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2-Week Notice Resignation Letter (Copy and Paste)
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In this article, I’m going to give you a sample two-weeks’ notice resignation letter to copy and paste when you quit your job.
This letter provides two-weeks’ notice and offers to assist in a smooth transition of your workload, which your employer will appreciate.
Make sure you read until the end because I’ll also include the exact header info to put BEFORE your two-weeks’ notice.
I’ll also discuss whether to submit this letter and give your notice in person vs. via email.
2-Week Notice Resignation Letter Template:
Dear [Name of Manager], I’m writing to submit my two-weeks’ notice to resign from the position of [job title] at [company name]. I would like to submit my notice effective immediately, making my last day [date]. Thank you for the opportunity given to me by [company name] and for the chance to learn and grow here. I appreciate the support I’ve been given. Please let me know if I can do anything to help facilitate a smooth transition before my final day. Thank you, [Your name]
Key Pieces to Include in Your Resignation Letter
If you decide to change and adjust the two-weeks’ notice template above, or write your own letter, simply make sure to include the following key components:
- A sentence stating your intent to resign from your position
- The fact that you’re giving two-weeks’ notice, and when your intended final day will be
- A sentence thanking the employer for the opportunity to work in your current job
- An offer to assist in a transition period to ensure a smooth handoff of work and leave on a positive note
As an optional step, you can mention your reason for giving notice, such as receiving a career-advancing job offer from another company.
However, this isn’t necessary, and plenty of job seekers hand in resignation letters with no mention of their exact reason for leaving.
Also, don’t say anything negative in your formal letter of resignation.
The company will keep this letter on record forever, and it’s simply not worth venting or stating any negative circumstances that caused you to leave.
You’re resigning and moving on to something better. Any challenges you are leaving behind are not your problem anymore!
Plus, most companies will ask you to attend an exit interview where you can provide more feedback. Don’t complain or badmouth whatsoever in your letter of resignation.
If you want to know every expected step during and after handing in your notice letter, read this article.
Header Info
When using the sample resignation letter above, you should also begin the page with the following header info:
- Your name, address, and contact details
- Today’s date (or more practically speaking, the date on which you plan to print and hand the letter to your manager)
- The name and title of your manager, and the company name/address.
I’ll include a customizable header template below so that you can include the right header info above your two-weeks’ notice letter.
Header to Copy:
Your Name Street Address City, State, Zip Code Your Phone Number Your Email The Date You Plan to Hand in the Letter Your Direct Manager’s Name Manager’s Job Title Name of Company Company Address City, State, Zip Code
Begin your document with the above contact details before you copy and paste the two-weeks’ notice template from earlier in the article. You need to begin the page with this basic header info, then finish with the letter itself.
Should You Submit Your Two-Weeks’ Notice by Letter or Email?
You should type and print your two-weeks’ notice and hand the letter to your boss in person. Passing your two-weeks’ notice to your manager by hand will be seen as more professional and more personal (which is important if you feel you have a good relationship with your boss and want to stay in contact after you resign).
Schedule a separate meeting to do this, rather than mentioning your two-weeks’ notice at the end of another meeting. I discuss why in my full guide to how to resign from a job.
The bottom line is: This is an important event that deserves its own meeting, and you don’t want your manager to be thinking about other topics when you bring this up.
In terms of a written letter vs. email, it’s better to give a printed resignation letter for similar reasons. This is an important event and you want the company to have physical evidence of your resignation.
Plus, it’s simply considered customary in most industries.
However, if you’re a remote worker and do not regularly come to the office, you can use the two-weeks’ notice letter template above and then send it via email instead.
In this case, simply write a subject line like: “Two-weeks’ notice”.
Warning: Your Company May Decline Your Two-Weeks’ Notice Period
When you hand in your notice letter, there’s no guarantee that the employer will grant you those two weeks of work.
I once resigned from a job and was walked out immediately.
This can occur due to company policy, the nature of your role (for example if you work with sensitive customer information), or other reasons.
And I wasn’t paid for my remaining days, either. The company wasn’t obligated to accept my notice or pay me for that time if they didn’t want to.
So while I recommend giving two-weeks’ notice, you should be prepared for the small chance that an employer will simply say, “We accept your resignation effective immediately. Today will be your last day.”
Prepare for this mentally/emotionally, but also financially.
If you can’t risk this financially, then consider giving one week of notice to reduce your risk.
Keep the above risks in mind before handing in your resignation notice.
Don’t Add Unnecessary Info to Your Letter
One more benefit to using the resignation letter sample I gave you earlier: It prevents you from going into too much detail.
Be careful not to use any templates that are too long and detailed.
You should not be sharing everything on your mind or mentioning every small detail that contributed to your decision to quit.
The letter should be short and to the point, with only the necessary pieces.
And the two-weeks’ notice template above is designed to do this for you.
Conclusion: Writing the Perfect Two-Weeks’ Notice Letter
Save time when giving your formal resignation by copying and pasting the letter template above.
Or, write your own resignation notice letter using the steps and key components that I gave you.
Avoid two-weeks’ notice templates that are overly complicated or long. Less is more when handing in your resignation! Cover the basics, remain professional, and you’ll have a smooth and stress-free resignation.
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Sample Resignation Letter for Quitting Your Job
Alison Doyle is one of the nation’s foremost career experts.
