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Sample Resignation Letter for Quitting Your Job

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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25 Effective Resignation Letter Examples With and Without a Reason

Whether you want to give a blunt or a nice formal notice, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ve listed a variety of resignation letter examples for different situations. 

The best scenario is to leave gracefully and keep a positive relationship with the company.

In contrast, some of you might only be thinking about quitting your job as soon as you can. 

So to make this as useful as possible, we’ve also included a brief analysis underneath each template covering some key points. 

Now, let’s dive right in. 

A Quick Note Before Getting to the List of Templates

Your resignation letter should be tailored to your situation. 

In our step-by-step guide on writing a resignation letter , we’ve established that you don’t need to specify your reasons for leaving. The most important thing is to inform them you’re quitting, and when you’re quitting. 

However, take inspiration from our samples listed. If any of them perfectly suit your needs, feel free to use it to send to your manager. 

Resignation Letter Examples Without a Reason 

Grateful resignation letter example.

This is short and sweet yet effective.

They’ve kept it straight to the point and mainly focused on what they’re grateful for as opposed to why they’re leaving. 

Thankful Resignation Letter Example 

Although this sample is short, the employee has shown they’re thankful. Besides the last paragraph, it’s because of their willingness to provide further support to make the transition easier. 

If you’d like to specify the date of resignation, you can make that clear in the first few sentences of your letter. 

Appreciative Resignation Letter Example 

This is another good example of specifying when you’re leaving in full transparency. 

It’s subtle but this time, the difference is that the letter revolves around their appreciation during their time of employment. To leave on a good note, let your managers know that you’ve had a positive experience with them and that you value the time you’ve spent together. 

As mentioned, you’re not obligated to state your reasons.

This is a simple resignation letter as it’s more direct and straight to the point. It works effectively for those of you who’d like to be more straightforward to your employers and notify them that you’re going to resign at the given date. 

Immediate Notice Resignation Letter for Personal Reasons 

Even if your intention is to resign immediately, you don’t need to specify your reasons. Here, they’ve kept it general and focused on their gratitude and willingness to offer support. 

Advance Notice Resignation Letter Example 

When you include details more specifically, it implies you genuinely valued the time and experiences you’ve had with them. For instance, stating the exact years you’ve worked together and what you valued the most. 

If you’ve worked with good colleagues, mention this as well to further show your appreciation. 

To sign off, the candidate sends them their best wishes and thanks them for all of their support.

One Month Notice Resignation Letter

The notice period is usually at least 1 week. It’s also common to send your resignation letter 14 days in advance. However, if you’ve been in your job for a significant amount of time, you might consider sending a one month notice resignation letter .  

Resignation Letter Examples for Different Reasons 

If you’re still around, it’s probably because you have your own circumstances for leaving that you’d like to bring up. Or it could be that you want to share your own thoughts and give some feedback.

Either way, below you’ll find a range of resignation letters with valid reasons for leaving. 

New Job Resignation Letter

Found a new job? Let your employers know why you’re going for it.

In this case, that’s because of the commute and travel time, which has an impact on work-life balance. This is one important aspect to consider before accepting your next job opportunity .

In another similar situation such as relocation, it’s entirely understandable.

Family Circumstances Resignation Letter

Despite leaving because of family reasons, the resignation letter projects a positive tone of voice. They’ve shown their appreciation and given their contact details so that they could get in touch at any time necessary. 

To further reinforce positivity, they’ve let their employers know that they’re open to further assistance to ease the transition. 

This template also works for those of you resigning because of the following:

• Maternity leave
• Mental health
• Returning to school

Career Growth Resignation Letter

The career growth resignation letter refers to your development in your professional journey. 

Before moving on, acknowledge the things you’ve been through and the opportunities you were given. To make it heartfelt, think about your word choices. For instance, here they’ve used phrases like:

• I have been honored…
• My decision is not one I have taken lightly…
• I deeply appreciate…  

Personal Health Issue Resignation Letter

Like some of our previous examples, you don’t need to go in-depth, especially if it’s a personal health issue resignation letter . 

