Free Sample Resignation Letter Template for a Professional Exit

So you’ve decided that it’s time to move on from your current job and you need to write a resignation letter. The task might seem daunting, but don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with a Sample Resignation Letter Template that you can use as a reference.

Whether you’re looking to resign gracefully or want to express your frustrations with your employer, having a well-crafted resignation letter can make the process smoother. With the Sample Resignation Letter Template, you’ll have examples that you can edit as needed to fit your particular situation.

Don’t stress about creating a resignation letter from scratch. Instead, take advantage of this Sample Resignation Letter Template to help make the process easier and more efficient. This template is adaptable to any industry, level, or profession and can help provide a framework for your resignation letter.

So without further ado, let’s dive into the Sample Resignation Letter Template and get you on your way to your next adventure.

The Best Structure for a Sample Resignation Letter Template

When it comes to writing a resignation letter, the structure is just as important as the content. A well-structured resignation letter can help you maintain a positive relationship with your soon-to-be former employer and leave on good terms. Here are the key elements of a good resignation letter structure:

1. Start with a polite and professional greeting. Address your letter to your supervisor or manager and use a polite greeting, such as “Dear [Manager’s Name].” This sets a positive tone and shows that you respect your employer, even if you are leaving.

2. State your intent to resign. Make it clear in the first paragraph that you are resigning from your position. Be straightforward and avoid going into too much detail about your reasons for leaving. You can mention your appreciation for the opportunities you’ve had, but keep it brief.

3. Give notice of your last day of work. In the next paragraph, let your employer know when your last day of work will be. Be sure to include enough notice to allow your employer to find a replacement or make other arrangements. Two weeks’ notice is standard, but your employment contract may specify a different timeframe.

4. Offer to help with the transition. In the following paragraph, express your willingness to help with the transition process. Offer to train your replacement or provide documentation to help them get up to speed. This goes a long way in maintaining a positive relationship with your employer.

5. Thank your employer and colleagues. In the final paragraph, express your gratitude to your employer and colleagues for the opportunities and experiences you’ve had while working there. This is a good opportunity to mention any highlights or achievements during your time with the company.

6. Close with a polite farewell. End your letter with a closing phrase that is polite and professional, such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards.” Sign your name below this, and include your contact information if your employer needs to reach you after you leave.

In summary, a good resignation letter structure includes a polite greeting, a clear statement of intent to resign, notice of your last day of work, an offer to help with the transition, gratitude for your experiences, and a polite farewell. By following this structure, you can leave your job on good terms and maintain your professional reputation.

7 Sample Resignation Letter Templates for Different Reasons

Sample Resignation Letter Template due to Relocation

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I hope this letter finds you well. Unfortunately, my spouse has accepted a job offer out of state, and we will be relocating in the upcoming weeks. As a result, I must resign from my position as [Job Title] at [Company Name], effective [Date]. It has been a pleasure working with you and the rest of the team over the past [Timeframe], and I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences that this job has provided me.

I assure you that I will do everything I can to make the transition as smooth as possible. I am happy to assist in finding and training my replacement, and I will ensure that all of my work is up-to-date and organized before I leave. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me if you need anything at all during this process.

Thank you again for the support and guidance you have provided me during my time at [Company Name]. I will miss working with such a wonderful team, and I wish you and everyone else the best moving forward.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Sample Resignation Letter Template due to Personal Reasons

Dear [Manager’s Name],

It is with a heavy heart that I must resign from my position as [Job Title] at [Company Name], effective [Date]. Unfortunately, some unexpected personal circumstances have arisen that require my immediate attention and care. While I am sad to leave such a wonderful team and workplace, I know that this decision is the right one for me and my family at this time.

I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences that this job has provided me, and I am thankful for the support and guidance that you and the rest of the team have given me during my time here. I will do everything I can to ensure a smooth transition before my departure, and I am happy to assist in finding and training my replacement.

Thank you again for everything. I will miss working with such a wonderful group of individuals, but I am excited for the next chapter in my life.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Sample Resignation Letter Template due to New Job Offer

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I hope this letter finds you well. It is with mixed feelings that I must resign from my position as [Job Title] at [Company Name], effective [Date]. I have recently been offered a new position as [Job Title] at [New Company], and after careful consideration, I have decided to accept the offer.

While I am excited about this new opportunity, I am also sad to leave such a great team and workplace. I have learned and grown so much during my time at [Company Name], and I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences that this job has provided me. I will do everything I can to ensure a smooth transition before my departure, and I am happy to assist in finding and training my replacement.

Thank you again for everything. I will miss working with such a wonderful group of individuals, but I am excited for this next chapter in my career.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Sample Resignation Letter Template due to Educational Pursuits

Dear [Manager’s Name],

It is with a heavy heart that I must resign from my position as [Job Title] at [Company Name], effective [Date]. I have recently been accepted into a graduate school program that I have been dreaming of attending for years, and I have decided to pursue this opportunity full-time.

I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences that this job has provided me, and I am thankful for the support and guidance that you and the rest of the team have given me during my time here. I will do everything I can to ensure a smooth transition before my departure, and I am happy to assist in finding and training my replacement.

