How to Write a Thank You Card for a Sympathy Gift

Acknowledge gifts sent in sympathy.

In a time of grief, it's easy to let things go. You don't need to respond to sympathy gifts immediately. However, after a few months, respond to the sympathy or condolence gifts you received by sending a thank you card. In just a few minutes, you can fill out the cards and get them in the mail. The gift-giver will appreciate your acknowledgement.

Things You'll Need

• Thank you cards

Instructions

1. Select a box of cards. The cards can be of a favorite scene or a simple drawing. They do not need to say "Thank You" as you are writing of your gratitude inside the card.

2. Be specific in what you are appreciating. Note what the person sent, so the recipient understands that you've received the gift. Don't send a generic thank you -- instead, thank the giver for the flowers, meal, plant or book.

3. Personalize the card by mentioning a specific memory about the gift-giver and the deceased. For example, a book may kindle memories of a shared book club or a dinner party given in honor of an author that you, the deceased and the gift giver attended.

4. Add an appreciative touch. Acknowledge the gift by stating how much it helped, how meaningful you found it or what comfort it provided in your time of grief.

5. Close the card with a heartfelt statement that reflects your appreciation. Use "warm regards," "sincerely," "best wishes" or "with warmest thoughts" as a closing, for example.

6. Address your cards and drop them in the mail.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep track of who sent what by keeping the gift tags or cards and making a note on the back of the gift tag or card.

• It is better to send a Thank You card sooner rather than later. As time passes it may be hard for you to remember who send which gift.

References

• Memorial Keepsakes: Guide to Writing Funeral Thank You Notes