{"id":26934,"date":"2024-08-01T13:36:58","date_gmt":"2024-08-01T13:36:58","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/jobera.com\/?p=26934"},"modified":"2026-10-14T17:41:07","modified_gmt":"2026-10-14T17:41:07","slug":"how-to-write-a-resignation-letter","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/jobera.com\/resources\/how-to-write-a-resignation-letter\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Write a Resignation Letter (8 Templates + Examples)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

A resignation letter tells your employer two things: you’re leaving, and the date of your last day. That’s really all it has to do. You don’t owe anyone an explanation, and the best letters fit comfortably on one page.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Below you’ll find how each part works, what to leave out, and eight templates you can adapt in a few minutes. If you only remember one thing, make it this: put your decision and your last working day in the first two sentences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A few other habits save trouble later. Check your contract or employee handbook for the notice period before you pick a date. Keep any reason short (or skip it), and keep the tone neutral even if you’re leaving unhappy. Tell your manager in person or on a call first, send the letter the same day, and keep a copy. And be prepared to go sooner than you planned, because some employers end employment the day you resign.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Why a resignation letter still matters<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Start with a conversation. The letter does a different job. It creates a written record.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

HR uses it to set your final date, process your final pay and any unused vacation time, and close your accounts. You might need it too, as proof of when you gave notice, if a question ever comes up about your notice period or your final paycheck. It also stays in your employment file, so keep it calm and professional.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Before you write: three things to check<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

1. Your notice period<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you have an employment contract, offer letter or employee handbook, it may say how much notice you must give. Some countries also set a statutory minimum. In the United States, two weeks is a common courtesy for many roles, but it usually isn’t a legal requirement unless your contract says so. Elsewhere the rules can be stricter. In the UK, for example, GOV.UK explains your notice obligations when you resign<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Not sure? Ask HR what your contract requires before you commit to a date in writing. This article is general guidance, not legal advice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Your last working day<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Notice usually starts when your employer receives the letter, but contracts and local laws count it differently, so check how yours does. Then write the actual date (“Friday, November 13”) rather than “two weeks from today.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you have vacation days left, ask HR whether they’ll be paid out or taken during your notice period. Policies differ, and in the US so do state laws.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Who should receive it<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Your direct manager. Copy HR if that’s the usual practice where you work. Some companies have a formal process, like an HR portal or a specific form. If yours does, use it as well as the letter, or instead of it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to write a resignation letter, step by step<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Step 1: Header<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For a printed letter, put your name, the date, your manager’s name and the company name at the top. Email takes care of the date and sender for you, so use a clear subject line instead, such as Resignation: Jordan Lee<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Step 2: Salutation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

“Dear Maria,” works anywhere. “Hi Maria,” is fine if your workplace is informal. Skip “To whom it may concern.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Step 3: Statement of resignation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Get straight to it: “Please accept this letter as formal notice of my resignation from my position as Customer Support Specialist. My last working day will be Friday, November 13.”<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Step 4: A brief, positive line (optional)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

A sentence or two of thanks is plenty. Mention something real, like a skill you picked up or a project you liked. If you can’t say anything positive and mean it, leave this part out. Forced gratitude reads badly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Step 5: Transition offer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Offer practical help with the handover, such as notes or briefing whoever takes over your accounts. Don’t promise more than you can deliver in your notice period.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Step 6: Closing and signature<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

“Kind regards,” or “Sincerely,” then your full name. Add a personal email address if you’d like colleagues to reach you once your work account is closed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What not to put in a resignation letter<\/h2>\n\n\n\n