5 Resignation Letter Examples (+templates)
Are you ready to leave your current job? If so, providing a formal resignation letter to your employer is essential.
But what does a good resignation letter include? When should you give formal notice to your employer? How do you write a simple one that lets you leave your current job on good terms?
Here's all you need to know about writing an excellent notice letter — including what and how to say it and when to deliver it. We've included five writing tips, five example letters, and 5 ready-to-go "notice of resignation" templates to help you get started.
What is a resignation letter?
A resignation letter is an official letter that tells your current employer you are leaving your job. Often called a notice letter, it's an official document that parties can refer to in case of any misunderstanding.
They are usually delivered on a printed page or in an email. Having a digital and printed copy ready is a good idea, especially if you need clarification on what your boss or HR department requires.
Why do you need a resignation letter?
The purpose of writing a resignation letter is to create an official notice that you're leaving your job. The letter, or the details of the letter, often end up in your employee file. For that reason, it should be clear, effective, and professional.
Even if you do not like your current job, it is still important to submit a respectful resignation letter saying that you are leaving.
It gives your current employer a transition period to prepare for your departure and also makes them more likely to speak positively about you with future or prospective employers.
How to write a resignation letter
Each letter can be different, but it doesn't have to be unique or lengthy. Instead, you can use one of the templates below and add your own details to customize it.
It should contain the following critical information to be clear, effective, and professional. Your letter is an official document, and it needs to be both accurate and complete.
DATE (Notification date): Include the date you are giving notice in your letter. The date on the letter should match the date you submit it to your employer.
Your Name and address: Include your full name and your mailing address.
Your Employer’s Name and Address: List your current employer's company name and address and your direct boss or HR department (if applicable).
Resignation statement: Provide a simple sentence stating that you are resigning from your current job.
Date of departure: Provide the date you intend to leave your current position.
Reason (optional): A reason, or explanation, for you leaving your job is NOT required. You may include why you're resigning politely and professionally, but only if you feel comfortable doing so. (We'll talk more about this in a minute.)
Formal Ending: End your letter formally with Yours Sincerely, Regards or similar.
Print and Sign: Print your name at the bottom, leaving space to add your signature. You may wish to add an email address and contact phone number below your name.
When is the best time to deliver a resignation letter?
In almost all industries, most employers expect an employee to deliver a resignation letter with at least a two week notice period to provide time for a smooth transition process. While sometimes that is impossible, try your best not to leave on short notice.
If you are in a managerial position, your notice period will likely be extended, so you should check your employment contract for details.
Be prepared to provide your written letter of resignation simultaneously or immediately after verbally notifying your employer that you're leaving the job.
5 tips for an effective resignation letter
Here are five things you can say and do in your letter to help keep it clear and professional.
1. Don't brag about your new job
If you're taking a new job, it's best not to say much about it. Even if you're proud of your opportunity, it's best not to mention why your future job is “better."
Talking about how much happier you will be with your new employer can create unnecessary conflict and be viewed as unprofessional.
2. Keep your resignation letter respectful
It's always best to leave on a positive note. Try to be positive and respectful. Re-read your letter after you write it. Read it as if you were the boss and your employee handed you the letter. Is the tone professional?
3. Don't write negative things about your co-workers (or boss)
You should not use a resignation letter to critique co-workers or management. Negative comments will not improve the letter and may reflect poorly in your employee records.
4. Don't disrespect the company
Don't badmouth your current company on your way out the door. You may need their reference one day.
Avoid commentary about your current job (or your new one). When in doubt — say less. Only state what you need to be clear and effective.
5. Only provide a reason for leaving if you are comfortable doing so
You can give reasons for leaving, but you don't have to. If you prefer to keep them to yourself, that's fine — especially if you are going to work for a competitor or have a personal reason.
As previously stated, you do not have to provide your employer with an explanation about why you are resigning. If you choose to provide one, the simpler your wording, the better.
5 resignation letter examples
Now that you know the basic tips for crafting an effective resignation letter, here are a variety of examples that you can use to inform your research for writing your own.
1. Heartfelt and warm
This example, written by a retiree, is heartfelt and full of warmth. However, it still fulfills the brief by including all the formal details. Please note that you should also include a formal heading with appropriate addresses. Our examples are only of the body of the resignation letter.
Example:
Dear ______
It is with sadness that I submit my resignation. The last 15 years at Autism Care have been fantastic. However, after 40 years in the care industry, it is time for me to retire.
I look forward to traveling, painting, and spending time with my family, including my six grandchildren.
My last day at Autism Care will be December 26th, 2022. I would be pleased to arrange a meeting with you at your convenience to discuss the transition of my duties to my successor.
I wish the company and all its employees much success in the coming years.
Sincerely,
Your Name
2. Short and to the point
This example is short and to the point. It contains enough detail, but you may add an email address if that is your preferred method of communication.
3. Leaving for career opportunities
Here, the writer is keen to share that they are leaving to progress in their career. Nevertheless, the letter remains positive and professional.
Example:
Dear ________
This letter is to formally tender my resignation as Sales Team Leader at Bristol Street Cars, effective May 4th, 2021. This date is per the two weeks agreed upon at the time of my employment.
After careful consideration, there are currently limited opportunities for career progression at Bristol Street Cars, and to achieve my career goals, the time is right to move on.
However, I want to thank you for the professional guidance and support provided during my employment, and I wish you and the company success in the future.
