Nobody rereads a long resignation letter — least of all the HR file it ends up in. Short isn't lazy; it's the professional default. A complete resignation letter needs your intent to resign, your role, and your last day. Everything else is optional.
In short: three sentences make a valid resignation letter — "I'm resigning from [role]. My last working day will be [date]. Thank you for the opportunity." Add a transition offer if you want to be generous. You never need to state a reason; the full guide covers what belongs in and out.
Template 1 — the minimal complete letter
Dear [Manager],
Please accept this as my formal resignation from my role as [job title], effective [date]. Thank you for the opportunity to work here.
Sincerely, [Name]
Template 2 — standard two weeks, warm
Dear [Manager],
I'm writing to resign from my position as [job title] at [Company], with my last day on [date, two weeks out]. I'm grateful for my time here and for what I've learned from you and the team. I'll make sure everything is documented and handed over before I go.
Sincerely, [Name]
Template 3 — no reason given (and none needed)
Dear [Manager],
Please accept my resignation from the position of [job title], effective [date]. I appreciate the opportunities I've had at [Company] and will do my part to make the transition smooth.
Sincerely, [Name]
Template 4 — part-time or hourly role
Hi [Manager],
I'm letting you know I'm resigning from my [job title] position. My last shift will be [date]. Thanks for having me on the team — I'm happy to help train whoever picks up my hours.
Best, [Name]
Template 5 — leaving to change careers
Dear [Manager],
Please accept my resignation from my role as [job title], effective [date]. I've decided to pursue a different direction professionally, and I'm grateful for everything I've learned here — much of it comes with me. I'll finish my open work and document the rest before my last day.
Sincerely, [Name]
(If that last one is you, the career change without starting over guide and the career changer resume format are the next two reads.)
When is short the wrong choice?
Almost never in the letter itself — but the letter isn't the whole exit. Long tenure, a mentor relationship, a team you led: those deserve real words said to real people. Say them in person or in a personal note. The formal letter stays short either way; warmth lives better in the conversation than in the file.
FAQ
Is a 3-sentence resignation letter rude? No. Rude is no notice, a cold email with no conversation first, or grievances in writing. Brevity is standard.
Should it be typed or handwritten? Typed, printed or emailed. Sign it if it's paper. If you're resigning by email entirely, the resignation email guide has the subject-line and timing conventions.
Can I resign effective immediately with a short letter? Yes — but the immediate case has its own etiquette and consequences; use the immediate resignation letter templates instead of just dropping the date.