when negotiating a raise?

When asking for a raise, start by researching salary ranges for your job title, location, and qualifications. Consider your achievements and skillset and take into account competition for jobs (or skilled employees) in your area. Your goal should be to bring your compensation in line with the market. 

How do I politely ask for a raise?

Remember that your employer isn’t your adversary. They have a stake in making sure you’re paid appropriately for your work. Make your case based on your salary research and be gracious and professional during the conversation. 

Payscale. " Salary Negotiation Guide ."

Status.net

How to Write a Salary Increase Request Letter (3 Examples)

By Status.net Editorial Team on February 8, 2024 — 7 minutes to read

A salary increase letter is your opportunity to make a case for higher compensation. It’s a formal document that outlines your value to the company and justifies why you are deserving of a raise, often by referencing the contributions you’ve made. Think of this letter as a strategic move to communicate your worth and the reasons behind your request for a greater salary.

  • In writing this letter, your goal is to be professional yet persuasive. You want to lay out your achievements, additional responsibilities you’ve taken on, or any market research you’ve done that indicates you’re being underpaid. For example, if you initially accepted your position at a certain salary but have since taken on more complex projects or led successful teams, these are strong points to include.
  • Include a brief overview of your successes, and if possible, quantify them. For instance, you might mention a project you completed that increased company revenue by 15%, or customer satisfaction scores that rose by 10% under your leadership. These specific examples speak volumes.
  • Remember to approach your request with poise and respect, keeping in mind that it’s a professional negotiation. You’re not demanding a raise; rather, you’re requesting a fair evaluation of your salary based on your tangible achievements and the value you bring to the team.

Timing is also key when you decide to submit this letter. Ideal moments might be during performance reviews or after the successful completion of a significant project. Carefully consider when your contributions will be most fresh in your supervisor’s mind, and align your request accordingly.

Preparation Before Writing

Before drafting your salary increase letter, take the time to thoroughly prepare. This groundwork will not only bolster your request but also boost your confidence.

Self-Assessment

Identify what makes you a valuable employee. Consider your skills, work experience, and contributions to the company. Reflect on your performance, noting any areas where you’ve gone above and beyond. Consider answering questions like: Have you taken on additional responsibilities? Are you meeting or exceeding your targets?

Market Research

Research the typical salary for your position in your geographic location. Use resources such as Glassdoor, PayScale, or LinkedIn Salary to get an understanding of what others in your field and area are earning. Note how your current salary compares to these benchmarks.

Documenting Achievements

Organize a list of your key achievements since your last salary review. Include successful projects, customer praises, or any recognition you’ve received. Use metrics and numbers to quantify your contributions when possible. For example, if you increased sales, state by how much, like “increased sales by 15% over six months.”

Determining the Salary Increase Amount

Decide on a realistic raise percentage or salary amount based on your research and value to the company. Typically, salary increases range from 3% to 5% for a merit increase, but more for promotion or significant responsibilities added. Set a clear and justified target for negotiation.

Structuring Your Letter

Writing a salary increase letter requires attention to structure to ensure your message is clear and professional. Each part of your letter should build upon the previous to create a compelling case.

1. Professional Greeting

Start with a professional greeting to show respect and formality. For example, use “Dear [Manager’s Name],” rather than a simple “Hi” or “Hello.” Remember that you are initiating a professional request, so the salutation sets the tone.

2. Introduction Statement

Your introductory statement should briefly outline the reason for your letter. You could write something like, “I am writing to express my intention to discuss my compensation.” Keep it concise and direct, paving the way for a detailed discussion.

3. Statement of Intent

Now, clearly state your intent – you are seeking a salary increase. Be forthright by saying, “I would like to request a review of my current salary in light of my contributions to the team and the company.” This signals confidence and opens the conversation for negotiation.

Crafting the Body of the Letter

In this section, you’ll learn how to showcase your achievements and articulate your request for a salary increase effectively.

Outlining Achievements

Begin with a clear and concise overview of your accomplishments. Make a bullet-point list to highlight key contributions, such as projects completed or targets exceeded. Be sure to include any accolades or recognitions you’ve received. For example:

  • Successfully managed and delivered four major projects on time over the past year, contributing to a 20% increase in department efficiency.
  • Awarded ‘Employee of the Month’ twice in six months for outstanding performance and dedication.

Quantify your achievements wherever possible, using data to illustrate your impact on the company.

Explaining Your Request

Next, transition into the specific rationale behind your salary increase request. Clearly state your desired amount or percentage and tie it back to the market rate for your position if possible. It can be helpful to mention how long it’s been since your last pay increase. Here’s an example:

  • After researching, I found the average market salary for my role is 10% higher than my current pay. Considering my contributions and the length of time since my last raise, I am requesting a salary increase of 12%.

Concluding Your Letter

When wrapping up your salary increase letter, it’s important to reaffirm your request and leave with a positive tone.

Reiteration

In the final paragraph of your salary increase letter, you’ll want to briefly summarize the main points. This means mentioning your request for a raise again and quickly restating the reasons you provided earlier to support it. For example, you might say, “I am hopeful that my contributions to the team, including the successful launch of the new marketing campaign, warrant a reconsideration of my current salary.”

Grateful Closing

End your letter on a gracious note. Expressing your appreciation for the reader’s time and consideration helps maintain a good relationship, regardless of the outcome. You can write something like, “Thank you for considering my request. I am very grateful for the opportunity to work with a team that supports my professional growth.” Close with a courteous sign-off such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards,” followed by your name.

Sample Salary Increase Letters

Example for performance-based raise.

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I am writing to formally request a salary increase in recognition of my recent performance and contributions to the team. Since my last review, I have exceeded the targets set for my role by achieving [specific achievements or metrics], which contributed to the overall success of our department. I feel that a raise would not only reflect my dedication and hard work but also align my compensation with the value I bring to the company.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Example for Cost of Living Adjustment

I would like to discuss an adjustment to my salary that reflects the current cost of living increases in our area. Over the past year, there has been a significant rise in living expenses, and I believe an adjustment to my current salary of [current salary] would be appropriate to maintain my standard of living and keep pace with inflation rates.

Thank you for considering my request, and I look forward to discussing this with you further.

Best regards, [Your Name]

Example for Promotion Related Raise

I am excited about my recent promotion to [new position] and the opportunity to contribute to the company in a more significant way. With the added responsibilities and deliverables of my new role, I would like to propose an adjustment to my current salary to reflect these changes. I believe a salary of [proposed salary] is in line with the industry standards for this position and would be commensurate with the additional value I will continue to provide.

Thank you for your support, and I am eager to continue achieving great results for our team.

Warm regards, [Your Name]

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key components to include in a salary increase request letter.

In your salary increase request letter, your key components should include a clear subject line, a brief introduction stating your role and time with the company, a summary of your accomplishments, a specific salary request, and your rationale behind it. End with a statement expressing willingness to discuss the request further.

Can you provide an example of a polite request for a salary increment?

For example, you could write, “I appreciate the opportunity to work here and am thrilled with the success we’ve achieved together. After reviewing my responsibilities and the value I bring, I’m writing to request a discussion regarding my compensation.”

How should I approach writing a letter requesting a raise due to the rising cost of living?

Begin by acknowledging the situation tactfully, then relate your request to the increased cost of living, offering evidence such as inflation rates, if possible. Indicate how a raise would ensure your continued dedication and high-performance levels.

What tips can you share for crafting a compelling salary negotiation letter after a promotion?

After receiving a promotion, express gratitude and excitement for the new role and responsibilities. Proceed to justify your request for a higher salary by emphasizing the increased duties and linking them to market rates for similar positions.

How can I professionally communicate my request for a higher salary in a written letter?

Approach the matter professionally by being concise and factual. Discuss your accomplishments, skills, and the value you add to the team. Make your salary request reasonable, back it up with market data, and remain open for dialogue regarding your salary.

  • How to Write an Effective Application Letter (Examples)
  • How to Write a Perfect Leave of Absence Request (Examples)
  • How to Write a Short Notice Resignation Letter (Examples)
  • How to Write a Letter of Employment (Templates, Examples)
  • How to Write a Letter of Intent (Effective Examples)
  • How to Write a Letter of Transmittal: Easy Steps (Examples)

Explore Jobs

  • Jobs Near Me
  • Remote Jobs
  • Full Time Jobs
  • Part Time Jobs
  • Entry Level Jobs
  • Work From Home Jobs

Find Specific Jobs

  • $15 Per Hour Jobs
  • $20 Per Hour Jobs
  • Hiring Immediately Jobs
  • High School Jobs
  • H1b Visa Jobs

Explore Careers

  • Business And Financial
  • Architecture And Engineering
  • Computer And Mathematical

Explore Professions

  • What They Do
  • Certifications
  • Demographics

Best Companies

  • Health Care
  • Fortune 500

Explore Companies

  • CEO And Executies
  • Resume Builder
  • Career Advice
  • Explore Majors
  • Questions And Answers
  • Interview Questions

How To Write A Salary Increase Letter (Ask For A Raise Examples)

  • What Is A Good Raise?
  • How To Ask For A Raise
  • Average Annual Raises In The US
  • What Is A Merit Increase?
  • When To Ask For A Raise
  • How Bonuses Work
  • How To Write A Salary Increase Letter
  • Types Of Compensation

Find a Job You Really Want In

It’s important to know how to ask for a raise in writing because it can be tricky to express why you should receive a salary increase. Putting the request in writing can help you avoid tripping over your words and it can help you be specific about your reason for asking for a raise, what salary you’re asking for, and your justification for your request.

In this article, we will go over how to write a salary increase request letter, provide a sample salary increase letter to an employer, and when to send the letter.

Key Takeaways

Send a salary increase letter when the company is doing well, when your last raise was at least a year ago, and when you’ve become a more valuable employee.

Include the reason and justification for your request in your letter, as well as the specific salary you’re asking for.

Don’t complain, refer to your coworkers’ salaries, or talk about your personal or the company’s financial situations in your pay increase letter.

how to write a salary increase letter

How to write a salary increase letter

Sample salary increase letter to employer, salary increase letter template, why put a salary increase request in writing, who should you send your salary increase letter to, when should you send a salary increase letter, what not to include in a salary increase letter, pay increase letter faq, ask the experts.

  • Sign Up For More Advice and Jobs

To write a salary increase letter, you should start by stating the letter’s purpose and the reason for the request. You don’t want to bury these in the email, so they should be in the first few lines. Below is a more detailed list of how to write a salary increase letter:

The letter’s purpose. Don’t beat around the bush – you’re writing this letter to receive a raise, so state that fact early on. Mention how long you’ve worked at your company and/or position and how great it is to work there to give the reader some perspective.

Your reason for the request. Take a look at the good times to ask for a raise listed above. Choose which one(s) applies to your situation and bring it up here (except the “company is doing well” reason).

Your justification(s) for receiving a raise. Preparation comes in handy here. This section could be combined with your “reason for the request” section if your reason involves taking on more responsibilities or having successfully completed an important project.

The salary you want . Don’t be vague or leave it up to the company’s judgment. Ask either for a fixed dollar amount or a percentage raise. Again, use your salary data research to determine a reasonable figure, and don’t go too far beyond that. A typical merit-based pay raise is around 3%, so you can use that as a starting point.

Room for negotiation You never want to come across as demanding in a salary increase letter. Express that you’re open to finding an equitable solution for both parties and whoever’s in charge of pay raises will be more apt to meet you halfway.

Appreciation for consideration. It never hurts to be polite. Thank the reader for taking the time to consider your salary increase request.

Below is a salary increase email to boss sample. Make sure you tailor your email to your needs before sending it to your employer.

