Asking for a raise can be daunting, but with the right approach and a well-crafted letter, you can significantly increase your chances of success. This article provides proven strategies and 19 sample raise request letters to help you articulate your value and justify your compensation expectations. Remember to tailor these templates to your specific situation and company culture for optimal impact.
Before diving into the sample letters, it’s crucial to prepare your case. Gather evidence of your accomplishments, highlighting projects where you exceeded expectations or significantly contributed to the company’s success. Research industry standards for similar roles and experience levels in your geographic location. This information will provide a strong foundation for your negotiation and demonstrate that your request is based on objective data.
When writing your raise request letter, maintain a professional and positive tone. Clearly state your current salary and your desired salary increase. Explain why you believe you deserve the raise, focusing on your contributions and the value you bring to the organization. Express your commitment to the company and your continued growth within the role. Be confident and articulate, showcasing your self-worth and dedication.
19 Sample Raise Request Letters
Note: Adapt these samples to your specific circumstances and company policies.
Sample 1: General Raise Request
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Manager’s Name]
[Manager’s Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I am writing to formally request a review of my current salary. I have been with [Company Name] for [Number] years, and during that time, I have consistently exceeded expectations in my role as [Your Job Title].
As detailed in my performance reviews, I have successfully [List 2-3 Key Accomplishments]. I have also taken on additional responsibilities, including [List Additional Responsibilities].
Based on my performance and research of industry standards for similar roles with my experience, I am requesting an increase in my salary to [Desired Salary]. I am confident that I will continue to contribute significantly to the success of [Company Name].
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to discussing this further.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 2: Project-Based Raise Request
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Manager’s Name]
[Manager’s Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I am writing to request a salary increase in recognition of my contributions to the successful completion of the [Project Name] project.
As a key member of the team, I was responsible for [List Your Responsibilities and Contributions]. My efforts resulted in [Quantifiable Results, e.g., saving the company X amount of money, increasing efficiency by Y percent].
I believe my contributions to this project warrant a salary increase that reflects the value I bring to the company. I am requesting an increase to [Desired Salary].
I am eager to continue contributing to the success of [Company Name] and am committed to exceeding expectations in future projects.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 3: Raise Request After Taking on More Responsibilities
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Manager’s Name]
[Manager’s Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I am writing to request a review of my current salary. Over the past [Time Period], I have taken on significantly more responsibilities beyond my original job description.
These additional responsibilities include [List New Responsibilities] and have allowed me to contribute to the team by [Explain how these responsibilities benefit the company].
Considering the expanded scope of my role and the positive impact I have made, I am requesting a salary increase to [Desired Salary].
I am excited about the opportunity to continue growing with [Company Name] and believe this adjustment would fairly compensate me for my current contributions.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 4: Performance-Based Raise Request
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Manager’s Name]
[Manager’s Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I am writing to formally request a review of my salary based on my consistently strong performance. As you know, during the last review period, I [Refer to specific positive feedback from performance reviews].
Specifically, I have consistently achieved [List 2-3 Key Accomplishments and Quantifiable Results – e.g., exceeded sales targets by 15%, improved customer satisfaction scores by 10%]. These results have directly contributed to [Explain how these achievements benefited the company].
Based on my performance record and industry benchmarks, I am requesting a salary increase to [Desired Salary]. I am confident that I will continue to perform at a high level and make significant contributions to [Company Name]’s success.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to discussing this further with you.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 5: Cost of Living Adjustment Request
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Manager’s Name]
[Manager’s Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I am writing to request a cost of living adjustment to my current salary. As you are aware, the cost of living in [Your City/Region] has increased significantly over the past [Time Period, e.g., year].
This increase has impacted my personal finances and I believe a cost of living adjustment would help me maintain my current standard of living while continuing to contribute effectively to [Company Name].
I am requesting a salary increase of [Percentage or Specific Amount] to reflect the current cost of living. I remain committed to my role at [Company Name] and dedicated to exceeding expectations.
Thank you for considering my request.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 6: Internal Promotion Raise Request (Adjust if you have already been promoted)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Manager’s Name]
[Manager’s Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I am writing to formally express my interest in the open [New Role Title] position within the [Department] team. As you know, I have been with [Company Name] for [Number] years as a [Your Current Role] and have consistently demonstrated my ability to [List Key Skills and Achievements relevant to the new role].
I am particularly excited about the opportunity to [Explain why you are interested in the new role and how your skills align with its requirements]. I believe my experience in [Relevant Experience] and my demonstrated success in [Specific Accomplishments] make me a strong candidate for this position.
Should I be selected for this role, I would also like to discuss a salary increase commensurate with the increased responsibilities and expectations. Based on my research of similar roles within the company and the market, I am seeking a salary in the range of [Salary Range].
Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to learn more about this opportunity and discuss how I can contribute to the [Department]’s success in this new role.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 7: Counter-Offer Raise Request (Use Cautiously!)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Manager’s Name]
[Manager’s Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I am writing to inform you that I have received an offer of employment from another company. I value my time at [Company Name] and am very grateful for the opportunities I have been given to [List Positive Experiences at the Company – e.g., learn new skills, contribute to meaningful projects, work with a great team].
The offer I received is for a [Role Title] position with a salary of [Salary Offered] and [Mention key benefits or perks – e.g., better health insurance, more vacation time]. While I am intrigued by this opportunity, my preference is to remain with [Company Name].
To make it possible for me to stay, I would need to see an adjustment to my current compensation to better reflect my value and contributions to the team. I am hoping for a salary of [Desired Salary] and consideration for [Specific benefits or perks you want – e.g., additional vacation days, professional development opportunities]. I am confident that my continued contributions will more than justify this investment in my future with the company.
I understand this is a significant request, and I am available to discuss this further at your earliest convenience.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 8: Skills-Based Raise Request (Focus on newly acquired skills)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Manager’s Name]
[Manager’s Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I am writing to request a review of my salary in light of the new skills I have recently acquired and implemented in my role as [Your Job Title]. Over the past [Time Period], I have successfully completed training and gained expertise in [List New Skills – e.g., Python programming, project management methodologies, data analysis techniques].
Since acquiring these skills, I have been able to [Explain how you have used these skills to benefit the company and improve your performance – e.g., automate a key process, improve efficiency by X%, reduce costs by Y amount]. These contributions have directly resulted in [Quantifiable Results].
Given the increased value I am bringing to the team as a result of my newly acquired skills, I am requesting a salary increase to [Desired Salary]. I am committed to continuously improving my skills and contributing to the success of [Company Name].
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 9: End of Year Raise Request (After a Strong Year)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Manager’s Name]
[Manager’s Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
As we approach the end of the year, I am writing to formally request a review of my current salary. I am proud of the contributions I have made to [Company Name] throughout the year and believe my performance has consistently exceeded expectations.
Specifically, I have achieved [List 2-3 Key Accomplishments during the year – e.g., successfully launched a new product, significantly increased sales in a key market, exceeded customer satisfaction goals]. I have also [Mention any initiatives you took or problems you solved].
Given my strong performance this year and my commitment to continued success, I am requesting a salary increase to [Desired Salary]. I am confident that I will continue to be a valuable asset to the team in the coming year.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to discussing this further with you during my end-of-year performance review.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 10: Merit-Based Raise Request
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Manager’s Name]
[Manager’s Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I am writing to formally request a salary increase based on my consistently high performance and merit. Throughout my time at [Company Name], I have strived to exceed expectations and contribute significantly to the company’s success.
My accomplishments include [List key accomplishments with quantifiable results wherever possible – e.g., streamlined a process that reduced costs by X%, developed a new marketing campaign that increased leads by Y%]. I have also consistently received positive feedback from clients and colleagues.
I believe that my contributions and dedication warrant a merit-based salary increase to [Desired Salary]. I am committed to continuing to perform at a high level and contribute to [Company Name]’s continued growth.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss this further.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 11: Salary Increase Due to Increased Workload
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Manager’s Name]
[Manager’s Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I am writing to request a review of my current salary in light of the significant increase in my workload over the past [Time Period]. Since [Explain the event or reason for increased workload – e.g., the departure of a colleague, the expansion of our team’s responsibilities], my responsibilities have expanded considerably.
I am now responsible for [List new or expanded responsibilities] in addition to my original duties. I have taken on these additional tasks willingly and have consistently maintained a high level of performance despite the increased workload.
Given the increased demands on my time and the added value I am bringing to the company, I am requesting a salary increase to [Desired Salary]. I am confident that this adjustment would fairly compensate me for my current contributions.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 12: Salary Increase After Company Growth
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Manager’s Name]
[Manager’s Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I am writing to request a review of my salary as [Company Name] has experienced significant growth over the past [Time Period]. I am proud to have contributed to this success as a [Your Job Title].
As the company has grown, my responsibilities and the demands of my role have also increased. I have adapted to these changes effectively and have continued to deliver strong results, specifically [Mention key contributions that supported the company’s growth].
I believe a salary increase to [Desired Salary] is appropriate to reflect the company’s success and my contributions to that success. I am committed to continuing to play a key role in [Company Name]’s future growth.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 13: Request for Salary Increase After Long Tenure
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Manager’s Name]
[Manager’s Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I am writing to formally request a review of my salary. As you know, I have been a dedicated employee of [Company Name] for [Number] years. During that time, I have consistently demonstrated my commitment to the company’s success.
Throughout my tenure, I have [List significant contributions and achievements over the years. Focus on long-term impact and company loyalty]. I have also mentored junior colleagues and played a key role in [Mention important company initiatives or projects].
