Raise Request Letter: Template & Examples

When to Put Your Raise Request in Writing

A raise request letter isn't always necessary — many raises are negotiated in conversation. But writing helps when: your company requires a formal request, your manager needs documentation to take to HR or leadership, you want a clear paper trail, or you're better at organizing thoughts on paper than in the moment. A letter also forces you to build the evidence-based case that makes raises happen.

Use the letter as a complement to the conversation, not a replacement — and know your number first with a Raise Calculator. See our full negotiation guide for the in-person playbook.

What to Include

• A clear subject and opening: State the purpose in the first two sentences — "I'm writing to request a salary review based on my contributions over the past [period]."
• Specific accomplishments: 3-5 bullet points with quantified results — revenue, savings, projects, metrics moved.
• Expanded responsibilities: Duties you've taken on beyond your original role.
• Market context: One or two sentences on market rates for your role (cite the source type, not a single anecdote).
• A specific ask: Name the salary or percentage you're requesting and why it's justified.
• A collaborative close: Express enthusiasm for the role and openness to discussion.

Keep it to one page. Managers skim; density of evidence beats length.

Template

Subject: Request for Salary Review — [Your Name]

Dear [Manager's Name],

I'm writing to request a review of my current compensation. Over the past [12 months], my contributions have grown substantially, and I'd like to discuss aligning my salary with the value I deliver and current market rates.

Key accomplishments this period include:

• [Result 1 with numbers — e.g., "Led the migration project that cut deployment time 40%, saving an estimated 200 engineering hours per quarter."]
• [Result 2 — e.g., "Grew key account revenue 18% year over year while maintaining 98% retention."]
• [Result 3 — e.g., "Mentored three junior team members, two of whom were promoted."]

In addition, I've taken on [expanded responsibilities] beyond my original role scope. Based on salary data for [role] in [market], which ranges from [$X to $Y], I'm requesting an adjustment to [$Z], representing an [N%] increase.

I'm enthusiastic about our team's direction and committed to delivering [upcoming goals]. I'd welcome the chance to discuss this in person at your convenience.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

Example: Short Email Version

Hi [Manager], I'd like to schedule 30 minutes to discuss my compensation. This year I [one-line highlight: shipped X, grew Y by Z%], and I've taken on [new scope]. Market data puts this role at [$X-$Y] locally, and I'd like to discuss moving my salary to [$Z]. Would Thursday or Friday work for a conversation? Thanks, [Name]

The email's job is to secure the meeting and preview the case — save the full evidence for the discussion or a one-page attachment.

Mistakes to Avoid

• Leading with personal finances: Rent, debt, and lifestyle costs don't justify raises — business value does.
• Ultimatums in writing: Never threaten to quit in a letter; it reads as hostile and can't be taken back.
• Vague claims: "I work really hard" persuades no one; numbers do.
• Comparing to specific coworkers by name: It puts your manager in an awkward spot — reference market data instead (see transparency laws for what's shareable).
• Sending it at the wrong time: Pair the letter with good timing — see when to ask.

After You Send It

Follow up within a week if you haven't heard back — a brief, polite nudge. In the meeting, let the letter do the heavy lifting on facts while you focus on tone: collaborative, confident, and forward-looking. If the answer is "not now," ask for specific milestones and a dated check-in, as our performance review guide recommends.

Conclusion

A good raise letter is short, specific, and evidence-driven: accomplishments with numbers, expanded scope, market context, and a clear ask. Write it, send it ahead of the conversation, and walk into the meeting with your case already made. Finalize your target number with our free Raise Calculator before you send the letter.