And to confirm it’s not a career break, mention that you’ll be continuing elsewhere. 

Retirement Notice Resignation Letter

For retirement notice resignation letters , use the word retire rather than resign. Then, you can show your gratitude throughout the main body of your letter. 

Work Break Resignation Letter

Unlike the other examples, the work break resignation letter template is more sincere and personal. Remember that your managers and employers are human too, so they’ll understand where you’re trying to come from.

If your time of employment was positive, don’t be afraid to show some emotion. The only general rule is to keep it professional. 

Resignation Letters for Negative Reasons

Almost 50% of employees stated in a survey that discrimination has been an issue in the workplace. 

It’s unfortunate but it's still a problem in the modern work environment. 

As managers are usually aiming to improve the company culture, honesty would be the best policy. So at the very least, they’ll take your input into account and do what they can to prevent your negative experiences from happening again to future candidates. 

Job Dissatisfaction Resignation Letter

Not happy with your job overall? Use this job dissatisfaction resignation letter template.

To show that you’ve been thoughtful, it’s worth mentioning how you’ve been thinking about your options. 

No Opportunity Resignation Letter

In the no opportunity resignation letter , the worker acknowledges the value they’ve got from working with the company. Next, they simply state the reason for their resignation. 

Unethical Workplace Resignation Letter

Instead of starting with the positives, the unethical workplace resignation letter immediately points out why they’re resigning. You can also state how it’s made you feel and how it’s affected your performance. 

Unfair Treatment Resignation Letter

The unfair treatment resignation letter is quite long. Although the reason for leaving is a negative one, they still recognize the positive. Rather than leaving it at that, they’ve explained how and why their personal growth and career development have been limited. 

Resignation Letters for Different Job Positions

Now, we’ll go through samples of resignation letters for different job positions. 

Graphic Designer Resignation Letter

In this graphic designer resignation letter , the worker apologizes. It’s not an essential step but it’s okay to do depending on the situation and how well you got on together.

Nurse Resignation Letter 

The nurse resignation letter expresses sincerity. They show their appreciation for what the company has done for them. It also focuses on why they’re unhappy with the job and how they’ve decided to move forward. 

Receptionist Resignation Letter

One way of structuring this is to start positive before getting to the main point. That’s what this receptionist resignation letter has done like many others. 

Another key point is explaining your reasons. You don’t have to inform them of every single detail if you don’t want to. When you pursue a new opportunity, it’s understandable. There are benefits in being fully transparent. 

Retail Assistant Resignation Letter

Assuming you had a good experience, reminisce about your favorite moments. The retail assistant resignation letter does this by mentioning two things. One is the impact of their employment. Two, how they feel about what the company has done for them. 

Teacher Resignation Letter

In the teacher resignation letter example, it’s a sudden change. They’ve taken this aspect into account by bringing it up and letting them know that they’re available to help. 

Aside from reminiscing about the good things, send them your best wishes. 

Resignation Letter for Returning to Education

Not everyone is looking to resign because of a better job opportunity. Some of you might consider quitting to complete your education and get your qualifications. 

See below for examples.

Bachelor’s Degree Resignation Letter

Going to university is commendable. It boosts your theoretical and academic knowledge. 

Throughout this bachelor’s degree resignation letter , they show the company how much they’re thankful. Moreover, it's written in a supportive tone as they’re willing to help to make the transition smooth.

Master’s Degree Resignation Letter

The format of the master’s degree resignation letter could be used for other educational levels too. On top of telling them their reason for leaving transparently in the first paragraph, it’s followed by an appreciative tone. 

PhD Resignation Letter

The PhD resignation letter doesn’t go into detail about why they’re choosing to pursue a doctoral degree. Your reason can be kept as simple as this without having to go further. 

MBA Study Resignation Letter

The MBA study resignation letter adds more information about why they’re leaving. In this particular sample, it comes off as a bit personal because they’ve stated that the opportunity to study has been a long-term dream. 

