“I can't negotiate”: how to say it politely

Say this instead

1. 01

   Thank you for the feedback. Our rate for this service is fixed, so I'm not able to adjust the price. I'm happy to walk you through exactly what it includes.

   Client · Email

   Fits a client pushing on price, since it is firm, gives the reason and offers clarity instead of a discount.

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2. 02

   I understand the price is a concern. The price on this item is set, so I can't change it. I'm glad to help you compare it with other options if that's useful.

   Customer · Chat

   Suits a live support chat where the customer hopes for a discount and you need to stay friendly but clear.

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3. 03

   Thanks for sharing the range. My expectation of $85,000 is firm, so I won't be able to negotiate below that figure. If it works on your side, I'd be glad to continue.

   Recruiter / HR · Email

   Use it when you have a real minimum, because it states the limit once, politely, and leaves the next step with them.

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4. 04

   This is above what I'm authorized to change, so I can't negotiate it on my own. Could you or finance decide on the figure?

   Boss · Chat

   Good when someone asks you to bend a price or fee and the decision belongs higher up.

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5. 05

   I hear that you'd like a higher figure. Pay for this role sits in a fixed band, so it isn't something I can negotiate. I'd rather say that clearly than leave you waiting.

   Someone you manage · Chat

   Helps when someone you manage asks for more and you have no room, because it is direct and respectful.

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   Copy
6. 06

   Hi Skyler, the invoice total is final, so I can't negotiate it. Payment is due June 14. Happy to answer any questions on the line items.

   Client · SMS

   Handy for a quick reply when a client tries to haggle over an invoice you have already issued.

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7. 07

   The supplier price is already agreed, so I can't reopen it. If you think the budget is the issue, it's worth raising with Renee in finance.

   Coworker · Chat

   Useful when a colleague wants you to push a supplier again and you want to point them to the right person.

   Use for my message
   Copy

Examples

What to avoid

• Stopping at a bare “I can't” with no reason or next step.
• Apologizing too much, which invites the other person to keep pushing.
• Blaming a named person, such as “my boss won't let me”.
• Hinting at flexibility you don't have, like “maybe later” or “we'll see”.
• Vague jargon such as “no bandwidth for commercial discussions” also leaves the other person confused.

Related phrases

• How to say “do you have a budget?” professionally→
• What to say instead of “that's a lowball offer”→
• What to say instead of “I'm out of pocket”→
• Alternatives to “the price is firm” at work→
• How to say “can I get a discount” professionally→
• What to say instead of “I have to push back on this”→