How to Know If You're Underpaid: Complete Assessment Guide
If you're asking "am I underpaid?", you're not alone. Studies show that 73% of professionals are underpaid and don't even realize it. Our comprehensive underpaid calculator and assessment guide will help you determine if you're earning what you deserve based on official government data and market research.
7 Clear Signs You're Underpaid
1. Below Market Rate
Your salary falls below the 25th percentile for your role, experience, and location according to government data.
2. No Recent Raises
You haven't received a meaningful salary increase in 2+ years, despite inflation and market growth.
3. Colleagues Earn More
People with similar experience and responsibilities at your company have higher salaries.
4. Job Postings Pay More
New job listings for your role offer significantly higher compensation than your current salary.
5. Expanded Responsibilities
Your duties and responsibilities have increased but your compensation hasn't kept pace.
6. Skills Premium Missing
You're not being compensated for specialized skills, certifications, or additional qualifications.
7. Benefits Package Lacking
Your total compensation package is below industry standards for similar roles.
Use Our Free Underpaid Calculator
Our salary underpaid test uses official data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics to give you accurate, unbiased results. Here's how it works:
- Enter Your Job Title: Be specific about your role and industry
- Select Your Location: Geographic location significantly impacts salary ranges
- Choose Experience Level: Your years of experience directly affect market value
- Review Your Results: See exactly how your salary compares to market data
- Take Action: Use the insights for negotiations or job searching
What to Do If You're Underpaid
Discovering you're underpaid can be frustrating, but it's also empowering. Here's your step-by-step action plan:
Step 1: Document Your Value
Compile a list of your achievements, additional responsibilities, skills gained, and contributions to the company since your last raise or hire date.
Step 2: Research Market Rates
Use our underpaid calculator and other salary research tools to build a comprehensive picture of current market compensation for your role.
Step 3: Prepare Your Case
Create a presentation that combines your documented value with market research to make a compelling case for a salary adjustment.
Step 4: Schedule the Conversation
Request a meeting with your manager to discuss your compensation and career progression. Choose timing strategically, such as after a successful project.
Step 5: Consider Your Options
If internal negotiations don't result in fair compensation, explore external opportunities where you can earn market-rate salary.
Frequently Asked Questions About Being Underpaid
How much underpaid is too underpaid?
If you're earning 10-15% below market rate, you're moderately underpaid. Being 20% or more below market rate indicates you're significantly underpaid and should take action immediately.
Should I quit if I'm underpaid?
Before quitting, try negotiating with your current employer first. If they're unwilling to adjust your compensation to market rates, then exploring external opportunities may be your best option.
How often should I check if I'm underpaid?
Review your salary against market rates annually, especially before performance reviews or when taking on new responsibilities. Market conditions and salary ranges change regularly.
Can I negotiate salary if I'm underpaid?
Yes! Having data that shows you're underpaid actually strengthens your negotiating position. Use our salary checker results as objective evidence in your compensation discussions.
Ready to Find Out If You're Underpaid?
Don't let uncertainty about your compensation hold you back. Use our free underpaid calculator to get instant, accurate results based on official government data.
Check Your Salary Now - It's Free✓ 60-second results ✓ Government data ✓ No signup required ✓ Completely confidential