Free Resignation Letter Generator

How to write your resignation letter

1. Choose a tone. Standard suits almost every situation.
2. Add your name, your job title, and your manager and company.
3. Set your notice period. The last working day is calculated for you.
4. Read the drafted letter and edit anything that does not sound like you.
5. Pick a template and download the PDF.

What a resignation letter should contain

A resignation letter is a record, not a conversation. It exists so there is a dated document confirming you resigned and when your employment ends. Keep it to four things:

• A clear statement that you are resigning, and from which position.
• Your last working day, stated as an actual date rather than "in two weeks".
• An offer to help hand over your work.
• A brief thank you, if you can write one honestly.

How much notice should I give?

Two weeks is the common convention for most US roles, which is why this tool defaults to it. It is a convention, not a law — what actually binds you is your employment contract, which may require a month or more, particularly for senior or specialised positions. Check the contract before you commit to a date, because a letter naming a date shorter than your contractual notice can put you in breach. If you are in a jurisdiction with statutory notice periods, those apply on top.

Should I say why I am leaving?

Almost always no. Your letter goes into your personnel file and can be read years later by people who were not there, including during a reference check. Grievances, criticism of a manager, or a detailed explanation of a better offer all create risk and gain you nothing. Save the reasons for the exit interview, where you can choose what to say and it is not a permanent document. The Brief tone above exists for exactly this situation.

Do I have to resign in writing?

Verbal resignation is often legally valid, but writing it down protects you. A dated letter fixes when notice was given, which matters for your final pay, accrued leave, notice-period obligations and sometimes benefits continuation. Tell your manager in person first if you can, then send the letter the same day so the conversation and the record match.