A resignation letter is a formal record that you are leaving your job. It should be short, polite and clear. You do not need to explain why you are leaving.
Check your contract first
Look in your offer letter or employment contract for:
- The notice period, such as 15, 30 or 60 days.
- Any handover or return-of-property steps.
- Whether leave can be adjusted against notice.
Your last working day should follow that notice period unless your manager agrees to a different date in writing.
Tell your manager first
Where possible, speak to your manager before you send the letter. It is a courtesy, and the letter then only confirms what you have already said.
What to include
- Today’s date
- Your manager’s or HR’s name and title
- A clear statement that you are resigning from your position
- Your last working day
- A short thank-you
- An offer to help with handover
- Your name and signature
A simple sample
Dear Ms Rao,
Please accept this letter as formal notice of my resignation from the position of Accounts Executive. In line with my 30-day notice period, my last working day will be 15 January.
Thank you for the support and opportunities I have had during my time here. I will do my best to complete my pending work and help hand over my duties to a colleague before I leave.
Yours sincerely, Asha Verma
Tips
- Keep it brief. One short paragraph or two is enough.
- Stay positive and avoid complaints. The letter stays on file.
- Do not send it in anger. Wait a day if you feel upset.
- Keep a copy for yourself and note the date you sent it.
After you resign
- Make a list of pending tasks and where files are stored.
- Ask about final pay, leave encashment and any experience or relieving letter.
- Return company property and remove personal data from work devices as the policy allows.
Use a template
The letter templates tool includes a resignation letter that you can edit and download as a PDF. If you need other letters, such as an experience letter request, the letter and declaration maker may help. Your details stay in your browser.
This is general guidance and not legal advice. If your contract is complex, ask HR or a professional.