Request letter for salary increase email sample answer

Subject line: Tim Felton Salary Increase Request Dear Ms. Hutchins, I am writing to formally request an increase in my current salary. I have loved working as a Digital Marketing Manager at XYZ Corp. for the past four years, but my role has evolved during that time. I believe that I have met and responded to new challenges well and continue to add more value to the company. In light of my recent accomplishments, I believe a raise of at least 10% is justified. For example, over the past year, I have: Integrated our social media pages across platforms, increasing our website traffic by 23% Developed our product campaign in the Midwest, opening up a new market and increasing XYZ Corp.’s growth potential Streamlined internal processes to allow our team greater swiftness and efficiency in responding to the ever-adapting nature of digital marketing Successfully gathered and managed a remote team of employees from across the country, who have high regard for my management style (as per my stellar managerial review) Besides demonstrating excellent communication and leadership skills, I have also developed HTML and Python skills that allow me to work more closely with our web developers, simplifying our process for product development. After completing salary research, I found my current annual salary of $58,000 is well below the median pay for digital marketing managers in our region, $65,000. Therefore, I am requesting a 10% salary raise, which would bring my annual salary in line with the market rate. Thank you for taking the time to consider adjusting my salary. I am open to having a discussion about reaching a mutually beneficial salary agreement. Please let me know when would be a good time to find a salary solution that works for everyone. Sincerely, Tim Felton

Salary increase letter after one year sample answer

Jane Foster Sale Lead 123 Brooklyn Ave New York , 10001 May 2, 2023 Mark Hanson Director of Sales XYZ Company 123 Brooklyn Ave New York, 10001 Dear Mr. Hanson, I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to discuss the possibility of a salary increase in recognition of my contributions and dedication to XYZ Company. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time working with my team and helping with the growth and success of the company under your leadership. Over the last year of being here, I have consistently met and exceeded expectations and delivered high-quality results in my role as Sales Lead. I have demonstrated a strong work ethic, taking on additional responsibilities and tasks, and I often seek out opportunities to help my teammates. Throughout my year at the company, I have achieved notable accomplishments including: Exceeded sales targets and consistently met my sales quotas set for the quarter. I have successfully negotiated close deals with customers while ensuring beneficial outcomes for both the buyer and the company. Received positive feedback from customers, testimonials, and referrals, indicating customer satisfaction and the effectiveness of my sales approach. As I reflect on my time with XYZ Company, I kindly request a salary increase to reflect my contributions and dedication. A salary increase of 10% would not only demonstrate the company’s acknowledgment of my efforts but also serve as a strong motivation to further excel in my role. I would be for the opportunity to discuss this matter further in person. I am open to considering the company’s budget constraints and finding a mutually beneficial solution that recognizes my contributions while aligning with the company’s goals. Sincerely, Jane Foster

Request letter for salary increase due to cost of living sample answer

Subject line: Amber Tomlinson Salary Increase Request Dear, Mrs. Everly I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to discuss the possibility of a salary increase in light of the rising cost of living. As a dedicated and committed member of the team at ABC Corp, I have immensely enjoyed contributing to the company’s success and growth over the years. As you are aware, the cost of living has steadily increased, impacting our day-to-day expenses such as housing transportation, and essential goods. This has placed a strain on my financial well-being. I believe my request for a salary increase of 10% is not only fair but also reflective of my consistent efforts to excel in my role. Throughout my tenure with ABC Corp, I have demonstrated a strong work ethic and consistently surpassed expectations. I have actively reached my goals every quarter and exceeded them throughout the year. I have also brought in many new clients within the last year. I value the positive working relationship I have with ABC Corp and my colleagues, and I am committed to the company’s continued success. My request for a salary increase is not solely driven by the cost of living but also by my desire to feel adequately compensated for my work and dedication. I am grateful for the opportunity and am willing to discuss this more in person. Thank you for your time and I look forward to talking with you more. Sincerely, Amber Tomlinson

Below is a salary raise request letter template. Make sure you tailor your email or letter to your needs before sending it to your employer.

Subject line: [Your Name] Salary Increase Request Dear [Managers Name], I am writing to formally request an increase in my current salary. I have loved working as a [job title] at [company name] for the past [years worked], but my role has evolved during that time. I believe that I have met and responded to new challenges well and continue to add more value to the company. In light of my recent accomplishments, I believe a raise of at least [salary increase percent] is justified. For example, over the past year, I have: [accomplishment one] [accomplishment two] [accomplishment three] [accomplishment four] Besides demonstrating excellent [skill type], I have also developed [skill type] that allows me to work more closely with our [other coworkers/departments], simplifying our process for product development. After completing salary research, I found my current annual salary of [current salary] is well below the median pay for [job title] in our region, [salary average]. Therefore, I am requesting a [salary percent increase] salary raise, which would bring my annual salary in line with the market rate. Thank you for taking the time to consider adjusting my salary. I am open to discussing reaching a mutually beneficial salary agreement. Please let me know when would be a good time to find a salary solution that works for everyone. Sincerely, [Your Name]

You should put your salary increase request in writing because it establishes formal documentation of your request. This doesn’t mean you can’t have a conversation with your boss about getting a raise beforehand.

The letter serves to formalize the request and ensure that it’s taken seriously. Below are more reasons to put your salary increase request in writing:

Your company will keep it on file. This means that if your request is denied or you receive a smaller pay bump than you asked for, the company can always refer back to what you initially asked for.

This creates pressure on the company to eventually get you the salary you desire since they can see how long ago you asked and what you asked for.

When you casually bring up a raise, and your boss casually responds it’s in the works, there’s no physical proof of this exchange. Sending a salary increase letter makes for a swifter timeline, so you won’t be on the hook, continually waiting for your raise to come to fruition.

It will make it less awkward. Writing a salary increase letter is less awkward than trying to broach the subject in person. You also get the benefit of having time to think through why you deserve a pay raise without the pressure of coming up with reasons on the spot. All of which makes for a more effective and straightforward salary increase request.

You should send your salary increase letter to whoever manages your pay raises, bonuses, and other salary decisions. That could be your manager , supervisor, or the head of your department – if you’re unsure exactly who the right person to send it to, contact your human resources department , and they should have the answer.

You want to avoid going over the head of the person directly responsible for your pay raises because it will come off as unprofessional and limit your chances of receiving a salary increase.

One of the benefits of putting your salary increase request in writing is that it creates a formal paper trail. In other words, if you don’t trust your manager, this letter will be on file to show precisely when you requested a raise. That way, if your request is denied, you’ve got a much stronger argument the next time you make a request.

You should send your salary increase request letter to your boss when the company is doing well or when you’ve just completed a big project. Other good moments to ask for a raise include:

When the company is doing well. You know the term “reading the room.” If you’re paying attention and everyone’s on edge because of potential downsizing, it’s probably unwise to ask for a raise.

When you’ve just completed a big project. If you and/or your team just completed a substantial project (successfully), that’s a good time to put in a salary increase request. Just make sure you made some (ideally) quantifiable contribution to the project’s success. That way, your achievements are fresh in the mind of whoever’s in charge of pay raises.

When it’s been over a year since your last raise. Most companies issue pay raises on an annual basis around the end of the fiscal year. Keep track of when your last raise was (or ask HR if you forgot) so that you’re not viewed as overly keen by requesting a raise multiple times a year.

When it’s time for performance reviews. What better time to bring up a raise than when your performance is being evaluated? It may help the raise come about faster if you send a salary increase letter in anticipation of an excellent performance review . Still, you can wait until after your supervisor tells you what a marvelous employee you are.

When your salary is below the market rate. Your employer will take your salary increase request more seriously if you’re currently paid below the market rate for someone in your position. Use resources like Payscale.com , Salary.com , and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) to see what a typical worker with your position in your geographical area receives as a salary.

When you’ve taken on more responsibilities. Even if your title hasn’t changed, if you’ve had a recent increase in your daily duties, that should be reflected in your compensation. This also applies to employees who have completed a probationary period in their position and were promised a change in status afterward.

When you’ve improved your skills or qualifications. If you’ve recently learned how to perform new functions that increase your value to the company, that creates a strong case for requesting a salary increase.

You should avoid including any complaints or coworkers’ salaries when writing your salary increase letter. Below are more things you should not include in your salary increase request letter:

Complaints. Look, nobody likes a whiny tone. If your letter sounds like it was written by a pouty child expressing little other than “it’s not fair, I want more,” then it’ll hurt your chances of getting a raise.

Coworker’s salary information. This is a letter about you, your performance, and your pay – don’t drag other people into it. It’s viewed as highly unprofessional and even downright rude to bring up someone else’s financial situation.

Your personal financial situation. We get that you might be going through some personal trouble with your finances, but that’s not a good reason to get a pay raise.

Company’s financial situation. We mentioned that it’s good to ask for a raise when your company is doing well, but that doesn’t mean you should include that fact in your salary increase letter.

How do I write a good salary increase letter?

You write a good salary increase letter by clearly stating the letter’s purpose, your reasons and justifications for your request, and what salary you’re asking for. Try to keep it concise, but including these details will help you make a stronger case.

What not to say when asking for a raise?

Don’t complain, mention your coworkers’ salaries, or talk about your personal financial needs when asking for a raise. You also shouldn’t mention the company’s financial position — it’s tacky to say, “I know you’re making plenty of money, so can I have some?”

Can I get fired for asking for a raise?

Yes, you can technically get fired for asking for a raise. There isn’t usually a law preventing employers from firing you for this reason. However, it’s very rare for companies to do this, as it’s not a good business practice.

What is a fair raise to ask for?

It’s fair to ask for a 10-20% raise. Make sure you can back up your request with plenty of reasons why you’re worth this money to the company, and be willing to negotiate.

How to ask for salary increment politely?

You should address your employer and show your gratitude for the opportunity of working for the company. You should also send it at the right time such as when the company is doing well or after you completed a big project. It’s also important to leave room for negotiation and then thank the reader again.

letter to request raise in salary

Lesa Edwards CEO, Exclusive Career Coaching

It is so important to do your homework–this letter MUST be about your contributions, achievements, and how your salary compares to the local market. You don’t want to talk about your personal situation (e.g. your financial obligations or the fact that your spouse is out of work); while important to you, these facts are irrelevant.

letter to request raise in salary

Julie Sliga Owner, Career Counselor at Panoramic PDX

Companies tediously research salaries and create pay structures that are competitive within the market range. They are not often transparent about that range.

Your company has done its research, now you have to do yours. You don’t want to overshoot, but you don’t want to sell yourself short, either.

I advise my clients to check several reliable sources that publish salary data and reflect honestly on their qualifications and experience to assess where they fall within that range.

Salaries in certain industries can vary widely depending on the individual’s local labor market–make sure you look at both local and national data.

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – May 2022 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating / 5. Vote count:

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

' src=

Matthew Zane is the lead editor of Zippia's How To Get A Job Guides. He is a teacher, writer, and world-traveler that wants to help people at every stage of the career life cycle. He completed his masters in American Literature from Trinity College Dublin and BA in English from the University of Connecticut.

Recent Job Searches

  • Registered Nurse Jobs Resume Location
  • Truck Driver Jobs Resume Location
  • Call Center Representative Jobs Resume Location
  • Customer Service Representative Jobs Resume
  • Delivery Driver Jobs Resume Location
  • Warehouse Worker Jobs Resume Location
  • Account Executive Jobs Resume Location
  • Sales Associate Jobs Resume Location
  • Licensed Practical Nurse Jobs Resume Location
  • Company Driver Jobs Resume

Related posts

letter to request raise in salary

What Is A Comprehensive Benefits Package? (With Examples)

letter to request raise in salary

What Is Hazard Pay? (With Examples)

letter to request raise in salary

What Is A Pay Grade And How Does It Work?

How to Cash a Paycheck Without a Bank Account

How To Cash A Paycheck Without A Bank Account?

