When to use this letter
- You've already had the conversation with your manager and just need it in writing.
- Your workplace is informal, or you've only been in the job a short time.
- You'd rather not give a reason or go into detail.
Short and formal
Works anywhere, including more traditional workplaces.
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], effective [Month Day, Year].
Thank you for the opportunity to work here. I'll do what I can to make the transition smooth.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Short and warm
For a manager you get on well with.
Version 2 of 3
[Your Name]
[Email] · [Phone]
[Month Day, Year]
[Manager's Name][Manager's Title], [Company Name]
Dear [Manager's First Name],
I wanted to put in writing what we talked about: I'm resigning from my role as [Job Title], and my last day will be [Month Day, Year].
Thank you for being such a supportive manager. I've really enjoyed working with you and the team, and I'll make sure my work is handed off properly.
With thanks,
[Your Name]
Two-line resignation email
The minimum that still counts as written notice.
Version 3 of 3
Subject: Resignation — [Your Name]
Dear [Manager's Name],
I'm resigning from my position as [Job Title] at [Company Name]. My last day will be [Month Day, Year].
Thank you for the opportunity, and please let me know how I can help with the handover.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Tips
- Short isn't the same as cold. One sentence of thanks makes a brief letter read as professional rather than curt.
- Don't drop the date. Even the shortest letter should name your last day.
- Skip the reason if you don't want to share it. A short letter doesn't need one.
- Talk first, then send. A two-line letter lands better after a conversation than instead of one.
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.