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A Perfect Resignation Letter [Templates]

Purpose of Resignation Letters

A resignation letter is a formal document that informs your employer of your decision to quit your job. It serves as a formal notice that you’re leaving the company and helps create a professional and smooth exit process. Writing a resignation letter can help maintain positive relationships with your employer, colleagues, and the company.

Timing of Resignation Letters

When considering quitting your job, it’s essential to respect the standard notice period for your specific role or industry, which is typically two weeks. Giving proper notice shows professionalism and allows your employer enough time to find a replacement or make arrangements for your departure. Write and submit your resignation letter early in the notice period.

 

Related: What Is a Notice Period?

Part 1How to Write a Resignation Letter

Formatting

When writing a resignation letter, it is important to use a standard business letter format. Start by including your personal contact information at the top, followed by the company address, and the date. Use a professional font, such as Times New Roman, with a 12-point size and single spacing.

Related: How to Start a Letter (and Mistakes to Avoid)

Content

Begin your letter by stating your intention to resign, and include the notice period you are giving (usually between two weeks and a month, depending on your industry). Be sure to mention the last day you plan to work.

In the body of the letter, you can express gratitude for the opportunities you have had with the company, and possibly highlight some positive aspects of your experience. Try to avoid any negative comments or criticism, as this will only create ill-will.

Before closing, offer your help during the transition period, if possible. End the letter with a polite and positive note.

Related: How to End an Email Professionally (Examples)

Part How to Leave on Good Terms

Positive Tone

Be diplomatic and emphasize that you’re grateful for the opportunities you’ve had during your time there. Avoid using negative language or criticizing your colleagues or the company.

Example 1: “I’ve enjoyed working on various projects and collaborating with my team over the past few years.”

Example 2: “Though my time at [Company] has come to an end, I will always value the experience and growth I have gained during my tenure.”

Thank You and Gratitude

Example 3: “Thank you for the support and encouragement during my time at [Company], it has been invaluable.”

Example 4: “I am deeply appreciative of the knowledge and skills I have acquired while working with my colleagues and the management team.”

Offering Assistance

Offer assistance during your transition period to ensure a smooth handover. This may include sharing project updates with your replacement or offering to be available for questions after your departure.

Example 5: “During my final two weeks, I will do my best to ensure that all ongoing projects are handed over smoothly and with minimal disruption.”

Example 6: “If you need any assistance finding a suitable replacement, please do not hesitate to reach out via email or phone. I’ll be more than happy to help.”

Templates for Various Types of Resignation Letters

Part 3Standard Resignation Letter Templates

Sample Resignation Letter 1

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, and Zip Code]
[Date]

[Employer’s Name]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State, and Zip Code]

Dear [Employer’s Name],

I am writing to formally resign from my position at [Company Name], effective [last working day, usually two weeks from the date of the letter].

I have enjoyed working at [Company Name] and appreciate the support and opportunities I have been given during my time here. I have learned a lot and am grateful for the experiences that have contributed to my professional growth.

I will do my best to ensure a seamless transition for my colleagues during the remainder of my time here. Please let me know how I can be of assistance.

Thank you for the understanding and the guidance provided during my tenure. I wish [Company Name] continued success in the future.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

 

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Sample Resignation Letter 2

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I am writing to formally resign from my position as [Job Title] at [Company Name], effective [last day of work]. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here and am grateful for the opportunities and growth I have experienced.

Working with you and the team has been a true pleasure, and I am confident that the skills and knowledge I have gained will serve me well in my future endeavors.

Please let me know how I can be of assistance during the transition period, and I will do my best to ensure a smooth handover.

Thank you for your understanding, and I wish you and the company the best of success in the future.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

Sample Resignation Letter 3

Dear HR Department,

I am writing to submit my formal resignation as [Job Title] at [Company Name], with my last day of work on [Date]. This decision was not easy, but I believe it is an appropriate step for my personal and professional growth.

During my time at [Company Name], I have had the pleasure of working with a fantastic group of colleagues who helped create a positive work environment. I am grateful for the opportunities and support I have received from the company.

To ensure a seamless transition, please let me know what steps I can take to help during this period – whether it be training a replacement or completing any outstanding work.

Again, I appreciate the experiences I have had at [Company Name] and wish the company continued success.