  • Career Advice >
  • Get A Raise >
  • Salary Increase Letter

Get 1-on-1 Help

  • Fearless Salary Negotiation Book Bundle
  • Salary Negotiation Mastery
  • Get Your Next Raise

Fearless Salary Negotiation Book

Get instant access to the Fearless Salary Negotiation book

You’ve earned a solid job offer, now let’s make sure you get paid exactly what you deserve

A step-by-step process to build your case and ask for the raise you deserve

Negotiating a raise

How to write a salary increase letter to ask your boss for a raise

Schedule a meeting, ask for a raise, and follow up with these salary increase

by Josh Doody

You’re pretty sure you’re underpaid. You’ve been doing great work, but no one seems to notice and it’s been a long time since you got a salary increase.

It’s time to do something about it, but you’re not sure how to get a raise. You’re not even sure where to start .

The process starts and ends with email, so we’ll do a deep dive into how to ask for a raise with a salary increase letter to your manager. You’ll also get word-for-word examples of what to say when asking for a raise in person because the one non-email part of the process is when you actually make the request.

Looking for a specific email template?

  • Ask to discuss compensation in your next 1-on-1
  • Schedule a one-off meeting to talk about pay
  • Salary increase letter - building your case
  • Follow up on your raise request
  • Ask for a specific action plan to get a salary increase
  • Negotiate a new job offer

...or get the salary increase letter template sent directly to your inbox right away!

You've changed jobs before and felt like you were leaving money on the table. You never have to feel that way again.

Some companies address employee compensation in small salary increments—a percent or two every now and then—rather than big jumps. And some companies will grant big raises for exceptional employees.

You’re underpaid, so you’re looking for a big raise. And that means you need to demonstrate that you’re an exceptional employee.

How to ask for a salary increase with a letter or email

Asking for a raise is a lot easier when you have the tools to ask for the right thing in the right way. So let’s walk through the exact process and words you can use to schedule a meeting, ask for a raise at work, and follow up after you ask for a raise.

Ask for a time to discuss your salary increase

Salary negotiation—when you’re changing jobs or working to increase your salary at your current job—is a collaboration. You’re not so much asking your manager to give you a raise as you are asking your manager to work with you to adjust your compensation to reflect the value you add in your role.

Sometimes your manager has full discretion over their compensation budget. And sometimes your manager doesn’t even have a budget for raises, and will submit a request for salary increment to HR, who will take it from there.

The first step to collaborating with your manager to ask for a raise is to schedule a time to talk about it. This can be awkward, but it doesn’t have to be.

Here are a two ways to initiate a conversation to ask for a salary increase.

If you have a regular 1-on-1 with your manager

If you have a regular 1-on-1 with your manager, even as infrequently as once a month, that’s the perfect time to discuss a salary increase. All you need to do is give your manager a heads-up so they have time to prepare for the discussion and maybe even do some research to see what might be possible.

You could reach out with a short email or even just send a quick instant message that you would like to talk about your compensation in your next 1-on-1.

Here’s an email template you can use to give your manager a heads-up that you would like to talk about a salary increase in your next 1-on-1 meeting:

To: [Your manager] Subject: A topic for our next 1-on-1

Hi [Manager name]

Do you mind if we use a few minutes of our next 1-on-1 to talk about my compensation? It won't take long, and I just wanted to see if we can set aside a few minutes for that topic.

Talk to you soon!

[Your name]

If you do NOT have a regular 1-on-1 with your manager

This situation is similar, but you’ll also need to schedule a meeting since you don’t have a regular meeting on the books.

In this case, it’s best to send a short email saying that you would like to schedule a meeting to talk about your compensation because you’ll also need to schedule a specific time. Make sure to suggest a few times when you’ll be available so your manager can choose the one that’s most convenient for them.

Here’s an email template you can use to give your manager a heads-up that you would like to schedule a meeting to talk about your compensation:

To: [Your manager] Subject: Are you available to meet next week?

Are you available for a short meeting next week to talk about my compensation? It won't take long, and I just wanted to see if we can set aside a few minutes some time soon.

Here are some days and times that seem good for both of us:

  • [Weekday], [Date] at [Time]
  • [Example] Tuesday, January 5 at 10:30 AM
  • [Example] Wednesday, January 6 at 2:15 PM

Do any of those times work for you? If not, feel free to suggest some times that do work for you and I'll find one that works for me as well!

Thanks for your time!

Scheduling your salary increase discussion via internal chat like Slack or Google Chat

You may not even need to send an email to your manager to schedule a time. You can just reach out in Slack (via DM), Google Chat, or your internal messaging platform.

Here’s what you might say if you have regular 1-on-1s:

Do you mind if we use a few minutes of our next 1-on-1 to talk about my compensation? It won’t take long, and I just wanted to see if we can set aside a few minutes for that topic.

And here’s what you might say if you don’t have regular 1-on-1s:

Are you available for a short meeting next week to talk about my compensation? It won’t take long, and I just wanted to see if we can set aside a few minutes some time soon.

When should you use these scripts to schedule a meeting to ask for a salary increase?

Once you’ve sent your request to schedule a time to talk about getting a raise, the door is open. But there’s still work to do so you can present a compelling case that makes it easy for your manager to work with you to get your raise.

Before you use those templates to schedule a time to ask for a raise, I recommend building your case and putting it in a letter or email. Not only will this help with your collaboration effort, but it will help you to objectively evaluate if you’re even ready to ask for a raise.

The process of putting your case in writing will either help you to clearly see how strong your case is or to identify gaps that you should address before you schedule that meeting to make a formal request.

How to build a compelling case to request a salary increase

Once you’ve scheduled a time with your manager, it will help to be as organized and prepared as possible. Remember, you’re collaborating with your manager to ask a raise, so you want to make it as easy as possible for them to help you achieve your goal.

Here are the basic components you need to ask for a raise. I recommend writing an email because it’s the best way to make sure your case is solid and because an email will be easy to circulate later on for the approval process.

Here is a detailed explanation of each section you should include in your email to make sure your salary increase letter has all the components you need before you ask for your raise.

First, here’s an example that we’ll break down section by section.

Note: Don’t send this email yet! You’ll send it after you ask for a raise in person.

[1. Address] To: [Your manager] [2. Subject] Subject: [Your name] salary adjustment discussion—follow-up

[3. Greeting] Hi [Your manager's name]

[4. Introduction and request] Thanks for your time the other day. As we discussed, it has been [amount of time] since ["my last significant salary adjustment" OR “since I was hired”] , and I would like to revisit my salary now that I’m contributing much more to the company. I’ve been researching salaries for [job title] in [industry] industry, and it looks like the mid-point is around [mid-point from your research] . So I would like to request a raise to [target salary] .

[5. Accomplishments Intro] I’ve been working very hard to find ways to contribute value to our company. Here are some of my accomplishments over the past several months:

[6. Accomplishments]

  • Activity → result

[7. Accolades Intro] And here is some feedback I’ve received from clients and coworkers over the past several months—their feedback speaks louder than anything I could say:

[8. Accolades]

  • Client or coworker name—"Quote" or general feedback documented in email or survey
  • Client or coworker name—“Quote” or general feedback documented in email or survey

[9. Conclusion and repeated request] I believe these accomplishments and feedback show that my work merits a higher salary, and [target salary] seems well aligned to the current market and with the additional value I am adding to our company since my current salary was set. I look forward to hearing what I can do to help make this happen.

[10. Signoff and signature] Thanks again for your time and consideration!

All the best

A section-by-section overview the components to include in your salary increase letter

Let’s walk through each section of your email to ask for a raise so you’re comfortable with it. You may already have everything you need to get a raise. Or you may need to do some light research to fill in the blanks.

Each section below has everything you need to complete the template, so let’s get started!

Address it to your manager

Remember, you should send this letter after asking for a raise from your manager. So you’re addressing this email to your manager as a follow-up to a previous conversation.

Subject line

This email is your written salary increase request, so you want everything to be as clear and obvious as possible. Include your name and explicitly state that this letter is about your salary increase request so that there are no surprises for anyone who might read it later on.

Keep it short and sweet: “Hi Tina” will do. You’re going to send this email to your manager after you ask for a raise, so they’ll be expecting it—no need for a formal introduction.

Introduction and request (your target salary)

You have already requested your salary increase in a meeting, and this is a way of reminding your manager what you requested so it’s easy to find when they need to.

I recommend stating the midpoint from your market research before your target salary so that the first number is a market number—a fact that is determined by external data. That should pave the way for your request, which will seem much more reasonable when presented immediately after the market-set midpoint.

Your accomplishments

This is the most important part of your salary increase letter because it clearly describes the additional, unanticipated value you have added to the company since your salary was last set. This is why you’re asking for a raise, so take your time and do this right.

Include a few of your best recent accomplishments to highlight the value of your work. This letter isn’t a complete historical record of everything you’ve ever done for the company. It’s a skimmable document that makes a strong case for whoever is holding the purse strings to give you a raise.

You want the person reading this to think, “They’re already adding so much more value to the company then when they were hired. This seems like a totally reasonable request given all the money they have and saved us since then.”

I recommend covering a reasonable amount of time—the past six to 12 months—in this section so that your case is as compelling as possible when you finally present it. If you have trouble with this section, that’s a red flag that your case may not be as strong as you anticipated, and you may not have earned as much of a raise as you thought.

Your accolades

Accolades are awards or recognition that you’ve received for your work. Managers are busy people, and sometimes they won’t notice the great work you do. This is your chance to let them know that others have noticed your great work in case they missed it.

Highlight your best results from the past six months to a year. This isn’t a complete record, it’s a skimmable list that should raise eyebrows when others see it. Remember that the person approving this salary increase request may not know who you are, so you’re giving them a short summary of your accolades to let them know that they should be impressed with you because other people are impressed with you.

I strongly recommend you have at least a couple items in this section before asking for a raise, but if your “Accomplishments” section makes a very strong case on its own, this section may not be necessary.

Conclusion and repeated request

Finish your letter with a summary of your salary increase request along with your case. This is a one-paragraph summary of your request, just in case the reader is in a hurry. Keep it to just two or three sentences.

Signoff and signature

Thank your manager for their time and keep it brief.

What to say to your boss in your 1-on-1 asking for a raise (do this before you send your salary increase letter!)

I recommend asking for a raise in person before you send this salary increase letter. Writing your case ahead of time is the perfect way to prepare for that discussion so you’re sure that your case is rock solid before you ask for a raise.

This conversation will be fluid, but it will help to start it off on the right path. Once you’ve scheduled your 1-on-1 with your manager and you’ve got your case in writing, you have everything you need to ask for your raise in person.

Here’s a script you can use to begin that conversation with your manager in your 1-on-1:

Thanks for taking the time to talk with me about my compensation. As I mentioned in my email, I would like to ask for a raise. Based on the work I’ve been doing and some market research I’ve done, I would like to ask for a raise to [your target salary] .
Since my last salary adjustment, I’ve done things like [one of your accomplishments] and have gotten some great recognition like [one of your accolades] , so I think I’m ready for this raise.
Can you help me with this?

You manager may give you immediate feedback or ask some clarifying questions, but then the approval process takes over.

What happens after you ask for your raise in person and in writing?

Once you’ve asked your manager for a raise and then followed up by sending your raise request in writing, your manager will need to get approval for your raise.

The reason this email is so important is that your manager will likely forward it to the approvers so they have all the information they need to make their decision as to whether it’s time to increment your salary. If you ask for a raise without sending this email, then your manager will have to summarize your case for you, and they’re just not going to do as good a job as you can.

So this email gives you the opportunity to make your case in your own words to whoever needs to approve your request. And that gives you the greatest chance getting your salary increase.

Follow-up on your request with a short email

Getting a raise is a top priority for you, but it probably isn’t your manager’s top priority. Even if you schedule a good time to talk with your manager and bring a strong case when asking for a raise, you may not hear back for a while.

