What is your current salary? How to answer or politely redirect

Why it matters how you answer

Your current salary becomes an anchor. If you share it, the employer may build the offer from that number plus a small raise, even if this job is bigger or pays more across the market. If you were underpaid, that follows you. That's why it's usually better to talk about what you expect for this role instead.

That said, there are times when sharing makes sense, so it's a choice, not a rule.

First, check whether they're allowed to ask

Some US states and cities restrict employers from asking about salary history. Two examples, from the official sources:

• California: the state's Department of Industrial Relations says employers generally cannot seek an applicant's salary history, either directly or through an agent. Applicants may still share it voluntarily, and employers may ask about salary expectations.
• New York State: since January 6, 2020, employers may not ask about an applicant's past pay or use it to decide whether to hire them or what to offer. They can ask what you expect for the role, and you may volunteer your history without being prompted.

Other states and cities have their own rules, and the rules differ outside the US. Check your state or local labour department's website for where the job is based. This page is general guidance, not legal advice. Even where asking is allowed, you can still choose to redirect.

Option 1: Redirect to your expectations

This is the approach that works for most people. Acknowledge the question, then answer the question that actually matters.

1. Acknowledge it politely. No defensiveness.
2. Shift to the role. Say you'd like the discussion to be about this job's scope.
3. Give a researched range. For how to set one, see salary expectations.
4. Stay flexible. Mention the full package if relevant.

Example redirects:

If they push back

Recruiters sometimes ask a second time. Stay calm and repeat your range, perhaps with a little more context:

If they insist a third time and you still don't want to share, it's reasonable to ask: "Can you tell me the budgeted range for this role?" Many employers will share it.

Option 2: Answer honestly

Sharing can make sense when:

• You're paid well and your current salary supports a strong offer.
• You're happy with a modest raise and want the process to move quickly.
• The company requires it and you've decided the job is worth it.

If you do share, give the full picture, not just base pay:

Never inflate your current salary. It can be checked during background checks or through payslips, and getting caught can cost you the offer.

Which to choose

Mistakes to avoid

• Inflating your number. It's checkable and risky.
• Refusing coldly. "I won't tell you" sounds combative. Redirect warmly.
• Lecturing about the law. Even where asking is restricted, a polite redirect works better than citing the statute.
• Giving base salary only. Bonus, overtime and benefits all count if you do share.
• Sounding apologetic. Redirecting is a normal, professional choice. Say it in a steady voice.

Practise the words before the call

This question usually comes in the first phone screen, often without warning. Say your redirect line and your range out loud until you can say the number without hesitation. A pause or an "um" right before the number can sound like you're unsure of it. Speaking Coach can play a recruiter who asks and then pushes back, so you can practise holding your range. For more on that first call, see how to prepare for a phone interview.