Use this page when the classification level may be correct, but a pay-related review or temporary pay action may be appropriate.
Before submitting: Special pay actions require strong justification and may require approval from senior leadership, such as a Vice President, Dean, Provost, or Division Head.
Special Pay Action Types
Special pay actions generally fall into three categories: acting capacity, equity, and retention.
Acting Capacity Pay
Use this when: A staff member is temporarily assigned higher-level duties to support continuity of services during a vacancy, leave, or recruitment process.
Important note: The employee must meet the minimum qualifications for the higher-level position and perform the duties for the required period of time before the pay is effective.
Equity Adjustment
Use this when: The classification level appears correct, but the salary may be low compared with the external market or with others at the same level who have similar credentials, responsibilities, and experience.
Operationally Critical Retention Adjustment
Use this when: A retention adjustment may be appropriate under established salary guidelines and specific criteria.
Important note: Requests must be made through the appropriate Division Head, Dean, Provost, or other required leadership channel.
Before You Request a Special Pay Action
- Confirm the request type: acting capacity, equity, or retention.
- Prepare a clear business justification.
- Confirm funding availability.
- Confirm the required leadership approval path.
- Contact HRSTM Classification/Compensation for preliminary review before moving forward.
Process Overview
- Identify the special pay action type.
- Consult HRSTM Classification/Compensation for preliminary guidance.
- Prepare the required documentation and justification.
- Obtain the appropriate leadership approval.
- Submit the request or form for review.
Start with a Preliminary Review
Contact your Compensation Partner before submitting an equity or retention request. Acting capacity requests may begin with the Acting Capacity Request form.