Updated October 03, 2016

Writing a cover letter can be difficult, especially when you are asked to include information that you think could affect your chances of getting an interview. Some employers ask applicants to include a salary requirement in a cover letter, which can feel awkward or uncomfortable. However, there are ways to include this information without hurting your chances of getting a job.

Here are tips on when and how to include a salary requirement in a cover letter, as well as an example of a cover letter that lists a salary requirement.

Also see below for more cover letter samples, and tips for emailing a cover letter and resume.

When to Include Salary Requirements in a Cover Letter

If a job application does not require you to include salary information (such as your salary history. a salary requirement, or a salary range), do not do so. If you request too high of a salary, the employer might not even look at your application. On the other hand, if you request too low of a salary, they might offer you less than you are worth.

However, if the job posting or application states that you must include a salary requirement, be sure to do so. It’;s important to follow directions and provide all the information the employer requests. Otherwise, you risk being tossed out of the application pool.

Options for Including Salary Requirements in a Cover Letter

If the employer does not give specific instructions on how to include salary requirements, you have a couple of options to consider.

Include a Salary Range
One way to include salary requirements in a cover letter is to list a salary range. This gives you and the employer some flexibility.

Make sure your salary range is realistic. Research what the position is worth by using salary surveys and salary calculators .

Salary Requirements are Negotiable
You can also state that your salary requirements are negotiable based on the position and the overall compensation package, including benefits .

State That You’;re Flexible
No matter what, make sure you emphasize that your salary requirements are flexible. This well help keep you in the running and also give you options when negotiating salary later on.

Cover Letter Example with a Salary Requirement / Range

Your Name
Your Address
Your City, State, Zip Code
Your Phone Number
Your Email

Hiring Manager
Company Name
Address
City, State, Zip Code

Dear Hiring Manager:

I’;m writing to express my strong interest in the Web Design Specialist position listed on Craigslist.

I have experience designing consumer-focused health-based websites. While much of my experience has been in the business world, I understand the social value of the non-profit sector.

My responsibilities included the design and development of the site’;s editorial voice and style, and the daily content programming and production of the website. I worked closely with health care professionals and medical editors to help them provide the best possible information to a consumer audience of patients and health care professionals.

Experience has taught me how to build strong relationships with all departments at an organization. I have the ability to work within a team as well as cross-team.

I can work with web engineers to resolve technical issues and implement technical enhancements, work with the development department to implement design and functional enhancements, and monitor site statistics and conduct search engine optimization.

My salary requirement is in the $70,000 – $80,000 range. However, my salary is negotiable based on the overall compensation package.

I look forward to hearing from you. Thank you for your consideration.

Signature (hard copy letter)

Sending an Email Cover Letter

If you’;re sending your cover letter via email. list your name and the job title in the subject line of the email message. Include your contact information in your email signature, and don’;t list the employer contact information. Start your email message with the salutation.

More Sample Cover Letters
Cover letter samples and templates for a variety of career fields and employment levels, including entry-level, targeted and email cover letters for many different jobs.