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Tips for Writing a Resignation Letter
Resignation letter template, sample resignation letter, resignation email example, sending an email resignation message, more resignation letter examples.
Adrian Mangel / The Balance
Key Takeaways
- Always send a letter of resignation when you quit your job. It’s protocol to inform your employer in writing. Plus, sending a letter will provide a written record.
- Know when to send an email resignation. In certain situations—working remotely, for example—an email resignation is appropriate.
- Include all the details in your resignation letter. Note your last day of work, convey your thanks, and offer to help with the transition.
- Be professional and polite. Review sample resignation letters before composing your own, proofread your letter, and be gracious to your employer.
When you are quitting your job, it's proper protocol to provide your employer with a formal resignation letter for your employee file. A letter is a way to officially announce your resignation, even if you have already discussed your resignation with your boss or Human Resources. It also confirms your end date of employment.
Writing a letter is also a courtesy that can help you maintain a positive relationship with your employer, which is essential if you hope to use them as a reference and keep them as a networking contact.
You should send this letter to your manager, as well as Human Resources, so that they have the letter on file.
Here's information on what to include in your resignation letter or email, tips for writing a professional resignation, how to send an email resignation, samples, and a template to download.
- Give appropriate notice . It's best to give your boss two weeks' notice if you are resigning. If possible, write the letter at least two weeks before resigning from your job. The most important information to include in a resignation letter is the date you plan to leave the company. This helps ease the transition for the employer, as well as for you. State this date very early in the letter.
If you're unable to provide two weeks' notice, you can write a resignation letter giving short notice or even no notice .
- Say thank you . You should also let the employer know you appreciate your time with the company. If you were not particularly happy at the company, or if your relationship with your supervisor or colleagues was contentious, you can keep this expression of thanks brief. It's enough to simply say, "I've enjoyed my time at ABC company." or "My two years at ABC company have been a pleasure."
- Offer to help . If possible, offer the employer assistance as they look for a replacement. This help could come in the form of recruiting or training a new employee. You can also offer to prepare transitional documents or share your personal email for questions after you've left the company. It's up to you how generous you want to be.
- Ask questions . If you have any questions, including where to leave work supplies or questions about your benefits, you might include these in your letter as well.
- Don't vent or complain . A resignation letter is not the time to share frustrations about co-workers, managers, or the company. Keep in mind that you may someday need a reference from people who will see this letter, so it is best to be polite.
- Keep your letter short . A resignation letter should be simple, brief, focused, and to the point. There is no need to elaborate on your reason for leaving —keep the letter professional rather than delving into the personal.
- Use business letter format . Make sure to follow business letter format in your letter. Include a header with the employer’s name and address, the date, and your name and address.
- Proofread and double-check before you send . You should also thoroughly proofread the letter before sending it. Again, you may need to ask for a recommendation from your employer, and you want all your work to be polished.
You can download the resignation letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word) to use as a starting point for your own letter.
Use the sample resignation letter below as a template for your own letter, but just be sure to rewrite the letter to fit your particular employment situation.
Caroline Maxwell 363 Suncoast Drive Seminole, FL 33701 604-323-5566
caroline.maxwell@email.com
July 15, 2022
Jameis Hitchcock Manager Smith Agency 1616 Florida Road Tampa, FL 33802
Dear Mr. Hitchcock,
I would like to inform you that I am resigning from my position as Account Executive for the Smith Agency, effective July 29.
Thank you very much for the opportunities for professional and personal development that you have provided me during the last five years. I have enjoyed working for the agency and appreciate the support provided me during my tenure with the company.
If I can be of any help during this transition, please let me know.
Signature (hard copy letter)
Caroline Maxwell
Here's an example of a resignation email. Be sure to use a clear subject line, so the message gets opened and read.
Subject Line: Resignation – John Taggart
Dear Ms. Caldwell,
I’m writing to inform you that I am resigning from my position as administrative assistant for Acme Corporation, effective November 1.
I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from you and the team. Thank you for your support, mentorship, and guidance over the past two years.
If I can be of any assistance during the transition, please let me know.
Best regards,
John Taggart
john.taggart@email.com 617-212-3543
Thinking of sending an email message in order to resign from your job ? The content of your message will be similar, but there are a few things to keep in mind, to be professional and keep from burning bridges with your soon-to-be former employer.
- Talk to your manager or HR, if possible . Generally speaking, it’s not a good idea to resign via email out of the blue. While email can be an acceptable substitute for a hard-copy letter, it’s not the equivalent of a face-to-face conversation with the boss .
A few exceptions: if you work remotely on a full-time basis or feel unsafe resigning in person, email may be your best option.
Include all necessary information . That means providing a clear subject line (e.g., Resignation – Your Name) and your effective resignation date, contact information, and offer to help with the transition, if possible. You should also tell the company where to send your final paycheck if you don’t have direct deposit, as well as ask any questions you might have about benefits and paid time off.
Proofread and test your message. The last thing you want is to send your resignation email only to discover that it was filled with typos or formatting issues that you would have caught during a simple test. Send the message to yourself first, and consider having an eagle-eyed friend review it for errors before you send it on to your boss.
Review more resignation letter and email samples for a variety of circumstances and download free templates you can use to write your own letter.
SHRM. " Exit Right: How You Leave Your Job Matters ."
SHRM. " How to Resign Without Burning a Bridge ."
