20 Free Resignation Letter Samples
We are frequently asked by our readers if we have any resignation letter samples that we can recommend, so we’ve decided to add 20 of them in this post. We’ll show you how to write a resignation and give you some templates that you can use to write your resignation letter.
People resign from work for different reasons. Some resign because they found better career opportunities elsewhere. Others have had enough of their contemptuous relationship with management. And there are those who simply could not handle the stress of the job anymore.
Regardless of the reasons or circumstances, resignation will always be a turning point because it represents a change in our lives. The act involves managing outcomes when relationships forged through shared periods of triumphs and failures are about to end.
Free Resignation Letter Samples
Standard Format of a Resignation Letter Sample
Date
Name
Title
Company Name
Address
Dear Mr. / Ms.,
In the opening paragraph, state right away your intention to resign from the company. It is not required to indicate your reason(s) for resigning as these can be discussed in detail in the Exit Interview. If you feel that you must, keep it short and avoid any emotional overtones or negative connotations in the content. The standard introduction usually begins with “I am writing to inform you” but if you feel more comfortable with your own introduction, go ahead and use it.
In the second paragraph, indicate details regarding your transition. These include your last day at the office; pending work that needs to be turned over, period for obtaining clearance and your contact details should the company seek clarification on other matters.
In the final paragraph, express regret for any inconvenience your resignation may have caused management and the company. Most importantly, declare your appreciation for the time spent with the company and to wish them well in the years ahead. Closing your resignation on a positive note will extinguish any ill will and helps both parties set out on a fresh start.
Yours sincerely,
Your name
Use the pagination below to go to the next resignation letter samples and templates.
Basic Resignation Letter Sample
12 August 2015
Mr. Oliver Smith
(Address)
Mr. Noah Jones
Department Manager
XYZ Corporation
(address)
Dear Mr. Jones,
I wish to inform you of my decision to resign as IT Manager.
As per my employment contract, I am giving the company two (2) weeks’ notice. My last day of work shall be on 30 August 2015.
I regret any inconvenience my resignation may cause the company. I would like to extend my sincere and heartfelt appreciation for the experience and time spent working with you, management and the rest of the team.
I wish XYZ Company continued success in the years ahead.
Thank you very much.
Yours sincerely,
Oliver Smith
Appreciative Resignation Letter Sample
12 August 2015
Mr. Oliver Smith
(Address)
Mr. Noah Jones
Department Manager
XYZ Corporation
(address)
Dear Mr. Jones,
Kindly accept this letter as formal notification of my resignation as IT Manager from your company. I have been offered a wonderful opportunity with another company which I could not simply pass up
With respect to my employment contract, my last day of work shall be on 30 August 2015. During the interim 2-week period I shall remain steadfast in fulfilling pending work and provide as much assistance as needed by the company to bring my replacement up-to-speed.
Working with you, management and the rest of the team was a great and fulfilling experience. I learned much during my employment and I only wish the greatest success for everyone at XYZ Company.
Thank you very much.
Yours sincerely,
Oliver Smith
Personalized Resignation Letter Sample
12 August 2015
Mr. Oliver Smith
(Address)
Mr. Noah Jones
Department Manager
XYZ Corporation
(address)
Dear Noah,
Please accept this letter as my formal notice of resignation as IT Manager. As indicated in my employment contract, I shall give 2 weeks’ notice to the company. My final day at work shall be on 30 August 2015.
My experience working at XYZ Company, management, the team, especially with you; has been nothing short of wonderful. I regret any inconvenience my decision to resign may have caused you but I feel this new opportunity is not just a step in the right direction for my career but for the well-being of my family.
I assure you of my commitment to finish all outstanding work to the best of my ability and for the smooth turnover of duties to the incoming employee.
Thank you very much for the time spent with the company and most of all, for your friendship.
Yours sincerely,
Oliver Smith
Detailed and Appreciative Resignation Letter Sample
12 August 2015
Mr. Oliver Smith
(Address)
Mr. Noah Jones
Department Manager
XYZ Corporation
(address)
Dear Mr. Jones,
Kindly accept this letter as my formal notice of resignation as IT Manager for XYZ Corporation. As indicated in my employment contract, I shall give 2 weeks’ notice to the company which means my final day at work shall be on 30 August 2015.
