You’ve made the decision to move on from your current job. Whether it’s for career advancement, personal reasons, or retirement, the next step is to write an amicable resignation letter. This document not only informs your employer of your departure but also reflects your professionalism and helps maintain positive relationships.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about writing a resignation letter — from what it is and how to structure one, to ready-to-use resignation letter templates for different situations.
You’ll also learn how to resign with confidence, whether you’re submitting a simple resignation letter or a short resignation letter for immediate departure, and handle the transition process with grace.
A resignation letter is a formal written notice that lets your employer know you’re leaving your position. It typically includes your intent to resign, your last working day, and sometimes a brief note of thanks.
In Singapore, submitting a resignation letter is a standard practice, even after discussing your decision verbally with your supervisor. It provides a written record for human resources (HR) and helps ensure a smooth transition. Writing a respectful resignation letter demonstrates your professionalism and helps preserve positive ties for future networking or reference opportunities.
A good resignation letter is clear, concise, and respectful. Here's a breakdown of how to write a resignation letter, including what to include and what to leave out.
While it’s important to be clear about your decision to leave, some details are best left out of your resignation letter. Keeping the tone professional and positive helps you exit on good terms and preserves your reputation for future opportunities.
If you wish to provide feedback, always end on a positive note. This will keep a professional tone and ensure a well-written resignation letter. But as much as possible, write a registration letter that focuses on you and your departure from the company.
Also read: Here are 12 reasons to decline a counteroffer after submitting your resignation letter
To help you with the tricky task of coming across as tactful and grateful when leaving your company, here are some resignation letter templates that you can go over to get you started on writing one that is appropriate to your situation.
Subject: Resignation Letter
Date
Name of the Recipient
Position
Company
Company Address
City, State, Zip Code
Dear [Manager’s Name],
Please accept this letter as formal notice of my resignation from my position at [Company Name], effective [Last Working Day, typically two weeks from the date].
I’m grateful for the opportunity to work with the team and appreciate all the support and learning experiences I've had during my time here. I’ll do my best to ensure a smooth transition.
Thank you once again.
Kind regards,
[Your Name]
Subject: Resignation Letter
Date
Name of the Recipient
Position
Company
Company Address
City, State, Zip Code
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I’m writing to resign from my role at [Company Name], effective [Last Working Day].
Thank you for the experience and support.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Subject: Formal Resignation Letter – [Your Name]
Date
Name of the Recipient
Position
Company
Company Address
City, State, Zip Code
Dear [Manager’s Name],
Please accept this letter as formal notice of my resignation from my role as [Job Title] at [Company Name], with my last working day being [Date], in accordance with my one-month notice period.
I appreciate the opportunities I've had to grow professionally and personally during my time here. I remain committed to supporting the team during this transition.
Wishing the company continued success.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Subject: Resignation Letter with One-Month Notice
Date
Name of the Recipient
Position
Company
Company Address
City, State, Zip Code
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I’m writing to formally resign from my position at [Company Name], with my last working day being [Date], respecting my one-month notice period.
This decision was not easy, but I’ve accepted a new opportunity that aligns with my long-term career goals. I’m thankful for the experience, mentorship, and friendships I've gained here.
I’ll ensure a smooth handover during my remaining time.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
Subject: Resignation Letter
Date
Name of the Recipient
Position]
Company
Company Address
City, State, Zip Code
Dear [Manager’s Name],
I’d like to formally resign from my position as [Job Title] at [Company Name], with my last working day being [Date], in line with the required notice period.
While I value the experience and have enjoyed working with the team, I believe the role no longer aligns with my professional goals.
Thank you for the opportunity and support during my time here. I’ll do my best to wrap up my responsibilities and assist with the transition process.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Subject: Resignation Letter
Date
Name of the Recipient
Position]
Company
Company Address
City, State, Zip Code
Dear [Name of the Recipient],
I wish to inform you that I will be retiring from my position as [Job Title] at [Company Name]. My last working day will be on [Date].
While I am excited to begin this new chapter of my life in retirement, it is certainly a bittersweet moment to leave the company. During my remaining time here, I will do my best to complete all pending tasks and assist in training my replacement to ensure a smooth handover. Please let me know if there is anything else I can do to aid in this transition. You can reach me at [contact number] or [email address] if any questions arise, even after my last day.
Thank you once again for the opportunity to be part of [Company Name]. It has been an honour working with you and the team, and I am proud of all we have accomplished together. I wish you and everyone at the company continued success, and I hope we can stay in touch.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Subject: Resignation Letter
Date
Name of the Recipient
Position]
Company
Company Address
City, State, Zip Code
Dear [Name of the Recipient],
I hope this message finds you well. I’m writing to formally resign from my position as [Your Job Title] at [Company Name], with my last working day being [Date], in line with my notice period.
This decision wasn’t easy, as I’ve genuinely enjoyed being part of such a collaborative and supportive team. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunities to learn and grow professionally, and I sincerely appreciate your leadership and the trust you’ve placed in me throughout my time here.
Thank you once again for the opportunity to be part of [Company name]. It has been an honour working with you and the team, and I am proud of all we have accomplished together. I wish you and everyone at the company continued success, and I hope we can stay in touch.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
Also read: Here's how to quit your job professionally and gracefully
Hopefully, these resignation letter templates can ensure a smooth transition process and guide you to your next chapter.
Generally speaking, it is customary to give your employer a heads-up a month ahead of your last day to find, hire, and train your replacement. For employees still under probation, a two-week notice is encouraged. Check your employment contract to determine how much lead time you need to give the company.
While leaving one's job without having one to move to is becoming more common these days, make sure you update your Jobstreet Profile so employers know what you have to offer. Among other things, your work history helps employers determine whether your skills are relevant to the candidates they need to hire.
Start finding #JobsThatMatter to you on our website or mobile app. Remember to add #WorkNow to your profile to let employers know that you are readily available for employment. You can also go to Jobtreet's Career Resources Hub to get expert advice to help guide you through your career journey.