So you may need to follow up a few times to make sure your request doesn’t fall through the cracks.

Here’s a short email template you can use to follow up after you ask for a raise.

To: [Your manager] Subject: Re: [Your name] salary adjustment discussion—follow-up

Thanks again for taking the time to talk about my compensation. I just wanted to follow up to see if there's anything else I can provide to help the process along.

Do you need anything else from me?

If not, what are our next steps?

Thanks again for your time!

A good subject for this followup email is “Re: [Your name] salary adjustment discussion—follow-up” because you should reply to the thread where you sent your written request if possible. That will make it easy for your manager to find your request when it’s time to pass it along to HR or Finance for consideration.

I recommend waiting a week or two before sending a followup email. If you don’t hear anything definitive after another week or two, send it again. And make sure you continue to follow up on your conversation in your 1-on-1s as well.

You may need to follow up several times to get the ball rolling.

What if your salary increase request is put on hold for now?

One last thing: Asking for a raise—even with a strong case—doesn’t guarantee you’ll get the raise you asked for. Sometimes you’ll get a clear “yes” or “no”, but sometimes your manager will say “It’s just not a good time right now” or “I don’t think you’re quite ready yet. Let’s revisit this later.”

In this case, it’s important to establish a clear plan so you know exactly what you need to do to improve your case and revisit your request at a better time.

Here’s an email template you can use to ask your manager for a specific plan to get your next raise:

Thanks again for taking the time to talk about my compensation.

I’m disappointed that we couldn’t adjust my salary to [your target salary], but I understand that the timing isn't quite right, and I want to be ready when it's time to revisit our discussion.

Can we please talk about what I need to do, specifically, to earn that raise? And can we talk about a timetable for when it might be feasible?

I would love to work with you to put together a clear action plan and timeline so we can continue this discussion and monitor my progress as I work toward my goal.

Thanks for working with me on this!

You can send an email to ask for a plan, or you could paraphrase ask verbally in your next 1-on-1. Your goal in this situation is to establish your specific goals and a specific timeline so you can measure progress and revisit the conversation later on.

Specificity is the key to avoiding raise limbo.

What to say when asking for a raise at work is a big topic. But we can break it down into smaller pieces that are each relatively straightforward.

Ask for a time to discuss your pay raise to get the ball rolling:

  • Ask to discuss you salary increase in your next 1-on-1

Draft your salary increase letter to ask for a raise in writing

Ask for your salary increase in person with this script.

  • How to ask for a raise in person

Follow up until you get a definitive answer

Ask for a specific plan to get a salary increase if your request wasn’t granted, you might also like.

The software developer’s guide to getting a raise without changing jobs

Here’s how to boost your lifetime earnings by hundreds of thousands of dollars by getting periodic raises without changing jobs.

How to write a salary increase letter to ask for a raise (including templates)

How do you ask for a salary increase? Here’s how to write a salary increase letter, schedule a meeting with your boss, and follow up to get your next raise.

Use the “Start. Stop. Continue.” method to plan your next steps

This simple method will help you evaluate your past results and plan for future progress.

Back to Articles

Get Your Next Raise

A former hiring manager shows you how to finally get the raise you deserve

Josh Doody

Negotiating a job offer soon? I'll help!

I'm Josh Doody, a professional salary negotiation coach who helps High Earners negotiate their job offers. On average, High Earners improve their first-year compensation by $47,273 with my help.

Apply for a free 15-minute intro call to learn how I can help.

Get 1-on-1 Help Or learn more about Josh

Proven salary negotiation strategies and tactics for High Earners to negotiate the best possible compensation and get paid what they're worth.

Get 1-on-1 Help Or contact Josh

  • Buy The Book
  • Read The Book

© Josh Doody, LLC All Rights Reserved

You felt like you left money on the table when you changed jobs in the past. You never have to feel that way again.

In this free 5-email series, I will show you how to conquer that feeling for good.

Flow through your inbox

Flowrite turns your instructions into ready-to-send emails and messages across your browser.

letter to request raise in salary

For companies

Jul 25, 2022

Asking for a raise email with samples and templates

Wondering how to ask for a raise via email? Our guide to writing the perfect email asking for a raise will help you land the raise you deserve with the help of raise request email samples and templates. Get ready for a raise!

Blog writer

Saku Kahkonen

Growth Lead

Table of contents

When it comes to getting a raise, you want to do everything in your power to increase your chances of success. This includes creating a well-crafted raise request email that makes a strong case for why you deserve a pay increase.

There are 3 questions we want to help you answer:

  • When should I ask for a raise?

Should I ask for a raise via email?

  • How to ask for a raise via email?

We'll provide our best tips on how to write an email asking for a raise and helpful examples that will help get you started, and show how easy it is with Flowrite :

How and when should you ask for a raise?

Asking for a raise is all about timing. Choosing the right time to have this conversation with your boss is crucial. You don't want to ask for a raise when your company is going through a tough time financially or when you just started the job and haven't had a chance to prove yourself yet.

The best time to ask for a raise is when you can demonstrate that you've made valuable contributions to the company and point to specific examples of how you've helped improve the bottom line.

If you're unsure whether it's the right time to ask for a raise, consider scheduling a meeting with your boss to discuss your career goals and how you can help contribute to the company's success. This will allow you to gauge their reaction and better understand whether they're open to the idea of giving you a raise.

The most important thing to remember when asking for a raise is to be confident. You need to believe that you deserve the raise and be able to explain why. This isn't the time to be modest or self-deprecating. Remember your accomplishments and successes over the past year (or years), and be prepared to list them in detail.

It can be daunting to ask your boss for a raise. Still, following these tips and using the sample email templates below, you can confidently request a meeting with your manager to discuss your compensation.

Don't worry about getting stuck on the writing, as we'll cover the basics and provide you with plenty of examples of how to pitch yourself in this article:

How to request a raise

When asking for a raise, be direct and honest about what you're looking for. State your case clearly and provide specific examples of accomplishments to support your request. If you're unsure what salary range to ask for, do some research online or talk to friends in similar roles to get an idea of what you should earn.

It's also important to be aware of your company's policy on raises. Some companies only give out raises during performance reviews. In contrast, others may be more open to giving raises as needed. If you're unsure of your company's policy, it's always best to check with HR before making your request.

Be proactive in your approach; instead of just asking for a raise, ask what you can to earn one. This shows that you're not just looking for more money but also willing to put in the extra work to earn it.

Finally, be prepared to negotiate. Your boss may not be able to give you the same raise you're asking for. Still, they may be open to other forms of compensation, such as additional vacation days or a flexible work schedule. By being willing to compromise, you're more likely to end up with an outcome that satisfies your aspirations.

When should you ask for a raise?

You'll want to be concise and direct when it comes to the actual request. Clearly state why you feel you deserve a raise and back up your claim with examples of your recent accomplishments.

If possible, try to put a dollar amount on what you're hoping to earn. For instance, you might say, "I would like to receive a raise of $2000 per year."

Don't wait for your yearly review to ask for a raise. If you feel like you deserve one, asking sooner is no harm. It may even be to your advantage. Just try not to ask during traditionally busy periods or just before the holidays.

If you just started at your job or recently received a promotion, it's probably too soon to ask for more money. The same goes if you have yet to meet or exceed the expectations of your role.

However, it is perfectly reasonable to set a timetable with your boss, complete with goals to hit, for when you will next discuss salary.

Asking for a raise via email is a perfectly acceptable way to start the conversation with your boss - as long as you do it the right way.

The idea that all requests for a raise should be made in person is outdated. In today's workplace, people are frequently communicating via email, so it only makes sense to use this method to ask for a raise

If you're working remotely or in a different city than your boss, asking for a raise over email might be your only option.

Rather than just asking for the money upfront, ask for an opportunity to discuss your salary, so you can present your case and negotiate in person.

Asking for a raise is similar to email pitching, so our guide on the basics of pitching could help you out.

How to write an email asking for a raise

When it comes to writing an email asking for a raise, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Tailoring your email to your specific situation and relationship with your boss is key. To make it easier for you, we've put together some tips for writing your raise request email.

Tips on how to ask for a raise in an email

When you're ready to ask for a raise via email, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

Keep it short and to the point

No one wants to read a long, drawn-out email asking for more money. Get straight to the point by explaining why you deserve a raise and how much you would like to earn.

Use specific examples and data

General statements like "I work hard" or "I'm worth more" won't cut it. You need to back up your request with specific examples of your accomplishments and how they've benefited the company. If you have any data to support your case, include that.

Politely state your request

Be polite and humble in your email asking for a raise. Remember, you're essentially asking your boss for more money, so it's crucial to maintain a respectful tone throughout the email. Don't get discouraged if you don't receive the response you were hoping for. Remember, it never hurts to ask. The worst your boss can say is no. And even if they say no, you can use that as an opportunity to discuss what you need to do to earn a raise in the future.

Do's and don'ts of asking for a raise via email

Keep the following in mind when drafting an email asking for a raise.

  • Research your worth. Know the average salary for your position and ensure you're in line with that before asking for a raise. This will help you know how much to ask for and give you the confidence to back up your request.
  • Keep it short and sweet. No one wants to read a novel. Get to the point and be clear about what you're asking for.
  • Be professional. This is not the time to get emotional or guilt your boss into giving you more money. Stick to the facts and logically present your case.
  • Follow up with a meeting. Once you've sent your email, follow up with a meeting to discuss the raise further. This will allow you to elaborate on your points and answer any questions they may have.
  • Be prepared to negotiate. If your boss can't give you the exact amount you asked for, be ready to deal until you reach an agreement that works for both of you. Remember that compromise is vital in any negotiation.
  • Send an email when you're angry. If you're feeling emotions like anger, frustration, or disappointment, it's best to wait until you've cooled down before hitting send. You don't want those emotions to cloud your message or come across as disrespectful.
  • Make threats. This will only worsen things and could damage your relationship with your boss.
  • Forget to say thank you. Regardless of the conversation's outcome, constantly express your appreciation for their time.

If you want to improve your email writing skills, check out our guide on how to write better emails .

Asking for a raise email format

The basic structure of a raise request email consists of three parts: subject line, body and the ending. You can use the samples we provide below to format an email correctly.

And here's our handy guide on email formats , with more examples, if needed.

1. Subject lines for a raise email

When it comes to the subject line of your email, be direct.

Something like "Request for a meeting to discuss salary" lets your boss know exactly what you're emailing about and sets the tone for the conversation.

If you're worried about how your boss will react to your request, you can try a more neutral subject line like "Can we schedule a meeting?" or "I have a question for you."

Here are some other examples of subject lines you can use.

  • Request for a meeting to discuss salary
  • Can we schedule an appointment?
  • I have a question for you
  • I would like to discuss my salary
  • Do you have time for a chat about my compensation?
  • Can we talk about my pay?

2. What to include in the raise request email body

When asking for a raise, you'll want to include three critical pieces of information in the body of your email:

  • Your accomplishments: Outline your successes and how you've contributed to the company. Use specific examples and data points to back up your case.
  • The market value: Do some research to determine what other people in your role are making. This will help you build a case for why you deserve a raise.
  • Your ask: Be specific about how much more you would like to be paid per year or per hour.

3. How to end the pay raise email

Ending your email on a positive and proactive note is vital. Always include a call to action, such as asking for a meeting to discuss your request further. Thank your boss for their time and let them know that you're looking forward to hearing from them soon.

Here are a few examples of how you might end your email.

  • I would appreciate a meeting to discuss this further. Thank you for your time and consideration.
  • I look forward to hearing from you soon. Thank you for taking the time to discuss this with me
  • Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you about my request.

Sample email asking for a raise

Drafting an email asking for a raise requires the same thought and effort as if you were to sit down with your boss and have a conversation about it. You must make sure you state your case clearly and provide specific examples of why you deserve a raise.

