A resignation letter formally tells your employer that you are leaving and confirms your last working day. It becomes part of your employment record, so it should be short, polite and clear — even if you are unhappy with the job. The way you leave affects your references and your reputation in your industry.
What to include
- 1The date and your manager's name.
- 2A clear statement that you are resigning, and your job title.
- 3Your last working day, in line with your contract's notice period.
- 4A brief thank-you (optional but recommended).
- 5An offer to help with the handover.
- 6Your signature or name.
Notice periods
Check your employment contract before resigning. Notice periods vary by employer, seniority and country — from one week to three months or more. Some countries also set minimum legal notice periods, and probation periods often have shorter notice. If you want to leave earlier than your notice period, ask politely; your employer may agree but is not always obliged to.
Standard resignation letter template
[Date]
Dear [Manager's name],
Please accept this letter as formal notice of my resignation from my position as [Job Title] at [Company]. In line with my [one-month] notice period, my last working day will be [date].
Thank you for the opportunities and support I have received during my time here. I have particularly valued [specific experience].
I will do everything I can to ensure a smooth handover, including documenting my current work and helping to train my replacement.
Kind regards,
[Your name]
Put this into practice
Build an ATS-friendly CV with live preview and free PDF download.
Short resignation email
Subject: Resignation — [Your Name]
Dear [Manager's name],
I am writing to resign from my role as [Job Title]. My last working day will be [date], in line with my notice period. Thank you for your support — I will make sure my work is handed over properly.
Best regards, [Your name]
How to resign professionally
- Tell your manager in person or by video call first, then send the letter.
- Get your new offer in writing before you resign.
- Prepare a handover document listing tasks, contacts and deadlines.
- Stay positive in your exit interview — give constructive, specific feedback.
- Ask for a reference or LinkedIn recommendation before you leave.
- Update your LinkedIn profile once you start the new role.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to give a reason for resigning?+
No. A resignation letter only needs to state that you are leaving and your last working day.
Can my employer refuse my resignation?+
Generally, employers cannot force you to stay, but they can require you to work your contractual notice period. Rules differ by country, so check your contract.
What if I get a counter-offer?+
Consider why you wanted to leave in the first place. If the reasons were not only about money, a counter-offer rarely solves them.
BuildCVFast Editorial Team
This guide is written and reviewed by the BuildCVFast editorial team using current hiring practices, published employer guidance and official government sources where relevant. We update our guides regularly. Read our editorial policy or send us a correction.Keep reading
Salary Negotiation Tips: How to Ask for More (Without Losing the Offer)
3 min read
LinkedIn Profile Tips: Optimise Your Profile to Get Found by Recruiters
3 min read
References on a CV: Should You Include Them and How?
3 min read
Job Interview Preparation: Common Questions and How to Answer Them
3 min read