Salary History Responder
A state-aware responder for "what's your current salary?" — with the actual statutes cited. Note: this is a phrasing framework, not legal advice. If a specific situation escalates, consult an employment attorney.
What to say
The law in your state
Why this matters more in NYC than elsewhere
NYC Local Law 67 of 2017 makes it unlawful for employers (including staffing agencies and third-party recruiters) to ask about salary history during the hiring process. The NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) can fine employers up to $250,000 per violation. Yet enforcement is complaint-driven, and many recruiters still ask. Knowing how to deflect cleanly — without burning the conversation — is a job-seeking skill that pays back immediately.
Disclaimer
This tool provides a phrasing framework for the most common version of the question. It is not legal advice. Specific situations — multi-state offers, federal contractor roles, salary history for internal equity reviews — have different rules. If a salary history question has materially affected a job offer, contact an employment attorney or the NYC DCWP at (212) 487-4444.