You don’t have to give a reason when you resign, but under some circumstances, you may want to let your employer know why you’re moving on. A resignation letter is a brief, formal business letter that states your intent to leave, the date, your gratitude and offer of any assistance during the transition period. These letters demonstrate that you’ve left on good terms with your employer.
In order to compose the best resignation letter, it is recommended that you take some time to study how they are structured, by reading the samples below. No matter what your profession, banker, accountant, or professor, these samples can assist you in creating a professional, tasteful, and well-rounded resignation letter. Allow these samples to serve as your road map as you create your own unique letter of resignation.
Proper Resignation Letter Format
Consider your resignation letter an important part of you exist strategy. These letters are classified as professional business correspondence. As such, you are to format them using block format, with each section beginning at the left margin, single-spaced, with double-spacing in between sections. The overall feel of the letter should be professional, with the proper information included, such as dates and contact information. Depending on the type of letter you write, providing a reason for leaving is entirely up to you. The only time it is considered important, is if you are resigning immediately. Below is an example of the fundamental structure of a letter of resignation:
First Paragraph: This is where you announce your formal resignation from the company. Give your employer the date your resignation will take effective. Remember, always check with your employee handbook to ensure you are following company policy. If they ask for 2 weeks, you give them 2 weeks. If they ask for 1 month, you give them 1 month.
Second Paragraph: The second paragraph is where you express your gratitude for the kindness, support and opportunities you’ve received. Depending on the reason for leaving, you may also include your heartfelt regret with regards to leaving.
Third Paragraph: It is essential that you include how you may assist in the transition. This shows that you take responsibility for your actions, and part of that is helping to train your successor or helping to deal with clients.
Sample Resignation Letter Format
(Your Name)(Your Address)
(Your Contact Information)
(Double-spaced)
(Date)
(Double-spaced)
(Manager’s Name)
(Company Address)
(Manager’s Contact Information)
(Double-spaced)
(Dear Recipient Name: )
(Double-spaced),
This letter is in regard to my formal resignation from (Position Name), at (Company Name). This resignation will be effective two weeks from (Current Date).
I am sincerely grateful for the opportunities I was offered during my employment, at (Company Name). It is with heartfelt regret that I must leave my employment.
Please feel free to contact me if I may be of any assistance during this two week transition period. Thank you.
Best Regards,
(Four Spaces)
(Your Signature)
(Your Name)
Resignation Letter 2 Week Notice
Two weeks notice resignation letter template:
(Your Name)
(Your Address)
(Your Contact Information)
(Date)
(Managers Name)
(Company Name Address)
(Manager’s Contact Information)
(Dear Manager Name: )
This letter is in regard to my intent to resign from my position as clerk for ACME Hardware, effective two weeks from September 27, 2022.
I truly appreciate each and every opportunity I’ve received during my stay at ACME Hardware.
My contacts have all been informed, and I’ve transferred all of their data to Michelson in accounting. Please feel free to contact me if I can be of any assistance during the two-week transition period.
Best Regards,
(Your Signature)
(Your Name)
Formal Resignation Letter 1 Month Notice
4 week notice resignation letter template:
(Your Name)
(Your Address) (Your Contact Information)
(Date)
(Manager’s Name)
(Company Address)
(Manager’s Contact Information)
(Dear Manager Name: ),
This correspondence is in regard to my formal resignation from my position as head baker at Walthers Bakery, effective one month from September 27, 2022.
I sincerely appreciate the opportunities afforded me during my tenure at Walthers. I am grateful for the mentor-ship I received at Walthers, as well as the support and encouragement.
Please know that I have already established communications with my clients. Everything is at the ready for my successor to continue. If I may be of any assistance during this month long transition period, do not hesitate to let me know.
Best Regards,
(Your Signature)
(Your Name)
Teacher Letter of Resignation
When it’s time to say good-bye to your school, students and fellow faculty members, it can be a difficult time. That being said, when you compose your letter of resignation, it’s perfectly fine to express your heartfelt gratitude to all those involved. Also assure your principal or superintendent that their coursework is under control, and if they have any questions or concerns, to contact your directly. Also, don’t forget to send a copy of the letter to the school board as well.
