How to Write a Resignation Letter + 10 Resignation Letter Templates Included

So, it’s time to move on. You’ve decided to change your career path and accepted an offer from another company. Now you should submit your resignation letter to your current employer. 

The resignation letter is an important part of your career advancement process. Simply put, it’s an official notice to your higher-ups and HRs that want to leave in two weeks. That’s why you’re better off putting some time into writing a resignation letter. 

In this guide, you’ll find detailed instructions on how to write a resignation letter. However, to save your time, we’ve also included the top 10 resignation letter templates for you to peruse. Keep reading to find out all the details.

How to Write a Resignation Letter: Step-by-Step Instructions

Every resignation letter consists of a few parts like an introduction, a ‘thank you’ section, and others. Let’s discuss each part in detail.

Part 1. The Introduction of a Resignation Letter

There is no need to overcomplicate the letter intro with too many creative phrases. Indicate the position you are resigning from and the effective date. You’ve probably already shared your reasons for leaving with your boss, so there’s no need to go into detail. 

Keep the introduction of your letter as simple as possible:

“Dear [Your boss’ name],

Please accept this letter as my formal intention to resign from the position of [Position title] with [Company name]. My last day will be [the date — usually two weeks from the date of this official notice].”

Part 2. The ‘Thank You’ Section

It’s always good to express gratitude to your employer. For example, you can describe the moments you’ve enjoyed and learned from during your time in their employment. 

Also, since you’re probably going to be needing a reference from your employer, it’s better to leave on a good note. Try including a reference to the company’s culture or colleagues to make your resignation letter template more personalized.

“I want to thank you for the opportunity to work here for the past [amount of time you’ve worked in the company]. I’ve enjoyed and appreciated all the challenges and opportunities like [a few of your job responsibilities]. I’ve learned so many things such as [a few specific things you’ve learned on the job].”

Part 3. The Conclusion

Last but not least, you should mention the transition period. For example, tell your employer that you are ready to help whoever is replacing you get their bearings with any of the job’s peculiarities. Don’t promise anything you can’t deliver, just ensure a smooth transition of your responsibilities.

Conclude your letter of resignation with best wishes to the company and all your colleagues:

“I’ll wrap up all my duties and transition responsibilities during my last two weeks to another employee. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help.

My best wishes to the company for growth and success, and I hope to stay in touch in the future.

Sincerely,
[Your name and surname]“

These are basic rules on how to write a resignation letter. To give you a hint, we’ve prepared two resignation letter samples.

Example #1

Date
Name
Your Phone Number
Your Email
Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name]:

Please accept this letter as my formal intention to leave my position with [company name] in the [department name] department on [date].

Thank you for the opportunities you have provided me during my time with the department.

If I can be of any assistance during this transition, please let me know.

Sincerely,
[Your Signature] [Your Typed Name]

Example #2

Date
Employer’s Name
Company Name
Street/Address
City, State, Zip

Dear [Employer’s name],

Please accept this as my formal two-week’s notice of my intention to resign from the employment of [Position name].

I want to inform you that I have accepted an offer from another firm, and I am giving you this formal resignation as my two-week’s notice.

I have thoroughly enjoyed the working environment and professional atmosphere at [company name]. Your management, direction, guidance, and counsel have been a source of great personal career satisfaction to me. The experience and knowledge gained during my association with [Company name] gave way to career growth for which I shall always be grateful.

I wanted to thank you for the opportunities that have been extended to me while I have been here. And to let you know that my resignation is no reflection on the organization.

This is simply a tremendous opportunity that I could not afford to pass up. I’ve thought about it quite a bit and I know you’ll respect my decision.

Thank you for your past consideration.

Sincerely,
[Your signature] [Your name]

10 Resignation Letter Samples

Of course, there can be different reasons for your resignation. Below, you will find 10 different letters of resignation examples fit for various needs and situations. 

If you can’t find a suitable resignation letter example form, feel free to check the pdfFiller website and look through other forms you can use.

