Should I ask for relocation expenses to be paid?

Question

I worked for a company 2 years ago, and left on very good terms. My boss said if I ever wanted to come back I could. Well, now I need to. I am very open to relocating where I am most needed (this is an international company). Should I ask for relocation expenses to be paid, even though I am the one that originally left?

NOTE: I will not be returning to the place where I was when I worked there before.

Would that be unfair of me? Should I just wait and see if they offer, then if they don't, ask for it? Otherwise, it will be nearly impossible for me to move my family as we are stretched WAYYYY too thin as it is. (I know this is not company's fault...but they regularly pay for others' relocations.)

Thanks!

Answer 1

If others get money for relocation, then you should see that in your offer letter, where they would detail the job offer, the salary, the benefits, and other items like relocation. I wouldn't bring it up ahead of time if others get it...wait for the offer letter or discussion and bring it up then. Don't say you are stretched thin and put yourself in a negative light--just assume you will get what others get. Good luck!

Answer 2

You can try to negotiate that into the job offer. Its not up to you to discuss this until they have made a firm job offer. Many companies will automatically offer relocation but if they dont they wont be surprised if you ask for some assistance.

Answer 3

There is nothing wrong with asking. Most companies don't pay for relocation expenses. Sometimes they do it. But it's usually because maybe they move one of the departments to another city or state. But again, there is nothing wrong with asking. Go ask them. Explain your situation. Good luck!

Answer 4

Sounds like you have a good relationship with your former boss. If it is he/she that will re-hire you, tactfully tell them you would be very interested in re-locating but that the moving costs would be a financial burden on your family. If it is not your former boss that will be hiring you, ask him/her what they know about the job you will be hired for and if they can find out if the moving expenses will be covered.