If you're unsure where to start on how to word an email asking for a raise, we've created a few raise request email samples that you can use as the starting point for your raise request.

1. Sample email for raise

Here is an example of an email requesting a meeting to discuss a raise.

2. Sample email requesting a raise

Here's another sample for a bit more casual yet confident approach.

3. Sample email to ask for a raise

If you'd prefer to include your entire salary raise request as part of the email, you can do so with a longer message. Here's a sample email asking for a raise.

4. Asking for raise email sample

If you want to get more specific about your asking, include a proposed salary or title change in the email. Here's an example.

Asking for a raise email template

Having a template as a guide can help you put together your own email asking for a raise. Here's a simple template you can use as a starting point.

How to ask for raise using Flowrite

Flowrite is an AI writing assistant that turns your instructions into ready-to-send emails and messages, like this:

Our Chrome extension covers the email format, capitalization, grammar, spelling, punctuation. In other words, you can focus on the message, and Flowrite will take care of the delivery.

We dare to claim that it's the easiest way to ask for a raise through email. Our email template collection features dozens of templates to help you. To grasp how easy and fast it is to ask for a raise with Flowrite, check out the raise request email example below:

Getting the raise you deserve

Asking for a raise by email is rarely a comfortable thing. But if you've been with a company for a while and feel like you're being paid below your worth, it's time to have that important discussion with your boss.

Sending an email asking for a raise is something that most professionals will have to do at some point, so don't worry. Having uncomfortable conversations is a skill that you can practise.

If you get the raise you want, always remember to say thank you. This will show your boss that you're appreciative and help to solidify the positive relationship between the two of you. Here's our guide to saying thank you over email and 100 examples to ensure you find the best fit for your needs.

Now that you know how to ask for a raise email, get out there and put your new skills into action!

Supercharge your communication with Flowrite

Write emails and messages faster across Google Chrome.

Explore Flowrite

Template visualization

Start using Flowrite today

Try it yourself

letter to request raise in salary

Ask for promotion

Reply to: "

Received message

formal request for new head of legal position in our department ready for challenge excellent performance and domain expertise schedule time to discuss further

Generate a reply

Generate an outreach

General template

introduce flowrite short instruction to ready to send emails we finish email

Share this article

Related articles

Blog visual

How to write a thank you email with 39 samples and template

Wondering how to say thank you? Our thank you email template and 30 thank you email examples will help you say thank you meaningfully.

Blog visual

Best AI email assistants to increase your productivity

Learn about the AI email assistants that can help you cope with email overload that hurts your productivity.

Blog visual

How to introduce yourself in an email with 14 samples and a template

Learn how to introduce yourself in an email as a new employee for a job, to clients, team, colleagues, or business partners with the help of our self-introduction email samples.

Cookie emoji

We use cookies to analyze site performance and deliver a better experience for visitors.

Product visual

Product updates

Read the latest →

letter to request raise in salary

About Flowrite

Get to know us →

Productivity

letter to request raise in salary

© 2023 Flowrite

TheJobNetwork

How to Write a Letter Asking for a Raise (With Samples)

How-to-write-a-salary-increase-request-letter-with-examples

You’ve been plugging along at your job, picking up responsibilities, and rocking it for a while now—and even if you don’t have an annual review coming up for a while, maybe you feel like it’s time to start thinking about a raise. But unless you’re a seasoned negotiator, that may be no small task. If you don’t feel ready to sit down with your boss and talk it out, it’s best to start with a basic pay raise request letter or email to get the process started.

Why Put Your Salary Request in Writing?

Most negotiation tips are created with a face-to-face interaction in mind—how to use effective body language, how to use active listening strategies, and how to frame your verbal request. However, if you’re not quite at that stage yet, putting your request in writing gives you a chance to collect your strongest talking points (and spin them exactly how you want to) without having to worry about the ebb and flow of a negotiation conversation. It’s also a paper trail, for better or worse, which can help you later.

What to Include in Your Letter

A greeting and your background.

Always start with a friendly professional greeting and some background about your history in your job or with your company.

For example:

As you know, I’ve been with the company for two years now, and I find it to be a challenging and rewarding environment every day. I have become a crucial member of the marketing team, working on initiatives that have increased our productivity and improved our results.

Your achievements

Once you’ve set the tone, it’s time to touch on the specific achievements that you think merit a raise. You don’t need to go into great detail on each one—succinct, specific bullet points are the way to go. The letter shouldn’t be a long slog for the reader. Instead, think of it as a highlight reel.

In my time here, I have made significant contributions to the team’s success, including:

  • Implementing a new SEO program that increased web traffic by 15%
  • Improving social media response time by an average of 20 minutes
  • Developing a promotional program that uses giveaways to increase brand awareness and customer engagement

Your clear request

Then tell ‘em what you came for: what you’re seeking, and why. When you’re writing this, be sure to stay focused on your own achievements and growth. It’s not about what your colleagues get or what you feel like you’re owed—it’s about building a case for your value to the company.

I’ve exceeded the goals that were set out for me when I was hired, and I believe that going above and beyond my existing role merits a pay raise of 5%. This is in line with the industry standard for someone of my experience in this kind of role, especially with the goals I’ve met and exceeded in my time here.

Again, this should be straight to the point. You should definitely have a number in mind, even if you don’t feel comfortable spelling it out as a starting point. Before you even start writing your request, do your research: check out sites like Salary.com or Glassdoor to see what people like you are making throughout the industry. If you make an unreasonable request, it could shut down your negotiation before it even really starts.

An plan to discuss in person

Next, having made your initial pitch, it’s time to start wrapping up your letter. Offer to set up some time to talk about this in person or ask to talk about it in a standard one-on-one meeting with your boss.

I look forward to speaking with you in more depth in our next monthly meeting and am excited about the projects we have on the horizon.

Your letter doesn’t have to be hyper-formal, especially if you have a fairly casual relationship with your boss. But it should always be direct, polite, and professional. Even if you’re buddies with your boss, now is not the time for jokes or sarcasm. This letter or email should show you at your career-best, and highlight you as a competent and productive professional.

Timing Your Letter Right

At the end of the day, asking for a raise often comes down to timing. Once you’ve written your letter, delivering it at the right time can be the difference between getting the bump in salary and not. Important considerations include the state and health of the business or if you’ve received positive feedback from your manager. Also, be mindful of how long it’s been since you were hired or since your last review—and if you have a review coming up, this could be a good time to ask.

By crafting a thoughtful letter and delivering it at the right time, you can set yourself up for success when asking for a raise. A letter can help set the tone for negotiations to come and help you pull your thoughts together to ensure that you’re in a good position to get the raise you deserve.

TheJobNetwork is here to help. We offer a variety of resources to help you search for jobs and develop your professional skills. Our job search advice can help you hone your resume and cover letter, and learn how to network effectively. So whether you’re just starting out on your career path or looking for a change, TheJobNetwork can help you take the next step.

You may also like

3-Super-Easy-Steps-to-Make-Your-Resume-Powerful

3 Super Easy Steps to Make Your Resume Powerful

top-apps-for-your-2018-goals

5 top tracking apps for your 2018 goals

Why-it's-okay-to-just-be-average

Why it’s okay to just be average

LGBTQ-friendly-employer

How to ensure your next job is LGBTQ+ friendly

About the author.

' src=

Kate Lopaze

Kate Lopaze is a writer, editor, and digital publishing professional based in New York City. A graduate of the University of Connecticut and Emerson College with degrees in English and publishing, she is passionate about books, baseball, and pop culture (though not necessarily in that order), and lives in Brooklyn with her dog.

All You Need to Know About Writing Salary Increase Letters

letters for salary increase, salary increase request letters, sample letters for salary increase Skillhub

When recruiters hire you for a job, at first, you'll have to come to terms with what an employer can offer, especially if you are new to the job market. However, as your relationship gets stronger, it's quite natural to seek growth and pay increase. 

Some companies will send salary increase letter to employees occasionally. But, sometimes, you might need to write a salary increase request letter yourself.

Don't know how to start a salary increase letter? You'll learn everything you need to know on this guide, or you have a chance at any time to delegate it to our online IT resume writing service . We'll get you covered. It's fast, affordable, professional and polite.

But how to ensure its acceptance? Here, you will learn:

  • How to ask for a higher payment
  • How to write an effective letter
  • Under which circumstances it will be appropriate

letter to request raise in salary

What Should Good Resume Look Like?

Leave your email and get free perfect-resume examples that were selected by our experts.

Sample Salary Increase Letter

Find below a sample letter for salary rise recommendation:

Sender's Name

Contact Details

Recipient's Name

Dear [Name],

I am writing to you with a request for a salary increase. As a top-performing sales manager with consistent 20% quota excess and over 5 years devoted to the company's growth, I have been enthusiastic about taking on additional duties and roles.

Over the past year, my role in the company has evolved, resulting in a 30% increase in the scope of responsibilities.

Taking into consideration my high performance, professional achievements, and consistent increase in qualifications, I believe a 15% salary increase is appropriate.

Thank you for your time. I am looking forward to hearing back from you and am open to any negotiations.

Salary Increase Letter Format

When writing a salary increase request letter for a company, following a proper format and document organization is the key to success as they add professionalism and clarity to your writing.

It has to be concise and straight to the point. Here is what to include:

  • A clear explanation of the purpose;
  • A reason for your request;
  • Justification;
  • Expected pay;
  • Room for negotiation;
  • Appreciation for consideration.

Pro Tip: An expert writer from SkillHub , Rachel Evans, stresses the importance of using the right tone of voice. Rachel recommends individuals seeking salary increase write their letters in a friendly but confident manner.

Who to Ask in a Letter for Salary Increase

Of course, receiving a salary increase letter from employer is a perfect scenario as you won't have to bother to write yourself. However, not every company encourages personal letters from employer to employee, and if that's the case, you will have one big and important decision to make - who to address it to.

Such requests are meant for people directly responsible for your salaries, bonuses, and raises. These positions can be called differently, for example, a manager, supervisor, executive assistant, head of the department, etc. Sometimes, a letter for salary increase can also be forwarded to the Human Resources team. But, typically, it's best to ask your direct boss.

Why not ask higher-level decision-makers? As a rule, companies foster trust between managers and their subordinates. Thus, if you go straight above the person who currently manages your salary, this may look unprofessional and may not be tolerated by the company.

The Main Constituents of an Increase Salary Letter

If you want your manager to accept the salary increase sample letter you submit, be sure it has all the following:

  • Purpose - Your letter needs to have a purpose. It doesn't have to be a lengthy explanation, but you have to clearly outline your intention.
  • Reason - Tell the manager why you feel like you deserve higher pay.
  • Justification - Provide solid arguments that show that you really have to get a proposal letter from them. For example, indicate the number of years you've been in the company, highlight your level of qualification, mention additional training, stress your professional accomplishments and awards, etc.
  • Expected Pay Rates - Indicate your expectations clearly (in a fixed amount or percentage) to ensure that your request will be interpreted correctly.
  • Room for Negotiation - Always show that you are flexible and willing to negotiate.
  • Appreciation - Always say thank you for the time managers took to consider your request.

letter to request raise in salary

Need Help Getting Employers’ Attention?

Our experts are here to help! Place an order and start preparing for your next interview!

What to Omit While Writing a Letter?

Regardless of your career field, demands, and expectations, there are some things that each applicant should omit.

If you want to get an approval notification, here's what to avoid in your employee promotion letter:

  • Complaints - Beginning to complain about something in the letter, you put your whole career at risk.
  • Company's performance - If you apply for higher pay because of a good financial situation in the company, avoid mentioning it.
  • Co-workers' salaries - Many companies don't tolerate requests that bring up information about the salaries of other team members.
  • Your finances - Don't make any critiques concerning your financial trouble.