1. Two-Weeks Notice Resignation Letter Template

In most cases, you need to notify your employer about your resignation two weeks in advance. This Two-weeks Notice Resignation Letter Template example includes the date of your last day at work. It’s a brief letter that has a ‘thank you’ section so that you will sound polite and professional.

2. Early Retirement Resignation Letter Template

Early Retirement Resignation Letter Template is an early retirement notice that can be used to inform your employer of your intention to retire before reaching the official retirement age. As applied to Social Security, early retirement refers to the practice of retiring before reaching age 65. 

The standard notice for most resignation letters is two weeks, but the time can vary for retirement letters. An early retirement letter can include mentioning your successes at the company, expressing gratitude, and offering your services in case you want to continue working after your retirement.

3. Short Notice Letter of Resignation

In case you forgot there was a two-week notice, or you weren’t aware that the contracted period was longer than you thought, or you just received an urgent offer you can’t refuse, use the Short Notice Resignation Letter Template. It is ideal for situations when you need to leave your position as soon as possible. 

Of course, this letter can’t guarantee immediate resignation, but you can try to avoid unpredictable and unpleasant situations.

4. Resignation Letter Due to Relocation

Once you need to write a Resignation Letter Due to Relocation, it’s better to focus on the opportunities the company gave you and how grateful you are to the company and your employer. In this case, you can maintain a good relationship with your employer and get good recommendations. 

Offer your support to the new employee replacing you to streamline the transition period. This sample letter of resignation also includes your offer to continue cooperation if you want to work remotely or from home.

5. Resignation Letter Due to Career Advancement

Once you’ve got an offer that improves your career path, you should write a Resignation Letter Due to Career Advancement. In this letter, you can tell your employer about your new position and why you intend to take this opportunity.

It’s important to mention all the positive aspects of working with your employer. Also, be sure to mention any challenges you overcame and that helped you grow as a result. Don’t hesitate to thank your employer and company.

6. Resignation Letter Due to Better Compensation

Let’s face it — we all work to make a decent living. If you have an offer with better compensation, changing your career path may be the right move. Leverage your skills, experience, and education to make sure that you fit the position with a higher salary.

Once you are sure about your decision, write a Resignation Letter Due to Better Compensation using our free printable resignation letter template. You can not mention this reason for resigning if you’ve already discussed it with your current employer. 

7. Resignation Letter Due to Family Circumstances 

There are various reasons to resign from a job due to family circumstances. For example, if a family member needs care or support, or if you’re married to someone employed by the military. In these situations, moving may be necessary.

It’s time to write a Resignation Letter Due to Family Circumstances. However, depending on your situation, you can offer to work from home, remotely, or abide by a more flexible schedule.

8. Resignation Letter Due to Career Change

You just got your bachelor’s or master’s degree in your field of interest and are ready to make good on the many new opportunities that are now open to you. Of course, it can cost money but also lead to greater job satisfaction.

Write a Resignation Letter Due to Career Change to your current employer. Explain the situation if you haven’t done so already. 

9. Resignation Letter Due to Different Work Environment

Let’s face it — not every organization is the right fit for everyone. A company can be doing great things. You can be an excellent employee. Yet sometimes, those two things just don’t fit together. When that happens, it might be time to move on.

Writing a Resignation Letter Due to a Different Work Environment can be a good opportunity to tell your employer why you want to change your career path. 

10. Resignation Letter Due to Company Acquisition or Merger

Sometimes, when two organizations are merging into one, new career opportunities can arise for both companies. However, you may not be satisfied with your current position and role in the business. So, you’ve decided to seek a better position elsewhere. 

First, it’s necessary to speak to your manager about your current role. If you’re not able to come to an understanding, it may be time to write your Resignation Letter Due to Company Acquisition or Merger. 

The Bottom Line

Resignation letters focus on helping employees conclude a working relationship with their employer on a friendly note while proceeding through all the formalities. 

pdfFiller offers a number of different reusable resignation letter templates that you can fill out from your desktop or mobile device. Just add the details about your job’s position and add the date of your last day at your current position. Once you’ve completed the resignation letter, you can share it in a few clicks without leaving pdfFiller — send our resignation PDF by email, text message, fax, and more right from your account.