Search Fee Offset Calculator
When a search fee enters the picture, offers sometimes get pulled back to “cover” it. This tool tests that rationale arithmetically: a search fee is a fixed percentage of the agreed compensation basis, so reducing the offer reduces the fee only in proportion. It presents the arithmetic and lets you draw the conclusion.
Everything runs in your browser. No data is sent or stored, and there is no email gate. Read the methodology and sources.
Related reading: Your TA team’s salary is already spent — the offer decision starts at zero.
Your numbers
The market-aligned first-year compensation for this role, on the basis your fee agreement uses (first-year base or total compensation). Established before the offer conversation.
How far below the target the offer is being pulled back.
Your search fee as a percentage. Check your agreement for whether it is calculated on first-year base or total compensation.
Results
Enter a target first-year compensation, a proposed reduction, and a search fee to see the fee-offset arithmetic.