(Your Name)
(Your Address) (Your Contact Information)
(Date)
(Supervisor’s Name)
(School Address)
(Supervisor’s Contact Information)
(Dear Supervisor Name: ),
Please accept my letter of formal resignation from the position of 8th grade teacher for Stinson Elementary School. This resignation is effective one month from October 1, 2022.
While at Stinson Elementary, I’ve appreciated each and every opportunity granted to me. These opportunities helped me to grow in my profession. It is with a heavy heart that I leave Stinson behind, but as my husband has accepted a position in Calgary, I will be leaving to join him.
Please contact me if I may be of any help during the upcoming transition period. I’ve made contact with the parents of my students, and kept them abreast of their children’s progress, so the classwork will proceed as normal after my exit.
Thank you,
(Your Signature)
(Your Name)
Resignation Letter with Reason Effective Immediately
Sometimes life just happens. Circumstances beyond our control often intervene and we find ourselves in an entirely different situation than we were yesterday. When such things occur, you must compose a letter of resignation. In this case, it’s important to establish a reason for your leaving. Remember, you always want to remain on good terms with your employer, especially since things may go back to normal, and you’d like to return.
(Your Name)
(Your Address) (Your Contact Information)
(Date)
(Manager’s Name)
(Company Address)
(Manager’s Contact Information)
(Dear Manager Name:),
I regret to inform you that due to learning that my child has cancer, we will be moving out of state to be closer to the specialist. Please accept this as a formal resignation from the position of administrative assistant, for Crowley and Associates, effective immediately, as we must get ourselves ready for the move.
I appreciate the encouragement that you and my co-workers have given me over the years. Without your belief in my abilities, I do not believe I would have excelled in the manner which I did. I’ve forged a great many professional relationships during my tenure at Crowley, each one an opportunity to learn and grow in my profession.
I will miss all of you at Crowley. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me for any reason.
Thank you,
(Your Signature)
(Your Name)
Resignation Letter for Family Reasons
Resignation for family reasons is never easy, especially if you love your position. That being said, it’s perfectly acceptable to show your heartfelt regret for leaving, as well as your gratitude for opportunities gained. Feel free to explain your situation if necessary as well. Keep in mind that you’d like to leave on the best terms if there is the possibility you may be able to return soon.
(Your Name)
(Your Address) (Your Contact Information)
(Date)
(Manager’s Name)
(Company Address)
(Manager’s Contact Information)
(Dear Manager Name:),
This letter is to inform you of my personal decision to leave my post as contracting officer at Aaronson and Clybourne, effective two weeks from October 1, 2022, due to family reasons.
As you are well aware, my daughter Flavia has been under hospital care and treatment for her condition for the past year. However, she has gotten progressively worse, so I must depart from my position in order to take care of my daughter full-time. Both yourself and the staff have been instrumental in affording me the time off I’ve required to take care of her in the past, and of that I’m extremely appreciative. Your kindness and compassion were never taken for granted. So, it is with much heartfelt regret that I must depart from Aaronson and Clybourne.
It is my intention that the transition period be a smooth one, and that the department runs as smoothly after I’ve left. I’ve made arrangements with Johnston in Human Resources to train my replacement. Even so, if you’re in need of any assistance, then please feel free to contact me at your earliest convenience.
Thank you,
(Your Signature)
(Your Name)
Resignation Letter with Reason for Better Opportunity
It should be understood that once you enter a career, it is for your personal and financial growth. It should be expected that you’ll move on to another firm once you’ve outgrown the first. When you decide to move on, it’s good to remember to choose the perfect exit strategy, one that will convey a feeling of camaraderie with your employer and staff, with the knowledge that their support and encouragement is a large part of who you’ve become.
(Your Name)
(Your Address)
(Your Contact Information)
(Date)
(Manager’s Name)
(Company Address)
(Manager’s Contact Information)
(Dear Manager Name: ),
It is with great regret to inform you of my decision to resign from my post as lead contracting officer at Marksmen, Inc., effective two weeks from September 18, 2022.
