How much of a raise should a employer give?

depends on how much you can afford and how valuable the employee is to you. Although, its like Henry Ford said, "If you have an employee you cant operate without, fire them". But, 3 to 5 percent is pretty good. Sounds like they have a really good employer, thats worth a lot.

It depends upon a few things:

!) Employer financial position.

2) The market for employees with your skill set.

3) Are you willing to be aggressive and ask for a raise? Will you leave the company if you don't get it?

I see 3% as the typical raise for difficult to replace employeed. However, HR does typically set a top cap for all positions. When you reach it, you need a promotion inorder to get more money.

3%!!! What the hell is another $2,700 spread over 12 months going to do.

What are your motives? Just to be nice or is this individual making you more money AND making your life easier.

Just an opinion but I would say 10% or no raise at all. If you want to buy them a gift instead I would spend the $2,700 from above.

At least 3%.

whatever they are worth.