How to Ask Your Boss for a Pay Raise (With Examples)

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. 

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. 

Is It Acceptable to Negotiate Salary via Email?

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

What to Include in Your Letter or Email Message

Before you even begin writing your letter, make sure your salary request is reasonable. Conduct salary research to determine the appropriate range for your position, experience, and accomplishments. Remember the goal is to show that the raise you're asking for is 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.

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 detail your achievements so they can clearly see why you deserve 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.

Sample Letter Asking for a Raise

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.

How to Send Your Letter via Email

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 email concise and to the point.

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

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)