Thank you again for everything. I will miss working with such a wonderful group of individuals, but I am excited for the next chapter in my life.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Sample Resignation Letter Template due to Health Reasons

Dear [Manager’s Name],

It is with sadness that I must resign from my position as [Job Title] at [Company Name], effective [Date]. Unfortunately, I have been diagnosed with a health condition that will require me to take significant time off work to recover and receive treatment. While I am grateful for the support and understanding I have received from you and the team, I have decided that it is best for me to step down from my position and focus on my health.

It has been a privilege to work with such a wonderful team, and I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences that this job has provided me. I will do everything I can to ensure a smooth transition before my departure, and I am happy to assist in finding and training my replacement.

Thank you again for everything. I will miss working with such a great group of individuals, and I wish you all the best moving forward.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Sample Resignation Letter Template due to COVID-19 Pandemic

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I hope this letter finds you well. Unfortunately, given the current state of the COVID-19 pandemic, I must resign from my position as [Job Title] at [Company Name], effective [Date]. While this decision has not been an easy one, it is necessary for the health and safety of myself and my family.

I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences that this job has provided me, and I am thankful for the support and guidance that you and the rest of the team have given me during my time here. I will do everything I can to ensure a smooth transition before my departure, and I am happy to assist in finding and training my replacement.

Thank you again for everything. I will miss working with such a wonderful group of individuals, but I know that we will all get through this challenging time together.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Sample Resignation Letter Template due to Retirement

Dear [Manager’s Name],

It is with mixed emotions that I must resign from my position as [Job Title] at [Company Name], effective [Date]. After a fulfilling career of over [Years] years, I have decided that it is time for me to retire and begin a new chapter in my life.

I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences that this job has provided me, and I am thankful for the support and guidance that you and the rest of the team have given me during my time here. I am confident that the work I have done here will continue to have a positive impact on the company and its mission.

Thank you again for everything. It has been an honor to work with such a wonderful group of individuals, and I wish you all the best moving forward.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Tips for Writing a Resignation Letter Template

If you have decided to resign from your job, writing a resignation letter is a professional formality that should not be overlooked. Here are some tips to help ensure that you write an effective resignation letter:

  • Be clear and concise:

    Your resignation letter should be concise, to the point, and clear. Make sure that you state your intentions clearly and leave no room for interpretation.

  • Provide adequate notice:

    It is important to provide your employer with adequate notice of your resignation. In most cases, two weeks is typically standard, but you should check your employment contract to be sure.

  • Express gratitude:

    Even if you are leaving your job on less than amicable terms, it is important to express your gratitude for the opportunities that you were given while working for the company.

  • Avoid negative language:

    When writing your resignation letter, it is important to avoid negative language. Even if you are resigning because you are unhappy with your job, avoid being negative or critical in your letter.

  • Provide a reason:

    While you are not obligated to provide a reason for your resignation, it can be helpful to your employer for administrative and management purposes.

  • Be sure to proofread:

    Before submitting your resignation letter, be sure to proofread it carefully. Spelling and grammatical errors can detract from the professionalism of your letter and potentially damage your relationship with your employer.

By following these tips, you can write a professional resignation letter that will leave a positive impression on your employer. Remember, the way that you resign can have a significant impact on how you will be remembered by your former colleagues and employer in the future.

FAQs about Sample Resignation Letter Template


What is a resignation letter template?

A resignation letter template is a pre-designed framework that can be customized and used by employees who want to resign from their jobs without having to create a letter from scratch.

Why should I use a resignation letter template?

Using a resignation letter template can make the resignation process smoother and more professional. It can also save you time and ensure that you include all the necessary information in the letter.

Are resignation letter templates customizable?

Yes, resignation letter templates are customizable. You can edit them to suit your specific situation and the reasons for your resignation.

What are the basic elements that should be included in a resignation letter?

A resignation letter should include your intention to resign, the date of your last working day, a concise reason for your resignation, and a note of appreciation for the opportunity given to you.

Can a resignation letter be submitted via email?

Yes, you can submit your resignation letter via email. However, it is best to follow your company’s protocol or check with your HR department to ensure that email is an acceptable mode of communication for submitting a resignation letter.

What is the tone of a resignation letter?

A resignation letter should have a professional and formal tone. It should not be emotional or negative, even if your experience with the company has been less than ideal.

How much notice should be given in a resignation letter?

You should give as much notice as possible in a resignation letter. In most cases, two weeks’ notice is standard. However, you should check your contract or employee handbook to see if there are specific requirements for your employer.

Is it necessary to give a reason for resigning in the resignation letter?

It is not necessary to give a reason for resigning in your resignation letter. However, if you choose to include a reason, keep it concise and professional.

Saying Goodbye

And that’s it! The sample resignation letter template has definitely made things easier for you. We hope that it helped you to better understand the process and make it less stressful. Remember that resigning is not the end of everything, but the start of another chapter in your life. So, with that said, thank you for reading and make sure to come back again soon for more exciting content!