How to Ask for a Raise (and Actually Get It)

A step-by-step guide to timing your request, researching your worth, making your case and handling any answer.

Cutting expenses has limits. Increasing your income doesn't. Asking for a raise is one of the highest-return money moves you can make, because a higher salary compounds over your entire career through future raises, bonuses and retirement contributions. Yet many people never ask. Here's a step-by-step plan to prepare, make your case and handle any answer.

Why asking matters

Raises aren't always handed out automatically. Companies often have a budget, and the people who make a clear, well-supported case are more likely to get a share of it. And because future raises are usually a percentage of your current salary, even a modest increase today adds up over the years.

For example, a $4,000 raise is worth $40,000 over ten years, before counting any future percentage increases or the extra retirement contributions it may unlock.

Step 1: Pick the right time

• Before budgets are set: ask a few months before your company's annual review or budgeting cycle, not after decisions are made.
• After a win: right after completing a major project, landing a client or getting great feedback.
• When you've taken on more responsibility: new duties, managing people or covering for an open role.
• Avoid bad moments: during layoffs, a hiring freeze or when your manager is clearly overwhelmed.

Step 2: Research your market value

Know what people in similar roles earn. Useful sources include:

• Salary databases and job boards that publish salary ranges
• Job postings: many U.S. states and cities now require pay ranges in job listings
• Government data: in the U.S., the Bureau of Labor Statistics publishes wage data by occupation and location
• Professional associations and recruiters in your field
• Trusted peers and mentors

Adjust for your location, experience level, industry and company size. Aim for a realistic range, not a single number.

Step 3: Build your case with results

Your manager has to justify the raise to someone else, so give them the evidence. Make a short list of your accomplishments, with numbers wherever possible:

• Revenue generated or costs saved
• Projects delivered and their impact
• Processes improved, time saved or errors reduced
• Customer or team feedback
• New responsibilities, skills or certifications

Step 4: Choose your number

Based on your research, choose a specific figure near the top of your realistic range. That gives room to negotiate while staying credible. A specific number like $68,500 can signal that you've done your homework.

Step 5: Have the conversation

Ask your manager for a dedicated meeting, ideally in person or on video. Then:

1. Open positively: say what you enjoy about your role and your goals at the company.
2. Present your results: two to four key accomplishments with numbers.
3. Make your ask clearly: "Based on my results and market data for this role, I'd like to discuss increasing my salary to $X."
4. Pause and listen. Let your manager respond.

Focus on your value and the market, not personal expenses. "My rent went up" is understandable, but it's not a business case.

Step 6: Handle the response

If the answer is yes

Thank them, and ask when the change takes effect and for confirmation in writing.

If it's "not right now"

• Ask what specific goals or results would earn a raise, and by when.
• Request a follow-up meeting in three to six months.
• Consider negotiating other benefits: a bonus, extra paid time off, remote work flexibility, training budget or a title change.

If it's a firm no

Stay professional, ask for feedback and use it to grow. If you're consistently underpaid compared to the market, it may be time to explore other opportunities, since changing employers is often one of the fastest ways to increase pay.

Make the most of your raise

When the raise comes through, avoid "lifestyle creep" by putting at least part of it to work right away:

• Increase your 401(k) contribution before you get used to the bigger paycheck.
• Boost your emergency fund or down payment savings.
• Speed up debt payoff using the snowball or avalanche method.
• Update your budget so every new dollar has a job.

Frequently asked questions

Disclaimer: This article is for general educational purposes only and isn't personalised financial, tax or legal advice. Consider speaking with a qualified professional about your situation. Read our full disclaimer.