Before signing off, they send the company their best wishes. 

More Simple Resignation Letters for Different Scenarios 

Was there an example on this list that matched the scenario you’re in? 

If not, that’s okay. We have hundreds more ready-to-use templates in our resignation letter library here . 

Another option is to follow the same structure of a sample you resonated with the most. So that could mean keeping your reasons broad and focusing more on the positive things. Or it could mean specifying your reasons and focusing more on your own experiences. Or it might be something else. 

Write an Effective Resignation Letter Automatically

All you have to do is enter a few details. This includes:

• Company name
• Job position/title
• Last day at work
• Reason for resignation (optional)
• Signature (optional)

From there, Rezi’s AI writer will generate a complete resignation letter for you. Get started now by signing up below for free. 

Explore Rezi 🔥 Comes with 5,000 AI Credits, and is free forever, no credit card required.

Hopefully, you found this article helpful and the path forward is more clear. 

After submitting your resignation letter, you might be in need of updating your resume and cover letter for your next job application. In which case, do feel free to check out some of our other resources that could help you speed up the process. 

Here are a few places to start: 

• 50+ cover letter examples with a brief analysis
• A step-by-step guide to writing an engaging professional summary
• 74+ resume skills that are in demand in the workforce

Check out related Resignation Letter posts

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How to write a resignation letter (templates & tips)

Learn how to write a professional resignation letter with our step-by-step guide and easy to use templates.

Resigning from a job can be a difficult decision, and writing a resignation letter can be equally challenging. However, writing a resignation letter is an essential step in the resignation process, and it's crucial to get it right. In this article, we'll explore tips and examples for writing a resignation letter that will leave a positive impression on your employer and ensure a smooth transition out of your role.

What is a resignation letter?

A resignation letter is a written document that formally notifies an employer of an employee's intent to leave their job. The letter typically includes information such as the employee's last day of work and a brief explanation for their departure. The letter may also express gratitude for the opportunities provided by the employer, as well as an offer to assist in the transition process.

Resignation letters are an important part of the employee-employer relationship and can help ensure a smooth transition while maintaining a positive professional relationship. They should be written in a respectful and professional tone, and be submitted directly to the employee's supervisor or manager. A well-written resignation letter can also serve as a record of the employee's departure and the terms of their resignation.

How to write a resignation letter

Here are the steps you can follow to write a resignation letter:

• Start with a proper greeting: Address your resignation letter to your immediate supervisor or manager. Use their name and formal title, such as “Dear Mr. Smith” or “Dear Dr. Johnson.”
• State your intention to resign: Clearly state in the opening paragraph that you are resigning from your position. Be direct and to the point.
• Provide the date of your last working day: In the same paragraph, provide the date of your last working day. This will give your employer time to find a replacement or make other arrangements.
• Offer to help with the transition: In the next paragraph, offer to help with the transition process. This can include training your replacement or helping to wrap up any projects you are working on. This shows your employer that you are committed to making the transition as smooth as possible.
• Thank your employer: In the final paragraph, express your gratitude to your employer for the opportunity to work for the company. You can also mention any positive experiences or opportunities you had while working there.
• Close with a professional sign-off: End the letter with a professional sign-off, such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards.” Sign your name underneath the sign-off.
• Proofread and edit: Before sending the resignation letter, proofread it carefully for grammar and spelling errors. Make sure the tone is professional and that there are no typos or mistakes.
• Deliver the letter: Print out the resignation letter and deliver it in person to your immediate supervisor or manager. If that’s not possible, email it to them and follow up with a phone call to confirm that they received it.

Resignation letter Templates

Template 1:.

[Your Name]

[Your Address]

[City, State ZIP Code]

[Email Address]

[Supervisor's Name]

[Job Title]

[Company Name]

Dear [Supervisor'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].

