<prompt> Human: I recently got offered another job. It has more responsibility, a few more benefits, like union membership and protection. However the pay rate is only 1 an hour more than what I currently make. Id be happy with just 2 more, but 1 feels like a lateral move. The HR representative tells me I cant receive more than the initial offering unless I currently make more. If I say I make more than I actually do, can they ask me to provide proof of that? I am currently a temp contract employee, for the company I will be working for. So the Temp company and the new one have a close working relationship.  <response>: Union membership is the key phrase imo. Union wages are usually pretty rigidly defined so if you cant prove that you make more, ask how long it will be before you will make that wage or more. Seek others in that union for confirmation or advice. Also remember that commonly as a young union member you have other responsibilities that are not necessarily in the job description. To directly answer your question they can request proof in order to match compensation and if you cant produce it your reputation will take a hit. 