The Right Time for Salary Increase Letter

If you want to make the right impression, it is to not only know how to ask for salary increase but also WHEN to do it.

First of all, salary rise, even if it isn't too huge, is already a big decision for a manager that will affect the overall budget of the company. Thus, be ready that managers will address such requests with caution and consider them very scrupulously, which is why you must have a solid grounding for asking.

Secondly, each such request has a direct influence on your career. If you show yourself as an employee who doesn't bring any real value but is constantly asking for more, you risk losing your job.

Let's see when it's appropriate.

During the Company's High-Performance Periods

The financial situations in the companies that employ you can play a significant role in your career decisions. When an organization is suffering losses, it can be a sign for writing your resignation letter with reason for leaving. But, when a company is on the rise and experiences high profits, this might be one of the best opportunities to ask for a salary increase.

Thus, before you decide to start writing your salary letter, be sure to consider the financial situation in your company, as it can affect the manager's decision both in a positive and a negative way.

After One Year Without Salary Rising

Offering salary rising opportunities annually is a very common tendency among the majority of companies. This tendency is very easy to explain. By providing employees with an opportunity to request higher pay after one year of work, companies keep their teams happy, at the same time keeping salaries rising under control.

Thus, one more reason for writing your letter of request is after you've completed another year of work for the company. Also, if there was a general increment that you've missed, it can also be a solid reason to submit your salary increase proposal letter sometime soon.

After a Huge Success

Your professional output directly affects the benefits you will garner. Every goal you reach, all the small and big achievements, as well as every successfully completed project - it all raises your value in the company and, thus, can be a weighty reason to ask for a higher salary. In the modern corporate environment, employers rely a lot on employee input for shaping their benefit and compensation programs. And, you might be surprised by how willing your employers will be to award you for your successes.

Therefore, another reason to write your sample letter for salary increase is another big accomplishment. Once you are feel unsure how to sound confident, apply to resume helper and have your perfect letter written professionally.

After Adding New Qualifications

Companies across the globe are encouraging their employees to grow both personally and professionally. Many companies offer occasional and regular on-site training and growth programs, all to help their teams level up their skills. And you can use this to your benefit as well.

When a specialist adds new knowledge, skills, and qualifications, their capacity in the workplace increases, and so does their value in the eyes of the employer. Thus, additional qualifications can be your core justification for a salary raise. Trust us, if you use it as your main argument, you are doomed to get a confirmation letter!

The Level of Payment in the Market

Although not many are aware of this, there is such a thing as a market adjustment salary increase. There is always a "market average" that influences the salary level for different jobs. Of course, the overall pay rate depends on a variety of individual factors such as work experience, education, skills, etc. However, any changes in the current rates for your occupations also play a significant role.

Here is a tip - if you plan on writing a salary increase request letter, be sure to do some research to find out the average salary level. It can serve as another weighty argument. Keep in mind our professional cv writing services have done thousands of researches. They have a good eye on it.

While Your Employer Is Checking Your Performance

Every organization practices occasional reviews of its staff's performance. These reviews can take place monthly, quarterly, or annually but, in any case, this period is a perfect time for an employee to state his new job expectations.

However, keep in mind that it will only be appropriate to submit your how to ask for salary increase sample letter during the performance check if you are 100% confident that your performance really was great. If that's the case, your letter will have more weight. Otherwise, if your performance was mediocre, you will most definitely receive a negative response to your request.

After Receiving New Responsibilities

Finally, there is one more justification for salary rise we'd like to discuss, and, probably, it's one of the weightiest ones. This reason is the change in the scope of your professional responsibilities.

It doesn't really matter if your job title changes or not. Whenever the employer increases the scope of your daily duties, you have the right to request a corresponding compensation. It is logical and right to provide employees with a salary adequate to their commitment. Thus, if, in this case, an employer refuses your salary increase, it might be a red flag and a reason to resign.

The Wrong Time to Ask for a Pay Raise

As we said earlier, correct timing plays a crucial role in the process of requesting salary increase.

We already told you when asking for a pay rise is appropriate. Now, let's see when it is better to wait:

  • Financial troubles - When the organization is facing financial difficulties, there just might be no budget for salary increases.
  • Recent layoffs - Mass firings affect the company's structure and budget a lot, so it's also not the best time to ask for higher pay. 
  • Before the upcoming performance review - When your team is just a month or a few away from an annual increment or scheduled performance review, don't rush into it. Most likely, the company will refuse you in an unplanned increase.

Let's quickly recap the key points:

  • Follow a clear format of your letter;
  • Always consider if it's the right time to ask for a salary increase;
  • Keep your tone positive and confident, omitting complaints.

Follow all the steps and tips we shared to have a chance that the boss will review your salary increase letter and approve it.

Want to have a guarantee of success? Entrust professional writers with years of experience to take care of this matter for you. The team of SkillHub resume edit service will help you save time and boost the likelihood of receiving a salary increase confirmation letter!

The next article is about a cover letter. Here's 5 quick ways how to format a cover letter . Read on and enjoy!

If you want to learn more about a cover letter for an internal position, visit this page ! Our experts searched on the web and created a long story short.

Did you read this already?

The Best Google Docs Cover Letter Template

letter to request raise in salary

Top Well-Performed Cover Letter for Internal Positions

letter to request raise in salary

Creating an Ebook From Scratch: A How-To Guide

letter to request raise in salary

RequestLetters

Letter Of Request For Salary Increase: How To Draft It Right!

Key takeaways.

  • Understand the Importance: Recognize the significance of timing and preparation in requesting a salary increase.
  • Structure Your Letter: Follow a clear, professional format.
  • Highlight Achievements: Emphasize your contributions and performance.
  • Be Clear and Concise: Articulate your request straightforwardly.
  • Follow Up: Plan for subsequent discussions.

As someone who has penned numerous successful letters of request for salary increases, I’ve learned that the art of negotiation is as much about preparation as it is about the request itself.

A well-crafted letter can set the stage for a positive discussion and a favorable outcome. In this article, I’ll guide you through the steps of writing an effective salary increase request letter, including a handy template to get you started.

Step 1: Timing and Preparation

Key Points:

  • Choose the right time, ideally after a successful project or during performance reviews.
  • Research industry standards for your position and experience.

Real-Life Example: I once waited for the completion of a major project, where my contribution was significant, to request a raise. The timing aligned my request with a demonstrable success.

Step 2: Format Your Letter Professionally

Letter Structure:

  • Salutation: Address your manager formally.
  • Introduction: Briefly state your purpose.
  • Body: Discuss your achievements and rationale for the increase.
  • Conclusion: Reiterate your request and express willingness to discuss further.
  • Sign-off: Close with a professional sign-off.

Tip: Keep it professional and concise. A one-page letter is usually sufficient.

Step 3: Highlight Your Achievements

Key Achievements to Include:

  • Specific projects or tasks where you exceeded expectations.
  • Quantifiable results or contributions to the company.
  • Any additional responsibilities you have taken on.

Personal Insight: In my letters, I always focus on specific achievements, like increasing sales by 20%, which directly benefits the company. This showcases my value in a quantifiable way.

Step 4: State Your Request Clearly

Request Tips:

  • Be direct about your desired salary increase (a percentage or figure).
  • Avoid sounding demanding or entitled.

Example: “Considering my contributions and the market rate for similar roles, I am requesting a 10% increase in my salary.”

Step 5: Plan for Follow-Up

Follow-Up Strategy:

  • Express willingness to discuss the request in person
  • Suggest a meeting time to further discuss your proposal.
  • Prepare for possible negotiation or questions.

Real-Life Tip: After sending my letter, I always propose a meeting within the next week. This shows initiative and keeps the conversation going.

Writing a request for a salary increase is about more than just asking for more money. It’s a professional communication that should reflect your value to the company and your understanding of the business environment. Be clear, concise, and prepared to discuss your request further.

Template for Salary Increase Request Letter

Subject: Request for Salary Review – [Your Name]

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I am writing to formally request a review of my current salary. As you are aware, over the past [duration] at [Company Name], I have remained dedicated to delivering exceptional results, notably [specific achievements or projects].

Given my contributions and the responsibilities I have taken on, I believe that a salary adjustment is warranted. After researching the current market rates for similar positions in our industry, I am requesting a [percentage or specific amount] increase in my salary.

I am open to discussing this request further and am willing to meet at your earliest convenience to do so. Thank you for considering my request, and I look forward to continuing my growth and contributions to [Company Name].

Sincerely, 

[Your Name]

Please Share Your Experience! Have you ever written a letter requesting a salary increase? What strategies worked for you? Share your experiences in the comments below to help others in their journey!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

A professional and inviting office setting with a person sitting at a desk, writing a letter

Q: How do I politely ask for a salary increase in a letter?

Answer: I carefully outlined my achievements and contributions to the company in the letter. I also did some research on industry standards for my role to back up my request.

Q: What should I include in a salary increase request letter?

Answer: I made sure to include specific examples of my accomplishments and how they’ve positively impacted the company. I also mentioned any additional responsibilities I’ve taken on since my last salary review.

Q: How can I ensure my letter asking for a salary increase is effective?

Answer: I kept my letter concise and to the point, clearly stating my request and the reasons behind it. I also chose a suitable time to submit my letter, such as after a successful project completion or during performance reviews.

Q: What tone should I use in a salary increase request letter?

Answer: I used a professional and respectful tone in my letter. I made sure to express my gratitude for the opportunities I’ve had so far and avoided sounding demanding or entitled.

Q: Is it okay to mention personal reasons for needing a salary increase in the letter?

Answer: In my letter, I focused primarily on my professional accomplishments and market value. I mentioned personal reasons only briefly to provide context, but didn’t make them the main focus of my request.

Related Articles

Cover letter for internal promotion: the simple way, request letter for air conditioner replacement: how to draft it right, goodbye email to coworkers after resignation: the simple way, absence excuse letter for work: how to write it right, salary negotiation counter offer letter sample: free & effective, formal complaint letter sample against a person: free & effective, leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

How to Write a Request for a Salary Increase

Request for a Salary Increase | How to Write, Template & Example | Resume.com

Most employees will feel the need to request a raise at some point during their professional careers. Knowing when and how to ask for a raise may significantly increase your chances of actually obtaining one and ensure you present yourself as professionally as possible to your supervisor. Learn more about when you should request a salary increase and the steps to take when writing a salary increase request.

When should you request a salary increase?

The following are times when asking for a salary increase makes sense:

  • Your organization has been consistently profitable for a while
  • It has been at least a year since your last salary increase
  • You have worked in your current position for a full year
  • You are or have been promoted to a new position with more responsibilities than your previous position
  • You have recently taken on more responsibility or have achieved something significant at work (such as secured a large project or signed a big client)
  • You feel underpaid and have done the research to show that professionals in your position with your similar experience make a higher salary than what you are making

Asking for a raise at the appropriate time can play a large part in getting the salary increase you are requesting.

Why you should request a salary increase in writing

Here are some of the most common reasons you should submit your request for a salary increase in writing:

  • Writing your request for a raise is a formal and professional way to ask for a salary increase
  • Writing your request ensures that it is taken seriously by your manager
  • Writing a letter or email can ensure proper documentation is made of the request
  • Writing the request gives you the opportunity to choose your words wisely and proofread and edit your request before submitting it

Putting your salary request in writing can be beneficial for a number of reasons.

How to write a request for a salary increase

The following are steps you can take when writing a request for a salary increase:

1. First, be sure that the date your letter is sent is clearly noted

Before you compose and send your letter, make sure that the date the letter is being sent is clearly noted for your reference and your manager’s records.

2. Second, address the letter to your supervisor

You should address your request for a raise letter directly to your manager. You can use either their first and last name, Mr./Ms. [Last Name] or their first name if that is appropriate.

