When to turn down a raise (yes, sometimes)
Three scenarios where I've said no to a raise on paper, and the math behind each call.
Notes on raises, taxes, and why the headline number is almost never the real number.
Three scenarios where I've said no to a raise on paper, and the math behind each call.
Cost of living adjustments, CPI-U vs CPI-W, and how to read a raise letter after the BLS release.
New title, new hours, new stress. When the comp math says yes and when it doesn't.
Nine zero-tax states, nine high-tax states, and what a $10k raise really nets in each.
The pre-tax shield, employer match, Roth vs traditional, and when to actually push to the $24,500 limit.
A $10k bonus looks big. A $10k raise compounds. How to evaluate when HR offers you both.
Annualizing hourly, comparing to W-2, and why 1099 rates need to be 25% higher to break even.
March 2026 CPI-U ran 3.3% YoY. A 3% raise is a 0.3% real pay cut. The math, and why it matters.
Impact, market data, specific ask. Three emails that have netted me (and friends) a combined six figures.
The math behind "I got a raise and lost money" (you didn't), and why inflation adjustments matter.
Need to run numbers first? Head to the pay raise calculator. Got a post idea? Send it over.