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Resignation Letters | Templates (12)
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Updated December 27, 2022
A resignation letter is a form that gives notice to an entity or organization of an employee’s intent to quit their job. The objective of a resignation letter, aside from informing the company of the employee’s resignation, is to maintain a positive relationship between the two parties.
Types of Resignation Letters
1 week notice.
2 Weeks Notice
Board Resignation
Church (Religious)
Professional Job
What is a Resignation Letter?
Resignation letters are short, formal letters informing your employer that you intend to quit your job. They’re often submitted in advance to HR, a supervisor, or a manager. They are essential in helping you make sure you leave on positive terms with your employer.
You don’t want to leave a negative impression when you quit your job because that could hurt your chances with other employers. Even if you’re leaving because of some fault within management or the organization at large, it’s in your best interests to leave those reasons out of the letter itself.
When done right, resignation letters can help gain you a valuable reference when applying to other jobs and furthering your career goals. In the rare case that you would want to return to your old position in the future, a well-written letter of resignation is crucial. Make this letter a positive experience and follow proper etiquette when writing your resignation letter.
What to Include in a Resignation Letter
There are plenty of unspoken rules when it comes to writing and submitting a resignation letter. Staying positive and leaving out complaints about the company is just one of many of these rules. Here are some others you should keep in mind:
- Keep it short and to the point . There’s no reason to draw this letter out beyond a single page. You might have a lot to say about the job depending on your reasons for leaving, but it’s best to keep it simple.
- Include only positive comments . Again, the goal is to leave on good terms with your soon-to-be former employer. So, list some things you valued from your time working at your job.
- Submit it in advance . You want to give your employer some time to find a replacement for your position, so generally two weeks’ notice is the norm. Company guidelines can shed some light on this. Even if you give a few weeks’ notice, you should be prepared for the chance that your employer may terminate you soon after you submit your resignation.
- Make it personable . This means being friendly and delivering the letter in person if you can. This will show your boss you care and will help mitigate awkwardness in the future.
If you follow these guidelines, you’ll probably end up on good terms with your employer. Now there’s just the matter of writing the letter.
How to Write a Resignation Letter
1. download our resignation letter.
Choose between Adobe PDF , Microsoft Word (.docx) , or Open Document Text (.odt) to complete a fillable form.
2. Create a Header
Include you and your employer’s contact information. Use the date in the middle as a separator. Begin the letter with a formal greeting, using the recipient’s name to make it more personal.
Example Header John Rackaneli 785 Belleview Way New York, NY 10020 (347) 495-9309 January 1, 2017 Ray Carrera GlobalCorp 1 Finance Center New York, NY 10176 Dear Mr. Smith,
3. Include a Body Paragraph
In the body of the letter, immediately state your intention to resign and provide your reasoning, including only positive feelings towards your work experience. In the event the company holds your resignation letter on file, you want to make sure that you leave on favorable terms. Therefore, it is in the writer’s best interest to exclude personal disputes or issues with coworkers/the company from the letter that could bring up negative feelings or resentment.
Notice Period – The industry standard is two (2) weeks; however, with more intensive industries, like healthcare, sometimes a month or even more is expected due to the competitive nature of finding replacements. The employer may choose to deny your notice-period and terminate your employment immediately. Plan your resignation ahead of time and make sure that you will be financially stable in the event that your employer decides to dismiss you forthwith.
Example Body This letter represents my official notice of resignation from my position of electrician with G&E effective on the 2nd of April, 2017. It has been a gratifying experience to work alongside the individuals at G&E. I appreciate the knowledge and experience I have gained during my time here. I trust two weeks will be a sufficient amount of time for you to find a replacement and I’d like to offer my assistance in training the person that will take over my position. Thank you for your understanding.
4. Ending and Signature
The last part of the letter simply requires a sign-off, your signature, and your printed name. A signature gives the form a personable feel to it while still demonstrating sincerity in your resignation. “Sincerely” is the safest choice for a formal sign-off, but “Regards”, “Best Regards”, “Respectfully”, “Respectfully Yours” are all fine options.
Example Signature Line Sincerely, [Signature] Blake Rose
5. Delivering the Letter
A letter of resignation can be sent either through e-mail, standard mail, or personally handed to upper management. If you are working with your manager or boss on a day-to-day basis, it is wise to tell them verbally while handing in the letter as your formal notice. Do not go into work as if nothing is happening and place your letter on their desk when they aren’t there. Resignation should be executed in a personal way in order to keep a good reference for the future.
Resignation Letter – Sample 1
Kristine Balleck 55 W Church St Orlando, FL, 32801 (407) 554-8922 August 6, 2016 Beverly Augustine Supervisor Beardall Senior Center 80 South Delaney Avenue Orlando, FL, 32422 Dear Mrs. Augustine,
I must regretfully inform you of my resignation from the Beardall Senior Center. My last day will be August 20th.
Working at the Senior Center has been one of my favorite jobs I’ve had and I couldn’t have asked for a better group of people to work alongside. Thank you for being so understanding about my family situation and constructing a schedule that allows me to be home for my children as much as possible.
I hope you don’t have any issues in finding a replacement. I’m sure you won’t as you are an excellent supervisor and a wonderful person.
If there’s anything I can do to help, please let me know.