I have completed all of my major responsibilities to date and over the course of the remaining 2 weeks I will focus on finishing up pending work which are minor in scope and coverage.
My experience working at XYZ Company, management and the team has been great. The project we completed for ABC Company in Dubai last year was memorable. It was one of the most challenging accounts I’ve handled and I was fortunate to have you and the team to carry us through. If there was a turning point or milestone in my career, that project may have been it.
On a personal note, your friendship and mentorship have been invaluable and I regret any inconvenience my decision to resign may have caused you. Even as I embark on my new career, I will always pay tribute to the lessons I learned from you.
Thank you and I wish XYZ Company great success in the years ahead.
Yours sincerely,
Oliver Smith
Regret Leaving Resignation Letter Sample
12 August 2015
Mr. Oliver Smith
(Address)
Mr. Noah Jones
Department Manager
XYZ Corporation
(address)
Dear Mr. Jones,
I regret to inform you of my decision to resign as IT Manager for the company.
With reference to my employment contract, I shall be giving the company two (2) weeks’ notice which means my final day at work shall be on 30 August 2015.
Most of my primary responsibilities on current projects have been completed. I assure you of my commitment to complete all pending work before the aforesaid effective date of my resignation.
Thank you and I wish XYZ Company continued success in 2015 and beyond.
Yours sincerely,
Oliver Smith
Career Resignation Letter Sample
12 August 2015
Mr. Oliver Smith
(Address)
Mr. Noah Jones
Department Manager
XYZ Corporation
(address)
Dear Noah,
I am writing you to let you know of my decision to resign as IT Manager of XYZ Company to pursue new career opportunities.
Based on my employment contract, my final day at work will be on 30 August 2015. I will continue to work with you and the team in those two weeks.
It was not an easy decision to make because I sincerely enjoyed my time with you and the rest of the team. Please feel free to reach out anytime you need my assistance.
Kind regards,
Oliver Smith
Resignation Letter Giving Employer Suitable Time to Find Replacement
12 August 2015
Mr. Oliver Smith
(Address)
Mr. Noah Jones
Department Manager
XYZ Corporation
(address)
Dear Mr. Jones,
Kindly accept this letter as formal notification of my decision to resign as IT Manager of XYZ Company.
Based on my employment contract, my final day at work will be on 30 August 2015. I will continue to work with you and the team in those two weeks. I am hopeful that during the interim, you would be able to find a qualified replacement to fill my position. If you wish, I would be more than willing to assist the company in training and orienting my replacement in his assumption of my former duties and responsibilities.
This was not an easy decision to make because I sincerely enjoyed my time with you and the rest of the team.
Thank you the experience. I am confident XYZ Company will continue its success in the years ahead.
Yours sincerely,
Oliver Smith
Resignation Letter due to Incident Sample
12 August 2015
Mr. Oliver Smith
(Address)
Mr. Noah Jones
Department Manager
XYZ Corporation
(address)
Dear Mr. Jones,
It is with much regret that I am submitting this letter as my formal notification of my decision to resign as IT Manager of XYZ Company.
Although I was exonerated from any involvement with regards to the incident with our client, ABC Company, I believe the allegations that were leveled against me, while baseless and proven untrue, have put our noble efforts into question. I do not wish our good intentions to be hindered by my presence or given any political color. Thus, I have made this extremely difficult decision to resign from the company.
Based on my employment contract, my final day at work will be on 30 August 2015. I will continue to work with you and the team in those two weeks.
Despite the circumstances, I have nothing but high praise and well-wishes for the management and staff of XYZ Company.
Thank you the experience. I am confident you will continue to find success in the years ahead.
Yours sincerely,
Oliver Smith
Resignation Letter to Join another Company Sample
12 August 2015
Mr. Oliver Smith
(Address)
Mr. Noah Jones
Department Manager
XYZ Corporation
(address)
Dear Mr. Jones,
I wish to inform you that I am resigning from my position as IT Manager to accept an offer from another company.
Prior to considering the offer from the new company, I took the time to thoroughly review my employment contract to ensure I would not be in violation of its provisions. Just to inform you, the new position is for a different industry; far removed from the main enterprise of XYZ Company. To this regard, I could shed more light to the new nature of my employment during my exit interview.
