Last Updated May 28, 2023
What is a Resignation Letter?
A Resignation Letter is a short letter that an employee uses to notify their boss or supervisor that they are leaving their job.
The letter includes the employee’s last day of employment, which is usually two weeks after they serve their employer notice. However, you should check your Employment Contract for specific terms of resignation.
A Resignation Letter is also known as:
- Notice of resignation
- Resignation notice
- Letter of resignation
- Two weeks’ notice letter
Do I have to give two weeks’ notice?
A Resignation Letter is often required when giving formal notice to an employer to inform them that you are leaving the company. It's often stipulated in an Employment Contract because it provides a written record that you chose to leave your job, which can affect things like employment insurance. Usually, two weeks' notice is the standard notice period, but it can be longer depending on the termination clauses in your contract.
Aside from being a requirement, giving notice to your boss is important because it can also help ease the transition of your departure, which gives everyone (your boss, co-workers, and new trainees) time to get everything in order before you're gone. This can help ensure you leave on good terms with your boss, so they'll give you a good reference.
Often, a verbal statement of resignation doesn't suffice as formal notice. Your Employment Contract may consider this a breach of contract at times when it requires written notice.
If possible, avoid sending Resignation Letters over email. They should also be typed instead of hand-written, making them more professional and easier to read.
How do I write a Resignation Letter?
At the minimum, a Resignation Letter should include the following:
- Your contact information (first and last name, job title, phone number, and email address)
- Your boss or supervisor’s contact information (their first and last name, job title, and company address)
- Your resignation date (the date you are handing in your notice)
- The reason you are resigning (our resignation letter template also has an easy list of options that you can also choose from)
- Notice period or last day of work (typically two weeks from the day you hand in your letter, but also dependent on stipulations in your employment contract)
- Mention of salutation or well wishes
- Your closing signature
