Two Weeks Notice Email — Free Template & Subject Lines
Emailing your two weeks' notice is normal at most jobs today, and it gives you a time-stamped record of exactly when you gave notice. This template writes the body of the email for you; below are subject lines, who to send it to and how to time it.
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October 15, 2026
[Who the letter is to (usually your manager or supervisor)]
[Employer (company, store or family name)]
Re: Two weeks' notice from [Your full name]
Dear [Who the letter is to (usually your manager or supervisor)],
Please accept this letter as my two weeks' notice of resignation from my position as [Your job title or position] with [Employer (company, store or family name)]. My last day of work will be [Your last day of work].
Until then, I will continue to carry out my duties and work my scheduled hours.
I am happy to help with the transition, whether that means finishing open tasks, writing down how I do my job or helping train my replacement.
Thank you for the opportunity to work with [Employer (company, store or family name)]. I appreciate everything I have learned here.
Sincerely,
[Your full name]
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Subject lines that won't get missed
Keep the subject line plain so your manager knows what it is before opening it: Two weeks notice from Marcus Bell, or Resignation, last day October 19. Avoid vague subjects like Quick question, which can sit unread and delay the start of your notice period.
Because your two weeks usually start when your employer receives your notice, a clear subject line also helps if there's ever a question about when you gave it.
Who to send it to and when
Send the email to your direct manager. Copy HR if your workplace asks for that, or forward it to them after you've spoken with your manager. Don't copy coworkers; your manager will decide when to share the news.
If you can, tell your manager in person or on a call first, then send the email right afterward as written confirmation. Send it during working hours early in the week, so your notice period starts right away.
Keep your own copy
Your work email account will be closed after you leave. Forward a copy of your notice email to your personal address, or blind-copy yourself, so you keep proof of the date. Save any reply from your manager or HR about your last day, final paycheck and unused paid time off.
What to do, step by step
Work out your last day
Count two weeks from the day you'll hand in the letter. If you work shifts, check the posted schedule so your last day matches a shift you're actually working.
Talk to your manager
Tell your manager in person or by phone if you can, then hand over or email the letter the same day. It's more respectful than letting them find out from paperwork.
Fill in your letter
Answer the questions above. Keep it brief and positive. A reason is optional, and a short thank-you goes a long way.
Offer to help with the handover
Mention one or two specific ways you'll help, like training a replacement or writing down your routines. It makes you more likely to get a good reference.
Keep a copy and ask about final pay
Save a copy of the letter and the date you gave it. Ask HR or your manager when you'll get your final paycheck and what happens to unused paid time off and benefits.
What if your employer tells you to leave before the two weeks are up?
Most US jobs are at will, so an employer can accept your notice and ask you to leave right away. Some pay you through the two weeks anyway; others don't. Ask how your final paycheck and any unused paid time off will be handled, and get the answer in writing.
If your manager doesn't respond to the letter, follow up with a short email confirming your last day. That gives you a dated record that you gave proper notice, which can matter for references and rehire eligibility.
If you're asked to stay longer than two weeks, you can agree, decline politely or offer limited help, such as answering questions by phone. Don't feel pressured to change plans with your new employer.
Example two weeks notice email
A filled-in sample with made-up details, so you can see the finished result.
Marcus Bell
October 5, 2026
Laura Simmons
Pinecrest Dental Group
Re: Two weeks' notice from Marcus Bell
Dear Laura Simmons,
Please accept this letter as my two weeks' notice of resignation from my position as Office Coordinator with Pinecrest Dental Group. My last day of work will be October 19, 2026.
I have accepted a position with another company.
I will keep working my regular hours through my last day and make sure the front desk is fully covered.
Before I leave, I will update the supply ordering spreadsheet and write step-by-step notes for opening and closing the office.
Thank you for giving me the chance to grow from cashier to shift supervisor over the past three years. I have really enjoyed working with this team.
Please send any final paperwork or questions to marcus.bell@email.com.
Sincerely,
Marcus Bell
Frequently asked questions
Is it okay to give two weeks' notice by email?
Yes. Email is widely accepted and is often the easiest way to create a written record. It's still best to tell your manager directly first if possible. Some employers also ask for a signed copy, which you can print from this template.
Should I attach a letter or write it in the email body?
Either works. Pasting the text into the email means it's read immediately; attaching a PDF gives HR a clean copy for your file. Many people paste the letter into the body and attach the PDF as well.
What if my manager doesn't reply to my notice email?
Follow up in person or with a short email confirming your last day. You can also copy HR. Your notice is generally still effective once it's received, but a reply helps avoid confusion about dates and final pay.
Is two weeks' notice required by law?
For most US jobs, no. Employment is usually at will, so either side can end it at any time. Two weeks is a professional courtesy that helps your employer plan and keeps you in good standing for references and rehire. A contract, union agreement or company policy may ask for a specific notice period, so check yours.
Do the two weeks start the day I hand in my letter?
Generally, yes. Your notice period starts when your employer receives it, so the last day is usually two weeks from that date. If you work shifts, pick a last day you're actually scheduled. Put the exact date in your letter so there's no confusion.
FairLetter is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. Letters are templates you customize and send yourself.