Simple Resignation Letter — Free, Easy Template
If you just want to resign cleanly without agonizing over wording, a simple resignation letter is all you need. This version uses plain language, a neutral reason and a standard offer to help, so you can fill it in and send it in a few minutes.
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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 decided it is the right time for me to move on.
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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Keep the structure simple
A simple resignation letter follows a predictable shape: the date, your manager's name, a sentence saying you're resigning from your position, your last day, a short line about the handover and a thank-you. Readers expect that order, so sticking to it makes the letter easy to process.
Use plain words. You don't need phrases like hereby tender or with deep regret. I am resigning from my position as office assistant, and my last day will be the 19th is clear and polite.
A neutral reason, or none at all
You are not required to explain why you're leaving. This template preselects a neutral line, saying it's the right time to move on, which works whether you have a new job lined up, are leaving for personal reasons or simply prefer to keep it private.
If you'd like to be more specific, choose another reason from the list. Keep it to one sentence, and avoid anything that sounds like a complaint about pay, coworkers or management.
After you send it
Ask HR when you'll receive your final paycheck, what happens to unused vacation and how long your health coverage lasts. Return any company equipment on or before your last day, and keep a copy of your letter for your own records.
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 simple resignation letter
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 decided it is the right time for me to move on.
I will finish my current assignments and leave clear notes for whoever takes over.
Thank you for the support and the experience I have gained here.
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
What is the simplest way to resign from a job?
Tell your manager in a short private conversation, then send a brief letter or email confirming your resignation and last day. Offer to help with the handover and thank them. That's all most employers need to begin processing your departure.
Should a simple resignation letter be formal?
It should be polite and businesslike, but it doesn't need stiff, old-fashioned language. Use your manager's name, write in complete sentences and close with Sincerely or Best regards. That level of formality fits almost any workplace.
Can I use the same simple letter for any job?
Mostly, yes. Change the title, company, manager and last day, and the letter works for office, retail, hospitality and many other jobs. If your role has a contract notice period or licensing rules, such as teaching or nursing, check those first and adjust your last day.
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.