Resignation Letter Format

Resignation letters don’t need to be very long. In fact, short and to the point is often best. However, they do need to convey very specific information and do so in a way that doesn’t burn bridges. For this reason, it’s often helpful to use a template to get started writing your letter. Knowing the right resignation letter format will help.

It’s also important to observe the appropriate guidelines for your resignation letter. These include using a business letter format and a standard font, such as Arial or Times New Roman.

Here's what to include in a resignation letter, what not to include, and templates and samples of resignation letters and email messages.

Elements to Include in a Resignation Letter

• The fact that you’re resigning.
• The date of your last day on the job. (Generally, it’s best to pick a day that’s at least two weeks from the date of your resignation.)
• A general thank-you to your soon-to-be former boss for the opportunity to work at their company.

Optional Points to Include

• A more specific thank-you. For example, you might mention a useful skill you learned during your time at the company or a project you particularly enjoyed. If you’ll miss the people you worked with, it’s always nice to say so.
• An offer to help with the transition. For example, you might offer to train your replacement.

Elements to Exclude

• Anything negative. Resignation letters serve one important purpose: to set an end date for your employment with the company. They may also serve to strengthen your networking connection to your soon-to-be former boss by leaving a good final impression, but they are not ever a good way to achieve emotional closure with a job.
• Too much detail. You can provide more information about your duties, clients, and projects if and when your boss asks for it. Don’t clutter up this particular message with extraneous details.

Resignation Letter Format

The following resignation letter format will show you what to write in your letter of resignation.

Your Contact Information
First Name Last Name
Address
City, State Zip Code
Phone Number
Email Address

Date

Employer Contact Information
Name
Title
Organization
Address
City, State Zip Code

Salutation
Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name,

First Paragraph
Your letter should say that you are resigning and state when your resignation will be effective.

Middle Paragraph
The next (optional) section of your resignation letter should thank your employer for the opportunities you have had during your time with their company.

Final Paragraph
Conclude your resignation letter (also optional) by offering to assist with the transition.

Close
Respectfully yours,

Signature
Handwritten Signature (typed letter)

Typed Signature

Email Resignation Message Format

When you're resigning via email, include your contact information after your signature instead of at the top of the letter. Include your name and the word "resignation" in the subject line, so that you can be sure your message will be opened.

 Subject: Resignation - Your Name

 Salutation
Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name,

First Paragraph
Your email should say that you are resigning and state when your resignation will be effective.

Second Paragraph
The next (optional) section of the message should thank your employer for the opportunities you have had during your employment with the company.

Final Paragraph
Conclude your resignation letter (optional) by offering to assist with the transition.

Closing
Respectfully yours,

Signature
Include your contact information.

Your Name
Email
Phone
Address
City, State Zip

Resignation Letter Template

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

Tips for Turning in Your Resignation

• Give at least two weeks' notice, if you can—but don't feel obligated to give more than that. Also, prepare for the possibility that you'll be asked to leave immediately. It's not common, but some employers will ask workers to leave ASAP after they resign, so make your financial plans accordingly.
• Find out about any employee benefits to which you might be entitled before your last day. Ask about unused sick time or vacation time, and get information about your 401(k) and any stock options that might have accrued during your tenure.
• If you can, ask for a letter of recommendation from your former boss and coworkers who might have positive things to say about your work. Now is also a good time to ask for endorsements and recommendations on LinkedIn and other social media, when you're still fresh in your team's mind.