Can you ask someone how much money they make?
Sophia Edwards
Updated on May 31, 2026
Consequently, is it OK to ask someone how much they make?
People tend to like showing off how well they are doing. One of the easiest ways to compare is via salary. But, since it is considered rude to either brag about your own or ask about someone else's salary.
Also, is it legal to ask for salary history? Several cities in the United States such as Massachusetts, California, Oregon and Delaware), have made it illegal for employers to ask candidates a salary interview question (but can a prospective employer ask your salary here in the UK? Preparation is everything when going into the interview process.
Similarly, you may ask, how do you ask someone how much they pay?
If you're asking about salary, use the word “compensation” rather than “money and ask for a range rather than a specific number. Likewise, if you want to find out about work-life balance, it may be more useful to approach the topic in terms of “office culture.”
Is it bad to tell someone how much you make?
It can be uncomfortable and embarrassing, but talking about salaries can help ensure everyone makes what they are worth. Here's what to consider before broaching the topic. Asking someone how much money they make is pretty high up on the list of things that most of us were raised to believe is taboo and impolite.
Related Question Answers
Is it rude to ask about salary?
In the US, it's generally considered inappropriate / rude / tacky / a bad idea to discuss your income. This is just one of those things that's drilled into you, like chewing with your mouth closed. Even if someone doesn't judge you for your salary, they'll judge you because you're talking about it.Is it rude to ask someone how much they pay for rent?
Depending on the exact situation, it can been taken as extremely rude. It comes very close to simply asking them how much money they earn. While some people live far above or below their means, most people have a strong connection between income and rent (or mortgage) payment amount.Why is it rude to talk about salary?
Because a lot of people immediately feel envy or get the feeling someone else envies them for their (probably) higher salary. Those are common reasons for people to not like talking about salaries and money overall. Therefore it is considered rude to talk about it.Should my wife know my salary?
If your spouse asks, tell him or her how much you earn. Both parties should have a fair idea of what each party earns; 'fair' being the key word,” she further said. A marriage counsellor, Mrs. Bose Fawehinmi, said the ideal situation is for couples to be transparent about their finances from the start.Should I tell my parents how much I make?
There's the stress of not measuring up to your parents' expectations for some people, while others may not be comfortable earning more money than their parents did. But it's likely a good idea to discuss your income with your parents, particularly when you're just starting out in the workplace.Should I tell my friends my salary?
IF YOU MUST REVEAL YOUR INCOME Reveal income if your income is equal to the median income of your peer group (industry, level, experience) up to +15% over. If you are making any more, then it's probably best not to reveal and speak in generality. Any income below 115% of the median income of your peer group is fine.Should I tell my boyfriend my salary?
Until you're ready to make a full commitment, you need not tell him more. If he insists, you can either tell him (I would) or say politely, "It doesn't matter." His reaction to those things will also inform your decisions about your future. I am usually very secretive about my income.Can I ask how much a job pays before applying?
A. You can absolutely ask a recruiter for a job's pay rage before you apply to it. In asking this question, you're actually doing recruiters a favor by saving everyone time—yours, theirs and the hiring team's. But I caution against not applying for a job with a recruiter based on salary alone.Is it OK to ask for salary during interview?
When to ask about salary in an interview As a general rule of thumb, it's best to wait until the employer brings up the topic. Best case scenario, a company lists the position's salary range on the job posting, and you can use that to best determine if the job and compensation fit your needs before you even apply.How can I ask someone for money?
How To Ask Someone For Money? 10 Ways to Ask Someone for Money- 1) Ask for advice before money.
- 2) Choose the right person.
- 3) Give him an easy way out.
- 4) Take the whole deal seriously.
- 5) Do not haggle or negotiate too much.
- 6) Legitimatize the deal.
- 7) Get it in writing.
- 8) Repayment plans.
Can no longer ask about salary?
California's ban prohibits private and public employers from seeking a candidate's pay history. The law also requires employers to give applicants pay scale information if they request it.What states is it illegal to ask for salary history?
An increasing number of state and local governments, such as in Massachusetts, Hawaii, and New York City, have adopted laws that ban employers from requesting salary history information from job applicants.When should you ask about salary?
When to ask about salary in an interview As a general rule of thumb, it's best to wait until the employer brings up the topic. Best case scenario, a company lists the position's salary range on the job posting, and you can use that to best determine if the job and compensation fit your needs before you even apply.Can my new employer see my old salary?
Theoretically, a new employer could always calculate your previous salary from the P45 you give to them. Even so, it's a widely accepted truth of the industry that many people inflate their salaries when applying for jobs.How do you avoid salary history?
3 Ways To Avoid Giving Your Salary History During A Job Search- Do your research and respond with market data instead of you current salary.
- your past salary has no bearing on whether you can perform the essential functions of the job.
Can I ask my coworkers how much they make?
Your right to discuss your salary information with your coworkers is protected by the federal government. The National Labor Relations Act states that employers can't ban the discussion of salary and working conditions among employees. Only your coworkers can tell you their salaries.How do you answer salary question?
To help the conversation go smoothly and make sure you get a fair salary, here are a few additional pointers:- Aim high. Once you know the average salary range for a position, consider padding your expectations.
- Be confident. Some employers are interested in your answer as well as your delivery.
- Explain your reasoning.