Given my long-term commitment and consistent contributions to [Company Name], I am requesting a salary increase to [Desired Salary]. I am confident that I will continue to be a valuable asset to the company for many years to come.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 14: Addressing Being Underpaid Compared to Market Rate
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Manager’s Name]
[Manager’s Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I am writing to request a review of my current salary. I recently conducted research on industry standards for my role as [Your Job Title] with [Number] years of experience in [Your City/Region]. My research indicates that my current salary is below the average market rate for comparable positions.
Based on data from [Mention sources like Glassdoor, Salary.com, or Payscale.com], the average salary range for a [Your Job Title] in [Your City/Region] is [Salary Range]. I am currently earning [Your Current Salary].
I am committed to [Company Name] and enjoy my work here. I am requesting a salary increase to [Desired Salary] to align my compensation with the current market rate and reflect the value I bring to the company. I am confident that I will continue to contribute significantly to the team’s success.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 15: Requesting a Salary Increase After a Successful Negotiation
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Manager’s Name]
[Manager’s Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
Following our recent discussion regarding my performance and compensation, I am writing to reiterate my request for a salary increase.
As we discussed, I have consistently exceeded expectations in my role as [Your Job Title], contributing to the company’s success through [Mention specific accomplishments discussed during the negotiation]. I also understand the company’s financial situation and appreciate your willingness to consider my request.
Based on our conversation, I am requesting a salary increase to [Desired Salary]. I believe this amount is a fair reflection of my value to the company and aligns with my performance goals. I am committed to continuing to deliver strong results and contribute to [Company Name]’s ongoing success.
Thank you for your continued support and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 16: Salary Increase Based on Increased Complexity of Projects
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Manager’s Name]
[Manager’s Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I am writing to request a review of my current salary. Over the past [Time Period], I have been consistently assigned to projects of increasing complexity and strategic importance to the company.
These projects have required me to [Describe the new skills and challenges you have faced – e.g., manage larger teams, work with new technologies, develop innovative solutions]. I have successfully navigated these challenges and have delivered exceptional results, as evidenced by [Mention specific outcomes and positive feedback].
Given the increased complexity of my work and the value I am bringing to the company through these challenging projects, I am requesting a salary increase to [Desired Salary]. I am committed to continuing to take on challenging projects and contributing to [Company Name]’s success.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 17: Requesting a Salary Review After a Company Restructuring
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Manager’s Name]
[Manager’s Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I am writing to request a review of my salary following the recent company restructuring. As a result of these changes, my role as [Your Job Title] has evolved, and I have taken on new responsibilities to support the company’s strategic goals.
My new responsibilities include [List the specific new responsibilities and how they contribute to the company’s success]. I have embraced these changes and have quickly adapted to the new requirements of my role.
I believe a salary increase to [Desired Salary] is appropriate to reflect the expanded scope of my role and the value I am bringing to the company during this transition. I am committed to supporting [Company Name] through this restructuring and to contributing to its future success.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 18: Requesting a Salary Increase Based on Increased Market Demand for Your Skills
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Manager’s Name]
[Manager’s Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I am writing to request a review of my current salary in light of the increasing market demand for individuals with my skills and experience in [Specific Skills – e.g., data science, cybersecurity, AI development].
The demand for these skills has significantly increased in recent months, and as a result, the market value for professionals with my qualifications has risen considerably. This increased demand is reflected in [Mention sources – e.g., industry reports, job postings, salary surveys].
To ensure that my compensation remains competitive and reflects the current market value of my skills, I am requesting a salary increase to [Desired Salary]. I am committed to [Company Name] and want to ensure I am fairly compensated for my contributions. I am confident that I will continue to be a valuable asset to the team.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 19: Requesting a Performance Bonus Instead of a Salary Increase (If Applicable and Strategic)
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Manager’s Name]
[Manager’s Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I am writing to discuss my current compensation. I understand the company’s current budget constraints and I appreciate the transparency you have provided regarding salary increases at this time. While I would ideally like to request a permanent salary increase, I am also open to exploring alternative compensation options.
Specifically, I would like to propose the possibility of a performance-based bonus tied to specific, measurable goals that align with the company’s strategic objectives. I am confident that I can achieve these goals and deliver significant value to the company.
I propose the following goals: [List 2-3 specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals]. If I achieve these goals by [Date], I would like to request a bonus of [Specific Amount or Percentage].
I am committed to delivering exceptional results for [Company Name], and I believe this performance-based bonus would be a mutually beneficial way to recognize my contributions. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to discussing this further.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Ultimately, the success of your raise request depends on your preparation, presentation, and negotiation skills. Use these sample letters as a starting point, tailor them to your specific circumstances, and confidently articulate your value to the company. Remember to be respectful and professional throughout the process, and be prepared to discuss your request in detail with your manager. Good luck!
