How to Write a Rescind Letter

Rescind letters are sometimes sent by email for quick delivery.

A rescind letter is used to inform the recipient that you wish to change a decision you previously communicated. Rescind letters are common when a person has second thoughts about a job resignation. People sometimes resign from their jobs in writing, but then seek to rescind the resignation by sending another letter. Or a company making a preliminary job offer may write a letter rescinding the offer after the applicant failed a background check.

Instructions

1. Write the letter by getting to the point in the first paragraph. Inform the recipient that you wish to rescind, or take back, an earlier decision or offer. State a reason for the change, if possible. For example, indicate that you wish to rescind a resignation letter because so many co-workers asked you to stay, prompting you to realize how much you enjoyed the position. Or state that you are rescinding a job offer because an unexpected round of layoffs that also freezes all open positions.

2. Apologize in the next paragraph for any problems caused by your new decision. Ask for an opportunity to discuss further in person or by phone -- if the situation warrants.

3. Finish the letter by adding a closing such as "Sincerely yours." Sign the letter or list your printed name if sending by email.

References

• "The Business Letter Handbook"; Michael Muckian, et al.; 1996

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• "The Business Letter Handbook"; Michael Muckian, et al.; 1996