Sincerely,
Your Name
4. Leaving a managerial role
This example provides some ideas when leaving a managerial role. The extended notice period for higher positions where replacements will take longer to find is a point of note here.
Dear _______
I write to formally tender my resignation as Manager of The Smoke House as of 3rd March 2023. This period includes one month's notice from today, as stated in my contract with you.
My thanks for the opportunities this position has provided and the furtherance of my skills, especially regarding people management. I have enjoyed my time here immensely and appreciate the support of all the staff throughout my tenure.
I offer my support in training my replacement and handing over duties during my notice period. Should there be other ways I can assist with this transition phase, please let me know.
Best Regards,
Your Name
5. Leaving with short notice
This example demonstrates how to ask for a shortened notice period. If you feel comfortable, explain your reasons for leaving or ask for a meeting to discuss the circumstances.
Dear _________,
I regret to inform you that I am resigning from my position with Fox Foods with immediate effect.
I understand that my contract requires me to work a week's notice period, but I ask that I be released at the end of today for personal reasons.
My apologies for any inconvenience resulting from this sudden news.
Thank you for all the opportunities and room to grow I have enjoyed over the last three years. I wish you and the company well in the future.
Regards,
Your Name
5 templates for simple resignation letters
If you need a professional resignation letter template, choose one of these five templates to help you get started. Then, simply copy the relevant letter into your word processor and replace capitalized brackets with your details. Be sure to refer to the tips and examples above if you get stuck.
1. Resignation letter template with a two-week notice:
(DATE)
(YOUR NAME)
(YOUR ADDRESS)
For the attention of (CURRENT BOSS)
(COMPANY NAME)
(COMPANY ADDRESS)
Dear (CURRENT BOSS),
This letter is a notice of my resignation from my role at (COMPANY) as (POSITION) effective (DATE) (two weeks from today).
My time with (COMPANY) has been rewarding, and I thank you for the opportunities and experience. If any assistance with training a new staff member is necessary over this transition period, I will be available to support them.
Feel free to reach out if an exit interview is required or if you have any questions.
Best regards,
(SIGN HERE)
(YOUR NAME, YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS, TEL. NUMBER)
2. Resignation letter template with a reason for leaving:
(DATE)
(YOUR NAME)
(YOUR ADDRESS)
For the attention of (CURRENT BOSS)
(COMPANY NAME)
(COMPANY ADDRESS)
Dear (CURRENT BOSS),
I will be resigning from my position at (COMPANY) effective (DATE) (two weeks from today).
My time working at (COMPANY) has been excellent and highly rewarding. However, I have been offered a position with another company that perfectly fits my skills and schedule, and I accepted the job.
I am available to assist with training my successor during this transition over the next two weeks. Also, feel free to reach out if you have any further questions.
Best regards,
(SIGN HERE)
(YOUR NAME, YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS, TEL. NUMBER)
3. Resignation letter template to say goodbye to other teammates:
(DATE)
(YOUR NAME)
(YOUR ADDRESS)
For the attention of (CURRENT BOSS)
(COMPANY NAME)
(COMPANY ADDRESS)
Dear (CURRENT BOSS) and Colleagues,
I will be resigning from my role at (COMPANY) effective (DATE) (two weeks from today).
My time working at (COMPANY) has been fulfilling, and I've enjoyed working with all of you. Thank you for making this job a wonderful experience.
I've left my contact information below should any of you wish to contact me or follow up.
Best regards,
(YOUR NAME, YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS, TEL. NUMBER)
4. Resignation letter template with a 24-hour notice:
(DATE)
(YOUR NAME)
(YOUR ADDRESS)
For the attention of (CURRENT BOSS)
(COMPANY NAME)
(COMPANY ADDRESS)
Dear (CURRENT BOSS),
This letter is confirmation I am resigning from my position at (COMPANY) as (POSITION) effective (DATE) (two weeks from today).
My time with (COMPANY) has been rewarding, and I thank you for the opportunities and experience. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to assist with this transition over the next two weeks.
Feel free to reach out if an exit interview is required or if you have any questions.
Best regards,
(SIGN HERE)
(YOUR NAME, YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS, TEL. NUMBER)
5. Resignation letter template for retirement:
(DATE)
(YOUR NAME)
(YOUR ADDRESS)
For the attention of (CURRENT BOSS)
(COMPANY NAME)
(COMPANY ADDRESS)
Dear (CURRENT BOSS),
I now give notice that I am retiring from the role of (YOUR POSITION) at (COMPANY) on (DATE), two weeks from today.
I am grateful for the time I have spent with the company and wish you all success in the future.
I am happy to train my replacement in this transition period and complete outstanding work as necessary.
Best Regards
(SIGN HERE)
(YOUR NAME, YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS, TEL. NUMBER)
Writing your professional resignation letter
There you have it — everything you need to know to write a professional and friendly resignation letter.
When composing your letter, remember the purpose is to notify your current employer that you are ending your employment. Therefore, you should be clear, effective, and professional. Follow the templates highlighted above, and you can leave your job seamlessly as you move toward future employment or retirement.
Are you still looking for alternative employment?
Take a look at Jobcase’s jobs board for inspiration. We also have helpful information on popular companies and what it's like to work for them available at our resource center. Don’t forget to join our community for networking opportunities and to chat with other job seekers.