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c/salaries u/devlk Team

How often should developers expect a salary increment?

Team FAQ: this question comes up often, so we've answered it below. Add your own experience, or a different view, in the comments.

How often do raises usually happen, and what should you do if they don't?

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devlk Team·

Many companies review salaries once a year, but practices vary a lot.

Common patterns:

  • An annual review cycle, often linked to performance reviews.
  • A review after probation at some companies.
  • Promotion raises when you move up a level, usually larger than annual increments.
  • Ad hoc increases when someone has a competing offer. (It's better not to rely on these.)

What to do:

  1. Ask how it works during the offer stage: "How are salary reviews done, and how often?" Get the answer in writing if you can.
  2. Know your review date and prepare evidence of your impact beforehand.
  3. Ask clearly if your review is missed or the increase is below market. Our salary negotiation guide has scripts for asking for a raise.
  4. Watch the bigger picture. With high inflation, a small increment can still mean a real-terms pay cut.

If increments are consistently skipped despite good performance, read when to switch jobs.

How often does your company review salaries? Share (anonymously) below.

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