When to use this letter
- You're leaving for family, health or other private reasons.
- You want to give some explanation without going into detail.
- You'd like to leave the door open to coming back later.
Personal reasons, no details
The most private version.
Version 1 of 3
[Your Name]
[Email] · [Phone]
[Month Day, Year]
[Manager's Name][Manager's Title], [Company Name]
Dear [Manager's Name],
Please accept this letter as notice of my resignation from my position as [Job Title] at [Company Name]. For personal reasons, I've decided to step away, and my last day will be [Month Day, Year].
Thank you for the support and understanding you've shown me. I've valued my time here.
Before I leave, I'll make sure my work is documented and handed off. Please let me know how I can help.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Family reasons
For caregiving, a new baby or other family needs.
Version 2 of 3
[Your Name]
[Email] · [Phone]
[Month Day, Year]
[Manager's Name][Manager's Title], [Company Name]
Dear [Manager's Name],
I'm writing to let you know that I'm resigning from my position as [Job Title], with my last day on [Month Day, Year]. My family needs more of my time right now, and I've decided this is the right step.
I'm grateful for everything I've learned here and for how supportive you and the team have been.
I'll do my best to leave things in good order, including [handover task]. I hope we can stay in touch.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Health reasons
Mentions health without sharing medical details.
Version 3 of 3
[Your Name]
[Email] · [Phone]
[Month Day, Year]
[Manager's Name][Manager's Title], [Company Name]
Dear [Manager's Name],
Please accept this letter as notice of my resignation from my position as [Job Title] at [Company Name]. I need to focus on my health, and my last day will be [Month Day, Year].
Thank you for your understanding and for the opportunities I've had here.
I'll document my current work so the team can pick it up easily. Please let me know what else would help.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Tips
- One line on the reason is plenty. "For personal reasons" is a complete explanation.
- Don't share medical details. "To focus on my health" says enough.
- Ask about options before you resign if you'd rather not leave: unpaid leave, a reduced schedule or remote work may be possible. HR can tell you what's available.
- Leave the door open if you might want to return. A warm close helps.
Notice and the law
In most US jobs two weeks' notice is a custom rather than a legal requirement, but a contract, union agreement, company policy or state law can set different rules — for notice, for final pay and for unused vacation. The resignation letter guide explains US notice norms, with sources.
Not legal advice. This page is general information for US employees, not legal advice. Notice rules can come from your contract, a union agreement, company policy or state law — if you're unsure, check those or ask an employment attorney.