I want to take this opportunity to thank you and the entire team for the valuable experience and support provided during my time at [Company Name]. It has been an honor to work with such a talented and dedicated group of individuals.

I am committed to ensuring a smooth transition and am willing to assist with the handover process in any way I can. Please let me know how I can best support the team during this time.

Thank you again for everything.

Template 2:

It is with regret that I am writing to inform you of my decision to resign from my position as [Job Title] at [Company Name]. My last day of work will be [Date].

I appreciate the opportunities and experiences that I have gained while working at [Company Name]. I am grateful for the support and encouragement provided by you and the entire team during my tenure.

Please let me know if there is anything I can do to ensure a smooth transition for my replacement. I am happy to assist in any way I can.

Template 3:

Please accept this letter as formal notification of my resignation from my position as [Job Title] at [Company Name]. My last day of work will be [Date].

I have enjoyed working with the team at [Company Name] and appreciate the opportunities provided during my time here. However, I have decided to pursue a new career opportunity that aligns with my personal and professional goals.

I am committed to ensuring a smooth transition and am available to assist in any way possible during the handover process. Please let me know how I can best support the team during this time.

Resignation Letter Tips

Tip #1: be clear and concise.

Your resignation letter should be clear and concise. You should start by clearly stating that you are resigning and the date of your last day of work. Keep in mind that your employer may need time to find a replacement for your role, so it's essential to give them ample notice. Generally, two weeks' notice is considered standard, but you may want to give more notice if you have a particularly important or senior role.

Tip #2: Keep it professional

While it may be tempting to vent your frustrations or grievances in your resignation letter, it's essential to keep it professional. Your resignation letter should be polite and respectful, even if you are leaving because of problems with your employer or colleagues. You don't want to burn any bridges or damage your reputation, so make sure your letter is professional and polite.

Tip #3: Express gratitude

If you have had a positive experience with your employer or colleagues, it's important to express your gratitude in your resignation letter. Thank them for the opportunities they have given you and the experiences you have had while working for them. Even if you are leaving because of problems or issues, it's still essential to be gracious and polite.

Tip #4: Offer to help with the transition

If possible, offer to help with the transition. This could include training your replacement, creating handover notes or documentation, or providing a detailed update on your current projects and responsibilities. Offering to help with the transition shows that you are committed to ensuring a smooth handover and that you care about your employer and colleagues.

Tip #5: Address to your immediate supervisor or manager

This will ensure that your resignation is handled appropriately and professionally. Additionally, it will show that you respect your supervisor or manager and that you have given them the courtesy of being the first to know about your resignation. By doing so, you can maintain a positive relationship with your employer and potentially secure a good reference for future employment.

Tip #6: Keep your reasons for resigning vague

This can help prevent any potential conflict and keep your resignation letter professional. When writing your resignation letter, you want to avoid any negativity or drama, which could affect your professional reputation. Therefore, it's better to keep your reasons for leaving brief and to the point. If you do wish to elaborate, you can do so during an exit interview or in person.

Tip #7: Offer to help with the transition

This demonstrates your commitment to your employer and can help ensure a smooth transition out of your role. By offering to assist with the transition process, you show that you care about your employer, colleagues, and the work you've done. This can go a long way in maintaining a positive professional relationship with your employer and potentially open up future opportunities. Additionally, it can help you leave on good terms and ensure that your replacement has the necessary tools and resources to succeed in the role.

Tip #8: Keep a copy for your records

This can be helpful in case of any future issues or questions, and is a good record to have for your own files. It's important to keep a copy of your resignation letter for your own records, in case there are any questions or issues that arise after you've left your position. This can include things like proof of your notice period, details of your final salary or bonuses, and any agreements or promises made by your employer. Having a copy of your resignation letter can also help you remember key details and reflect on your career growth and experiences.

