How to ask for a raise (with a script and email)
Ask for a raise with a plan: pick the right moment, document what you have delivered, check market pay from official sources, and request a specific figure or range in a private meeting. Be ready for a no with a follow-up question, so the conversation still moves you forward.
At a glance
- Best timing: after a clear win, near review time, or when your duties have grown.
- Build a one-page case with results, not effort.
- Check market pay. See how to research pay.
- Ask for a meeting, then ask for a number.
- If no, ask what would change the answer and when to revisit.
Step 1: build your case
| Evidence | Examples |
|---|---|
| Results | Projects delivered, revenue or savings you influenced, targets met |
| Scope | New responsibilities since your last pay change |
| Feedback | Written praise, review ratings |
| Market | Pay ranges for similar roles from official sources |
Only use facts you can show.
Step 2: choose the moment
Ask before budgets are set, after a success, or when you take on more. Avoid layoff periods, bad quarters or the middle of a crisis.
Step 3: the script
"Thank you for meeting. I have enjoyed [project] and I have taken on [new responsibilities]. Based on those results and on what similar roles pay, I would like to discuss moving my pay to [figure or range]. Can we talk about that?"
Then stop and listen. Silence is fine.
Step 4: the email to request a meeting
Subject: Request for a conversation about my compensation
Hi [Manager],
Could we schedule 20 minutes this week or next to discuss my role and compensation? I have a short summary of my results since [date] that I would like to share.
Thanks, [Name]
Step 5: check what the data says
Look up your occupation on the Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data. The Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics program publishes annual estimates for about 830 occupations, for the nation, states and metropolitan areas, and its latest release covers May 2025. Use the 25th, median and 75th percentiles to build a range, as described in how to research pay.
Know your rights when you talk about pay
The National Labor Relations Board says most private-sector employees are covered by the National Labor Relations Act, which protects employees acting together to raise pay and other working conditions with their employer. Government employees, supervisors, independent contractors and some other groups are excluded, so read the NLRB guidance before you rely on it. This is general information, not legal advice.
Step by step: a two-week plan
- Day 1 to 3: list results since your last pay change, with numbers where you have them.
- Day 4 to 5: pull the market range from official data.
- Day 6: choose your ask and your minimum.
- Day 7: send the meeting request email above.
- Meeting: share the one-page case, say the figure, then listen.
- Within 24 hours: send a short email that records what was said.
What to say in common situations
| Situation | What to say |
|---|---|
| Manager says there is no budget | "What would need to be true for this to be possible next quarter?" |
| Manager says to wait for review | "Can we agree on the figure now so it goes into the review?" |
| Offered less than your ask | "Thank you. Can you tell me how the number was reached?" |
| Offered a title but no pay | "I appreciate the title. Can we also discuss pay at the next review?" |
If the answer is no
- Ask what would make a yes possible.
- Ask for a timeline: "Can we revisit this in three months?"
- Ask about other value: a title, more leave, training, flexible hours.
- Write the agreed next steps in an email.
- Decide if the answer is acceptable. It is reasonable to look at other roles. See how to find a job fast.
Mistakes
- Comparing yourself to named colleagues.
- Issuing ultimatums you do not intend to carry out.
- Citing personal costs as the reason instead of performance.
- Using unverified figures from forums.
Frequently asked questions
How much should I ask for? A figure supported by market data and your results. Use official ranges, not rumors.
How often can I ask? Once or twice a year is common, tied to reviews.
Should I mention another job offer? Only if it is real and you are prepared for the consequences. See counter offers.
Should I ask in person or by email? Email to book the meeting, then ask in person or on video, and follow up in writing.
What if I just started? Many people wait until they have a clear result to show. Ask about the review date at the start.
Next step
Write your one-page case and book the meeting.
This page is general career information.