Two weeks’ notice resignation letter (with examples)

Whether you just landed a new job or you are moving across the country, when it’s time to leave your current job, there are a few key rules of etiquette to follow. One important task will be writing and submitting a two weeks’ notice resignation letter.

This letter serves an important purpose — it officially notifies your current employer of your intention to leave and ensures your departure is properly documented.

If you are getting ready to put in your two weeks’ notice, use the following guide to help you author your letter with our easy-to-follow tips and examples.

Who should give a two weeks’ notice resignation letter?

Before you grab your laptop and start writing your two weeks’ resignation letter, you might wonder if you even need to write one. While formal resignation letters are often associated with a professional job setting, the reality is that no matter what your current job position is, you should write this letter.

Even if your employer isn’t expecting a two weeks’ notice letter, it will put you in a good light as you move on to something new. Additionally, practicing writing this letter even when leaving an entry-level job can help you continue to hone your skills as you move into a new role.

Resignation letter basics: The do’s and don’ts

As you write your two weeks’ notice resignation letter, there are a few things you will want to be sure to include and a few things you should leave off. Use the following quick do’s and don’ts to help guide what you write.

Do include

• The announcement and statement of intent that you are resigning: The first portion of your resignation letter should inform your employer of your upcoming departure. This section should include when you intend to leave and your position with the company.
• The date of your last day on the job: Be sure to clearly state the date of the last day you will be working for your employer.
• A thank you section: While you might be moving onto a new, exciting role, you want to take the time to thank your current employer for the opportunities you had. Use this section to quickly highlight how this role helped you become a better employee, teammate, colleague, or manager.
• A brief highlight of your time with the organization (optional): After saying a quick thank you, you can take the time to go into a little more detail about your time with the company. This section is optional, but you can use it to highlight accomplishments and responsibilities.
• A section discussing the handoff and transition: One of the best ways to leave a job on a positive note is to help hand off your role to a new hire. You can use this portion of your letter to outline how you plan to assist with the transition and your desire to make the process as seamless as possible.
• Your personal contact information: Close out your two weeks’ notice letter with your personal contact information. This can be helpful in case your boss needs to get a hold of you in the future and can allow you to stay in touch.
• A closing sentiment and well wishes: Finally, make sure to wish the organization well and wrap up the letter with a closing statement.

Don’t include

• Complaints: Even if you are frustrated with the organization you are leaving, do not use your two weeks’ notice letter to discuss these complaints. Keep the letter professional and refrain from being negative.
• A long-winded story: While you might have a personal relationship with your boss or manager, don’t use your two weeks’ notice letter to share your life story. Keep the letter short and to the point. You can talk about your plans in person as appropriate, but your resignation letter should only contain relevant details about your departure.
• Typos: Just because you are leaving doesn’t mean you should rush through your two weeks’ notice. Ensure that your letter is well written and free of errors. Remember, you never know when you might run into an old manager again or might even need to come back to the same organization you left.

Resignation letter examples

You can submit your resignation letter either via email or in paper form. If your company does not have a specific policy, you can simply use your discretion. In today’s digital world, most businesses are accustomed to receiving these letters via email. It is a good practice to send the letter to both your direct manager and your HR department.

As you follow the examples below, be sure to tweak them according to your specific situation. Make sure to double-check the letter for any typos and consider asking a colleague for an extra set of eyes to ensure you have not forgotten anything important.

At the top of the letter, be sure to include the date, company name, and address. If you plan to send by email, add an email subject line, such as “Resignation Notice.”

Resignation notice example #1

[Date]
Attention: [Company Contact]
[Company Address]

Dear [Manager’s Name]:

This letter serves as notice of my resignation from my role here at [Company Name]. My resignation is effective [number of weeks or days] from today, with my last day of work on [date].

Thank you for the chance to work at [Company Name]. It has been a pleasure to contribute to the team and to grow both personally and professionally during my time here.

During my last two weeks here, I’ll be happy to assist with my transition by helping to train my replacement. I’ll also be on hand to help complete projects in motion and to ensure continuity of business operations.

I wish you and the entire team all the best.

Sincerely,

[Signature]

[Your Name typed]

Resignation notice example #2

Subject line: Resignation Notice – [Your Name]

Dear [Manager’s Name]:

This letter is to inform you of my resignation from my position here at [Company Name]. This resignation is effective [number of weeks or days] from today with my final day of work on [date].

Over the past [number of years] here at the organization, I have appreciated all the opportunities you have provided for me. Thank you for the chance to be a part of this team.

As I transition out of my role, I will be happy to help train my replacement. Additionally, I’ll be on hand to help complete projects, pass on items in motion, and ensure continuity in business operations.

I wish you and the team all the best.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]