What a raise is really worth
A percentage raise compounds on your whole wage, while a flat “new amount” offer can be checked against the increase it truly represents. Comparing the monthly difference to your budget is the honest test: it tells you whether the raise covers rising rent, speeds up debt payoff, or mostly disappears into payroll deductions. Remember that gross pay grows faster than take-home — federal, state, and payroll taxes all take a slice of the increase.
Negotiating with the numbers
Walking into a review with figures beats walking in with feelings. Check what the same role pays elsewhere, decide on a target percentage, and know your walk-away point. A 3–5% raise is a typical merit increase in steady years; switching jobs often moves pay 10–20%. If the budget truly cannot stretch, the same math applies to extra vacation days, a signing bonus, or a title that sets up the next jump.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the calculator use 2,080 hours?
It is the standard full-time year: 40 hours a week for 52 weeks. If you work different hours, divide your own annual hours into the salary for a closer hourly figure.
Is the new salary before or after tax?
All figures are gross — before taxes and deductions. Use the take-home pay calculator to see how much of the raise actually reaches your bank account.
How much raise should I ask for?
Aim for a number backed by market data for your role and location. High inflation years push the bar up, since a raise below inflation is effectively a pay cut in buying power.