[johngalt]

Yeah that is the old 'total compensation' switcheroo. Where you finish negotiations at what you assume is a salary number, but the employer later claims it was a total compensation number (salary + benefits). When the 'benefits' could change later, or they are accounted for using Hollywood accounting.

Another common one to look out for is 'projected bonus'. Where you find out that you make 1/2 of what you thought you agreed to, but the manager says "Making that much is up to you! You could make that number with bonus" (if you hit your ultra stretch goals that the company could change at any time).

These are both reasons to insist on an offer letter with the salary figure clearly stated. Also pay attention to the background of a hiring manager. This kind of BS mostly comes from people who were previously in a sales role.