Resignation Letter Due to Better Salary and Benefits

There are as many reasons to quit your job, but there’s nothing quite as satisfying as quitting a position because a far better opportunity has presented itself. In a perfect world, every time we quit, it would be to take a job with higher pay, better benefits, and more room for advancement. But just because you’re quitting for the best possible reason doesn’t mean that the process is easy. It also doesn't mean that you need to advertise why you're moving on.

Even though you're leaving a lower-paying job for a better one, the standard rules apply: give proper notice, write a resignation letter, and quit with grace. Remember that your goal is not to burn bridges on your way out the door. You might need a letter of recommendation from your employer in the future. Even if you don’t, many industries are small worlds. There’s no reason to leave on a negative note.

Here’s how to write a resignation letter when you’re quitting for a job with a better compensation package, and you want to provide your employer with a reason.

What to Include in the Letter

There is a full list of resignation letter dos and don’ts, but these are the most important things to keep in mind:

Confirm the details. Give the date of your last day in the office, but don’t get bogged down in other specifics. Details about which coworkers will cover your projects can be worked out with your manager afterward.

Be polite. Now is not the time to bad-mouth your colleagues or brag about your new job. Also, be gracious. Thank your manager for their guidance, and leave things on a positive note. Offer to help your coworkers wrap up projects or train your replacement. 

Letter of Resignation for Better Pay Example

This is an example of a resignation letter due to receiving a better salary and benefits position. Download the resignation letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online) or see below for more examples.

How to Send Your Resignation Letter via Email

Sending an email resignation letter also offers a few advantages that an old-fashioned hard copy doesn’t. It’s easier and less stressful than handing your supervisor a paper letter in person, and it also provides you with a record of your communication. Sometimes, it pays to be able to point to an email receipt or at least a digital trail.

Sending an email resignation letter is similar to sending a physical one. The subject line is important, so choose something that’s clear and to the point, for example:

Be specific. Don’t write something vague like “Thank You” that could get scooped up by the company’s email filters. You don’t want to have an awkward conversation with your boss about why they need to search their spam folder.

Leave out the address headings. They’ll know who’s writing and where you’re writing from. You can include your contact information in your signature.

Keep your communication brief and to the point. Resignation letters, in general, should be fairly succinct. Email resignation letters should be even more concise. Readers tend to skim even important emails, so make yours easy to scan.