How to Write a Resignation Letter in 2024 (Tips and Examples)

Regardless of the reason you've decided to quit your job, you need to know how to write a strong resignation letter to help you foster long-term relationships with your company or former colleagues. A well-written letter of resignation briefly states your reasons to leave, gratitude for the given opportunities, and intention to assist with the transition process.

Whether you are seeking a career change or looking for a new job, this article walks you through the steps to write a professional letter, ensuring a smooth transition during your departure. Our tips and UK-specific resignation email templates below enable you to navigate this simple process effectively, leaving a positive impression as you progress in your career.

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What is a resignation letter?

A letter of resignation is an essential step in leaving a job, as it formally expresses your intention to end employment with your current employer. While it may feel ceremonial, a notice period letter serves as an official record of your departure. Acting as a bridge between you and your soon-to-be-former employer, it not only informs them of your decision to quit but also leaves a lasting impression of your professionalism.

NHS resignation letter example

Download this NHS resignation letter sample in PDF

This NHS resignation letter example features James Mitchell, a Nurse at St. Thomas' Hospital NHS Trust, who announces his decision to resign from the current role. The language is clear and easy to understand, with a simple format. He states his last working day in line with contract and expresses gratitude for his time at St. Thomas'. He also highlights a few achievements and key projects he's worked on, showing his eagerness to assist with the transition. This resignation letter is brief, concise and portrays James as a true professional leaving on a positive note.

Teacher resignation letter example

Download this resignation letter sample in PDF

This short formal written notice of resignation example features Lydia Rogers, a Math Teacher, looking to resign from her position. She uses the professional Duke template that conveys her intention in a simple format. It is well-structured, with concise paragraphs and a clear message. Lydia emphasises her desire to assist with the handover and expresses gratitude for the opportunities given, showing that she's willing to leave on a positive note.

What to include in a resignation letter?

Before you start writing your e-mail, it's worth taking a moment to consider the overall tone and message you wish to get across. Your written notice of resignation should strike a balance between professionalism and gratitude, expressing your reasons for leaving while maintaining a positive and respectful tone.

• Addressing your manager by name makes your writing more personalised and shows respect.

• Including the current date provides a reference point for the letter.

• Including your personal details ensures your employer can easily reach you if needed.

• Explicitly state you are resigning to clarify that this is a formal notice.

• Specify the end date that is in line with your contractual notice period.

• Thank your employer for expressing gratitude for the provided opportunities.

• Signature gives a professional touch to your letter.

How to write a letter of resignation 

Keep the resignation letter format simple and avoid unnecessary details. Though it's not always necessary to state your reason for leaving, providing at least two weeks' notice is standard practice in the UK, but ensure to double-check your employment contract for more details and legal obligations.

1. Include the date and notice period

Clearly stating your resignation date and notice period is essential. If it's a two-week notice, explicitly mention your intention to resign, the effective date two weeks from today, and reference your contractual notice period. This ensures transparent communication about your last working day and facilitates a smooth handover process for everyone involved.

Care assistant resignation letter example:

Dear [Manager's name],

I am writing to formally resign from my position as Care Assistant at NHS. My last working day will be 31/02/2024, providing the standard 2 weeks notice.

Refer to our care assistant CV and care assistant cover letter examples to help you create professional documents for your next application.

2. Show gratitude for the opportunity

Be sincere and thank your employer for the time and opportunities given. Ideally, give an example of a positive experience or project you collaborated on to make it more persona. Highlighting these positive aspects can help leave a long-lasting impression and maintain a positive relationship with your employer after you leave.

Admin resignation letter example:

I am immensely grateful for the opportunities for learning and development that Uber has provided me during my time. It has been a pleasure to work with such a talented team and contribute to impactful data-driven decisions.

Explore our admin CV and admin cover letter example for valuable guidance on creating career documents before or after you have resigned.

3. Assist with the transition period

Express your willingness to assist in the transition process by offering to train your replacement or document processes. This gesture demonstrates professionalism and a commitment to ensuring that your departure does not disrupt the workflow of the company.

Customer service resignation letter example:

I am committed to ensuring a smooth transition and am available to assist in training my replacement as a Customer Service Assistant during this period, ensuring they are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the role.

See our customer service CV and customer service cover letter examples to help you find a new job in this field with compelling career documents after you resign.

Resignation letter templates

Choose a professional work notice template and customise ith with your own personal details and information.

Short resignation letter sample

Dear Finlay Metcalfe,

I’m writing to inform you of my resignation from Nurse position at NHS England. In accordance with the period of notice agreed within my contract, my last day will be 31/05/2024. 

I would like to thank you and the team for all the opportunities within the employment period. I have greatly enjoyed working with all of you. However, it’s time to move on due to my career goals.

