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Salary negotiation email generator

Write a clear, polite counter-offer with your reasons.

Free, no sign-up. The template runs in your browser; the AI rewrite is optional. Review before sending.

Reasons to include

Optional

Your email

Subject: [Role] offer – [Your name]

Hi [Recruiter's name], Thank you for the offer to join [Company] as [Role]. I'm excited about the team and the work, and I'd like to find a way to make this work. Before I accept, I'd like to discuss the base salary. Based on my experience [your most relevant experience], I was hoping for a base salary of [your target]. Thank you again. I'm looking forward to finding something that works for both of us. Best, [Your name]

Polish with AI

Sharpen the counter-offer while keeping your numbers exactly as entered.

 

Optional: details you remember, the tone you want, or what to emphasize.

AI is optional. When you use it, the text above is sent to Anthropic's Claude to write the result. We don't store it and it isn't used for training. Check the result before you use it.

See what similar roles pay: many listings on PickedJobs publish salary ranges.

Compare salaries

How to write a salary negotiation email

  1. Start with thanks and enthusiasm. The recruiter wants to close the hire; show them you want to as well.
  2. Name one number. A specific figure, such as $165,000, is easier to approve than a range, and the bottom of a range is what you'll get.
  3. Give a reason. Published salary ranges for similar roles, your directly relevant experience, or a competing offer.
  4. Make it easy to say yes. Saying you'll sign if they meet the number gives the recruiter a clear case to take to the hiring manager.

What to research first

Look at what similar roles pay before you name a number. Job listings with published salary ranges, especially in states and countries that require them, are current and specific. Then use the job offer comparison calculator to see how much the base salary matters next to bonus, equity and benefits.

Frequently asked questions

Is it OK to negotiate a job offer by email?

Yes. Email gives you time to choose your words and gives the recruiter something concrete to take to the hiring manager. Many people send the email and then talk it through on a call.

How much more should I ask for?

Ask for a specific number you can justify, commonly 5–15% above the offer. Larger asks need stronger evidence, such as a competing offer or published salary ranges for the same role.

Can an employer withdraw an offer if I negotiate?

It is rare when the request is polite and reasonable. Thank them for the offer, show you are excited, and give a clear reason for your number.

What if they can't increase the base salary?

Ask about other parts of the offer: a signing bonus, more equity, an earlier compensation review, extra vacation or a remote stipend.

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