If you’re at or below ~115% of the midpoint in your band, the Off-Cycle (3-4%) should be easy for your manager to move up the chain. Once you cross that threshold, HR might prevent it. I’ve gotten 3 over my career - each being accompanied by a War and Peace style write-up. It’s dreadful.
Problem in the company is that people lead conservatively as to not hurt themselves.
Why? They are making a conscious choice to remain in an abusive relationship and have zero confidence in their ability to improve their professional lives