Sample Letters of Intent to Resign

When you make the decision to resign from your current position, you may need to submit a formal, written resignation.

In most cases, a resignation letter is a formal letter of intent to resign (typed, printed, and signed). However, depending on your job and the standard form of communication, it may be sent via email. Some companies' human resources departments require that resignations be submitted on paper—either as a printed letter or an email attachment. For others, notification by email is acceptable.

Here are two samples of intent-to-resign letters to use as an example for a letter you may want to send to your employer when you are leaving a job. 

What to Include in Your Letter

Whichever format you choose, it's important to let your employer know when your last day of employment will be. It is also a good idea to keep your tone positive, even if you are resigning due to problems in the workplace.

Start out by informing your employer of your resignation and your final working day. While it is not necessary to explain your reason for leaving, you may choose to share that your decision has been predicated on family responsibilities or a new career opportunity. If you do decide to explain that you are moving on to a new job, express this simply, without denigrating your current employer or drawing unfavorable comparisons between your current and future positions.

Finally, offer to assist your employer in the transition process that will arise from your departure. You may also offer to:

• Update your notes on current project statuses that will not be complete when you leave
• Ensure that all project and client files are up-to-date
• Inform your team members of your pending departure date
• Offer to help train your successor if time allows

Please note that the following examples are intended to serve as generic models for you to customize to your own unique situation—you should not just copy and paste the text into your letter. Instead, add examples of things like the opportunities you have been provided during your job tenure (training, promotion, leadership opportunities).

Letter of Intent to Resign Example

This is an example of a letter of intent to resign. Download the intent to resign letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for more examples.

Letter of Intent to Resign Email Message Example

If you are sending your letter of intent to resign via email, be sure to include a specific subject line so your message will be read in a timely manner: