The Ultimate Business Letter of Resignation Template Guide for a Professional Exit

Looking for a new job can be exciting, but it also means saying goodbye to your current employer. And that means writing a business letter of resignation. It’s important to make a good last impression and leave on a positive note, so a well-written resignation letter is crucial. But drafting a letter from scratch can be daunting, especially when emotions are involved. That’s why there are templates available to make the process easier. With a business letter of resignation template, you can find examples and edit them as needed to fit your unique situation. So, rather than spending hours agonizing over the wording, use a template to ensure your resignation letter is professional, concise, and respectful.

The Best Structure for a Resignation Letter

Writing a resignation letter can be a stressful experience, especially if it is your first time resigning from a job. However, it is essential to do it correctly to maintain good relationships with your employer and colleagues. A well-structured resignation letter is a professional way to inform your employer about your departure and maintain a positive image of yourself. Here’s how you can structure your resignation letter:

1. Introduction

The first section of your resignation letter should be an introduction that conveys your intent to resign. It should be direct and to the point. Start by addressing the letter to your supervisor, manager, or the company’s human resources department if you’re unsure who to address it to. State your name, job title, and the company you’re resigning from.

2. Reason for Resignation

It is essential to include the reason for your resignation in your letter, even if it is personal. However, keep it brief and to the point. Mention that you have found another opportunity, or you are seeking a career change, or any other reason that applies to your situation. Avoid being negative in your explanation and always maintain a professional tone.

3. Your Last Day of Work

Inform your employer of your intended last day of work. It is courteous to give enough notice, usually two weeks, to allow the company enough time to transition and find a replacement for you. Also, you can offer to assist in the transition process, whether it is training a new employee or completing any tasks before your departure.

4. Gratitude and Expressions of Goodwill

Thank your employer and colleagues for the opportunities and experiences you gained while working with them. Express gratitude for the support you received, the knowledge, and skills you gained, and the relationships you built while working in the company. Remember, the impression you leave is an essential factor in the future relationships you might have.

5. Closing Statement

End your letter by summarizing your intent to resign, your last day of work, and your gratitude. Offer to coordinate with your employer in any way needed before leaving, and provide your contact details for future correspondence. Make sure you sign your letter, add your printed name underneath, and include your contact information such as email and phone number.

Following these sections is a good way to structure your resignation letter. However, make sure you customize your letter based on your specific situation. Use a polite and professional tone throughout your letter, and always keep in mind its purpose. A well-structured resignation letter helps you leave on a good note and maintain professional relationships in the future.

7 Business Letter of Resignation Templates for Different Reasons

Resignation Due to Health Reasons

Dear [Manager’s Name],

It is with great regret that I submit my resignation from [company name] due to ongoing health issues. Over the past few months, I have been struggling with [health issue] and it has become increasingly difficult for me to keep up with my duties and responsibilities at work.

After much consideration, I have come to the difficult decision that it is in my best interest to resign from my position. I want to thank you and the entire team for being so supportive during my time here, and for your patience and understanding during this challenging time.

Please let me know what I can do to help make my transition out as seamless as possible. Thank you again for everything.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Resignation Due to Relocation

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I am writing to inform you of my resignation from [company name] due to my upcoming relocation to [new location]. Unfortunately, it will not be feasible for me to continue working with the company from my new location, so I have no choice but to resign from my current position.

I want to thank you and the entire team at [company name] for the incredible opportunity to work with such a talented group of individuals. I have truly enjoyed my time here and am grateful for all the experiences I gained.

Please let me know what I can do to help make my transition out as smooth as possible, and please know that I will miss working with you all.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Resignation Due to Personal Reasons

Dear [Manager’s Name],

It is with a heavy heart that I submit my resignation from [company name] due to personal reasons. Unfortunately, these reasons require that I take some time away from work to focus on my well-being and personal life. I am grateful for the support and understanding you and the team have shown me during my time here.

Please know that this was a difficult decision for me to make, and that I value the time I spent working with such incredible people. I would like to thank you for the opportunities you provided me to grow and develop in my career.

Thank you again for everything.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Resignation Due to Career Advancement

Dear [Manager’s Name],

It is with mixed emotions that I submit my resignation from [company name] due to an exciting new career advancement opportunity that I have accepted. While I am thrilled to take on this new challenge, it is difficult to leave such an amazing team.

I want to express my sincere gratitude for the incredible opportunities, experiences and support you have provided me throughout my time at [company name]. The lessons I learned and experiences gained will be invaluable as I take on this new role.