Tip #9: Be prepared for a counteroffer

While tempting, it's important to weigh your reasons for leaving against any potential counteroffer to ensure you're making the best decision for your career. A counteroffer can be an attractive proposition, but it's important to consider why you're leaving in the first place. If the issues you're experiencing are non-monetary, a counteroffer may not solve the underlying problem. Additionally, accepting a counteroffer can sometimes cause resentment or a lack of trust from your employer, as they may question your loyalty.

In conclusion, writing a resignation letter can be a challenging task, but it's essential to get it right. By following the tips outlined in this article and using the examples provided, you can write a resignation letter that will leave a positive impression on your employer and ensure a smooth transition out of your role.

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How to Write a Job Resignation Letter

Table of contents.

Regardless of the circumstances, resigning from a job is a significant life decision and should be taken seriously. Crafting and submitting a professional resignation letter is a crucial aspect of the resignation process and can leave a lasting impression on former and future employers. 

It’s crucial to understand what to include in a resignation letter and how to write it. We’ll outline what your letter of resignation should say and share resignation letter examples. 

What is a letter of resignation?

Employees should give their employer a formal job resignation letter when they decide to leave a position. Pat Roque, culture and career strategist at Rock On Success, described a job resignation letter as a formal notification of an employee’s exit strategy. 

“It is a required document that becomes part of your employee records,” Roque explained. “Think of it as your former company’s last chapter of your story.” 

Resignation letters generally inform the employer that you’re leaving and include an exit date. Despite your feelings about your job or boss, being professional, courteous and helpful provides closure and a positive path forward. 

“Always keep the door open, because you never know when you may want to return or even work with other colleagues in a future role elsewhere,” advised Roque.

James Rice, head of marketing at The Career Portal, said that although you will likely be expected to hand in a standard resignation letter, it is usually best to schedule a meeting with your boss to give them the letter and discuss your resignation in person. 

You may be asked to participate in an exit interview . If so, be specific and honest, but don’t use it as an opportunity to vent your pent-up frustrations. Staying professional and polite is key.

What your letter of resignation should say

Although the specific contents of your job resignation letter can be tailored to your position and company, a few basic elements should always be included:

• A neutral, professional tone: Use a neutral tone to inform your employer that you’re leaving. 
• Your end date: Provide your official end date – ideally, at least two weeks in advance.
• Help with the transition: Express your commitment to ensuring a smooth and easy transition, including availability to discuss your workload and status updates with your manager or successor or assist in the hiring process to fill your position.
• Gratitude for the opportunity: Find something nice to say, regardless of your differences with a colleague or how toxic the job or company culture may have become.
• Request for instructions (optional): If you aren’t yet aware of the exit protocol at your company, request specific instructions about final work commitments and processes. Some companies may ask you to leave immediately, while others may involve you in the transition. You may be asked to work from home and see HR to return your laptop on your last official day. 

Alex Twersky, co-founder of Resume Deli, says offering to help train a replacement, preparing the team for your departure and expressing gratitude are crucial elements of a job resignation letter. 

“Conjure up … the best time at your job, and have that image top of mind when you write your resignation letter,” advised Twersky. “Let your boss think they were great, even if they weren’t. [You might] get a good recommendation out of it.”

If you opt to provide a reason for leaving in your letter or during the conversation with your employer, be clear and positive. Focus on what you’re gaining from the change, not the circumstances that caused it. Whether you’re leaving to seek career growth or start a business , it’s imperative to be professional and formal. 

“Remember that people leave their jobs every day, and your manager will be used to the process,” said Rice. “If you are courteous and thoughtful when resigning from your job, you will make the process easier for everyone and set yourself on the right path for future success.” 

Putting in two weeks’ notice when leaving a position is courteous and a common practice. However, it isn’t legally required.

What your letter of resignation shouldn’t say

Knowing what not to say in a resignation letter is also critical. Many employees make the mistake of including too many personal details and emotional statements in their official letters. 

