You've accepted a new job — congratulations. Now you need to resign from your current one. A clear, professional resignation letter protects your reputation, records your notice date, and keeps the door open for references later. Here's how to write one, with templates.
Before you write it
- Get your new offer in writing. Don't resign on a verbal promise.
- Check your contract for your notice period and any rules on how notice must be given.
- Tell your manager first, ideally face to face or on a call, then send the letter the same day.
What to include
- The date
- A clear statement that you are resigning, and your job title
- Your notice period and your expected last working day
- A short thank-you
- An offer to help with the handover
- Your name and signature
That's it. A resignation letter doesn't need to explain why you're leaving or mention your new employer.
Template 1: Simple and professional
[Date]
Dear [Manager's name],
Please accept this letter as formal notice of my resignation from my position as [Job Title] at [Company]. In line with my [notice period] notice period, my last working day will be [date].
Thank you for the opportunities I've had during my time here. I'll do everything I can to ensure a smooth handover of my responsibilities over the coming weeks.
Kind regards,
[Your name]
Template 2: Warmer, for a good relationship
Dear [Manager's name],
I'm writing to let you know that I've decided to resign from my role as [Job Title]. My last day will be [date], in line with my notice period.
This wasn't an easy decision. I've learned a great deal here, especially [one specific thing], and I'm grateful for your support. I'm happy to help train my replacement and prepare handover notes before I leave.
I hope we can stay in touch.
Best wishes,
[Your name]
Template 3: Short notice or special circumstances
Dear [Manager's name],
Please accept my resignation from my role as [Job Title]. Due to [personal circumstances / a brief reason, only if you want to share], I would like to request that my last working day be [date]. I understand this is shorter than my contractual notice period and I'm happy to discuss how we can manage the handover.
Thank you for your understanding.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
Only ask for a shorter notice period if you're prepared for the answer to be no.
What to leave out
- Complaints about your manager, colleagues or salary
- Details about your new salary or employer
- Emotional language you might regret
Your resignation letter goes into your personnel file. Keep it short and positive. If you want to give feedback, an exit interview is a better place for it.
After you resign
- Keep a copy of your letter and any acknowledgment
- Prepare handover notes for your work
- Confirm your final pay, unused leave and any end-of-service benefits
- Return company property and save personal files before your last day
- Thank colleagues and connect on LinkedIn — they may be your future references
Common questions
Should I resign by email or printed letter?
Follow your company's policy. Email is common; some employers require a signed letter. Either way, keep a copy.
What if my employer makes a counter-offer?
Think carefully about why you wanted to leave. A pay rise doesn't always fix the reasons you started looking.
Do I have to say why I'm leaving?
No. "For a new opportunity" is enough if you want to say anything at all.
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