Resignation Letter for a New Job — Free Template
Congratulations on the new job. Before you start, you'll need to resign from your current one in a way that protects your references and your reputation. This template mentions the new opportunity briefly and focuses on a smooth handover and a sincere thank-you.
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October 15, 2026
[Who the letter is to (usually your manager)]
[Company or organization]
Re: Resignation of [Your full name]
Dear [Who the letter is to (usually your manager)],
Please accept this letter as formal notice that I am resigning from my position as [Your job title] at [Company or organization]. I am giving two weeks' notice, and my last day of work will be [Your last day of work].
I have accepted a new opportunity that is the right next step for my career.
I will do what I can to make this transition as smooth as possible, including wrapping up my open work and handing over my responsibilities.
Thank you for the opportunities and support I have received during my time at [Company or organization].
I wish you and everyone at [Company or organization] continued success.
Sincerely,
[Your full name]
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Resign only after the offer is final
Wait until you have a written offer and any conditions, such as a background check or references, have been cleared before you resign. If the offer falls through after you've given notice, your current employer is under no obligation to keep you.
Agree a start date with your new employer that leaves room for your full notice period here. Most new employers expect and respect a two-week notice period.
How much to say about the new job
You don't have to name your new employer or your new title. Saying you've accepted a new opportunity is enough. If you're going to a competitor, it's especially wise to keep details out of the letter.
Check your employment agreement for non-compete, non-solicitation or confidentiality clauses before you leave, and avoid taking any company files or client lists with you.
Handling a counteroffer
Your employer may try to keep you with a raise or promotion. Decide ahead of time what, if anything, would make you stay. If you decline, thank them sincerely and confirm your last day in writing.
What to do, step by step
Tell your manager first
If you can, tell your manager in person or on a call before you send anything. The letter then confirms the conversation in writing instead of breaking the news.
Check your notice period
Look at your offer letter, contract or employee handbook. Two weeks is the usual courtesy in the US, but some roles ask for more, and leaving with the expected notice keeps you eligible for rehire.
Fill in your letter
Answer the questions above. Keep it short and positive: your title, your last day, a brief reason if you want to give one, and a thank-you.
Offer a smooth handover
List the one or two concrete things you'll do before you go, such as finishing a project, writing handover notes or training a replacement. It is the part managers remember.
Send it and keep a copy
Email it to your manager, copy HR if your company expects that, and save a copy for your records. Ask HR about your final paycheck, unused vacation and benefits.
What if your employer asks you to stay longer or leave sooner?
If your manager asks you to stay past your last day, you can say yes, say no, or offer a middle ground such as a few hours of remote help. Whatever you agree, confirm it in a short email so there's no confusion about your end date or pay.
Some employers accept a resignation and ask you to leave right away. In most US states employment is at will, so this is allowed, but many companies still pay out the notice period. Ask HR how your final pay, unused vacation and benefits will be handled.
If you receive a counteroffer, take a day to think it over. Remember the reasons you decided to leave, and if you turn it down, do it politely and in writing so the relationship stays positive.
Example resignation letter for a new job
A filled-in sample with made-up details, so you can see the finished result.
Jordan Ellis
October 5, 2026
Dana Whitfield
Brightline Logistics
Re: Resignation of Jordan Ellis
Dear Dana Whitfield,
Please accept this letter as formal notice that I am resigning from my position as Senior Marketing Coordinator at Brightline Logistics. I am giving two weeks' notice, and my last day of work will be October 19, 2026.
I have accepted a new opportunity that is the right next step for my career.
During my last two weeks I will finish the vendor contract renewals, write a guide to my weekly reports and help train my replacement.
I am grateful for everything I have learned here, and I hope our paths cross again.
After I leave, you can reach me at jordan.ellis@email.com.
I wish you and everyone at Brightline Logistics continued success.
Sincerely,
Jordan Ellis
Frequently asked questions
Should I tell my employer where my new job is?
You can, but you don't have to. Many people keep it general in the letter and share details in conversation, or once they've started. If the new job is with a competitor, your employer may ask you to leave sooner, so be prepared for that.
When should I resign if I have a new job offer?
Once you've accepted a written offer and any conditions are cleared. Then resign with enough notice to fit your new start date, usually two weeks. Avoid resigning on a verbal offer alone.
Can I start my new job before my notice period ends?
Only if your current employer agrees to release you early. If they do, confirm the new last day in writing so your final pay and benefits are calculated correctly.
How long should a resignation letter be?
Short. Three or four brief paragraphs on a single page is plenty: that you're resigning, your last day, an offer to help with the transition and a thank-you. A resignation letter goes into your personnel file, so it isn't the place for complaints or a long explanation.
Do I have to give a reason for resigning?
No. You can simply say you are resigning and give your last day. Many people add a short, neutral reason such as a new opportunity, relocation or family reasons. If you'd rather keep it private, a line like saying it's the right time to move on is perfectly professional.
FairLetter is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. Letters are templates you customize and send yourself.