Warm regards,
[Your Name]

 

Sample Resignation Letter 4

Dear [Employer’s Name],

I am writing to announce my resignation from my role at [Company Name], effective two weeks from today’s date, [last working day].

My decision to resign was not an easy one, but after careful consideration, I believe it is in the best interest of my career and personal growth. I am thankful for the experiences and opportunities [Company Name] has provided during my time as [Your Position].

I will do everything in my power to make the transition process smooth for my teammates and the company. If there is anything specific you would like me to do during this period, please do not hesitate to let me know.

Thank you for your understanding, support, and friendship during my time here. I wish you and the team continued success, and I look forward to staying in touch.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Resignation Letter 5

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I hope this letter finds you well. I am submitting my formal resignation from my position at [Company], with my last day being [your last day, typically two weeks from the date of the letter].

During my time here, I have truly enjoyed the opportunities to grow and learn, and for that, I am grateful. As I move on to pursue new challenges, I would like to assure you that I will do everything possible to ensure a smooth transition for the team.

Please let me know if there is any information or assistance you need from me during my remaining time with the company. I appreciate the support you have extended to me, and I wish [Company] every success in the future.

Warm regards,

[Your Name]

Part 4Sample Resignation Letter with a Reason for Leaving

Resignation letter also provides an opportunity to document your reasons for leaving and the terms of your departure.

Example 1: Relocating to another city, a resignation letter can help explain your reason for leaving.

Example 2: Pursuing a new career opportunity or following a personal dream can be another reason to include in your resignation letter.

Template (General)

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I am writing to inform you that I am resigning from my position as [Your Position] at [Company Name]. My last day of work will be [Date].

I have enjoyed my time working at [Company Name] and appreciate the opportunities and experiences that I have gained during my tenure. However, after much consideration, I have decided to resign due to [Reason for Leaving].

I want to thank you and the entire team for the support and guidance that you have provided me during my time here. I am grateful for the professional relationships that I have built and the skills that I have developed.

I will ensure that the transition process is smooth and that all of my responsibilities are completed before my departure. Please let me know if there is anything else that I can do to assist in the transition period.

Thank you again for the opportunity to work at [Company Name]. I wish the company continued success in the future.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Part 5Phrases to Explain Resignation Due to a New Career Opportunity

  • “It is with mixed emotions that I submit my resignation, as I have been offered a new career opportunity that will allow me to take on new challenges and achieve my long-term career aspirations.”
  • “After careful consideration, I have decided to pursue a new career opportunity that aligns more closely with my career goals.”
  • “I have enjoyed working with this company, but I have been presented with a new career opportunity that I cannot pass up.”
  • “I have decided to pursue a new career opportunity that will allow me to further develop my career aspirations.”
  • “I have enjoyed my time with this company, but I have been presented with a new career opportunity that will allow me to take my
  • career to the next level.”
  • “After careful consideration, I have decided to resign from my current position in order to pursue a new career opportunity that will challenge me in new ways.”
  • “I have made the difficult decision to resign from my current role as I have been offered an exciting new opportunity that will allow me to expand my skill set and grow as a professional.”

 

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Part 6Resignation Letter Template (New Career Opportunity)

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I regret to inform you that I am resigning from my position at [Company Name], effective [last working day]. As much as I have enjoyed working with the team, I have accepted an opportunity that aligns better with my long-term career goals.

I appreciate the experiences and growth I have gained during my time here, and I’m grateful for your support and guidance. If there’s anything I can do to facilitate the transition, please do not hesitate to ask.

Thank you for the time and effort invested in my professional development. I wish you and the company great success in the future.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Part 7Sample Phrases to Explain Resignation Due to Relocation

  • “I regret to inform you that I am resigning from my position due to my upcoming relocation to another state/country.”
  • “It is with a heavy heart that I inform you of my resignation, which is a result of my relocation to a different city.”
  • “I have to tender my resignation due to the fact that I am relocating to a new city to be closer to my family.”
  • “It is with sadness that I submit my resignation, which is a result of my recent relocation to another state/country.”
  • “I am resigning from my position, as I am relocating to a new city for personal reasons.”
  • “I have no choice but to resign, as my relocation to another state/country makes it impossible for me to continue in my current position.”
  • “I am resigning from my job due to my upcoming relocation to a different city, which is a personal decision.”

