How to write a resignation letter
Quick answer: To write a resignation letter, fill in who and where, set your last working day, choose the style and tone, read the preview and send it.
- Fill in who and where. Your name, your manager's name, the company and your job title.
- Set your last working day. Pick your notice length and press Suggest the date, or type the date yourself.
- Choose the style and tone. UK or US, formal or warm. Leave the reason out if you'd rather not give one.
- Read the preview. Change anything that doesn't sound like you.
- Send it. Copy it into an email, or download Word or PDF to attach or print and sign.
What a resignation letter needs
Three things: that you're resigning, from which job, and your last working day. Everything else is optional. A thank-you and an offer to help with the handover keep things friendly, which matters when you'll want a reference later.
Do you have to give a reason?
No. You don't need to explain why you're leaving, and a letter isn't the place for complaints. If you want to give a reason, keep it short and neutral: a new job, moving away, going back to study.
UK and US letters
UK letters put the date as 4 December 2026 and end "Yours sincerely" when you name the person ("Yours faithfully" for "Dear Sir or Madam"). US letters put the date as December 4, 2026, often have a subject line, and end "Sincerely". "Kind regards" and "Best regards" suit a warmer letter on either side.
Hand it in properly
Check your contract: many say notice must be in writing. Tell your manager in person or on a call first if you can, then send the letter. Your notice usually starts the day after they receive it.
Frequently asked questions
How much notice should I give?
What your contract says. In the UK the legal minimum is one week after a month in the job, but one month is common. In the US two weeks is the custom. Use the notice period calculator to get the exact dates.
Can I email my resignation letter?
Usually yes, unless your contract says otherwise. Copy the text into the email, or attach the Word or PDF file. Keep a copy.
Should I sign it?
A printed letter is normally signed by hand above your typed name. For an email, your typed name is enough.
Is anything I type sent to a server?
No. The letter is built in your browser from fixed templates. There's no AI and nothing is uploaded.
Can I take it back after I resign?
Only if your employer agrees. Once notice is given, they don't have to let you withdraw it, so be sure before you send it.