Thank you again for everything and I hope to stay in touch.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Resignation Due to Lack of Growth Opportunities

Dear [Manager’s Name],

It is with regret that I submit my resignation from [company name]. Although I have truly enjoyed my time with the company, I have come to the realization that there are no longer growth opportunities that align with my career goals.

I want to express my sincere thanks and appreciation for all the opportunities that you and the team have provided me during my tenure at [company name]. I have learned so much and had the chance to work with such amazing people.

Please let me know what I can do to help ensure a smooth transition. I remain committed to making my remaining time with [company name] productive and constructive.

Thank you again for everything.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Resignation Due to Better Salary/Benefits

Dear [Manager’s Name],

It is with mixed emotions that I submit my resignation from [company name]. I have received an opportunity that I simply cannot refuse, which includes a significant increase in salary and better benefits.

Please know that this was a difficult decision for me, as I have truly enjoyed my time at [company name]. I am extremely grateful for everything that you and the team have done to help me develop my skills and grow in my career.

Thank you again for everything and I hope to stay in touch.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Resignation Due to Retirement

Dear [Manager’s Name],

After much consideration, I am writing to inform you of my decision to retire from [company name]. My last day of work will be [date].

As I reflect on my time with the company, I am filled with a deep sense of gratitude for everything that I have learned and experienced. I am proud of the significant contributions that I have made to the team and I am honored to have had the opportunity to work with such a talented and dedicated group of people.

Please let me know what I can do to help make the transition as smooth as possible. Thank you again for everything.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

Tips for Writing a Business Letter of Resignation Template

Leaving a job can be a tough decision, but writing a letter of resignation can be equally challenging. The content of the letter can impact your current and future career prospects and may even impact the relationship between you and your employer. Here are a few tips on how to write an effective business letter of resignation:

1. Keep it professional – Regardless of your reasons for leaving the organization, your resignation letter should be professional. Use formal language and maintain a respectful tone throughout the letter. Avoid being confrontational or aggressively pointing out all the reasons why you are leaving. Instead, express your gratitude for the opportunities you have had and the skills you have gained during your tenure.

2. Be concise – Keep your resignation letter short and to the point. State that you are resigning, your last day of work, and any other pertinent information, such as where to send your final paycheck and how you will return any company property.The letter need not include other personal details or reasons for your departure if you do not feel comfortable disclosing them.

3. Give appropriate notice – It is advisable to give at least two weeks’ notice when resigning from a job. This gives your employer enough time to find a replacement, provides ample time to complete any essential tasks, pass on vital information to team members and complete any necessary documentation. You could, however, give more notice if you are leaving a crucial role or would like to assist in finding and training your replacement.

4. Arrange a meeting – It is best to present your resignation letter personally. Arranging a meeting with your manager is a good way of going about it. A face-to-face conversation can help smoothen any transition and gives you the opportunity to express your gratitude to your employer for the opportunities you have had while working for them.

5. Offer to help – To soften your exit, offer to assist with the transition. Your employer may have a particular project underway that requires your assistance or may want you to leave detailed instructions for your successor so that they can carry on with the task at hand. Suggest an adequate transition period to ensure a smooth handover to your successor.

By following these tips, you can write an effective business letter of resignation. Remember, your letter will be representing you and your professional image, so take the time to ensure it is well-written, professional and respectful.

Business Letter of Resignation Template FAQs


What is a business letter of resignation?

A business letter of resignation is a formal document used to notify your employer that you will be leaving your job and the reasons for it.

Why do I need a business letter of resignation?

A business letter of resignation is important because it serves as a record of your departure from the company and can be used as evidence of your intent to leave.

What should be included in a business letter of resignation?

A business letter of resignation should include your name, the date, the name of your supervisor or HR representative, your reason for leaving, and the date of your last day of work.

Is there a specific format for a business letter of resignation?

Yes, there is a specific format for a business letter of resignation which should include the appropriate salutation, introduction, body, and closing.

Can a business letter of resignation be sent via email?

Yes, a business letter of resignation can be sent via email, but it is recommended to also provide a printed and signed copy to your employer.

Is it necessary to provide a reason for leaving in a business letter of resignation?

No, it is not necessary to provide a reason for leaving, but it is recommended to provide a brief explanation as a professional courtesy.

Can I use a business letter of resignation template?

Yes, you can use a business letter of resignation template as a guide, but make sure to customize it to your situation and employer.

Time to say goodbye!

And that’s all there is to it, folks! I hope you’ve found this article on the business letter of resignation template informative and useful. Remember, resigning from a job can be a challenging task, but utilizing a well-crafted resignation letter can make the process less stressful for everyone involved. Thanks for reading, and don’t forget to check back for more helpful articles from our team soon!