Part 8Resignation Letter Template (Relocation)

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I am writing to formally submit my resignation from my position as [Your Position] at [Company Name]. My last day of work will be [Date], as I have decided to relocate to [City, State] for personal reasons.

I am grateful for the opportunities and experience that [Company Name] has provided me during my time here. I have learned a great deal from my colleagues and have grown both professionally and personally. I am proud to have been a part of such a dynamic and successful company.

I will do everything in my power to ensure a smooth transition during my remaining time here. I am happy to assist in training my replacement and completing any outstanding projects before my departure.

Thank you for your understanding and support during this time. Please let me know if there is anything else I can do to help make the transition as seamless as possible.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Part 9Sample Resignation Letter Mentioning Training Replacement

 

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I am writing to formally notify you of my resignation from my position at [Company]. I have appreciated my time here and want to extend my gratitude for the opportunities you have provided. My last day will be [your last day, typically two weeks from the date of the letter].

To ensure a smooth transition, I am willing to help train my replacement or provide project updates. Please let me know how I can best assist during this time.

Once again, thank you for the experience I’ve gained while working at [Company]. I wish you and the team continued success.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

Part 10Short Notice Resignation Letter Template

In some situations, you may need to leave your job with little to no notice. A short notice resignation letter still maintains a professional tone but explains the circumstances that necessitate your immediate or near-immediate departure.

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Dear [Employer’s Name],

I regret to inform you that I must resign from my position as [Your Job Title] with [Company Name], effective immediately / on [Short Notice Date]. Due to unforeseen personal circumstances, I am unable to provide standard notice.

Please know that my decision to leave is not a reflection of my experience at [Company Name], and I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. If there’s anything I can do to help with the transition, please let me know.

Thank you for your understanding.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

Part 11Retirement Resignation Letter Template

A retirement resignation letter is written when you decide to leave the workforce to retire. This letter’s format is similar to a standard resignation letter but specifies that the departure is due to retirement.

Dear [Employer’s Name],

After careful consideration, I have decided to retire from my position as [Your Job Title] with [Company Name], effective [Last Day of Work]. Working at [Company Name] has been an incredible experience, and I’m grateful for the many opportunities to contribute and grow.

Please let me know how I can be of assistance during this transition period. I am happy to help train my successor and provide any necessary documentation.

Thank you for the support and encouragement during my time at [Company Name]. I wish you and the organization continued success in the future.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

Part 12Freelancer Resignation Letter Template

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I am writing to inform you that I will be completing my contract as a freelance [Your Role] with [Company Name] as of [Last Working Day]. I appreciate the opportunities and the flexibility I have experienced while working with your team.

If there is anything I can do to help finalize projects or transition work to someone else, please let me know.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

Frequently Asked Questions

What should be included in a resignation letter?

A resignation letter should include your name, current position, company name, and the date. State your intention to resign, and mention your last working day. You may also express your gratitude for the opportunities received and offer your assistance during the transition period.

 

How do you format a resignation letter?

Use a simple and straightforward format. Begin with your contact information, followed by the date, your manager’s contact information, a salutation, the body of the letter, and a closing line. Example:
[Your Name]
[Address]
[City, State, Zip]

[Date]

[Manager’s Name]
[Company Name]
[Address]
[City, State, Zip]

Dear [Manager’s Name],

[Body of the Letter]

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

What are key elements of a professional resignation?

Key elements include providing notice, expressing gratitude, offering to help during the transition, maintaining a professional tone, and keeping it concise. Also, avoid discussing any negative experiences or criticism of the company.

How do you tailor a resignation letter for different job types?

Adjust your resignation letter based on your job type and industry by focusing on the most relevant aspects of your experience and the transferable skills you’ve gained.

How do you maintain a positive tone in a resignation?

Focus on the opportunities and experiences you’ve had, express gratitude, and offer assistance during the transition. Keep the letter brief and professional, avoiding negativity.

How can a resignation letter affect future job prospects?

Resigning professionally and gracefully can help maintain relationships with your former employer, which might be valuable for networking and future job prospects. A poorly written resignation letter may give your previous employer a negative impression of you and hinder future opportunities. That’s why it is essential to maintain a positive and professional tone.

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