When writing an official resignation letter, omit the following: 

• Extensive details on why you’re leaving: Although you may feel the need to explain your reason for leaving, extensive details aren’t necessary in your resignation letter. For example, if you’re moving on to a new employer, you don’t have to share that it has a better product, service, working environment, salary or benefits package . Keep your language professional and positive, and keep your letter short and simple.
• What you hated about the job: A resignation letter is not the place to air your grievances or speak poorly of your soon-to-be former company or co-workers. Roque advises letting go of anger before submitting the letter and having a neutral party review it to ensure it’s appropriately polite and succinct.
• Emotional statements: Use a calm, professional tone in your letter. An aggressive or otherwise emotional letter will only come back to hurt you. Twersky advises that even if you’ve been overworked and resentful, don’t quit angry. Avoid using phrases like “I feel” or “I think” unless positive statements follow them. 

When writing your letter, try not to burn any bridges; you may need help from these individuals in the future. 

“Your employers may be providing you with a reference, or if you are staying in the same field, you may still network in the same circles or want to return in the future,” Rice explained. “It is always good to keep in touch with your old colleagues, and with social networks like LinkedIn, it may be hard to avoid them.” 

When asking for professional references from former managers, seek express permission and give them plenty of notice. Never use someone as a reference without permission and a heads-up.

Resignation letter examples

Here are two resignation letter templates you can fill in with your personal details. You’re not required to include your reason for resigning in your letter, but some people prefer to do so. We’ve included both approaches in these samples. 

Resignation letter template 1

[Current date]  

Dear [Supervisor’s name],  

Please accept this letter as my formal resignation from my role as [Title]. My last day with [Company] will be [End date].  

To ease the transition after my departure, I am happy to assist you with any training tasks during my final weeks on the job. I intend to leave thorough instructions and up-to-date records for my replacement.  

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for the knowledge and experience I have gained by working here. I am very grateful for the time I have spent on our team and the professional relationships I’ve built. It’s been a pleasure working for you, and I hope our paths will cross again in the future. 

Sincerely, 

[Your signature and printed name]  

Resignation letter template 2

[Current date]

Dear [Supervisor’s name],

I am writing to submit my formal notice of resignation from my role as [Title] at [Company]. I have accepted another position that more closely aligns with my skill set. My last day will be [end date]. 

I would like to express my appreciation for the experience I have gained at [Company]. I am grateful for the learning opportunities I have received in my time here, as well as the professional relationships I’ve developed with my co-workers. 

Please let me know how I can make this transition as easy as possible. I am happy to assist with training on any tasks and will strive to ensure a smooth changeover for ongoing projects. 

Thank you for the opportunity to grow in this role. It has been a pleasure working with you. 

[Your signature and printed name]

Benefits of providing a letter of resignation

Since some companies require employees to turn in formal notice when they resign, checking your employee handbook before saying your goodbyes is crucial. But even if a company doesn’t have official requirements about submitting a formal resignation letter, doing so is always best practice for the following reasons: 

• A letter of resignation makes you look professional. At the very least, handing in a formal resignation letter makes you look good. It sets the tone for your departure as professional and courteous, reducing the possibility of hard feelings or uncertainty. It also allows you to officially thank your employer and offer assistance with the transition process if needed.
• A letter of resignation provides a paper trail. A formal resignation letter also serves as a paper trail. Some companies may require a specific amount of notice when leaving a position; your resignation letter can serve as physical proof that you provided ample notice. If there are legal disagreements about things like final paycheck disbursement or the last day of employee benefits, you can look to your resignation letter as support for your case.

Money is usually the primary reason employees quit . Other reasons include a lack of advancement opportunities, a toxic workplace and childcare issues.

Close this chapter with a professional resignation letter 

As you wrap up your time in one role before moving on to the next, ending on a positive note is essential. Writing a clear, concise resignation letter without emotional statements ensures you’re following the correct protocol. A good resignation letter can also leave the door open for positive references from your former co-workers – you never know whose path you might cross. 

Resigning politely and respectfully is key to maintaining positive professional relationships at every stage of your career. 

Natalie Hamingson contributed to this article. Source interviews were conducted for a previous version of this article.

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