Work & Career · free generator
Salary Increase Request Letter
You know you've earned it - the numbers back you up, and your responsibilities have quietly doubled since your title last changed. But raise conversations die in hallways. Putting your request in writing does two things a chat can't: it forces the case onto paper, where your results speak louder than your nerves, and it gives your manager a document they can carry into the budget meeting where the real decision gets made. This letter leads with evidence, asks for a review of your compensation, and requests a meeting - no pleading, no ultimatums. Fill in your title, your time in role, and your strongest quantified win below, and you'll have a request that reads like a business case, because that's exactly what it is.
[Date]
[Your manager's name]
Dear [Your manager's name],
I am writing to formally request a review of my compensation. I have served as [Your job title] for [Time in your current role], and in that time both my responsibilities and my impact on the team's results have grown well beyond the scope of my original role.
The clearest example: over the past year, I [Your strongest quantified win (start with a verb)]. This is one result among several, and I would welcome the opportunity to walk you through the full record, along with current market data for comparable positions.
Based on that record, I believe an adjustment to my salary is warranted.
Could we schedule thirty minutes in the next two weeks to discuss this? I am happy to work around your calendar and to send supporting materials in advance so the conversation is an efficient use of your time.
Thank you for your consideration. I value this team and the work we do, and I look forward to the conversation.
Sincerely,
[Your full name]
Three tips before you send
- Timing beats phrasing. Send this within two weeks of a visible win or just before budget planning season - not the week after layoffs or a missed quarter.
- Bring numbers, not feelings: pull salary ranges for your title and metro area from at least two sources, and anchor your ask near the top of the realistic band.
- Don't mention outside offers unless you have one in writing and you're prepared to take it. A bluffed ultimatum ends careers faster than a rejected raise request.
Questions people ask
How much of a raise should I ask for?
Anchor to market, not to your current pay. For strong performance in the same role, 5-10% is a common ask; if your duties have grown or you're clearly under market, 10-20% can be justified with data. Name a specific number or narrow range in the meeting - vague asks get vague answers.
Should I ask for a raise in writing or in person?
Both. The letter opens the conversation and gives your manager evidence they can forward to HR or their own boss - raises are usually approved above your manager's head. The meeting is where the actual negotiation happens. Send the letter first so nobody is ambushed.
What if my manager says no?
Ask what specifically would need to change for a yes, and get a follow-up date on the calendar - 90 days is reasonable. A documented 'not now' with criteria is a plan; a shrug is a signal. If nothing moves by the follow-up date, you have your answer and a paper trail.
Related letters
Promotion Request Letter →
States your case for the next title with evidence, then asks for the meeting.
Resignation Letter →
A clean, professional exit - dated, gracious, and ready to hand in.
Two Weeks' Notice Letter →
The standard, by-the-book notice - firm last day, smooth handoff, bridge intact.
Reference Request Letter →
A gracious ask with an easy out - and an offer to send your resume and role details.