[Signature]
Kristine Balleck
Resignation Letter – Sample 2
AJ Bergman 209 20th St NW Grand Forks, MN, 56300 (407) 554-8922 February 16th, 2017 Tessa Mae YMCA Family Center 211 Demers Ave Grand Forks, MN, 56730 Dear Ms. Mae,
I, AJ Bergman, present to you this letter of resignation from my current position of children’s counselor at the YMCA Family Center, effective February 30th, 2017.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for the years of enjoyable and fulfilling employment. I have learned a lot during my time here and will be leaving with many great experiences and fond memories.
I would be happy to help find a replacement and train them, as I know this is somewhat short notice and out of the blue. I hope you realize my quitting is in no way a reflection of your ability to manage, but I must move on for personal reasons.
Best regards,
Resignation Letter – Sample 3
Tammy Beretti 390 Mountain View Dr Brigham City, UT, 84302 (435) 537-0209 [email protected] March 19, 2017 Amber Greene Front Desk Supervisor, Hampton Inn 40 N Main St Brigham City, UT, 84535 Dear Mrs. Greene,
Please accept my formal resignation as front desk agent at the Hampton Inn. I would prefer to leave at the end of the week but I can be available for the next two weeks, until the 2nd of April, if necessary.
I want to thank you for the opportunities you and the hotel have given me. It’s been a very positive working environment and I have made good friends during my time here.
I am more than happy to train a new front desk agent while I carry out the remainder of my employment.
Tammy Baretti
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Resignation Letter Templates: How To Write & Examples
3 Examples of Resignation Letter Templates
Simple resignation letter template.
Dear [reader name],
I am writing to inform you that I am resigning from my position at [company] as [position].
It has been a pleasure to work with the team at [company]. The opportunity to collaborate on exciting new projects was a great experience and I am grateful for the time that I had here.
I will be leaving my position on [date of resignation], and would be happy to assist with the transition process, should you need me to do so.
I wish you all the best in your future endeavors, and remain your loyal customer.
More : Use this free template to create your simple resignation letter in seconds
Two Week Notice Resignation Letter
It has been an absolute pleasure working at [company name] and I would like to thank you for giving me the opportunity to do so.
I am writing this letter to inform you that I will be resigning from my position as [position] in two weeks. My last day will be on [date].
I know that this may come as a surprise, but I have decided that it is time for a change. My decision is not based on anything negative about your business or its culture; rather, it is simply time for me to move on. I wish everyone at [company] all the best in the future and hope that my colleagues remain friends in the years ahead.
If there is anything else I can do before my departure, please feel free to let me know.
More : Use this free template to create your two week notice resignation letter in seconds
Resignation Letter For Better Opportunity Template
Dear [name],
It has been a pleasure to work with you at [company] for the past [length of time]. I am writing to inform you that I am resigning from my position as [position] effective [date]. This decision was not made lightly, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have worked here.
I am parting ways in order to accept a position with another company that is more aligned with my career interests and has more opportunities for professional growth. It is an exciting opportunity that I look forward to exploring.
I will be available until [date], which should give you ample time to find a suitable replacement. If there is anything else that I can do during this transition period, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Thank you again for your support over the years, it has been an honor working here.
More: Use this free template to create your better opportunity resignation letter in seconds
How to use Copy AI’s resignation letter templates
Log in with your email, and you’ll see the resignation letter template interface. Next, you’ll want to enter the main points you want to include in your letter of resignation.
Copy.ai will offer a standardized template which you can view below, but be sure to enter any personal details that you’d like to include. You can also choose the tone of your letter (friendly, professional, empathetic, etc.). For this letter, you’re probably going to want to choose “professional.”
This template, without any additional input, will produce a letter of resignation that looks something like this:
This is a perfectly fine, simple resignation letter, but consider personalizing your resignation letter template by adding more details. You can add directly to the resignation letter template or paste ideas or full sentences into the text box to have the tool generate the letter for you (as shown in the highlighted text below).
This additional text, for example, would result in a professional resignation letter that looks something like this:
These personal touches can make all of the difference in maintaining a strong relationship with your previous employer. That may not seem important now that you have a new opportunity, but trust us—maintaining a positive professional reputation is always important. You never know when you might need a recommendation or introduction, so leave your previous job on the best note possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. include these key details.
Before you write anything, you need to know who or what you're writing about. The more specific you are, the more personalized you can make your content.
Here are our suggestions for where to start on your resignation letter:
Company name: [company name]
Job title: [position]
Date of resignation: [date of resignation]
2. Determine the structure of your output
The structure of your letter is just as important as its content. The structure of your letter matters because it will determine how your former employer takes in the information. You might want to start by announcing that you’re resigning if your former employer appreciates getting to the point. If your former employer is more sentimental, you might want to start with a memory or a description of what the job has meant to you professionally.
Here’s an example structure that we use in our sample resignation letter template:
- Greet the reader
- Thank them for the opportunity to work at [company]
- Explain that you are resigning from your position as [position]
- Give a date of resignation and offer to help to ensure a smooth transition process
- Sign off in a formal tone
3. Polish your letter with these golden rules
These practices go a long way in solidifying a strong relationship with your former employer that will last for the rest of your career.
- Be professional at all costs. See the list in the next section of what to leave out of your letter.
- Express gratitude. Thank your former employer for everything they taught you.
- Offer to help with the transition. Make it clear that you’re available to help.
- Keep your letter brief. Less is more.
- Include contact information. Something as simple as leaving your phone number can make your exit interview with your former employer all the more pleasant.