I’ve applied and have been accepted for a position at another firm. Were there a similar opportunity available for me at Marksmen, Inc., I would have applied. However, as there are no such opportunities, I’ve decided to accept the position.
I appreciate the encouragement and support that I’ve received during my decade tenure at Marksmen, Inc. I am more than willing to train my successor, in order to create a smooth transition. Again, thank you so much for the experience and mentor-ship I’ve received at this company. I wish you and yours nothing but the utmost success in your future endeavors.
Sincerely,
(Your Signature)
(Your Name)
Resignation Letter Due to Personal Reasons
Resignation letters due to personal reasons are written when the employee does not want his or her personal business combined with their professional business. If you are told that you must include a reason, know that it is not required by law.
(Your Name)
(Your Address) (Your Contact Information)
(Date)
(Manager’s Name)
(Company Address)
(Manager’s Contact Information)
(Dear Manager Name: ),
It is with deep regret that I announce my departure from my position as personal assistant from Harvey and Clark. Please consider this letter to be my formal 30 day resignation notice, due to personal reasons, effective September 28, 2022.
I am grateful for the opportunities offered during my tenure at Harvey and Clark. I have deep respect for the management, my co-workers, and the company. I will always consider my stay at Harvey and Clark to be one of the best experiences of my career.
Rest assured that during this 30 day transition period, I’ll be concentrating on completing my projects, and transferring any and all client data to the appropriate team members. Due to the exceptional treatment I’ve received at Harvey and Clark, it is important to me that this transition works as smoothly as possible.
Sincerely,
(Your Signature)
(Your Name)
Short and Simple Resignation Letter
Sometimes short and sweet says it best. Here, we’ve an example of a brief and concise resignation letter for you to study. Notice that there exist three paragraphs, but the information given is sparse, only the basics are provided.
(Your Name)
(Your Address) (Your Contact Information)
(Date)
(Manager’s Name)
(Company Address)
(Manager’s Contact Information)
(Dear Manager Name: ),
This letter is to inform you of my formal resignation from my position as airline attendant at ACME Airlines, to be effective two weeks from September 30, 2022.
I sincerely appreciate the encouragement, time and effort spent by management to make my tenure at ACME Airlines a most pleasant one.
I will be more than happy to assist in the training of my replacement. If you have any comments, concerns or questions, please feel free to contact me at 555-234-5698.
Thank you,
(Your Signature)
(Your Name)
Formal Resignation Letter Due to Study
When it’s time to go back to school to further your career by increasing your education, make certain that your letter is one of gratitude and appreciation. After all, if you enjoyed working for this establishment, you’ll want to keep the door ajar for your return. If they consider you a valuable employee, they may also consider taking you back once you obtain your degree.
(Your Name)
(Your Address) (Your Contact Information)
(Date)
(Manager’s Name)
(Company Address)
(Manager’s Contact Information)
(Dear Manager Name:),
It is with a heavy heart that I must announce my resignation from my position as assistant director of finance at Blakener. This notice is per company policy and is effective two weeks from October 5, 2022.
After much deliberation, I’ve decided that returning to University to receive my MBA is the only way to compete in this industry and therefore, advance my career. The career experiences I’ve received from Blakener will be most useful when it comes to my forthcoming education. I’ve already spoken with Kerry in HR and made known my desire to return to Blakener once I achieve my MBA.
Again, I’m extremely grateful for everything you, my co-workers and the company have done for me. If there is anything I can to to assist in making this transition easier, do not hesitate to let me know.
Best Regards,
(Your Signature)
(Your Name)
Formal Teacher Resignation Letter
When completing a formal resignation letter from teaching, it’s important to keep any conflicts out of the letter, and only focus on the resignation date, feelings of gratitude and offer to assist during the transition. Also remember to send a copy of the letter to the school board so they’ll have your resignation on hand has well.
(Your Name)
(Your Address) (Your Contact Information)
(Date)
(Superintendent Name) (School Address)
(Superintendent’s Contact Information)
(Dear Superintendent Name: ),
This letter is to inform you that I will be departing my current position as kindergarten teacher at Meyers Elementary. This resignation will be effective two weeks from October 5, 2022.