Based on my employment contract, my final day at work will be on 30 August 2015. I will continue to work with you and the team in those two weeks.
In closing, I wish to extend my sincere and heartfelt appreciation to the company for the experience and most of all, the valuable friendships gained during my tenure.
I wish your company continued success in the years ahead.
Yours sincerely,
Oliver Smith
After Maternity Leave Resignation Letter Sample
12 August 2015
Ms. Olivia Smith
(Address)
Mr. Noah Jones
Department Manager
XYZ Corporation
(address)
Dear Mr. Jones,
I wish to inform you that I am resigning from my position as IT Manager effective 30 August 2015.
As you know, I had my second child in July and I have made the decision to fulfill my duties and responsibilities as a full-time mother to my children.
Based on my contract, I have two weeks before my resignation takes effect. I shall remain available to assist you in the transition process and I will ensure that all pending work shall be taken care of.
I wish your company continued success in the years ahead.
Yours sincerely,
Olivia Smith
Resignation Letter due to Better Salary and Benefits Sample
12 August 2015
Mr. Oliver Smith
(Address)
Mr. Noah Jones
Department Manager
XYZ Corporation
(address)
Dear Mr. Jones,
I am writing to inform you that I am resigning from the company to accept an offer from another company which offered better salary and benefits.
While I have cherished the experience, my financial situation dictates that I cannot afford to pass up a great opportunity to improve my income and realize better benefits including health care for me and my family. I do hope you understand my decision and I wish to assure you that I bear no ill-will or grudge toward the company. I fully respect the company’s decision to stay within their operating budget.
The provision on resignation requires a two week notice. Therefore, my resignation shall take effect on 30 August 2015. I shall stay onboard to complete all pending work and to assist you in whatever way I can during the turnover process.
Thank you for the time and the experience.
Yours sincerely,
Oliver Smith
Resignation Letter due to Changes in the Company Sample
12 August 2015
Mr. Oliver Smith
(Address)
Mr. Noah Jones
Department Manager
XYZ Corporation
(address)
Dear Mr. Jones,
Please accept this letter as my formal notice of resignation as IT Manager of the company.
This has been a difficult decision for me as I have greatly enjoyed and benefited during my tenure. But recent changes in the organizational structure and process flows have made it difficult for me to perform to the best of my abilities.
Based on my employment contract, the effective date of my resignation shall be on 30 August 2015. In the interim, I shall stay on-board and perform my usual duties and tasks. If needed, I shall gladly assist you in training my replacement.
I wish you and the rest of the team all the best in the years ahead.
Thank you for the time and the opportunity.
Yours sincerely,
Oliver Smith
Resignation Letter to a Client Sample
12 August 2015
Mr. Oliver Smith
(Address)
Mr. Bernhard Palmer
Operations Manager
SG Limited Pty.
(address)
Dear Mr. Palmer,
I am writing to advise you that effective 30 August 2015, I would no longer be connected with XYZ Company.
I wish to assure you that my leaving will have no affect on the management of your campaign. The person who will take over is Mr. Michael Anderson who has been with XYZ Company for 20 years and brings with him a highly distinguished record in managing accounts.
As part of the turnover process, I would like to schedule a conference call between you, me and Michael as a way of formal introduction. I am confident you will find Michael a capable and responsible Account Manager.
Kindly advise if 14 August 2015, 10:00 am would be convenient for you. I shall send you the WebEx conference call invite at 9:50am.
As per my employment contract, I shall still be on board for two weeks until my resignation takes effect on 30 August 2015.
It was a privilege and honor to work with you the last few years. I wish your company continued success in the coming years.
Thank you for the time and the opportunity.
Yours sincerely,
Oliver Smith
Resignation Letter Due to Family Reasons Sample
12 August 2015
Mr. Oliver Smith
(Address)
Mr. Noah Jones
Department Manager
XYZ Corporation
(address)
Dear Mr. Jones,
It is with a heavy heart that I am writing to advise you that I am resigning from my position as IT Manager.
