Two Weeks' Notice Letter Template (What to Say and What to Leave Out)
Once you've accepted a new offer, the resignation letter is the last document your current employer sees — and it's the one they'll remember if your paths cross again, whether that's a reference check, a former manager at your next company, or a client relationship years later. A short, professional letter that states the facts and nothing more does the job. It doesn't need to explain your reasons, relitigate old frustrations, or read like a farewell speech.
Say it in person (or on a call) first
Like declining a job offer, a resignation shouldn't land as a surprise email in someone's inbox. Tell your manager directly — in person or on a call — before you send anything in writing. The letter formalizes a conversation that's already happened; it isn't where your manager should first learn you're leaving.
What to include, every time
A clear statement that you're resigning. Say it in the first line — no need to bury it in context. Ambiguity here just creates a confusing conversation later.
Your last day. A specific date, calculated from your notice period (two weeks is standard in the US; check your contract or local norms elsewhere, since notice requirements vary by country and by role).
A brief, neutral reason (optional). "I've accepted a new opportunity" is enough. You're not obligated to name the company, the role, or your reasons for leaving — and in most cases, you shouldn't.
An offer to help with the transition. Documenting your work, training a replacement, or wrapping up active projects. This is the line hiring managers and future references remember most.
A thank-you. One or two genuine sentences, even if the job wasn't perfect. This is a professional document, not a review.
Template
Subject: Resignation — [Your Name]
Dear [Manager's Name],
I'm writing to formally resign from my position as [Job Title] at [Company], effective [last working day — typically two weeks from the date of this letter].
[Optional: I've accepted a new opportunity that I'm excited about.]
I want to make this transition as smooth as possible. I'm happy to help document my current work, train a replacement, or wrap up [specific project], whatever is most useful over the next two weeks.
Thank you for the opportunity to work here and for [something specific — what you learned, a project you're proud of, support you received]. I've genuinely valued my time on the team.
Best,
[Your Name]
What to leave out
Skip the detailed list of grievances, the comparison to your new employer, and any language you wouldn't be comfortable having forwarded — because it might be. A resignation letter is not the venue for feedback about your manager or the company; if you have real feedback to give, an exit interview (if offered) is a better, more private channel for it.
If you're asked to explain why you're leaving
You can be honest without being unprofessional: "I'm looking for [growth / a new challenge / a change in industry]" covers most situations without inviting a debate. You don't owe your employer a full breakdown of your salary negotiation with the new company or your complaints about the current one.
If they make a counteroffer
Some employers will respond to a resignation with a raise or a promotion. Treat this the same way you'd treat any other job offer: decide based on whether the underlying reasons you started looking are actually addressed, not just the number. Most people who accept a counteroffer end up leaving within a year anyway, once the original reasons resurface.
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Frequently asked questions
What should a two weeks' notice letter include?
A clear statement that you're resigning, your last working day, an optional brief reason, an offer to help with the transition, and a short thank-you. Keep it factual and professional.
Should you tell your employer why you're resigning?
You're not obligated to. A brief, neutral line like "I've accepted a new opportunity" is enough — you don't need to name the company or explain your full reasoning.
Is two weeks always the right notice period?
Two weeks is standard in the US, but notice requirements vary by contract, role, and country — check your employment agreement or local labor norms before assuming two weeks applies.
Should you accept a counteroffer after resigning?
Evaluate it the same way you'd evaluate any job offer — based on whether it actually addresses the reasons you started looking, not just the raise. Many people who accept a counteroffer end up leaving within the year regardless.