Employment

Resignation Letter Template

A short, professional resignation letter covering notice period, final working day and a courteous close. Suitable for any role or industry.

When to use this template

Use this template when you are resigning from a job and wish to give written notice. Most employment contracts require written notice. Sending a letter by post (as well as email) creates a clear record with a verifiable delivery date.

The template

[Your Full Name]
[Your Address Line 1]
[Town / City]
[Postcode]

[Date]

[Manager's Full Name]
[Job Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address Line 1]
[Town / City]
[Postcode]

Dear [Manager's First Name / Mr/Ms Last Name],

Re: Resignation

I am writing to formally notify you of my resignation from my position as [Your Job Title] at [Company Name], with effect from [today's date].

In accordance with my contract of employment, I am giving [X weeks/months] notice. My last working day will therefore be [final working day date].

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you and the team for [brief positive comment, e.g. the opportunities I have had to develop professionally / the support I have received during my time here]. I have genuinely valued my time at [Company Name].

I am committed to making this transition as smooth as possible. I am happy to assist with handover arrangements and to train a successor during my notice period.

Please let me know if there is anything specific you would like me to prioritise before I leave.

Yours sincerely,

[Your Signature]

[Your Full Name]

Tips for using this template

1Check your employment contract for the required notice period before writing the date.
2Keep the tone positive regardless of your reasons for leaving. This letter may be retained on your personnel file.
3If you are resigning due to a serious concern (discrimination, constructive dismissal), take legal advice before writing. A standard resignation letter may affect a future claim.
4Send one copy by recorded post to your manager and retain a copy for yourself. If you also send by email, reference the letter in your email.
5You do not need to give a reason for your resignation, but you may choose to briefly mention it if appropriate.

Frequently asked questions

Is a resignation letter legally required in the UK?

Most employment contracts require written notice of resignation, and a posted letter creates a verifiable delivery date - useful if there is ever a dispute about when your notice period started.

Can I resign with immediate effect?

Only if your contract allows it or your employer agrees. Otherwise you are contractually bound to work your full notice period, and resigning without notice can be treated as a breach of contract.

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