Resignation Letter Due to Relocation Examples

Woman composing a resignation letter on computer
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In general, under at-will employment laws, there is no requirement for you to share details about why you are leaving a job in your resignation letter. In fact, being discrete is advantageous—there's no reason for your employer to have details about personal circumstances on file, especially after you've departed the company.

One exception to this rule, though, is when you quit because you are relocating: In such an instance, many employees choose to include this information in their resignation letter.

Why and How to Mention Relocation in a Resignation Letter

There are multiple reasons why it is a good idea to tell your employer you are relocating. First, it's important for your company to know this information in order for them to update your contact information.

Second, leaving a job because of a relocation feels very neutral—you're not leaving for more money, a better job opportunity, or because you don't like the company, your current job, or your colleagues. It's simply a logistical decision and not a reflection on the company or your position there.

Without question, you should not share any negative opinions or feedback about the company, but letting management know that you are leaving due to circumstances beyond their control can leave the door open for the future.

In addition, having the fact in your employee file that you left the company due to relocation will give a good explanation to any future prospective employers checking your work history and employment records.

What to Include in Your Resignation Letter

Here are examples of resignation letters to use when you're relocating. As with any resignation letter, the most important details to include are:

  • The fact that you’re departing
  • The reason you are leaving (you're moving) (optional)
  • What you intend the date of your final day of work to be
  • A polite “thank you” for the opportunities you’ve enjoyed during your tenure with your employer
  • Your personal email address for any future correspondence

Resignation Letter Example—Relocation

The following sample letter should help you create your own resignation letter. Download the letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for more examples.

resignation letter

Resignation Letter Example—Relocation (Text Version)

Isabel Lee
123 Main Street
Anytown, CA 12345
555-555-5555
isabel.lee@email.com

September 15, 2021

Keith Lau
Director, Human Resources
Acme Office Supplies
123 Business Road
Business City, NY 54321

Dear Ms. Lee:

The purpose of this resignation letter is to inform you that I will be leaving my position with ABC Company, effective two weeks from now on October 1. I will be relocating to the New York City metropolitan area in the near future.

I have appreciated both being part of the ABC team and the opportunities that have been provided to me during the last several years. It has been a pleasure to work within the supportive, stimulating environment of our department, and I will truly miss the friends that I have made here.

Please let me know if I can be of assistance during the transition. You can reach me at the above address if you have any questions or need any further information.

Sincerely,

Your Signature (hard copy letter)

Isabel Lee

Email Resignation Example—Relocation

As with any other work-related email, it's important to be professional in your resignation letter. Before you send it, ensure you have all pertinent information in the subject and body, you have chosen a professional-looking font, and you have carefully proofread your email.

Note

Include your name in the subject field so that your employer will immediately understand that this is an email requiring attention.

Here is an example you can use to create your own resignation email.

Subject: Barnard Devos—Resignation

Dear Mr. Kiyoto,

Please consider this letter as formal notification of my resignation from XYZ Inc., effective March 15, 2022. I will be relocating to Seattle, WA, in the spring in order to be closer to my family.

Any written correspondence can be mailed to me in care of Name, 234 Main St., Seattle, WA 98101, until further notice.

Thank you for all the opportunities and experiences I have gained while at XYZ.

I have enjoyed being a part of the marketing team and wish you all the best. If there is anything I can do to help with your transition to my replacement, please let me know.

Sincerely,

Barnard Devos

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  1. National Conference of State Legislatures. "At-Will Employment—Overview." Accessed Aug. 11, 2021.

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