How Do I Answer "What Are Your Salary Expectations" When the Range Is Posted?

Key facts

The specifics, before the explanation.

• In pay-transparency states the posted range is legally required to be a good-faith estimate, so it is a reliable anchor
• Giving your own range invites an offer at its bottom; a single figure is clearer and easier to defend
• Application forms with a required numeric field: enter a figure in the upper half of the posted range, not zero or 999
• Salary history questions are banned or restricted in many states; you can decline to answer without penalty
• Recruiters usually ask this on the first call so they can rule out budget mismatches early

What this actually means

This question comes up at three points, and the answer changes slightly at each. On the application form, there is usually a required field. Enter a number in the upper half of the posted range. Do not enter zero, a placeholder, or a joke; forms are often filtered on this field. On the recruiter screen, you will be asked directly. On the offer, you will be asked whether the number works.

On the recruiter screen, the recruiter is doing two things: checking you are not above budget, and finding out how low they can go. Your answer should remove the first concern and give nothing on the second. Reference the posted range so it is clear you have read it, state one number, and tie it to a reason. Then ask a question back, such as where the role is leveled or whether the range includes bonus, to move the conversation on.

If you are pressed for your current salary, you do not have to give it. In many states the employer cannot ask. Say that you prefer to focus on the value of this role and the range they have posted. If the recruiter says the top of the range is only for exceptional candidates, ask what exceptional means for this role and address it directly.

Rehearse the sentence. Most people know what they want to say and still water it down live, adding phrases like "but I am flexible" that cost real money. Practice saying the number out loud, with the reason, and then saying nothing. The silence is where candidates usually lose, and it is the easiest thing to train.

What to actually do

Rules and figures move. Confirm anything time-sensitive with the official regulator before you rely on it.

• Enter a specific number in the upper half of the posted range on any required form field
• On the recruiter call, state one number plus one reason, then ask a question back
• Decline salary history questions politely and redirect to the posted range
• Practice the exact sentence out loud until you can say the number without adding "but I am flexible"
• Ask whether the range includes bonus or equity before you commit to a figure

Frequently asked questions

Should I say the top of the range as my expectation?

Only if you can justify it with experience clearly above the role. A number around the 70th to 80th percentile of the range is usually credible and leaves room for a counter.

What if my expectation is above the posted range?

Say so early and ask whether the role could be leveled differently. If not, decide whether the total package or the role is worth it before spending weeks in the process.

Is it rude to refuse to give a number?

Refusing entirely can read as evasive when the range is already public. Giving a number anchored to their own range is both polite and stronger.