How to Ask for a Raise in 2025: What to Say and When to Say It

The average annual raise for people who stay at their company is 3-5%. The average increase for people who switch jobs is 10-20%. If you want the larger increase without switching, you need to make a compelling case with specific numbers and timing.

When to ask: the best times are during your annual performance review, within one week of completing a major project or milestone, when your responsibilities have significantly expanded beyond your original role, or when you receive a competing job offer. The worst times are when the company just had layoffs, during budget freezes, or when your manager is under visible stress from unrelated issues.

Before you ask, know your number. Research your market rate on Glassdoor, Levels.fyi, Payscale, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Get at least 5 data points for your exact title, experience level, and geographic area. Your target should be the 60th-75th percentile if your performance is strong. Write down the specific dollar amount you want — never walk in with a range.

The conversation framework: start by expressing your commitment to the company and role. Then present 3-5 specific accomplishments with measurable impact — revenue generated, costs saved, efficiency improved, projects completed. Follow with your market research showing where your current compensation falls relative to your value. Finally, make your specific request and stop talking.

What to say: "Based on my contributions over the past year including [specific achievement], [specific achievement], and [specific achievement], along with market data showing the range for this role is $X to $Y, I believe a salary of $Z accurately reflects my value to the team." Then wait silently for their response.

If they say no, ask what specific milestones would justify the increase and get it in writing. If the answer is that there is no budget, negotiate non-salary compensation: additional PTO, remote work days, a signing bonus, equity, professional development budget, or a commitment to revisit in 3 months.

Use our free raise calculator to see exactly what a salary increase means for your monthly take-home pay after taxes.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How much of a raise should I ask for? For a standard merit increase: 5-10%. For a promotion or significantly expanded role: 10-20%. For a market adjustment (you are underpaid): whatever brings you to the 60th percentile.

Should I mention a competing offer? Only if you actually have one and are genuinely willing to leave. Bluffing with a fake offer is risky and can backfire if they call it.

How often can I ask for a raise? Once per year is standard. If your role changes significantly mid-year, that justifies an additional conversation.

What if my company has a strict raise schedule? Many companies have annual raise cycles. If yours does, focus your effort on the 30 days before that cycle and document your achievements throughout the year.

Does inflation justify asking for a raise? Inflation alone is not a compelling argument to your employer. Frame your request around your value and market rate, not cost of living.