4. Exclude these topics
There are all sorts of reasons—good and bad—for resigning from a position. It’s best to keep emotions out of your resignation letter and stick to the facts.
Even if including one of the below topics may feel right at the moment, keep in mind that you might not feel the same a few months from now—or in the future when an employer sees your LinkedIn and wants to contact your old job for a reference.
To leave things on a positive note with your employer, keep these topics out of your letter:
- Negative experiences
- Emotional comments
- Tips on how to improve the company
- Naming specific coworkers in a negative way
- Negative references about your old (or new) salary
Save these topics for a good old-fashioned venting session with your friends and leave them out of your professional resignation letter. Keeping these topics out of your letter will make all of the difference on your last day of work and will make the transition period on the first day of your new job that much easier.
5. Use one of our templates
If you’re short on time or feeling stuck, use one of our templates to brainstorm and craft the perfect resignation letter.
While this may have seemed informal ten years ago, it is now a commonly accepted practice—especially if your role is remote. This practice might actually be more convenient for your management, as they will get it instantly and can deal with it accordingly.
Keep in mind—if your manager is “old-school,” they might prefer a physical resignation letter. If you go this route, be sure to print out a typed letter. A handwritten letter might be hard to read or seem unprofessional.
The more notice you can give, the better, but the standard practice in most industries is to give at least two weeks’ notice. This formal notice period gives your current employer a fair amount of time to find a replacement, train them, and pass along institutional knowledge before you take off for greener pastures.
It’s a professional courtesy that shows your manager that you respect them. The letter also serves as a record of when you gave notice. Make sure you address your resignation letter to the team leader or manager, and CC the head of human resources if you’re emailing the letter.
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Resignation Letter
How to quit as professionally as possible
What is a Resignation Letter?
A resignation letter is an official letter sent by an employee to their employer giving notice they will no longer be working at the company . In other words, it’s an official form of quitting. The goal of a letter of resignation is to create an official record of notice, provide details about the employee’s last day, outline any next steps, and maintain a positive relationship with the employer. Use CFI’s free resignation letter template to quit as professionally as possible.
Tips for Writing a Resignation Letter
The general consensus on letters of resignation is, the shorter the better. There is no need to provide a long-winded explanation of why you are quitting. Instead, it’s best to be direct, professional, and outline any important information about the termination process.
Here are some helpful tips for writing your resignation letter:
- Be direct and to the point – mention that you are quitting in the first paragraph (or even the first sentence)
- Be professional – do not use it as an opportunity to complain, insult, or criticize the company or other employees
- Give notice of your last day – provide the specific date you are agreeing to work until
- Provide information about the transition – you may offer to help find your replacement, or agree to finish certain projects and tasks before your last day
- Proofread and spell check – be sure to thoroughly proofread the letter before submitting to make sure all information is accurate and there are no typos
- Seek legal advice – depending on the nature of your position, you may wish to seek professional legal advice about your resignation process
How to use a Resignation Letter Template
You may wish to use this resignation letter template to help you efficiently write your letter.
To use this template effectively, follow these steps:
- Copy and paste the resignation letter template into an MS Word Document, Google Doc, or email
- Add all your personal details and contact information
- Rewrite the paragraphs with your own words describing your situation
- Proofread and spell check
- Submit the letter via email, mail, or in-person
Resignation Letter Template
Copy and paste the below text into a Word document or an email as the starting point for own letter .
[Your Name]
[Your Street Address]
[Your City, State/Province, Country]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Today’s Date]
[Employer Contact Name]
[Employer Title]
[Employer Company Name]
Dear [Employer Contact Name],
[First paragraph: I am writing to provide you with my formal notice of resignation from The Company. My last day will be January 19, 2018, two weeks from today.]
[Second paragraph: This was not an easy decision to make, and I appreciate your support over the course of my employment at The Company. I truly value the experience, training, and knowledge I gained over the past 5 years. It has been a pleasure working with you and the team.
[Third paragraph: Please let me know how I can help during this transition. I wish you all the best as the company continues to grow. ]
[Image of Signature]
Download the Free Template
Enter your name and email in the form below and download the free template now!
Resignation Letter Best Practices
When you deliver your resignation letter to your boss it’s important to remember what you should and shouldn’t do. Here are the most important points and best practices to remember.
Be sure to:
- Deliver both a printed copy with your signature and an email copy
- Discuss the final details of your employment (the last few days on the job)
- Offer to help transition the role to someone else at the company
- Provide the required amount of notice (the number of days will be listed in your original employment agreement)
- Organize your desk and personal affairs in the event the company asks you to leave immediately
Try to avoid:
- Criticizing the company or any people that work there
- Refusing to come in and work for the duration of your notice period (unless you are asked not to come back)
- Bragging about some amazing new opportunity of a job you found
- Avoiding your boss and refusing to talk about transition planning
- Convincing co-workers that they should resign too
- Spreading rumors or misinformation
Learn more about How to Quit Your Job .
Examples of Public Resignation Letters
If you’d like to see some high-profile, public examples of resignation letters, Business Insider has compiled a list of the 13 greatest resignation letters of all time. These may serve as an example of what not to do for most people, but they are very entertaining to read, nonetheless. If you have the time, you may enjoy reading these great examples of resignation letters.
Additional Resources
Thank you for reading CFI’s guide to writing a resignation letter. To ensure you’re fully prepared for managing your career path, these additional resources will be helpful:
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Resignation Letter Examples and Template
Thinking about leaving your job? Learn what to include on a resignation letter and download one of our free customizable resignation letter templates.
