Writing a Strong Salary Increase Request Letter (with Sample)
Use this sample salary increase request letter as a template for your formal request letter.
Last updated on July 28th, 2022
We all work hard in our daily jobs, but there are sometimes when we feel that we are not being paid what we are worth. Whether you have heard others talking about their salary or you feel that your work warrants a larger sum, the process should be started with a salary increase letter.
This letter must be meticulously done in order to come across in the right manner. If the tone is too forceful, the employer may not be impressed and a salary increase will not be entertained. Most employees want a higher salary.
Some people are constantly looking for bigger and better opportunities. They want the best paying jobs. But some people prefer to seek an increase from within the company they are currently working for, rather than looking elsewhere.
General Census
While the general census is that employers will not be favorable of these types of letters, this is not a true analogy. Actually, some employers would rather increase the salary of a good employee than to have to look for their replacement.
Replacing a valuable staff member can be time and money better spent on other things. Also, a high turnover for a company for paying employees poorly doesn’t look good on the company. A lot of factors will come into play on whether the request is granted, for example, does the request fall within an acceptable range?
Opening Paragraph
The opening paragraph should open right up to your request. Don’t beat around the bush, state your purpose clearly. Tell the supervisor exactly what you want and state the dollar amount or percentage of increase in pay you desire. If you have demands on the time frame that you need to see this increase, be sure to spell those out as well.
This letter must be meticulously done in order to come across in the right manner. If the tone is too forceful, the employer may not be impressed and a salary increase will not be entertained. Most employees want a higher salary.
Some people are constantly looking for bigger and better opportunities. They want the best paying jobs. But some people prefer to seek an increase from within the company they are currently working for, rather than looking elsewhere.
General Census
While the general census is that employers will not be favorable of these types of letters, this is not a true analogy. Actually, some employers would rather increase the salary of a good employee than to have to look for their replacement.
Replacing a valuable staff member can be time and money better spent on other things. Also, a high turnover for a company for paying employees poorly doesn’t look good on the company. A lot of factors will come into play on whether the request is granted, for example, does the request fall within an acceptable range?
Opening Paragraph
The opening paragraph should open right up to your request. Don’t beat around the bush, state your purpose clearly. Tell the supervisor exactly what you want and state the dollar amount or percentage of increase in pay you desire. If you have demands on the time frame that you need to see this increase, be sure to spell those out as well.
Second Paragraph
The second paragraph should be reserved for why you deserve this increase. If you have been a main contributor to a special project or have numerous achievements, be sure to clearly spell out these accomplishments. The goal in this paragraph is to let the company see why they cannot function without you.
While this section needs to be written without seeming condescending, you do need to gloat just a bit to prove a point. The company needs to see why they must invest more money in you as a member of their company.
They also know that if they don’t approve your increase, you are likely to seek employment elsewhere. Make your petition known and state your important position to the company’s success.
Third Paragraph
The third paragraph can state how investing in you can save the company money. While they may be paying you a higher wage, are you willing to step up and take on more responsibilities on the job? If the company can eliminate a position by allowing you to take on more opportunities, they may see the benefit in allowing you an increase.
After you have stated your case, you may want to follow up with a meeting with you supervisor to discuss things further. This way you can find out where the company stands and if an increase is even possible.
Note: If the letter is being sent via Email the subject line should have your full name followed by "Request for Meeting". The body may be shorter than a hard copy with just the facts.
The second paragraph should be reserved for why you deserve this increase. If you have been a main contributor to a special project or have numerous achievements, be sure to clearly spell out these accomplishments. The goal in this paragraph is to let the company see why they cannot function without you.
While this section needs to be written without seeming condescending, you do need to gloat just a bit to prove a point. The company needs to see why they must invest more money in you as a member of their company.
They also know that if they don’t approve your increase, you are likely to seek employment elsewhere. Make your petition known and state your important position to the company’s success.
Third Paragraph
The third paragraph can state how investing in you can save the company money. While they may be paying you a higher wage, are you willing to step up and take on more responsibilities on the job? If the company can eliminate a position by allowing you to take on more opportunities, they may see the benefit in allowing you an increase.
After you have stated your case, you may want to follow up with a meeting with you supervisor to discuss things further. This way you can find out where the company stands and if an increase is even possible.
Note: If the letter is being sent via Email the subject line should have your full name followed by "Request for Meeting". The body may be shorter than a hard copy with just the facts.
Salary Increase Request Letter Sample
DATE
G.A.L. Corporation
90 Gran Seminole Drive
Reynoldsburg, Ohio 43068
Attn: Carrie Bradshaw
Subject: Salary Increase
Dear Carrie,
I have been an employee of G.A.L. Corporation for 14 years. I have proudly served as the head accountant and made sure to meticulously watch the books.
It has come to my attention that my salary is not sufficient for the amount of work that I am required to do. Other positions with my work load are paying an average of $56,000 a year, while I am brining home $35,000.
I know that this company cannot pay me a salary of this amount, but I am requesting a 20 percent increase on my salary. This would be $7,000 a year for a total package of $42,000.
In my tenure with the company, I have helped through vigorous IRS audits and have always passed any reviews with flying colors. I have trained more than 40 personnel for the accounting department, most of who have gone on to bigger and better things.
I have remained dedicated to the firm, even when there was a complete split back in 2000 and entirely new administration took over. Dedication like this is not easy to find and therefore I feel my request is reasonable.
In an effort to save money, I can absorb the position that the company has open for a part-time accounting clerk. I can take over paying the bills in addition to my normal job duties.
By allowing me an increase of $7,000 per year and taking over an additional position, I feel that I could also be helping the company out.
With this arrangement, you won’t have to find a new employee to train, and you will have my years of experience in another faucet of accounting. I have paid the bills for years in times past and can absorb this in my current job without issue.
I look forward to speaking with you in person regarding this matter.
Sincerely,
Tamara Green
By Andre Bradley
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