Use our template to create a formal resignation letter.
Updated January 4, 2024
Written by Josh Sainsbury | Reviewed by Brooke Davis
A letter of resignation is a formal document that informs your employer about your intention to leave your current job. It can be written or emailed and should include your final work day.
An employee submits a resignation letter to their employer, informing them of their intention to leave the organization. Ideally, it should be submitted at least two weeks before the employee’s last day of work.
A well-written resignation letter can help ensure a smooth transition and maintain a positive professional relationship. It should be written in a respectful and professional tone, include the employee’s last day of work, and express gratitude for the opportunities provided by the employer.
A resignation letter typically includes the following elements:
When it comes to writing a professional resignation letter, alongside the essentials you need to include, there are also several items you should leave out:
Submitting a resignation letter effectively informs all the relevant departments about your departure from the company. A well-written and polite letter not only impresses your manager but also helps build a positive image of you.
It may lead to intangible benefits such as positive appraisals via word of mouth, potential letters of recommendation, or even an opportunity to return to the company. So, it is always advisable to keep the letter constructive and straightforward.
If you’re leaving and starting a new job, use an employment acceptance letter to start your employment on the front foot.
If you decide to leave your company, giving them a formal resignation letter is important. The letter should be given at least two weeks before your last day but no more than two months in advance.
We recommend that you write a civil, concise letter that contains the following:
Include the date you submit the letter in the top left line above the address.
The address should follow a formal business letter template. Use the company name on the first line, followed by the street address, city, and zip code.
The addressee is usually your manager – you can use their first name. If the situation calls for it, you can address a larger audience, such as a unit, team, department, or company.
It would be best to clarify from the first sentence that you are resigning, and a precise departure date is necessary as it lets your manager strategize the path forward. This will probably be in line with the company policy on what your notice period should be.
In this section, use your diplomatic skills to explain your departure, citing acceptable reasons such as health concerns, spending more time with family, relocation, or career change.
Remember that this letter is usually not the best way to express dissatisfaction with your company. You can metaphorically nail 95 grievances to your boss’s desk by crafting a letter detailing urgent reform areas but think hard about the pros and cons of delivering such a letter.
Make sure to end the letter by thanking your manager, and if you feel grateful, acknowledge the opportunity they gave you.
Sign above your typed name if you submit a hard copy of the letter. A typed name suffices as an online resignation letter.
You can schedule a private meeting with your manager to discuss your plans and intentions. After the meeting, you may want to follow up with a formal resignation letter to make it official. Ultimately, the decision is yours, and you should do what you feel comfortable with.
If you choose not to submit a resignation letter, you should ensure that all relevant parties, including your manager, HR, and other stakeholders, approve your exit.
It’s crucial to communicate with each department and not assume everyone is on the same page. Taking the initiative to keep everyone informed will help ensure a smooth transition.
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP Code]
[Your Email Address]
[Today’s Date]
[Manager’s Name]
[Company Name]
[Address]
[City, State ZIP Code]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I am writing you today to inform you that I have decided to resign from my position as [Job Title] at [Company Name]. My last day of work will be [Date], which is two weeks from today.
I have recently received an offer for a new position that aligns more closely with my long-term career goals. Although I have enjoyed working at [Company Name], and I appreciate all the opportunities you have given me, I feel that this is an opportunity I cannot pass up.
During my remaining time at the company, I will work diligently to ensure a smooth transition for my team and assist in any way I can to help find and train my replacement.
Thank you for your understanding and support during my time at [Company Name]. I am grateful for the experiences and knowledge I have gained while working here.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP Code]
[Your Email Address]
[Today’s Date]
[Manager’s Name]
[Company Name]
[Address]
[City, State ZIP Code]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I am writing to formally resign from my position as [Job Title] at [Company Name]. My last day of work will be [Date], which is two weeks from today.
My family and I have decided to move to [New City/State/Country], so I must tender my resignation. I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences provided to me during my tenure at [Company Name]. I have learned so much and have enjoyed working with such a great team.
During the remaining days of my tenure, I will ensure a smooth transition for my team and assist in any way possible to find and train my replacement.
Thank you for your understanding and support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP Code]
[Your Email Address]
[Today’s Date]
[Manager’s Name]
[Company Name]
[Address]
[City, State ZIP Code]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I am writing to inform you that I have made the difficult decision to resign from my position as [Job Title] at [Company Name]. My last day of work will be [Date], which is two weeks from today.
This decision was not easy, but I must focus on some personal matters that require my immediate attention. I have enjoyed my time at [Company Name] and appreciate all the opportunities you have given me.
During my last days at the company, I will ensure a smooth transition for my team and assist in any way possible to find and train my replacement.
Thank you for your understanding and support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP Code]
[Your Email Address]
[Today’s Date]
[Manager’s Name]
[Company Name]
[Address]
[City, State ZIP Code]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I am writing to inform you that I have decided to resign from my position as [Job Title] at [Company Name]. My last day of work will be [Date], which is two weeks from today.
I have decided to return to school to pursue a degree in [Field of Study]. Although I have enjoyed my time at [Company Name], furthering my education is the best decision for me at this time.
During my remaining time at the company, I will ensure a smooth transition for my team and assist in any way possible to find and train my replacement.
Thank you for your understanding and support.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP Code]
[Your Email Address]
[Today’s Date]
[Manager’s Name]
[Company Name]
[Address]
[City, State ZIP Code]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I am writing to inform you that I will be retiring from my position as [Job Title] at [Company Name]. My last day of work will be [Date], which is two weeks from today.
I want to take this opportunity to thank you and the company for the wonderful years I have spent here and the opportunities you have given me. I will cherish the memories and experiences I have gained while working at [Company Name].
During the remaining days of my tenure, I will ensure a smooth transition for my team and assist in any way possible to find and train my replacement.
Thank you again for your support and understanding.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Below, you can download a free letter of resignation template in PDF or Word:
