How to Write a Salary Increase Letter

A salary increase letter gives your raise request a clear record. It helps your manager see the reason for the request before the conversation starts.

Do not make the letter about personal bills. Make it about role scope, results, market pay, and the value you are bringing now.

Prepare Your Case Before You Write

Start with evidence. A raise request is easier to discuss when your examples are specific.

The BLS says its Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics program produces wage estimates by occupation, industry, and location, and that this information can help when negotiating a starting salary or asking for a raise. See its guide on using OEWS earnings data.

Document major wins: Choose three projects where your work improved revenue, time, quality, cost, customer experience, or team output.
Check market rates: Compare your role with wage data, job postings, and recruiter conversations for your location and level.
Pick the timing: Ask after strong results, a completed project, or a review cycle when possible.

Structure the Salary Increase Letter

Keep the letter short. One page is usually enough.

First sentence

Address your manager directly and state the purpose.

Input: "I am writing to request a review of my current compensation."
Output: A clear start that tells your manager what the letter is about.

Value proposition

Use the strongest evidence from your preparation. Focus on recent work and measurable outcomes.

Input: Three specific achievements from the last six to twelve months.
Output: A short case that shows how your value has grown.

Market comparison

Mention market data without making it the whole argument.

Input: "Based on market research for this role and location, comparable compensation appears to range from [Amount] to [Amount]."
Output: Useful pay context for the discussion.

Call to action

Ask for a meeting instead of expecting an immediate yes.

Input: "I would appreciate the chance to discuss this with you. I am available Tuesday or Thursday afternoon."
Output: A clear next step.

Avoid Common Pitfalls

Keep the tone professional and focused on the work.

Action	Reason
Remove complaints	Frustration distracts from the value case.
Avoid coworker comparisons	Other people's pay may not reflect your role, scope, or data.
Skip ultimatums	Pressure can shut down a useful conversation.

Handle the Follow-Up Meeting

Your manager may need HR approval, budget review, or more time. Use the meeting to explain your examples and listen to the response.

If the answer is no, ask what would need to change. Request clear goals, a timeline, and a follow-up date. A good letter starts the conversation. The follow-up turns it into a plan.

For a related Working Nomads article, read how to write a thank you note to a remote coworker before you apply before you decide your next step.

What to Read Next

Read sample letter of recommendation for a coworker if you want a related next step on job search letters.
Use what is a letter of intent before you apply when you need more context before your next decision.