Work & Career · free generator
Resignation Letter
You've decided. Maybe the new offer is signed, maybe you've simply had enough - either way, the hardest part now is the two paragraphs standing between you and a clean exit. A resignation letter isn't the place to explain, vent, or apologize: HR files it, your manager skims it, and a future background check may reference it. What matters is that it's dated, names your last day, and stays gracious enough to protect the reference you might need in five years. Fill in the six blanks below and you'll have a letter that does exactly that - nothing more, nothing less. Copy it, email it, or print it and hand it over in person.
[Date]
[Your manager's name]
[Company name]
Dear [Your manager's name],
Please accept this letter as formal notice of my resignation from my position as [Your job title] at [Company name]. My last day of employment will be [Your last day of work].
I am grateful for the opportunities I have had during my time here, and for the support and trust you and the team have shown me. The experience I have gained at [Company name] will stay with me throughout my career.
Between now and [Your last day of work], I am committed to making this transition as smooth as possible. I am glad to document my current responsibilities, hand over ongoing projects, and help train a colleague or my replacement. Please let me know how I can be most useful during this period.
Thank you for everything. I wish you and [Company name] continued success.
Sincerely,
[Your full name]
Three tips before you send
- Hand your notice to your manager before you tell anyone else at work - including work friends. Managers forgive resignations; they rarely forgive hearing about one secondhand.
- Keep a dated copy or the sent email. Your stated last day determines your final paycheck, unused PTO payout, and when benefits end.
- Don't list reasons or grievances in the letter. Save honest feedback for the exit interview, where it can't be stapled to your personnel file.
Questions people ask
Do I have to give a reason for resigning?
No. US employment is generally at-will, and a resignation letter only needs three things: a clear statement that you're resigning, your last day of work, and your name. Reasons are optional and usually better left out - anything you write becomes part of your employment record.
How much notice am I required to give?
Legally, usually none - but two weeks is the professional standard and protects your reference. Check your contract or employee handbook first: some roles require longer notice, and some bonus or equity agreements depend on how you leave.
Should I email my resignation letter or print it?
Do both if you can: tell your manager in person or by video call, then follow up with the letter by email so there's a timestamped record. Attaching it as a document or pasting it into the email body are both acceptable.
Related letters
Two Weeks' Notice Letter →
The standard, by-the-book notice - firm last day, smooth handoff, bridge intact.
Immediate Resignation Letter →
Resign today, professionally - no reasons, no groveling, a clean handover offer.
Reference Request Letter →
A gracious ask with an easy out - and an offer to send your resume and role details.
Job Offer Decline Letter →
Turns down the offer warmly in under 150 words - and keeps the door open.