What is a resignation letter?
A resignation letter is a formal document or email that lets your employer know you plan to leave your position.
Resignation letters typically include 3-4 paragraphs with a timeframe for your departure, your reasons for leaving the job , and a final thank you to the company and all your coworkers.
Should I write a letter of resignation?
Yes, you should write a letter of resignation if you’re leaving your job.
Not only is writing a resignation letter professional, but it also increases your chances of getting a letter of recommendation from your manager and receiving positive reviews during reference checks.
Professional resignation letter template
Here’s a template for you to use when writing your resignation letter:
Download This Resignation Letter Template (Word)
Sample resignation letter
And if you’re looking for an example of what a well-written resignation letter looks like, here’s one written by a resigning marketing manager :
Download This Resignation Letter Example (Word)
Additional resignation letter sample templates
Here are some more specific resignation letter samples that you can use as inspiration when writing your own letter for resignation:
Resignation letter templates: two weeks’ notice
Just need a short, simple resignation letter template? The below sample is a basic two weeks’ notice that you can use for any job. Download and customize any of these templates for free and leave your job on a professional note.
View All Two Weeks’ Notice Templates
Resignation letter templates: life situation
Whether you’re a recent college graduate or senior executive , personal issues can force you to resign. Writing resignation letters to explain such issues can be hard because of the personal reasons involved — but the resignation letter template below can help.
View All Life Situation Templates
Resignation letter templates: career-specific
Below is a resignation letter template designed for a teacher. Additionally, we have a variety of other career-specific resignation letters available below. If you don’t see your position listed, you can still download them and alter them to match your industry.
View All Career-Specific Templates
What to include in a resignation letter
To help you draft your resignation letter, here’s a checklist of what to include:
Your name and address – Follow proper business letter formatting and place your name and address in a centered list at the top of the page.
The date – Left-align the date you submit the letter under your address. Listing the date is important because your company’s HR department will use it to officially begin your notice period.
The company address – Use professional business letter formatting to list your company’s address. Put the company name on the first line, followed by the street address, city, and ZIP code.
A proper salutation – Typically, you should address your manager, but if necessary you can address a whole unit, team, department, or company.
If you’re on a first-name basis with your boss, use their first name. Otherwise, use their formal title and last name (for example, “Ms. Chen” or “Dr. Jones”).
Your final workday – Tell your employer the exact date you want to quit. Doing so lets them immediately begin planning their next steps, and it helps you avoid the stress of not knowing when you’ll get to leave.
Your reason for leaving (optional) – Acceptable reasons range from general health concerns and spending more time with family to relocation, retirement, and career changes.
A thank you to your employer – Thank your employer for the opportunity to work with them. Optionally, offer to help with the transition process, or note your desire to keep in touch.
What not to include in a resignation letter
Knowing what to include on your resignation letter is key to ensuring you leave the company on good terms, but it’s equally important to know what not to include. Here’s what to avoid:
A critique of your employer – Just like when writing a goodbye email to your coworkers , it’s best to keep a positive tone. A resignation letter isn’t the best place to say that you’re unhappy with poor management.
Foul language – Again, even if you’re leaving because of issues with your boss or coworkers, keep your resignation letter professional. This will prevent you from burning any bridges that could lead to future job opportunities.
Information about your upcoming plans – Avoid including information about where you’re going next. Your manager doesn’t need to know, and adding it puts you at greater risk of being sabotaged by a disgruntled former employer.
Spelling mistakes – Before you send off your resignation letter, check it for spelling mistakes.
Common questions about resignation letters
Still have questions about your resignation letter? We’ve answered the most frequently asked questions about letters of resignation below:
When should you write a letter of resignation?
While it may be tempting to go on LinkedIn and write a new job announcement as soon as you accept a job offer, you need to first inform your current employer that you’re leaving.
You should write a letter of resignation at least two weeks in advance, but you might need to give your manager a longer notice period if your contract requires it or you have a lot of work to finish before you go.
How should you submit a resignation letter?
You should submit your letter in a face-to-face meeting with your manager when possible. But if you’re working remotely or your boss is out of the office, you can submit your letter in an email — either as an attached file or as text in the body of the email.
What should your resignation email’s subject line say?
Your resignation email’s subject line should say your name and that you’re resigning. Stating your intentions in the subject line lets your manager know how important your email is as soon as they open their inbox, which helps you resolve the situation as quickly as possible. These are good examples of resignation email subject lines:
- Resignation Notice — [Your Name]
- [Your Name] Resignation Notice
- Two Weeks’ Resignation Notice: [Your Name]
How long should a resignation letter be?
A resignation letter should be one page or less. If your manager needs more details after reading your letter, they’ll request them.
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Written by the Resume Genius Team
The Resume Genius Team is a tight-knit crew of career coaches, hiring managers, and staff writers who are passionate about providing the best, most up-to-date career advice... more
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Resignation Letter
While most employment in the U.S. is "at will," if you want to leave your job on good terms and possibly use your employer as a reference in the future, you should consider handing in a resignation letter to formalize your departure.
A letter of resignation is a short document that indicates your intention to quit , when your last day will be, and how you will be handing over your duties. Below is a simple guide and resignation letter samples.
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Simple Resignation Letter Template Download:
Download this simple resignation letter template in MS Word format and start using it straight away.
