What to say when your boss says there's no budget
Updated
"No budget" usually means "not now". Ask when the next budget is set, agree in writing on what you need to show by then, and ask for what does not come out of the raise budget.
Ready replies
| They say | You say |
|---|---|
| There's no budget this year. | I understand. When is the next budget set? Can we agree now on the number and what I need to show by then? |
| Everyone gets the same raise. | I'm asking for the market rate for my job. My pay is below the median for this job in our city. |
| You're already paid fairly. | Here is the official median for my job here, and three things I delivered this year. |
| Wait for your review. | Happy to. Can we put it on the agenda now, so the number is in the budget when it's set? |
| We can't make exceptions. | Then what would a promotion take? Can we write down the criteria and a date? |
| Maybe later. | When should we revisit this? I'll send a short summary today. |
Get it in writing
After the meeting, send a short email: the number you asked for, what you agreed to show, and the date to revisit. If your manager moves on, the email stays. A verbal promise doesn't.
If the answer is still no
- A one-time bonus, often paid from a different budget.
- A new title now, with the pay to follow at the next cycle.
- A pay review in six months instead of twelve.
- Extra paid time off, remote days, or a training budget.
And know your market: the median for your job and city tells you what other employers pay. Am I underpaid?
See where your pay stands for your job and city. Takes 30 seconds. Free, no sign-up.
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