Due to my present health situation, I’ll need to relocate, in order to be closer to the health facilities responsible for my treatment. I would like to thank you and Ms. Hampshire for your kind and considerate attention and support as I’ve dealt with this issue over the last 3 years. I am forever grateful for the support offered me.
it goes without saying, that I’ll greatly miss those of you at Meyers Elementary. Please do not hesitate to contact me if I can do anything to help move this transition along in a smooth and efficient manner.
Sincerely,
(Your Signature)
(Your Name)
Resignation Letter Example with Regret
This is your exit from a company, so it’s important to demonstrate not only gratitude, but regret in leaving. Always remember to thank the management for the opportunities which they have provided as well.When you compose such a letter, it is meant to convey a sense of emotion to the recipient, so be genuine. Do not include false flattery or any form of insincerity whatsoever.
(Your Name)
(Your Address) (Your Contact Information)
(Date)
(Manager’s Name) (Company Address)
(Manager’s Contact Information)
(Dear Manager Name:),
Regrettably, I must announce my premature departure from my position as cashier at Kents Grocery, effective two weeks from March 31, 2022.
It is with a heavy heart that I make this decision. Working at Kents has been an amazing experience. The staff and management have always been supportive of both my professional and personal life, and that is quite rare in this world.
If you have any questions, comments or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me at your earliest convenience, at 555-253-3123.
Thank you,
(Your Signature)
(Your Name)
Thank You Resignation Letter Example
Gratitude will help to cement your professional relationships, creating a firm foundation from which to build your career. By demonstrating gratitude in your resignation letter, you’ll be making your exit on a positive note. This only works to strengthen your ties with your past employer and co-workers, whom you may need to network with in the future.
(Your Name)
(Your Address) (Your Contact Information)
(Date)
(Manager’s Name) (Company Address)
(Manager’s Contact Information)
(Dear Manager Name: ),
Please accept this letter as my formal resignation from my position as account representative for the Clarksville Agency, effective two weeks from November 2, 2022.
I am appreciative and grateful for the opportunities which came my way through our association over the years. During my tenure at Clarksville, I’ve been able to build up a solid network of friends, co-workers, and associates whose kindness, support and encouragement I’ll never forget.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if I can be of any assistance during this two week transition period. Again, my thanks to my co-workers, management and company for an amazing 10 years of service. Thank you.
Best Regards,
(Your Signature)
(Your Name)
Sample Resignation Letter for Contractor
When you are an independent contractor, you are not technically ‘hired’ or employed by that company, so it’s not a real resignation. Instead, you must refer to your contract and the section which states the conditions for terminating your contract. Again, please be as kind and considerate as possible, always keeping in mind that these letters will be placed in a file, and kept long after you have departed.
(Your Name)
(Your Address) (Your Contact Information)
(Date)
(Manager’s Name) (Company Address)
(Manager’s Contact Information)
(Dear Manager Name: ),
Please accept this letter of resignation from the position of contractor, effective two weeks from March 31, 2022.
As per clause 10.2 of my contract between myself and your esteemed company, ACME Beads, please consider this my formal, written notification of termination on the contract, with two weeks notice given.
It’s been a pleasure to be associated with ACME Beads, and I wish you and yours a most fruitful and successful future.
Thank you,
(Your Signature)
(Your Name)
Resignation Email Message Examples
Email resignation letters are slightly different from the traditional resignation letter. Since it is an electronic message, you may eliminate your information and that of the recipient, as well as the date. The subject line should never be blank, but contain your reason for the letter: Your resignation Continue to compose the remainder as you would a traditional letter, giving the resignation dates, reason (optional), and remembering to demonstrate gratitude and offer any assistance during the transition period. Finally, creating an electronic signature is optional, but it will add a bit of professional flair to your resignation letter.
Sample 1: Two weeks notice resignation email message
(Subject – Resignation: Johnathan Dickson)
(Dear Manager: ),
Regrettably I must depart from my position as security guard for ACME security, effective two weeks from Friday, September 28, 2022.
