It's a common misconception that you can't negotiate salary after an agency makes an offer. But you may be able to negotiate a salary above the low end of the range.Start with your Leave and Earnings Statement (LES). It is possible to negotiate a higher federal salary, provided you have some basic information about government pay scales. You have an obligation to counter (negotiate) the initial offer letter with items that will make you more comfortable in your new career. How can military retirees and veterans find out what they are worth and approach their first civilian salary negotiations with confidence? Many people don't know this, but YES—you can negotiate your federal salary and get a higher step before getting hired. These salary negotiation email samples and tips can help you craft your email negotiation script to get the compensation you deserve. Try MailMaestro for free! MailMaestro tip: 8 salary negotiation email samples. 1.