How to Ask for a Raise as a Filipino VA (Scripts and Timing Included)

Q: Should I ask for a raise over email or a call?

Send written (email or Slack). Gives the client time to think. If they want to discuss, they'll book a call.

The number one reason Filipino VAs stay stuck at $5/hour for years isn't their skill, it's their fear of asking for a raise. Most clients expect you to raise your rates periodically. The awkwardness is in your head. This guide gives you the exact timing, script, and follow-up plan to raise your rates 20–50% without losing the client.

When to Ask

Three signals mean it's time to raise your rate with an existing client:

You've been working together 6–9+ months.
Your scope has grown, you're doing more than when you started.
You've delivered visible results (metrics improved, deadlines hit, fewer corrections needed).

If two of these are true, it's time. Don't wait for all three. Don't wait for them to offer, they almost never will.

What Rate to Ask For

A 20–40% increase is the sweet spot. Small enough that the client will barely notice it in their monthly budget, large enough that you're moving forward at a pace that matters.

Examples:

Currently $5/hour → ask for $7/hour (40% raise)
Currently $10/hour → ask for $13/hour (30%)
Currently $18/hour → ask for $22/hour (22%)

Don't ask for 100% raises, that signals you were underpriced from the start (which might be true, but the conversation gets harder).

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The Script That Works

Send as a direct message on Slack/WhatsApp/Email, not during a team call. Give the client time to process privately.

"Hi [Client Name], I wanted to touch base on something. Over the last [X months], we've [1–2 specific wins, e.g., "grown your Instagram from 2k to 8k" or "launched 3 successful email campaigns"]. I love working with you and the team.Based on the scope we're running at and the results we've been delivering, I'll be adjusting my rate to [new rate]/hour effective [date 30 days from today]. I wanted to give you plenty of notice so you can plan around it.Let me know if you'd like to talk through any of this, happy to hop on a call. Thanks for being a great client."

Why This Script Works

Leads with results. You remind the client what they've gotten before talking about what you want.
States the new rate directly. No hedging. No "would it be possible to...?" Just: "my rate is adjusting."
Gives 30 days notice. Frames it as a business adjustment, not a negotiation.
Opens the door to conversation. Invites dialogue without making it a demand.

Handling Each Response

"Yes, sounds good."

80% of clients respond exactly this way. Thank them briefly. Continue working as normal. Your next invoice will be at the new rate.

"Can we do a smaller increase?"

Meet in the middle. If you asked for 40%, accept 25–30%. Still a big win. Never accept 0%, if they're willing to negotiate, they value you, and you should get at least partial movement.

When to Walk Away

If a client refuses every raise for 12+ months despite your growing scope and results, they're not a long-term client, they're a short-term user of your time. Start applications or outreach to find a replacement. Once you've landed a new client at a better rate, transition off the underpaying one without drama.

Avoid These Common Mistakes

Apologizing for the ask. "I hate to do this, but..." undermines the entire message. Skip the apology.
Listing personal reasons. Don't mention that rent went up, you need to support family, or inflation is hurting. Your rate is based on your value to the client, not your expenses.
Asking during a difficult project. Wait until you've just delivered something well before raising the topic.
Comparing to other VAs. Don't say "others charge more." The client can find others too. Focus on what you've delivered for them specifically.
Being vague. "I'd like a raise" is weak. State the number, state the date.

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How to Keep Getting Raises Going Forward

Once the first raise is done, set expectations for ongoing adjustments:

Raise rates every 9–12 months for stable clients.
Tie raises to scope changes: "When we added [new responsibility], my rate adjusted to reflect that."
Quote every new client at a higher rate than the last new client you onboarded.

Filipino-Specific Notes

Filipinos often undercharge because of cultural politeness or fear of losing a rare opportunity. Remember: international clients expect rate increases from any freelancer working for 6+ months. Not asking sends a weaker signal than asking, it suggests you don't see your own work as valuable.

If you're truly stuck on a rate you know is low, sometimes the simplest move is to raise rates with 3 new clients at once. Keep the old low-paying client while you onboard the new ones. Within 2–3 months, you'll have enough cushion to let the low-paying one go or finally push them for a raise without fear.

How often should I ask for a raise?

Every 9–12 months for the same client. Every new client should be quoted at a higher rate than your last new client, regardless of timing.

What if my client hasn't given me a raise in 2 years?

You've been leaving money on the table. Ask for 40–50% now. If they resist, you have your answer about whether this client is worth keeping.

Should I ask for a raise over email or a call?