As you well know, the past few weeks have been very difficult for me due to pressing concerns involving my family. These issues remain unresolved and until they are, I will remain distracted and disconnected from the requirements of my job. It will not be fair to you and the company if I cannot perform to the best of my ability.
I do not wish to become a crutch to the team and at the same time, I feel now is the best time to address the issues that continue to affect my family. Thus, my resignation would be to the best interest of all parties concerned.
As per my employment contract, I shall still be on board for two weeks until my resignation takes effect on 30 August 2015. In the remaining two weeks, I shall devote my time and energy in finishing all remaining tasks and responsibilities.
I wish your company continued success in the coming years.
Thank you for the time and the opportunity.
Yours sincerely,
Oliver Smith
Resignation Letter Due to Family Relocating Sample
12 August 2015
Mr. Oliver Smith
(Address)
Mr. Noah Jones
Department Manager
XYZ Corporation
(address)
Dear Mr. Jones,
It is with a heavy heart that I am writing to advise you that I am resigning from my position as IT Manager.
This decision has weighed on me for some time now. But eventually I had to make a decision that is in the best interest of those whom I work for; my family. My wife was appointed Vice-President of a leading company in Florida and I could not take that opportunity from her. As a family we decided to uproot the family and relocate to Florida. A big factor in our decision was her company’s offer for us to stay in the staff house.
I will remain on-board for two weeks with respect to my employment contract. I assure you I will complete all pending work before my resignation takes effect on 30 August 2015.
I wish your company continued success in the coming years.
Thank you for the time and the opportunity.
Yours sincerely,
Oliver Smith
Resignation Letter from a Job you Just Started Sample
12 August 2015
Mr. Oliver Smith
(Address)
Mr. Noah Jones
Department Manager
XYZ Corporation
(address)
Dear Mr. Jones,
Kindly accept this letter as my formal notice of resignation as IT Manager for your company.
I understand that I was hired only last month and I had just completed my first month of training. But unfortunately, a dreadful family situation came up which made me relinquish this generous position.
I have reviewed my contract and consulted with Human Resources. They concurred that due to my tenure, I am technically still on training mode or probationary status. They have agreed to allow my resignation to take effect immediately.
For your reference, I have attached the formal opinion of Ms. Harriett Robinson, HR Manager.
I wish to extend my heartfelt apology for my protracted tenure.
I remain confident your company shall continue to find success in the forthcoming years.
Yours sincerely,
Oliver Smith
Resignation Letter Due to Health Reasons Sample
12 August 2015
Mr. Oliver Smith
(Address)
Mr. Noah Jones
Department Manager
XYZ Corporation
(address)
Dear Mr. Jones,
Please accept this letter as my formal notification of resignation as IT Manager.
My health issues have been well-documented and as you know, I have missed several days due to illness. Over the weekend, the results of my latest medical check-up came out and I was diagnosed with Auto-Immune Disorder. Doctors are still in the process of figuring out the cause of my condition despite having a comprehensive file on my medical history. As a result, I am frequently subjected to more tests.
What is clear is that my liver is failing; it is no longer functioning efficiently. Doctors estimate that it is only functioning at 40% at best. This is the main reason why I have been feeling intermittently weak.
For your reference, I have attached a copy of the latest medical report from my doctor. He has advised me to stay rested until such time that they have determined the cause and can prescribe treatment. I have reviewed my contract and have advised Ms. Harriett Robinson of HR of having my resignation take effect immediately. She agreed and has issued me all the necessary papers to secure clearance.
While it is an unfortunate episode, I feel blessed in having the opportunity to work with you and the great people of XYZ Company.
I remain confident your company shall continue to find success in the forthcoming years.
Yours sincerely,
Oliver Smith
Resignation Letter due to plans to return to school sample
12 August 2015
Mr. Oliver Smith
(Address)
Mr. Noah Jones
Department Manager
XYZ Corporation
(address)
Dear Mr. Jones,
I am writing to formally notify you of my decision to resign as IT Manager.
I have decided to go back to school and pursue advanced studies in Computer Engineering. While I have learned from my experience with the company, I feel that my technical and fundamental competencies remain seriously challenged. I wish to pursue further education to enhance my productivity in an organization and open better career opportunities in the future.