Sincerely,

Sam Nelson

Simple resignation letter sample

Dear Dominic Edwards,

Please accept this message as notification that I am leaving my Waiter/Waitress position with Willow Lane Cafe & Bistro effective 1/03/2024. I appreciate the opportunities I have been given at your company and your professional guidance and support. I wish you all the best.

If I can be of assistance during this transition, please let me know.

Best regards,

Billy Vaughan

Professional resignation letter sample

Dear Natasha Hudson,

I am writing to formally resign from my role as a Primary School Teacher at Kingsley Park Academy. My last working day will be March 1st, 01/03/2024, per the notice period outlined in my contract.

I want to express my gratitude for the experiences and growth I've gained during my time at Willowbrook Community School. It has been a pleasure working with you and the team. However, I believe it's the right moment to seek new challenges aligned with my career aspirations.

I am committed to ensuring a smooth transition of my responsibilities. Please let me know how I can assist during this period, whether training my replacement or documenting any essential processes or projects. I want to ensure that the team and the company can continue without interruption.

Thank you for your understanding, and I look forward to completing my remaining tasks and ensuring an easy transition.

Best regards,

Katie Gibbs

Key takeaways 

Keep your resignation letter concise, respectful, and professional, as that's your key to success. Take control of your future, make informed decisions, and embark on the next chapter of your professional life with optimism and determination. Lastly, take the time to connect with coworkers before leaving to solidify existing relationships and show your appreciation for the time you worked together. Best luck in your future career, and may these tips help you resign smoothly.

Next steps?

If you’re looking for a new job, explore one of our CV templates to help you get started. Connect with our CV Writing Service to receive professional career advice and help you fix all the inconsistencies. Lastly, complement your CV with a cover letter to ensure your application is complete to help you stand out from others. Follow our practical tips when it comes to sending your CV via email.

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FAQ

Is a two-week notice required in the UK?

The required notice period depends on how long you have worked for a company. If the employee has been with the employer for longer than a month but less than two years, they must give at least one week's notice. However, if the employee has been employed continuously for two years or more, they must give at least two weeks' notice. 

Additionally, for each additional year of service, the employee must provide an extra week's notice, up to a maximum of 12 weeks. For example, someone who has worked for four years would have a minimum statutory notice period of four weeks.

Why do you need a resignation letter?

A resignation letter is a formal document that acts as proof of your intention to resign and the notice period you agreed to serve. Additionally, it is a professional and respectful way to document your departure, ensuring that it is handled with grace. See the three common reasons for writing a for,at written notice of resignation below:

• Record-keeping (paper trail)

• Customary to do so

• Avoid awkwardness. 

See our related blog articles on how to write a good CV and how to start a cover letter article to learn more.

What is the best format for a resignation letter?

Adhere to professional standards and follow specific guidelines your organisation sets. A clear and concise format ensures you get your message across more. Include the current date, your manager's name, salutation, the body, and a polite sign-off. Lastly, remember to state your intention to leave and provide two weeks' notice.

Does the resignation letter need a signature?

No, signing a resignation letter is optional in the UK. While a letter of resignation suffices, ensure that you provide your contact information and specify your notice period. In case your employer asks you to sign a document for them, carefully review its contents and weigh the pros and cons, as signing can have implications. 

If you believe you have no choice but to resign due to your employer's severe breach of your contract, consider seeking legal advice from the Acas helpline. Lastly, when your resignation is approved, your employer may provide you with a resignation acceptance letter confirming your final day of work and other essential details.

To whom should a resignation letter be addressed?

Your resignation letter needs to be addressed to your direct manager or supervisor. You may also write a letter for a more senior manager or someone else from human resources, but that could delay the process. Refer to the employee handbook for more information. 

Do I legally have to write a resignation letter?

Writing a formal written notice of resignation is not legally required in the UK, but it is considered professional and polite practice. We suggest you provide a written notice period of your intention to resign to maintain a positive attitude and help you save your connection for the long-term future. Please note you can inform your manager verbally or submit a written letter. Double-check your employment contract for any notice period requirements.

How do I write a letter of resignation to the NHS?

See below the example of how to write an NHS resignation letter:

I am writing to inform you about my resignation from the position as a Nurse at NHS, effective 31/03/2024. I appreciate the opportunities for growth that I have had during my time here. I am committed to ensuring a seamless transition and will assist in any way possible to facilitate the handover process. Thank you for the support during my time at the NHS.

Are we still going through the Great Resignation?

No, economists say this period is over after nearly two years since the peak of 'The Great Resignation in the UK’ As the world adapts to new realities, we're shifting towards the 'Big Stay' era where employees opt to hold onto their current jobs or advance to better roles, defying the earlier trend of mass resignations.