How to Ask for a Raise in a Bad Year

Learn when and how to request a salary increase even when your company is struggling financially.

  1. Document your wins with numbers. Collect specific examples of how you've saved money, generated revenue, or improved efficiency in the last 12 months. Write down dollar amounts, percentages, or time savings. If you helped close a $50,000 deal or reduced processing time by 20%, those numbers matter more than general statements about being a team player.
  2. Research what you're worth right now. Look up current salary ranges for your role in your geographic area using sites like Glassdoor, PayScale, or Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Focus on recent postings from the last 6 months. Market rates shift during economic downturns, so 2024 data might not reflect 2026 reality.
  3. Time your request strategically. Ask 2-4 weeks after you've delivered a major project or achievement, not during budget cuts or layoff announcements. If your company just had a bad quarter, wait until you see signs of stability. The best time is often after you've solved a problem that was costing the company money.
  4. Ask for a specific amount with justification. Request a number that's 10-20% above your current salary, backed by your research and achievements. Say something like: 'Based on my research and the $75,000 in new business I brought in this year, I'd like to discuss adjusting my salary to $65,000.' Be direct but not demanding.
  5. Prepare for alternative compensation. If cash isn't available, suggest other valuable options: extra vacation days, flexible work arrangements, professional development budget, or a title change that helps your future earning power. Sometimes these alternatives cost the company less than a salary increase but still improve your situation.
  6. Get any agreement in writing. If you get a yes, ask for an email confirming the new salary and effective date. If you get a no, ask what specific goals you'd need to hit for a raise in 6 months and request that timeline in writing. This creates accountability and shows you're planning to stay.