As per my employment contract, I shall continue to be on-board for two weeks. I will complete all pending work and turnover all the confidential documents on the effective date of my resignation which will be on 30 August 2015.
Thank you for the opportunity and I appeal to your understanding of my decision. I wish your company great success in the coming years.
Yours sincerely,
Oliver Smith
Resignation Letter for Retirement Reasons Sample
12 August 2015
Mr. Oliver Smith
(Address)
Mr. Noah Jones
Department Manager
XYZ Corporation
(address)
Dear Mr. Jones,
Please accept this letter as my formal notification of resignation as IT Manager.
Over the last few months I have gone back and forth on my decision to retire. Upon final consultation with my family, I have decided to take myself out of this career path and toward the unchartered road of life.
I am no longer a young man but I am not too old to pursue other interests and opportunities that will allow me to spend more time with my family.
It has been a great 25 years with the company and yes, I am fully aware of the two-week grace period prior to resignation. Therefore, I shall stay on board and complete my remaining projects until 30 August 2015.
Thank you the great experiences and the wonderful friendships built throughout a quarter of a century.
I wish you all the best.
Yours sincerely,
Oliver Smith
How to Write a Resignation Letter
A Letter of Resignation is no different than any other type of business letter in terms of structure. It has an introduction, a body and a conclusion.
But as in all forms of written communication, the challenge lies in the content.
The difficulty in crafting a resignation letter is that the act is initiated by powerful emotions; some of which have accumulated over a period of time and attained critical mass.
Given the emotional weight carried by these letters, it would be wise for you to be mindful of these three (3) simple reminders before plotting pen to paper or fingers on your keyboard:
Keep the tone of your letter positive
The resignation letter should not be used as a medium to vent your misgivings about your former employer because it will serve no other purpose except to feed your ego. There is a saying in business that you should “never burn your bridges”. There may come a point in time when you will need your former employer’s assistance.
Content must be focused and brief
The resignation letter is not a journal, a diary or a report. Its purpose is clear-cut; you are wilfully terminating your tenure from the company. There is no need to ramble on endlessly otherwise, the content will get lost. Formally state your decision to resign and wish your former employer well
A simple resignation letter works best
You can never go wrong with simplicity because it doesn’t open you up to controversy. Leave out issues that have nothing to do with your resignation. The details regarding your resignation will have their proper venue in the Exit Interview.
I have included resignation letter samples that you can review and use as a template. However, if during the course of crafting your letter of resignation you find emotions overcoming the content of the resignation letter template take the time to breathe, relax and review what you have written so far. If the content reads too emotional, discard it and start all over again.
Sometimes emotion can get the best of us and overrule sound judgment. Remember, once you have tendered your resignation letter, you can never take it back.
The resignation letter examples included here are basic and can be applied to every circumstance. Generally, a resignation letter should cover the following:
- The addressee of the letter; usually your direct manager or supervisor with a copy furnished to Human Resources.
- If required, include the provision in your employment contract that validates your decision to resign.
- The specific date your resignation will take effect.
- A brief but official statement on your decision to resign.
Lastly, an important but oftentimes difficult component for most resigning employees to include in their letter is a section which expresses appreciation to management and the company during the time of employment.
This section is important because it exudes your level of professionalism, maintains the positive nature of the content and is a great way to put closure on your tenure.
Once you have reviewed your resignation letter and have signed both the original and receiving copy now comes the time to officially tender it in your office.
Although most companies have set guidelines on the process of resignation, there are other issues which concern a number of resigning employees. Here are a few of them:
When should I tender my resignation?
It would be advisable to resign on a Friday because the work week has come to an end and management is more compassionate approaching the weekend.
Should I talk to my immediate supervisor first?
While it is not mandatory, in terms of proper work etiquette, yes, you should talk to your immediate supervisor first. It shows a sign of respect and appreciation for the camaraderie shared during your term of employment.
Should I e-mail my resignation letter?
No. As a matter of professional courtesy, always hand-carry your resignation letter. Give your manager the benefit of a formal audience and a handshake. It would also be a opportune time to receive honest; quite possibly, candid feedback from your superior.
After you’ve processed these ideas on conducting your resignation, you may now proceed to view the free resignation samples we’ve included for your reference and guidance.
