When a job posting asks for salary requirements, the cover letter is a common place to include them. Doing it clearly and professionally keeps your application strong.
Where to Put Salary Requirements in a Cover Letter
You can add them in a short paragraph near the end of the letter, after you have made your case for the role. For example: "My salary requirement for this position is in the range of $X to $Y, based on my research of similar roles and my experience." Alternatively, you can use a single line: "Salary requirement: $X–$Y."
How to Phrase Salary Requirements
- Give a range based on market research for the role and location.
- Optionally add that you are open to discussion: "I am open to discussing compensation based on the full benefits package and role scope."
- Avoid apologizing or overselling; state the range matter-of-factly.
When to Mention Flexibility
If you are flexible, you can say so: "My salary expectations are flexible depending on the total compensation and growth opportunities." This keeps the door open without committing to a number too early.
What to Avoid
Do not invent a number without research. Do not put salary in the first paragraph; lead with your fit for the role. If the ad does not ask for salary, you generally do not need to include it in the cover letter.