Salary Counter Offer Email Templates

By RuleForge · Updated June 2026 · 5 min read

These templates cover the five most common salary negotiation scenarios. Copy, customize the bracketed parts, and send.

1. Standard Counter (Base Salary)

Template
Hi [Name],

Thank you again for the offer. I am genuinely excited about joining [Company] and contributing to [specific goal/project].

After reviewing the full compensation package, I would like to discuss the base salary. Based on market data for [role] at [level] in [location], the typical range is \$[low]-\$[high]. Given my experience with [specific skill], I would like to propose \$[target].

I am excited about this role and want to make it work. Happy to discuss.

Best,
[Your name]

2. Leveraging a Competing Offer

Template
Hi [Name],

I wanted to be transparent — I have received another offer that is [\$X / X% higher] in base salary. However, [Company] remains my top choice because [specific reason — team, mission, role fit].

Is there flexibility to bring the base closer to \$[target]? If so, I am ready to sign immediately.

Best,
[Your name]

3. Asking for Sign-On Bonus Instead

Template
Hi [Name],

I understand the base may be at the top of your range. To bridge the gap, would you consider a sign-on bonus of \$[amount]? This would make the total package work for me, and I am excited to get started.

Best,
[Your name]

4. Negotiating Equity or RSUs

Template
Hi [Name],

Thank you for the offer. The base and bonus look great. I did want to ask about the equity component — is there flexibility on the RSU grant amount or the vesting schedule? [Specific ask, e.g., "an additional \$10K in RSUs" or "a 3-year vest with 1-year cliff"].

Happy to discuss.

Best,
[Your name]

5. Accepting After Negotiation

Template
Hi [Name],

Thank you for working with me on the compensation. I am thrilled to accept the offer at \$[agreed base] with [agreed bonus/equity].

I am excited to join the team and get started. Please send over the formal offer letter and I will sign right away.

Best,
[Your name]

Always send within 24 hours of receiving the offer. Timeliness signals professionalism.

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