Resignation Letter Template
A Resignation Letter informs an employer that you plan to leave your position and end your employment with them. It typically includes the date of your last day of employment, and a short explanation of why you’re leaving.
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Resignation Letter Key Takeways
- Clearly state that you’re resigning and give the exact date of your last working day.
- Keep your letter short, professional, and positive.
- You can choose to include a brief explanation for why you’re leaving.
- Always thank your employer and mention something positive to protect future references.
- Offer basic help with the handover (documentation, status notes, training) to leave on good terms.
What Is a Resignation Letter?
With a Resignation Letter, you can officially give your employer notice that you plan to leave your position, and terminate employment.
It’s a short legal document confirming your intention to resign on a specific date. You can also choose to briefly explain why you’re leaving.
Sharing this letter early lets your team plan the handover. They can start arranging coverage or recruitment with plenty of notice, which can also have the benefit of helping you leave on cordial terms with your employer.
Sample Resignation Letter
If you want to draft your own Resignation Letter, it can be helpful to look at an example. Here is a quick view of what your letter should look like:

Finished Resignation Letter Example
Below is an example of a finished Resignation Letter. You can use it as a guide when writing yours:
Jordan Lee 415 Liberty Avenue · Boston, MA 02116 (617) 555-0134 · jordan.lee@email.com September 10, 2025
Dana Ruiz Acme Analytics 200 Harbor Way Boston, MA 02127
Dear Dana,
Please accept this letter as formal notice of my resignation from my role as Senior Data Analyst at Acme Analytics. My last working day will be September 24, 2025.
I'm grateful for the projects and mentorship over the past three years. During the next two weeks, I will document open work, share status notes, and support knowledge transfer to help make sure there's a smooth transition.
Thank you for the opportunity to be part of the team. I wish Acme continued success.
Sincerely, Jordan Lee
Different Resignation Letter Types
Immediate Resignation Letter
Sometimes life can’t wait. Use a brief, professional note that states you’re leaving at once, gives a short reason, and confirms you’ll return any company property and share any important handover info.
Standard Two Weeks Resignation Letter
This is the standard amount of notice required in most workplaces. It states the date of your last day of work, and lets you thank your manager and offer to help with the transition.
Extended Notice Resignation Letter
If you’re in a management position or niche role, you often need to provide 3 to 4 weeks notice. In this version of the document, you can briefly state a light transition plan, such as what you’ll document, and how you’ll be reachable until your end date.
Teacher Resignation Letter
Resigning as a teacher can be more complex, due to term cycles. You can note the relevant dates, and flag continuity steps (lesson plans, coverage) with a Teacher Resignation Letter.
How To Write a Strong Resignation Letter
There are a few easy steps you can take when writing your letter to increase the chances of having a cordial relationship with your ex-employer moving forward:
| Tip | What to do |
|---|---|
| Keep the tone professional | Use polite, neutral words. No slang. Get names and titles right. Add a quick “thank you.” |
| Focus on the positive | Talk about the handover and your last day. Don’t dwell on reasons. Remember: HR may keep this on file. |
| Be clear and complete | Write simple, full sentences. Be brief. Say what’s needed, with no long stories. |
| Aim for one page | One page max. Use a clean 10–12 pt font (Arial, Calibri, Times New Roman). Include the essentials. |
What Should Be Included in a Resignation Letter
There are a few key details that should be in every Resignation Letter. These include the following:
- Clear statement that you’re resigning: This creates an unambiguous record for HR.
- Notice start and final working day: Specify exact dates, so the transition can be scheduled.
- Brief reason (optional): Keep it general (e.g., a new opportunity, relocation).
- Thank-you statement: Acknowledges opportunities and preserves relationships.
- Offer to support the handover: Mention documentation, status notes, or training help.
Choosing to resign from your position is a big decision, and usually requires a lot of reflection. However, if you resign following the above advice, you can move on to better opportunities while also maintaining a cordial and professional relationship with your previous employer.
Remember, stay polite and professional throughout the letter, and sincerely thank your employer for the opportunity to work with them. Offer to help with the transition and show your willingness to leave on a positive note.
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