Resignation Letter Examples With Filled-Out Template (2026)

Why Resignation Letters Look Different

Resignation letters do not need to follow a particular legal form. The topics your letter must cover may differ depending on your situation. For example, you may resign differently for at-will employment vs. contract employment.

Additionally, your obligations after tendering your resignation could vary depending on your situation. If you were asked to sign an employee non-compete when you were hired, for instance, you may want to explain your plans so your former employer knows that you will comply with it.

What a Completed Resignation Letter Looks Like

The following example is for an at-will employee resigning for a new position elsewhere.

Header — From, To and Re Line

Identify yourself and address the letter to your supervisor. Consider copying the human resources department as well. Write a brief, clear subject line so the recipient knows they have received a resignation letter.

Body — Resignation Statement, Reason and Transition Offer

The letter should make it clear that you are quitting or resigning. This language should also make it clear that you were not fired for cause. However, be aware that if you quit, you may be ineligible for unemployment benefits in most states.

You do not need to give a reason for resigning. However, if you plan to file a lawsuit against your employer or believe that your employer may sue you, consider documenting the reason.

For example, if you quit because your employer engaged in illegal workplace discrimination, you can use your letter to document that you were discriminated against, that you reported the discrimination and that your employer took no remedial actions.

If you have given your employer notice before leaving your position, you can also explain how you plan to assist your employer’s transition. However, if you are an at-will employee, you might not need to give notice of your exit. Moreover, your employer may ask you to leave immediately.

Closing — Appreciation and Sign-Off

In most cases, there is no reason to burn any bridges on your way out. You may want to use your employer as a reference in the future. Consider expressing your appreciation and signing off gracefully.

How Other Resignation Letter Types Differ

Contract employees will write a different type of resignation letter. Contractors must follow the termination clauses of their contracts to end their employment. Similarly, if you are retiring rather than taking another position, you might draft a retirement resignation letter.

Looking for Resignation Letter Forms?

The right resignation letter can effectively terminate your employment while protecting your legal rights. Explore ConsumerShield’s templates and guides to find the right resignation letter for your situation today.