Simple Resignation Letter Sample:
[ Date ] [ Company name ] [ Your name and position ]
Dear Mr./Ms. [ insert name ]
I would like to inform you that I am resigning from my position as [ insert position name ], effective [ insert date ].
Thank you for all the support and opportunities you have provided me over the years. I have truly enjoyed my time working at [ insert company name ] and am grateful for the encouragement you have given me to pursue my personal and professional development.
I will do everything I can to complete my current projects and train other team members or new employees to take over my duties. Please let me know if there is anything else I can do to help during this transition period.
I wish the company continued success in the future and hope to stay in touch.
[ Your name ] [ Signature for hard copy ]
Formal Resignation Letter Template Download:
Download this formal resignation letter template in MS Word format and start using it straight away.
Formal Resignation Letter Sample:
[ Your name ] [ Your address ] [ Your phone number ] [ Your email ]
[ Supervisor name ] [ Supervisor title ] [ Company name ] [ Company address ]
Please accept this letter as formal notification of my resignation from the position of [ insert position name ], effective [ insert date ].
I thank you for all the support and opportunities you have provided me during my time at [ insert company name ] and am grateful for the encouragement you have given me to pursue my personal and professional development.
Over the next [ insert remaining period ], I will do everything I can to complete pending tasks and incomplete projects, and I am willing to assist in the process of hiring and training my replacement. Please let me know if there is anything else I can do to help during this transition period.
Professional Resignation Letter Template Download:
Download this professional resignation letter template in MS Word format and start using it straight away.
Professional Resignation Letter Sample:
I am writing to notify you of my resignation from the position of [ insert position name ], effective [ insert date ].
Thank you for all the support and opportunities you have provided me during my time at [ insert company name ]. I am grateful for the encouragement you have given me to pursue my personal and professional development.
Over the next [ insert remaining period ] I will ensure that my remaining tasks and current projects are completed, and I am willing to assist in the hiring and training of my replacement. Please advise how I can assist in this transitional period.
How to Write a Resignation Letter:
Our complete guide with informative steps on how to draft an effective resignation letter.
Guidelines for writing a resignation letter:
Identify yourself..
This may seem superfluous but your resignation letter is an official document that should include your full name and position at the company.
State your intention to resign.
The first paragraph of the letter should include your resignation statement and should specify your last working day. This should be short and simple. Do not include a reason for your decision .
Give thanks.
In the second paragraph, thank your employer for the opportunities you have been given during your time with the company. Describe some of the things you enjoyed most about working there.
Offer to assist with the handover.
In the third paragraph, mention your willingness to make the transition easier for the company. Offer to complete all your current projects, train coworkers, or perform other duties if required.
Sign your letter.
If you are handing in a hardcopy of your resignation letter, remember to sign at the bottom.
The Purpose of a Resignation Letter:
While it is not a legal requirement, providing your employer with a resignation letter allows the company to facilitate a smooth transition. Depending on when you hand in your letter, the company will have enough time to find a suitable replacement or train a coworker to perform your duties.
A resignation letter also serves as an official document for HR and your employee file. Even if you give verbal confirmation of your intention to resign, many companies require a written and signed document to process your exit benefits.
Two Weeks' Notice Letter vs. Resignation Letter:
Essentially, a two week's notice letter and a resignation letter are the same thing. The purpose of the document is to inform your employer that you will be leaving your job on a specific date.
With a two weeks' notice letter, your date of departure is two weeks from the date you hand in your letter. A resignation letter is different in that you can indicate your intention to leave on whatever date you like. This is usually between five days and four weeks.
What to Avoid:
- Don't provide a reason for your resignation.
- Don't brag about your new job.
- Don't be negative about your managers or coworkers.
- Don't disrespect the company.
Additional resources:
Feeling unprepared for your departure? Read our article on How to Quit a Job .
Need some time off to pursue a personal interest? Read our article on Sabbatical Leave .
Is it necessary to write a resignation letter when you quit a job?
No, most employment in the U.S. is "at will" which means you can leave your job at any time. However, it is a professional courtesy to provide a resignation letter stipulating the date on which you will be leaving.
When should I hand in my resignation letter?
You should hand in your resignation letter when you are officially quitting your job. This will serve as an official document for HR.
Should you give a reason as to why you are leaving in a resignation letter?
No, your resignation letter should simply state that you are resigning and clearly indicate your last day of work.
What should I include in my resignation letter?
- Your full name and position at the company.
- An introduction paragraph stating your intention to resign.
- The date on which you will be leaving.
- A paragraph thanking your employer for the opportunities you have been given.
- A paragraph mentioning your willingness to assist with the transition.
- Your signature.
What is the purpose of a resignation letter?
The purpose of a resignation letter is to provide official notice to your employer of your intention to resign. It should stipulate the date you will be leaving and how you intend to hand over your duties.
What is the difference between a two weeks' notice letter and a resignation letter?
Essentially, they are the same. They are both used to indicate your intention to resign. A two weeks' notice letter is given 10 business days before your departure, while a resignation letter can be given at any time.
Can I quit without a resignation letter?
Yes, most employment in the U.S. is "at will" which means you can quit at any time without handing in a resignation letter. However, some companies do require written confirmation of your intention to quit.
Related Articles:
Resignation email, reasons for leaving a job, what is attrition, what is employee turnover, what is back pay.
