How to Write a Good Resignation Letter

When you're quitting a job, your employer may require you to give written notice in the form of a resignation letter - here's how to write a good resignation letter with minimal effort.

Things You'll Need

• The date you'll be quitting.
• 3 copies of your resignation letter.

Instructions

1. When you're quitting a job on good terms, chances are that you've had a conversation with your boss letting them know that you're leaving and when your last day might be. Your resignation letter should just reaffirm the information you had in your conversation.

   If you're quitting on bad terms, or just trying to get out alive, use this opportunity to give feedback with your resignation letter (but don't be unprofessional).

2. Address the resignation letter to your boss. If you're not sure who that might be, think of it this way: Who would fire you? Write your letter to that person.

3. Your letter should be brief. If you're leaving on good terms, simply thank them for the opportunities, state your last day, and sign off.

   On bad terms? Still be brief, still thank them for the opportunities, but make it clear that you're leaving because of some failure on their part - but KEEP IT PROFESSIONAL. For example:

   Dear BOSS,

   Thank you for the opportunities but, ultimately, canceling my health insurance and having three different managers in less than a year has made it difficult for for me to do my best work for COMPANY. In light of this, my last day of work will be DATE.

   Best,
   ME

4. Present a hard copy of your resignation letter to your boss, Human Resources, and keep a copy for yourself. Alternately, send it via email to your boss and Human Resources.

Tips & Warnings

• If you find yourself writing a long letter of grievances, stop writing. It's tempting but pointless. You're not required to give a reason, and if you're unable to keep feedback brief, don't give any feedback.

• If you're walking out the door that day and never coming back, say as much. You're not required to give notice in most states, though two weeks is customary in most environments.

• Send the email or give your boss the resignation letter early in the day if you planning on leaving that day. You might get a shorter day out of it.

• Don't threaten any legal action in your resignation letter. If you're planning on talking to a lawyer, let them write a separate letter.