3. Third, introduce the reason you are writing and the raise you are requesting

The first paragraph of your letter should include the reason why you are writing the letter (to request a raise) as well as the percentage of salary increase you are requesting. You can also include your reasons as to why you are asking for a raise. For example, if it has been more than a year since your last raise, you recently received a promotion or took on additional responsibility, etc.

4. Fourth, include market research to support your request

You should include market research related to your position and salary if it is relevant to your request. For example, you may include the average salary of individuals with similar experience who are in a job similar to yours in your location if the average salary is more than what you are currently making.

5. Fifth, note your accomplishments since your last salary increase

In your letter, you should include a bulleted list of four or five accomplishments, contributions and responsibilities that support your request for a raise. This gives your manager a clear idea of how you have contributed to the company and why you are deserving of a salary increase.

6. Then, conclude your letter by reiterating your request

Once you have listed your accomplishments as well as any relevant market research, you can conclude your letter with a brief summary of the request you are making and why.

7. Next, thank the recipient for their time and consideration

Be sure to end your letter by thanking your manager for reading your letter and taking your request into consideration.

8. Finally, end the letter with a simple closing

To complete your letter, include a simple closing such as ‘Sincerely,’ as well as your full name and signature.

Things to avoid when requesting a salary increase

Here are some are things that you should not include when writing a letter for a salary increase:

  • Reference to other employees’ salaries
  • Asking for a raise without first doing your research
  • Ultimatums if a raise is not given
  • Too much personal information

Salary increase request letter template

Here is a template you can use when preparing a letter to ask for a salary increase:

[Manager’s name]

[Manager’s title]

[Company name]

[Company address]

Dear [Manager],

I am writing to formally request a salary increase. As you know, I have been with [company name] for [time in current position] and have continually grown in my position as [current position]. My contributions as an employee as well as my recent accomplishments and the market average of salaries in my position have given me reason to request an increase in salary of at least [percentage].

Since starting at [company name], I have regularly taken on more responsibilities that now include [list two or three responsibilities recently taken on]. Additionally, I have set myself apart over the past year by:

  • [Accomplishment]

Additionally, after performing ample research, I have found that the average market salary for my position is [market salary average], which is [percentage] more than what I currently make. With the [percentage] increase I am requesting, my salary would be on par with the industry standards as well as the responsibilities I currently handle.

Thank you for your time and consideration in this matter. If you would like to discuss this further, please let me know.

[Your name]

Salary increase request letter example

The following is an example of a salary increase request letter:

March 1, 2020

Donna Heart

Marketing Manager

Mosaic Marketing

765 West Avenue

New York City, New York 12345

Dear Donna,

I am writing to formally request a salary increase. As you know, I have been with Mosaic Marketing for four years now and have continually grown in my position as a marketing specialist. My contributions as an employee, my recent accomplishments and the market average of salaries in my position have given me reason to request an increase in salary of at least 10%.

Since starting at Mosaic Marketing, I have regularly taken on more responsibilities that now include project management and new marketing specialist training. Additionally, I have set myself apart over the past year by:

  • Regularly contributing to new marketing tactic implementation
  • Increasing the client retention of my marketing team by 25%
  • Contributing to the additional $100,000 in marketing sales in the previous quarter

Additionally, after performing ample research, I have found that the average market salary for my position is $60,000, which is 11% more than what I currently make. With the 10% increase I am requesting, my salary would be on par with the industry standards as well as the responsibilities I currently handle.

Sasha Wright

If you need help writing a resume, use our data-backed resume builder .

letter to request raise in salary

How to write an IMPACTFUL Salary Increment Letter (With examples you can use right now)

minutes read

Table of Contents

Salary increment letters are documents that you write to your employer to request a raise in your salary. An increment letter is a formal document that can be used interchangeably with a salary increment letter. It is a formal way of expressing your desire for a salary increase and is usually accompanied by a salary increment request form.

Writing a salary increment letter to your employer can be a daunting task. After all, you want to make sure that you get the best possible raise, while also making sure that you don’t come across as too demanding.

letter to request raise in salary

Select a State

State Image

Why you should write a Salary Increment Letter

Writing a salary increment letter can be beneficial for both the employer and the employee.

For the employer, it provides an opportunity to evaluate the employee’s performance and decide whether or not they deserve a raise.

For the employee, it is a chance to make a case for why they deserve a higher salary.

It also shows that the employee is willing to take initiative and is invested in their job.

In some industries, a salary revision letter might be used instead of a salary increment letter, but the purpose remains the same.

Timing Your Salary Increment Request

Choosing the right time to request a salary increment is crucial. An increment request letter should be timed perfectly, aligning with company financial health and performance reviews. Timing can make the difference between a successful request and one that is met with resistance. Consider the following aspects:

Company's Financial Health

Is the company in a position to offer raises? Understanding the financial standing of the company can guide you in making a reasonable request. Research the company's recent financial reports or consult with your HR department.

Performance Reviews

Align your request with performance review cycles. If your company conducts regular performance evaluations, it may be wise to time your request shortly after a positive review.

Major Achievements

Time your request after significant accomplishments or added responsibilities. Highlighting these achievements in your letter can strengthen your case for a salary increment.

Preparing to Write a Salary Increment Letter

Before you start writing your salary increment letter, it is important to do some research and prepare yourself. Here are 8 important tips to help you prepare to write a compelling Salary Increment Letter.

1. Research Your Worth

The first step is to research your worth. You should look into the average salary for your position in the industry and compare it to your current salary. This will give you an idea of how much of a raise you should be asking for.

2. Consider Your Employer’s Perspective

It is also important to consider your employer’s perspective. Think about the company’s financial situation and how much they can afford to pay you. You should also consider the value you bring to the company and how your work has contributed to its success.

3. Draft Your Letter

Once you have done your research, you can start drafting your letter. This will help you organize your thoughts and make sure that you include all the important points.

4. Be Specific

When writing your salary increment letter, be sure to be specific about the amount of the raise you are requesting. Include details about your current salary and the amount of the requested raise. Don’t just ask for a raise, but explain why you deserve one. Outline your accomplishments and achievements, and explain how they have contributed to the success of the company.

5. Be Professional

It’s important to remember that your salary increment letter is a professional document. Make sure to use a formal and polite tone and avoid any language that could be seen as aggressive or demanding. Avoid using overly emotional language or making threats.

6. Be Realistic

When asking for a raise, it’s important to be realistic. Don’t ask for too much, as this could put your employer off.

7. Be Positive

Your salary increment letter should be positive and upbeat. Focus on the future and how you can help the company grow and succeed.

8. Follow Up

After sending your salary increment mail, be sure to follow up with your employer. This will show that you are serious about getting the raise you deserve.

letter to request raise in salary

Writing Your Salary Increment Mail

Now that you have done your research and armed yourself with perspective, it is time to start writing.

Part 1 - Heading

This only applies if you are writing a letter. It isn't expected if you are sending in an email.

The heading of your letter should include your name, address, and contact information.

It should also include the date and the name and address of the recipient.

[Your Name]

[Your Address]

[Your Contact Information]

[Employer’s Name]

[Employer’s Address]

If you're considering a more informal approach, a salary increment request mail to boss can be drafted using similar guidelines.

Part 2 - Greeting

The greeting should be formal and should include the recipient’s name.

Introduction. The introduction should explain why you are writing the letter and should include a brief summary of your accomplishments.

Start your letter with a polite greeting.

You can use “Dear [Name]” or “To [Name]”.

Dear [Employer’s Name],

Part 3 - Body

The body of the letter should include the details of your request. You should explain why you deserve a raise and provide evidence to support your claim. You should also include any other relevant information such as your current salary and the amount of the raise you are requesting.

It is important to be professional and courteous when writing this letter, as it will be a reflection of your character and work ethic.

When writing a salary increment mail, it is important to include the following information:

  • Your current salary and  desired salary: When writing a salary increment mail, it is important to include your current salary. This will give your employer an idea of how much of an increase you are asking for.
  • Your job performance: When writing a salary increment mail, it is important to include information about your job performance. This will give your employer an idea of why you are asking for a raise.
  • Your accomplishments and contributions to the company : Make sure to add how you have benefitted the company with your contributions. Include any accomplishments or awards you have received, as well as any positive feedback from your supervisor.
  • Your reasons for requesting a salary increase: Be sure to include any relevant information, such as cost of living increases, inflation, or any other factors that may have contributed to your request.
  • Your commitment to the company: When writing a salary increment mail, it is important to include your commitment to the company. This will give your employer an idea of how dedicated you are to the company and your job. Be sure to include any plans you have for the future, such as taking on additional responsibilities or continuing your education.

I am writing to request a salary increment. I have been working at [Company Name] for [Number of Years] years and have consistently performed at a high level. I have always made sure to meet and exceed the expectations set for my role, and have consistently delivered high-quality work to the best of my abilities.

During my tenure at the company, I have taken on additional responsibilities and have contributed to the growth of the company by [list your major accomplishments and contributions to the company]. I have also continued to learn and develop new skills to help me perform better at my job.

Considering my performance and contributions to the company, I believe that my current salary of [Current Salary] does not accurately reflect my worth. Therefore, I would like to request a salary increase of [Percentage or Amount]. This increase will not only recognize my contributions, but also serve as a motivation to continue to perform at a high level.

I am committed to the growth of the company and look forward to contributing more to the team in the future.

Part 4 - Closing

‍ The closing should be polite and should thank the recipient for their time and consideration. You should also express your willingness to discuss the matter further.

Thank you for your time and consideration.I would appreciate your favorable consideration of my request.

Part 5 - Signature  

At the end of the letter, you should include your signature.

[Your Signature]

It's essential to follow the salary increment letter to employee format to ensure your request is taken seriously.

letter to request raise in salary

Dear [Employer], I am writing to request a salary increment. I have been working for [Company Name] for [time period], and I believe that I have made a significant contribution to the success of the company. I have been researching the current market rate for my job role, and I believe that my current salary is below the industry standard. I have outlined some of my accomplishments and achievements below, which I believe demonstrate my value to the company: [list accomplishments and achievements] I am confident that I can continue to make a positive contribution to the company, and I believe that a salary increment is warranted. I am asking for a [amount] raise, which I believe is a fair and reasonable request. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.

‍ Sincerely, [Your Name]

‍ ‍ Example 2

I am writing this letter to request a salary increment. I have been working at [Company Name] for [Number of Years] years and have been an active member of the team. In this time, I have been able to contribute to the growth of the company by taking on additional responsibilities and demonstrating my strong work ethic.

‍ I believe that my performance and accomplishments have been significant and have resulted in positive outcomes for the company. Over the past year, I have successfully [list your major accomplishments and contributions to the company]. These achievements have helped me to improve my skills, and I am confident that I can continue to make significant contributions to the company.

‍ Considering the cost of living and inflation, I would like to request a salary increase of [Percentage or Amount]. I believe that this increase is a fair reflection of my contributions to the company and my dedication to my job.

I am committed to the growth and success of the company and am willing to take on additional responsibilities and continue my education to enhance my skills. I value my position at [Company Name] and look forward to contributing to the company's growth.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to discussing this matter further.

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to request a salary increment, as I believe that my performance and contributions to the company warrant such an increase.

As you are aware, I have been working diligently for [Company Name] for [Number of Years] years. During this time, I have consistently exceeded the expectations set for my role and have taken on additional responsibilities when necessary. Through my hard work and dedication, I have [list your major accomplishments and contributions to the company].

‍ Despite my continued efforts, my salary has remained the same since I first joined the company. I respectfully request that you consider adjusting my salary to better reflect my contributions and the value I bring to the company.

I understand that salary increases must be carefully considered, and I appreciate your time and attention to this matter. I look forward to discussing this further with you.

Thank you for your consideration. ‍

letter to request raise in salary

What is a salary increment letter?