How to Write a Resignation Letter (With Samples!)
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While this isn’t the first step of quitting your job (that would be sitting down with your boss to give two weeks’ notice —read more on having that “I quit” conversation ), it’s an important one. The official document you submit to your higher-ups and HR will set the tone for the rest of your time at this job—as well as your relationship moving forward. So it’s worth spending a little time making this two weeks’ notice letter solid and polished.
To help you out, here’s a step-by-step resignation letter template to use.
Read More: 40 Templates to Help You Handle Your Toughest Work Emails
Part 1 The Basics of a Resignation Letter
There’s no need to sugarcoat or get creative in the beginning; just state the position you’re resigning from and the effective date. While you probably shared with your boss your reasons for leaving, you don’t need to describe them here—keeping it simple is perfectly fine.
Dear [Your Boss’ Name],
Please accept this letter as formal notification that I am resigning from my position as [position title] with [Company Name]. My last day will be [your last day—usually two weeks from the date you give notice].
Part 2 The Thank You
Next, it’s always a good idea to thank your employer for the opportunity, describing some of the key things you’ve enjoyed and learned on the job. And yes, this is true even if you’re thrilled to be leaving. Remember—you may need these people for a reference down the line, and leaving things on a good note will leave a lasting (positive) impression.
Thank you so much for the opportunity to work in this position for the past [amount of time you’ve been in the role]. I’ve greatly enjoyed and appreciated the opportunities I’ve had to [a few of your favorite job responsibilities], and I’ve learned [a few specific things you’ve learned on the job], all of which I will take with me throughout my career.
Part 3 The Hand-off
Finally, state your willingness to help out with the transition. You don’t need to go into great detail (and definitely don’t promise anything you can’t deliver), but a couple of lines stating that you’ll ensure a smooth wrap-up of your duties will show that you’re in the game until the very end.
During my last two weeks, I’ll do everything possible to wrap up my duties and train other team members. Please let me know if there’s anything else I can do to aid during the transition.
I wish the company continued success, and I hope to stay in touch in the future.
[Your Name]
Part 4 Example Resignation Letters
Want to put this all together and see what it looks like in practice? We’ve written a couple letter of resignation samples for you to work off of.
Dear Mr. Don Cohen,
Please accept this letter as formal notification that I am resigning from my position as Account Executive with Marketing Media. My last day will be Thursday, March 2.
Thank you so much for the opportunity to work in this position for the past six years. I’ve greatly enjoyed and appreciated the opportunities I’ve had to grow our sales team and pipeline, be a part of creating a great product, and work with my fellow colleagues, and I’ve learned so much about marketing strategy and the digital media space, which I will certainly take with me throughout my career.
I’ll do everything possible to wrap up my duties and train other team members over the next two weeks. Please let me know if there’s anything else I can do to help during this transition.
Sincerely, Anne Acharya
Dear Ms. Fran Braden,
I’m writing to give my formal notice that I’ll be leaving my role as Office Manager for Larry and Keets Financial Partners on July 31.
I’ve recently received an offer to serve as an executive assistant at a small startup, and after careful consideration I’m excited to explore this new path in my career journey.
I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunities I’ve been provided working on the Operations team for the past four years. It’s been a wonderful experience to work for such a great company and help in solving Larry and Keets’ mission to provide better financial support for older employees.
Please let me know if I can be of any assistance during this transition. Thank you for all your guidance. I wish you all the best, and look forward to keeping in touch.
Sincerely, George Lin
Obviously, feel free to adjust this a bit based on your experience and your company culture, then submit it via the typical procedures at your company.
Sure, it may sit in the depths of HR until the end of time, but you can be sure of two things: One, your former boss (and future reference) will read it and be impressed. And two, if you ever decide to come back to your company (hey, it happens), it’s a very good thing that last thing on file is a great, professionally written letter of resignation.
Happy quitting !
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To carbon copy a letter today, simply note cc: below the final signature line with a list of other letter recipients, then print out multiple copies of the letter and send a copy to each listed recipient. For a blind carbon copy, do not lis...
A letter of resignation should be addressed to the employee’s manager or immediate supervisor. At the top of the letter, the employee should indicate the current date of the letter, the manager’s name, title, company information and address...
The definition of a friendly letter is an informal written correspondence with someone to whom the writer has a relationship. Usually a friendly letter goes to a family member or friend, and the tone is familiar and relaxed.
Keep a copy of the email for yourself – this will serve as proof of
Key Pieces to Include in Your Resignation Letter · A sentence stating your intent to resign from your position · The fact that you're giving two-
Keep your letter short. A resignation letter should be simple, brief, focused, and to the point. There is no need to elaborate on your reason
cc [Names for copies]
This follows a traditional letter format.
What to Include in a Resignation Letter · Keep it short and to the point. There's no reason to draw this letter out beyond a single page.
It has been a pleasure to work with you at [company] for the past [length of time]. I am writing to inform you that I am resigning from my position as [position]
Tips for Writing a Resignation Letter · Be direct and to the point – mention that you are quitting in the first paragraph (or even the first
Resignation letters typically include 3-4 paragraphs with a timeframe for your departure, your reasons for leaving the job, and a final thank
What should I include in my resignation letter? · Your full name and position at the company. · An introduction paragraph stating your intention to resign. · The
Please accept this letter as formal notification that I am resigning from my position as [position title] with [Company Name]. My last day will