Raise Request Letter After a Promotion — Free Template
Sometimes a promotion arrives with a new title and more responsibility but little or no change in pay, or a raise that's well below what the new role usually pays. A raise request letter after a promotion asks, politely and with evidence, for compensation that matches the job you're now doing.
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October 15, 2026
[Your manager's name]
[Company name]
Re: Request for a salary increase
Dear [Your manager's name],
I have worked at [Company name] as [Your job title] for [How long you've been in the role], and I value the opportunity to contribute to the team. I am writing to request a salary increase to [The salary you're asking for], based on my recent promotion and the responsibilities of my new role.
[Your key achievements and responsibilities]
I am committed to continuing to grow in my role and to supporting the team's goals. I would appreciate the chance to meet and discuss this request at a time that works for you, and I am happy to provide any additional information that would be helpful.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your full name]
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Focus on the new role, not the old one
The strongest argument after a promotion is simple: the job has changed, and pay should match the job. List the new responsibilities clearly — people you now manage, budgets or clients you oversee, decisions you make — and compare your pay with what that role normally pays.
If your company has published pay ranges or posted a similar role, that's powerful evidence. Many companies use pay bands by level, and asking where you fall within the band for your new title is a fair and reasonable question.
Timing and tone
If the promotion came without a raise, it's reasonable to raise it within the first few months, once you've shown you can handle the new role. If your company says raises come only at the annual review, ask whether an adjustment can be made then and put your request in writing now.
Stay positive. Thank your manager for the promotion and the trust it shows, then make your case calmly. You're asking for alignment, not complaining.
What to do, step by step
Do your research
Look up pay for similar roles in your area using salary surveys, job postings and professional associations. Know your company's review cycle and how raises are usually decided.
Gather your evidence
List your results from the past year or since your last raise: numbers, projects, new responsibilities and positive feedback. Specific evidence is what makes a raise request persuasive.
Fill in your letter
Answer the questions above. Ask for a specific figure, explain the main reason, and back it up with your achievements and any market data.
Pick the right moment
Good times to ask are before budgets are set, during a review, or after a big win. Avoid asking during a crisis or right after bad company news.
Send it and ask for a meeting
Email the letter or bring it to a one-on-one, and ask for time to discuss it. Be ready to talk through your points calmly and to listen to the response.
What if your manager says no to your raise request?
Stay calm and ask what it would take. Ask which specific results or skills would justify the raise, and when you could revisit the conversation. Write down what you agree and send a short email summarizing it.
If money is tight, ask about other options: a one-time bonus, extra paid time off, a better title, flexible hours, training paid by the company, or a review date in three or six months rather than a full year.
If you're repeatedly told no without a clear path forward, and your research shows you're paid well below the market, it may be worth looking at other opportunities. You don't need to threaten to leave; simply knowing your options can help you decide what's right for you.
Example raise request letter after promotion
A filled-in sample with made-up details, so you can see the finished result.
Jasmine Carter
October 5, 2026
Mr. Reyes
Bluewater Analytics
Re: Request for a salary increase
Dear Mr. Reyes,
I have worked at Bluewater Analytics as Account Team Lead for five years, including the past four months in my new role, and I value the opportunity to contribute to the team. I am writing to request a salary increase to $92,000 per year, based on my recent promotion and the responsibilities of my new role.
Since my promotion in June, I have taken on management of a team of five account managers, responsibility for our two largest clients, and weekly reporting to the leadership team. My current salary of $82,000 has not changed since before the promotion.
Our own posting for a similar team lead role last year listed a range of $88,000 to $98,000, and salary surveys for team leads in the Chicago area show a similar range.
I am committed to continuing to grow in my role and to supporting the team's goals. I would appreciate the chance to meet and discuss this request at a time that works for you, and I am happy to provide any additional information that would be helpful.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Jasmine Carter
Frequently asked questions
Is it normal to get a promotion without a raise?
It happens, especially at smaller companies or when budgets are tight, but most promotions come with some pay increase. If yours didn't, it's reasonable to ask why and when your pay will be reviewed to match the new role.
How much of a raise should come with a promotion?
There's no single standard. It depends on your company's pay bands, the size of the step up, and the market rate for the new role. Research what the new title pays at your company and in your area, and use that as your target.
Should I have negotiated before accepting the promotion?
Ideally, yes, but it's not too late. Many people accept a promotion and then ask for a pay adjustment once they've proven themselves. Your track record in the new role can actually strengthen your case.
How much of a raise should I ask for?
Base it on research rather than a fixed rule. Look at market pay for your role and location, your company's usual raise range and the value you've added. Ask for a specific figure near the top of what you can justify, leaving some room to negotiate.
Should I ask for a raise in writing or in person?
Both work best together. A letter or email lays out your case clearly and gives your manager something to share with decision-makers, while a meeting lets you discuss it and answer questions. Many people send the letter first and then meet.
FairLetter is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. Letters are templates you customize and send yourself.