A man typing a resignation letter on a laptop

Find the best resignation letter template for you

Resigning from a job is often a mix of excitement, relief, and a little uncertainty. Whatever the reason for your departure, it’s important to handle the process with care. One of the most vital parts of that? A well-crafted resignation letter. Below, you'll find five resignation letter templates for your exact needs.

These resignation letter templates and examples will help you craft the perfect parting letter and leave the right impression regardless of your circumstances. Each sample ensures you clearly communicate your reasons for leaving while striking the right professional, positive tone. 

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What is a resignation letter? 

A resignation letter is a formal document announcing your decision to leave your job. It serves as official notice to your employer, clearly stating your last working day and any relevant details, such as your reason for leaving (if you choose to share it). It also marks the beginning of the transition period. 

This letter is crucial for maintaining professionalism and ensuring both you and your employer are aligned on your departure. It acts as a clear, documented record of your decision. 

But remember, your resignation letter should come after you've informed your boss in person that you plan to quit. Having that face-to-face conversation is key to showing respect, ensuring the process goes smoothly and leaving on a positive note. Once you’ve had that discussion, your resignation letter seals the deal and provides the formal documentation needed for a smooth exit. 

Why a resignation letter matters 

Your resignation letter is not just a goodbye; it’s a statement that echoes your work ethic and commitment and sets the foundation for a positive departure. This short yet powerful document is your formal goodbye to your employer, and it can shape how you're remembered at the company. 

Need more convincing? Resignation letters are important for several reasons, including: 

  • Professionalism: A resignation letter provides a formal, written record of your intention to leave the company. It is an essential part of maintaining professionalism, helping you depart on good terms.
  • Clear communication: A resignation letter clarifies the terms of your departure, including your final working day and any other important information regarding your exit.
  • Legal requirements: In some cases, a resignation letter is necessary to comply with the terms of your employment contract. It also helps you avoid misunderstandings regarding your notice period or final settlement.
  • Future opportunities: A polite, well-written resignation letter can help you maintain a positive relationship with your employer, which could prove invaluable for job references, networking, or even rejoining the company down the road. 

For these reasons, using a resignation letter template can make all the difference.

What to include in a resignation letter 

When you go to write your letter of resignation, don't overthink it. If it includes the following elements, you're on the right track. 

  • Formal announcement: A clear statement that you, the employee, are resigning from your position.
  • Notice period: A mention of the notice period (often specified in your contract) and the final working day.
  • Gratitude: A polite expression of appreciation for the opportunities, experiences, or professional growth gained during employment.
  • Offer of assistance: Some resignation letters offer to help with the transition or aid in finding or training a replacement. 

Once you've outlined your details, you can use the resignation letter templates below to piece it all together.

Pro-tip: Balancing authenticity and professionalism with AI assistance 

Generative AI has become a valuable tool for crafting professional resignation letters, offering capabilities beyond basic template-filling. By analyzing your specific circumstances, AI can help you craft a letter that maintains the right tone—professional yet genuine. 

When enlisting AI tools, input details about your job, reasons for leaving, and desired tone to generate a resignation letter that best meets your needs. An AI-assisted writing process can also promote clarity and conciseness, which are key to an effective message. 

5 resignation letter templates 

In most instances, a generic, professional-sounding resignation letter will suffice. Review the following resignation letter templates and select the one that best resonates with your situation. Customize it with your personal details where necessary. 

Because this is a formal notice, when writing your resignation letter, be sure to include the current date and the address of your company, following standard letter-writing practices. Remember, this is an official document, so striking the balance between professional and polite is imperative. 

Even though you may be leaving due to personal grievances, you should not bring these to light in your resignation letter. Instead, reserve these to discuss in your exit interviews

Use the following resignation letter templates to ease the pressure of writing your own. Remember to customize where necessary to better match your situation.

1) Standard resignation letter template for all situations 

Dear [Manager’s Name], 

Please accept this letter as formal notification of my intention to resign from my position as [job title] with [company name]. My final day will be [date of last day] as per my notice period. 

I would like to thank you for the opportunity to have worked in the position for the past [tenure]. I have learned a great deal during my time here and have enjoyed collaborating with my colleagues. I will take a lot of what I have learned with me in my career and look back at my time here as a valuable period of my professional life. 

During the next [notice period in weeks], I will do what I can to make the transition as smooth as possible and sufficiently hand over my duties to colleagues or my replacement. Please let me know if there is anything else I can do to assist in this process. 

Sincerely, [Your Name] 

2) Resignation letter template for career advancement 

Dear [Manager’s Name], 

I am writing to formally notify you of my resignation from the position of [job title] with [company name]. Per my notice period, my final day will be [date of last day]. 

Following careful reflection, I have decided to step down from my role at [company name] to move forward in a direction that aligns more closely with my professional aspirations.

I am thankful for the opportunities and experiences provided to me during my tenure at [company name]. The valuable skills I've gained here are deeply appreciated and will undoubtedly benefit me in my ongoing professional journey. 

In the coming weeks before [end date], I’m fully committed to ensuring a smooth transition. Please let me know what I can do to help. 

Sincerely, [Your Name] 

3) Resignation letter template for pursuing a new role with a shorter commute 

Dear [Manager’s Name], 

I am writing to formally notify you of my resignation from the position of [job title] with [company name]. Per my notice period, my final day will be [date of last day]. 

I have been offered another role that will shorten my daily commute and allow me to spend more time with my family outside of working hours. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at [company] over the last [tenure], and I would like to thank you for all the opportunities I have been afforded here. 

In the coming weeks before [end date], I'm prepared to help facilitate a smooth transition. Please let me know what I can do to help. 

Sincerely, [Your Name] 

4) Resignation letter template when giving advance notice 

Dear [Manager’s Name], 

I am writing to inform you of my decision to resign from [company], effective [date]. I understand that transitioning a new person to the role of [position] will take some time, and I would like to provide as much notice as possible. 

I have learned so much and grown professionally during my time at [company]. Thank you for your guidance and support during my employment. 

Please feel free to contact me with any questions about the projects I have been working on. I am happy to help in any way I can to ensure a smooth transition process. 

Sincerely, [Your Name] 

5) Resignation letter template for a role that is not a good fit 

Dear [Manager’s Name], 

I am writing to formally notify you of my resignation from the position of [job title] at [company name]. My last day with the company will be [date]. 

During my time at [company name], I have come to realize that the scope of the role is, unfortunately, no longer aligned with my career goals. As such, I would like to explore other opportunities. 

Thank you for understanding; I truly appreciate all the support and guidance you have provided me during my time at the company. 

Please let me know how I can help to support a smooth transition over the next [notice period in weeks].

Sincerely, [Your Name] 

Know your worth before your next move 

Now that you're equipped with a handful of resignation letter templates, you can prepare to step into a new role. But before you do, ensure you're well-informed about current market rates.

Download our Michael Page Salary Guides to unlock salary ranges across industries and roles and negotiate your next compensation package confidently. 

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