How to Ask for a Raise by Email (With a Template)
Most raise conversations should happen in person or on a video call, but an email is often the best way to start one. It gives your manager time to prepare, can be forwarded to whoever approves budgets, and puts your accomplishments in writing.
- Use the email to request a meeting and summarize your case; save the negotiation for the conversation.
- Lead with results and market data, not personal needs.
- Time it before budgets are set, often a few weeks before review season.
When to send it
- A few weeks before your annual review or the company’s budget cycle.
- Right after a big win, such as a completed project or great results.
- When your role has grown well beyond your job description.
Our guide on choosing your moment covers timing in more depth.
What to include
- A clear request for a meeting to discuss compensation.
- Two to four specific accomplishments, with numbers (see how to write a self-review).
- A note that you’ve researched market pay for your role (see benchmark your salary).
- A positive, forward-looking close.
Template
Subject: Time to discuss my compensation
Hi [Manager’s name],
I’d like to schedule 30 minutes in the next couple of weeks to talk about my compensation.
Over the past year I’ve [accomplishment with a number, for example “cut monthly reporting time from 12 hours to 4”], [second accomplishment], and taken on [new responsibility]. I’ve also looked at market pay for similar roles in our area, and I’d like to discuss bringing my salary in line with my current responsibilities.
I really enjoy working on this team and want to keep growing here. Would [two date options] work for you?
Thanks,
[Your name]
Mistakes to avoid
- Naming a number in the email before the meeting (save it for the conversation).
- Mentioning personal expenses as the reason.
- Threatening to quit unless you’re ready to (see counteroffers).
- Sending it to your manager’s boss first.
Follow up
If you don’t hear back within a week, send a short, friendly reminder. After the meeting, email a brief summary of what was agreed, including next steps and dates. If the answer is no, read what to do if the answer is no.
Header image: Photo: “Backlit keyboard” by Colin, CC BY-SA 4.0 (cropped).