Working with ACME Security, I’ve come to know a great many good, kind people who have done above and beyond the line of duty in making my stay a pleasant and agreeable one. You have been attentive to my professional life, and for that I am eternally grateful. The skill sets I’ve learned at ACME will do much to enhance my career.
If there is anything you require of me during this two week transition period, please feel free to let me know.
Sincerely,
(Your Name)
Sample 2: Formatted Email Resignation Message
(Subject – Resignation Letter for Sandra Blake)(Dear Manager:),
Please accept this message as a formal, written notice that I will be resigning from my position as chef at Corrigan’s, effective one month from October 1st, 2022.
As I am abroad on assignment, I will not be able to meet with you in person. I apologize for sending my resignation via email. I am sincerely grateful for the opportunities, experience and support offered to me during my employment. My creativity as a chef allowed me has only enhanced my professional career, and for that I am most appreciative.
Though I am not present, I’ve instructed Constance to clear up my space. Any personal items will be picked up upon my return. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me at 555-328-2534.
Sincerely,
(Your Name)
Resignation Letter Templates
How to write a short resignation letter
If you consider your time at your current job similar to a theatre performance, your resignation letter closes the show with your wave goodbye, a thank you to the audience and other performers, and a bow of both pride and respect. Structuring your letter into three parts covers all necessary points while presenting them in logical flow. These three points can be used as guidelines for your resignation letter’s format.
1) Wave Goodbye
The first part of your letter should address your supervisor and clearly communicate the basics. Within your statement of resignation, include your position title, company name, and the date of your expected last day.
Example:
[Supervisor’s name],
Please accept this letter as formal resignation from my position as [position title] of [company name]. My last day of employment will be [date of last day].
2) A Thank You
You’ll want your final two weeks to be as pleasant as possible so you can leave on a positive note. It’s appropriate to thank your employer for the opportunities and experience attained throughout your employment.
Example:
Thank you for the experiences the past [duration of employment] have provided. It has been an honor to contribute to such an organization. I have appreciated the opportunities of growth through [a few of your favorite tasks], helping me become better equipped with [a few qualities you’ve earned] to confidently move forward in my career.
3) And a Bow
In closing your letter, offer your continued service to aid in the transition as needed. You may also consider including well-wishes or grant parting blessings in some way before applying your signature.
Example:
In my final days, please don’t hesitate to reach out if any assistance is needed from me for a smooth transition. Though I am moving on, I remain dedicated to the company’s success and hope for nothing less than the best for all within the organization.
Best regards,
[Your name]
Tips for Writing a Good Resignation Letter
These three pointers are important to keep in mind while writing your resignation letter to ensure it includes all necessary information and maintains professionalism:
- Keep it simple, keep it brief. As previously stated, your resignation letter is an official document used to communicate the end of your current employment. It is not a venue to voice personal concerns, get elaborate with sentiment, or list all your achievements. You don’t have to get fancy—in fact, it’s best if you avoid flare. Keep your letter focused and direct.
- Draft & proofread thoroughly. Since your resignation letter is your professional goodbye, you want it to be as clean, concise, and well-composed as possible. The revisions from writing up a few drafts should tighten your letter’s focus each time, ultimately communicating all the necessary information and formal words of departure with no more than a handful of sentences or a few small paragraphs. Before sending off your letter, proofread at least three times to catch and correct any typos, spelling, or grammatical errors.
- Verify & adhere to any special requirements. Although the information covered here is standard for resignation letters, each organization is different and may have additional requirements or special requests of accepted formatting and information to be contained within your letter. Before drafting your letter, remember to verify your company’s policy so you meet all expectations. If you have any questions, speak with your supervisor or HR representative.
Conclusion
When it’s time to depart from a company, it’s crucial to do it in a professional manner. When you compose your resignation letter, consider it closure. This is your way of not only saying your good-bye’s but also exiting with a bit of class and finesse. Always keep in mind that this letter is part of your professional work history and will be kept on file. It’s also critical that your departure is completed within company guidelines. if they require 2 weeks’ notice, that is what you give them. All in all, but reading our letter of resignation examples above, you should have an excellent idea on how to compose your own.