A salary increment letter is a document that employees write to their employers to request a raise in their salary. It is a formal way of expressing your desire for a salary increase and is usually accompanied by a salary increment request form. Some employees might refer to it as a salary hike request letter, but regardless of the terminology, the intent remains the same.

What are the benefits of writing a salary increment letter?

Writing a salary increment letter can be beneficial for both the employer and the employee. For the employer, it provides an opportunity to evaluate the employee’s performance and decide whether or not they deserve a raise. For the employee, it is a chance to make a case for why they deserve a higher salary. It also shows that the employee is willing to take initiative and is invested in their job.

What should I include in my salary increment letter?

When writing a salary increment letter, it is important to include your current salary, job performance, accomplishments, reasons for requesting a raise, commitment to the company, and the amount of the requested raise.

What format should I use when writing my salary increment letter?

The increment letter format is crucial as it determines the professionalism and clarity of your request. Your letter should include a heading with your name and contact information, a polite greeting, an introduction, a body with the details of your request, a closing, and your signature.

It should also be formatted in a professional manner, with one-inch margins and single-spacing.

Key Takeaways

  • Research Your Worth: Understand the industry standards and your value to the company.
  • Be Specific and Professional: Clearly outline your request, achievements, and reasons for the increment.
  • Consider Timing: Align your request with company financial health, performance reviews, and major achievements.
  • Use Visuals: Enhance your letter with charts, graphs, or infographics if applicable.
  • Follow Up: Show your seriousness by following up on your request.
  • Utilize External Resources: Refer to additional resources for guidance and support.

Writing a salary increment letter requires careful consideration, research, and professionalism. By following these key takeaways, you can craft a compelling and effective request that aligns with your contributions and the company's needs.

letter to request raise in salary

More like this

letter to request raise in salary

Examples logo

Pay Increase/ Raise Request Letter

deforestration 2

Dear Mr. Thompson,

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my sincere gratitude for the opportunity to work as a Project Manager within Thompson Technologies over the past three years. Under your leadership, I have grown professionally and personally, taking on challenges that have resulted in significant benefits for our team and projects.

Over the last year, I have successfully led our team through the completion of multiple high-profile projects, including the GreenTech software development, which resulted in a 30% increase in client satisfaction and a 20% increase in project delivery efficiency. My commitment to continuous improvement and innovation has not only driven my personal growth but also significantly contributed to our team’s success and the company’s bottom line.

Considering my contributions and the increased responsibilities I have taken on, I kindly request a review of my current compensation. I believe that a 10% pay increase would reflect the value and dedication I bring to our projects and the company as a whole. This adjustment would align my salary with the industry standard for professionals in my position and experience level.

I am eager to continue contributing to our team’s success and am open to discussing this request further at your convenience. I appreciate your consideration of my proposal and look forward to your feedback.

Thank you for your time and understanding.

Warmest regards,

letter to request raise in salary

AI Generator

Text prompt

  • Instructive
  • Professional

10 Examples of Public speaking

20 Examples of Gas lighting

The Federal Register

The daily journal of the united states government, request access.

Due to aggressive automated scraping of FederalRegister.gov and eCFR.gov, programmatic access to these sites is limited to access to our extensive developer APIs.

If you are human user receiving this message, we can add your IP address to a set of IPs that can access FederalRegister.gov & eCFR.gov; complete the CAPTCHA (bot test) below and click "Request Access". This process will be necessary for each IP address you wish to access the site from, requests are valid for approximately one quarter (three months) after which the process may need to be repeated.

An official website of the United States government.

If you want to request a wider IP range, first request access for your current IP, and then use the "Site Feedback" button found in the lower left-hand side to make the request.

IMAGES

  1. Raise Request Letter Form

    letter to request raise in salary

  2. How To Write a Letter Requesting a Pay Raise

    letter to request raise in salary

  3. 50 Best Salary Increase Letters (How To Ask For A Raise?) ᐅ TemplateLab

    letter to request raise in salary

  4. 50 Best Salary Increase Letters (How To Ask For A Raise?) ᐅ TemplateLab

    letter to request raise in salary

  5. Raise Request Letter

    letter to request raise in salary

  6. 50 Best Salary Increase Letters (How To Ask For A Raise?) ᐅ TemplateLab

    letter to request raise in salary

COMMENTS

  1. How to Write a Salary Increase Letter With Samples

    A salary increase request should be addressed to the person who manages your raises and bonuses. That may be your supervisor, manager, or the head of your department. It is generally not a good idea to go above the person who makes salary decisions for your team.

  2. 50 Best Salary Increase Letters (How To Ask For A Raise?)

    Human resources / Salary Increase Letters 50 Best Salary Increase Letters (How To Ask For A Raise?) At some point, you may want to ask for a raise, especially when you feel like you deserve one.

  3. How To Write a Letter Requesting a Pay Raise

    Updated on September 22, 2022 In This Article Is It Acceptable To Negotiate Salary by Email or Letter? What To Include in Your Letter or Email Message Sample Letter Requesting a Raise How To Send Your Letter via Email Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Photo: Lina Aidukaite / Moment / Getty Images Nervous about asking for a pay raise?

  4. How to Write a Salary Increase Request Letter (3 Examples)

    In your salary increase request letter, your key components should include a clear subject line, a brief introduction stating your role and time with the company, a summary of your accomplishments, a specific salary request, and your rationale behind it. End with a statement expressing willingness to discuss the request further.

  5. How To Write A Salary Increase Letter (Ask For A Raise Examples)

    Key Takeaways Send a salary increase letter when the company is doing well, when your last raise was at least a year ago, and when you've become a more valuable employee. Include the reason and justification for your request in your letter, as well as the specific salary you're asking for.

  6. How To Ask for a Raise in Writing (With a Sample Letter)

    1. Select the best time Think about when it's a good time to initiate the correspondence with your supervisor. For example, you can send the email during an annual review, which is where management may be evaluating your work performance and can easily see how you've contributed to the company.

  7. How To Write a Raise Letter (With Template and Example)

    1. Know what to include in a raise letter Most raise letters are three to four paragraphs long. They include an introduction, body and conclusion. Since they're written in the format of a letter, they also include a heading, professional salutation, closer and signature.

  8. How to Ask for Salary Increase (15 Best Sample Letters)

    Asking for the salary increase via a letter proves the document to be of formal origin, certifying the increase of your salary is taken seriously.

  9. How to write a salary increase letter to ask your boss for a raise

    Negotiate a new job offer ...or get the salary increase letter template sent directly to your inbox right away! You've changed jobs before and felt like you were leaving money on the table. You never have to feel that way again.

  10. Salary Increase Request Letter (Format & Sample)

    A Pay Increase Request Letter is a formal written communication wherein an employee asks their employer for an adjustment in their current salary, often highlighting their contributions, achievements, and the disparity between their pay and industry standards.

  11. How to Write a Letter Asking for a Raise

    2. Pick the right time One of the first steps in knowing how to ask for a raIse is identifying the best time in your company's cycle to have the discussion. When researching when to ask for a raise, find out if your company has a policy of granting pay raises only during performance review periods? Check your employee handbook for guidelines.

  12. How To Make a Request for a Salary Increase (With Tips)

    Salary increase letter example. You can use the following sample letter to help you create your own salary increase letter request: Dear Mr. Rayner, As you know, I have been a proud employee of Andersen Agency for four years now. I enjoy my daily job tasks and the ability to challenge myself professionally in this role.

  13. How to ask for a raise email

    Jul 25, 2022 Asking for a raise email with samples and templates Wondering how to ask for a raise via email? Our guide to writing the perfect email asking for a raise will help you land the raise you deserve with the help of raise request email samples and templates. Get ready for a raise! Saku Kahkonen Growth Lead

  14. How to write a salary increase request letter (with examples)

    For example: In my time here, I have made significant contributions to the team's success, including: Implementing a new SEO program that increased web traffic by 15%. Improving social media response time by an average of 20 minutes. Developing a promotional program that uses giveaways to increase brand awareness and customer engagement.

  15. 7 Simple Ways How to Ask For a Raise in Salary Increase Letters| SkillHub

    I am writing to you with a request for a salary increase. As a top-performing sales manager with consistent 20% quota excess and over 5 years devoted to the company's growth, I have been enthusiastic about taking on additional duties and roles.

  16. Letter Of Request For Salary Increase: How To Draft It Right!

    Letter Structure: Salutation: Address your manager formally. Introduction: Briefly state your purpose. Body: Discuss your achievements and rationale for the increase. Conclusion: Reiterate your request and express willingness to discuss further. Sign-off: Close with a professional sign-off.

  17. Your Guide To Creating a Salary Increase Letter (+ Free Template ...

    A salary increase letter is a formal document an employer provides to an employee to communicate an increase in the employee's salary. It is usually issued by the HR department and serves as an official record of the salary adjustment .

  18. How to Write a Request for a Salary Increase

    The following are steps you can take when writing a request for a salary increase: 1. First, be sure that the date your letter is sent is clearly noted. Before you compose and send your letter, make sure that the date the letter is being sent is clearly noted for your reference and your manager's records. 2.

  19. How to Write a Letter Asking for a Raise (With Examples)

    How to write a letter asking for a raise If you're interested in requesting a salary increase, you may wonder how to write a letter asking for a raise. By composing your letter clearly and articulately and ensuring you include all the key points, you may increase your chances of successfully asking for a pay raise.

  20. How to write an IMPACTFUL Salary Increment Letter (With examples you

    Salary increment letters are documents that you write to your employer to request a raise in your salary. An increment letter is a formal document that can be used interchangeably with a salary increment letter. It is a formal way of expressing your desire for a salary increase and is usually accompanied by a salary increment request form ...

  21. How to Write a Salary Increase Letter (With Example)

    A salary increase letter is a written request asking an employer for a higher salary. If you feel ready to ask for a salary increase, it might be time to write a note about your successful hard work in the company. Learning how to ask for a salary increase may increase your chances of successfully earning a raise.

  22. How to Write a Salary Increase Letter (Plus an Example)

    A salary increase letter is sent by an employee to an employer stipulating why they think they deserve a salary increase. You write these letters in a formal tone and address them to the person who manages your salary. This is usually a departmental head, supervisor or manager within the business.

  23. Pay Increase/ Raise Request Letter

    Pay Increase/ Raise Request Letter. Dear Mr. Thompson, I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to express my sincere gratitude for the opportunity to work as a Project Manager within Thompson Technologies over the past three years. Under your leadership, I have grown professionally and personally, taking on challenges that have resulted ...

  24. How To Ask for a Raise: A Guide (With Tips and Scripts)

    3. Set a meeting. It's ideal to ask for a pay raise in person and in private. If you're not in the same location as your manager, have the conversation over a video call, if possible. Do not ask for a raise without setting an appointment on the calendar first. The best setting is a room with a closed door.

  25. How To Write a Salary Increase Recommendation Letter

    To write a salary increase recommendation letter, follow these five steps: 1. Address the letter Add your direct manager's name to the top of the letter. On the next line, add your manager's official title.

  26. My Employee Wants a Bigger Raise Than She Earned

    I got an email from her requesting a 13.15% raise. I don't understand why it ends in .15% (it won't make her hourly rate an even number) and she would be paid more than other folks in this role.

  27. How to negotiate a promotion salary increase (with examples)

    I'd like to formally request a 10% raise in my promotion salary to reflect my qualifications, skills and responsibilities in this new position.' Related: Q&A: ... How to write an e-commerce manager cover letter: a guide; How to write a commis chef CV (with template and example) 5 personal achievement examples (And tips on outlining them) ...

  28. Federal Register :: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Fee

    In the proposed rule, 8 CFR 106.3(a)(2) stated, " Requesting a fee waiver. A person must submit a request for a fee waiver on the form prescribed by USCIS in accordance with the instructions on the form." In this final rule, USCIS will maintain the status quo of accepting either Form I-912 or a written request.