Six free templates for common UK resignation situations. Copy the one that fits, swap in your details, send. If you want something more tailored, the letter generator builds a custom letter from a few fields.
Templates
Resigning for a new job
The default. Neutral, polite, no need to explain where you're going.
[Date]
Dear [Manager's name],
I'm writing to formally tender my resignation from my role as [Your role] at [Employer name].
In line with my contractual notice period, my final working day will be [Last day]. I'll do everything I can during the notice period to ensure a smooth handover of my work and a clean transition for the team.
Please let me know what you'd like me to prioritise during the notice period, and I'll plan accordingly.
Yours sincerely,
[Your name]
Resigning because of a move
Useful when you want to explain (briefly) why you're leaving without making it about the job.
[Date]
Dear [Manager's name],
I'm writing to formally tender my resignation from my role as [Your role] at [Employer name].
I'll be relocating to [city or country] from [date], and unfortunately won't be able to continue in the role from that point. My final working day will be [Last day], in line with my contractual notice.
I've valued my time here and want to leave things in good shape. I'll prepare a thorough handover and am happy to support whoever takes on my work.
Please let me know how you'd like to handle the transition.
Yours sincerely,
[Your name]
Career change resignation
When you're leaving the industry, not just the company. Warm, no recrimination.
[Date]
Dear [Manager's name],
After [length of time], I've decided to make a significant career change and am writing to formally tender my resignation from my role as [Your role] at [Employer name].
This decision wasn't taken lightly. I've genuinely enjoyed working with the team and I'm grateful for the opportunities and development I've had here. The move isn't about leaving [Employer name]; it's about a direction I want to take next.
My final working day will be [Last day], in line with my contractual notice. I'd like to use the notice period to leave things in the best possible shape for whoever takes over.
Please let me know how you'd like to approach the handover, and thank you again for the time I've had here.
Yours sincerely,
[Your name]
Resigning during probation
Short, professional, no need to over-explain. Probation notice is usually a week.
[Date]
Dear [Manager's name],
I'm writing to formally tender my resignation from my role as [Your role] at [Employer name], during my probation period.
Having reflected on the role, I've come to the conclusion that it isn't the right fit. I appreciate the time and effort the team has put into my onboarding, and I'm sorry to be making this decision after only a short time.
In line with my probation notice period of [one week / your contractual figure], my final working day will be [Last day]. I'll do what I can to leave any current work in a state someone else can pick up.
Please let me know if there's anything specific you'd like me to focus on this week.
Yours sincerely,
[Your name]
Resigning to retire
Warm and reflective. Use this when you're leaving working life entirely.
[Date]
Dear [Manager's name],
After [number] years in [profession or industry], I've decided that the time is right to retire, and I'm writing to formally tender my resignation from my role as [Your role] at [Employer name].
It has been a privilege to work alongside colleagues at [Employer name]. I'm proud of what we've built together and grateful for the friendships and opportunities along the way.
My final working day will be [Last day]. I'd like to use the notice period to do a thorough handover, brief whoever picks up the work, and tie off any outstanding projects.
I'd also be glad to discuss my pension and any practical retirement arrangements with HR when convenient.
Yours sincerely,
[Your name]
Resigning in response to mistreatment
Use this only if you've taken legal advice. Sets out the breach clearly and reserves your right to claim constructive dismissal.
[Date]
Dear [Manager's name],
I'm writing to formally tender my resignation from my role as [Your role] at [Employer name] with immediate effect.
I do so in response to the following fundamental breaches of my contract of employment:
[Set out the specific issues clearly and factually. For example: persistent failure to address the bullying I have raised on [dates] despite my formal complaint of [date]; the unilateral reduction in my salary on [date] without my agreement; etc.]
I have raised these matters previously [on dates / through channels] and the breaches have not been remedied. I am therefore left with no reasonable option but to resign.
I reserve all my rights, including the right to bring a claim for constructive unfair dismissal under section 95(1)(c) of the Employment Rights Act 1996.
Please confirm receipt of this letter and arrange for my final pay, accrued holiday and P45 to be issued.
Yours sincerely,
[Your name]
How to use these templates
Pick the situation that fits, copy the body, paste into your email or word processor, swap the bracketed placeholders for your actual details, and send. Most UK employers accept email resignations addressed to your line manager with HR copied.
What to keep, what to change
The structure of each letter is the bit that matters: the date, a clear statement that you’re resigning, the role you’re resigning from, your final working day, and a professional sign-off. Everything else can be adjusted to fit your voice or your situation.
What to leave out
A resignation letter goes on file. Don’t use it to vent grievances, criticise colleagues, or explain the new role unless you want to. If you have honest feedback, give it in a separate exit interview rather than putting it in the formal resignation document.
The constructive dismissal template is a starting point only. Take advice from ACAS or an employment-law solicitor before using it; the specific wording of your breach matters a lot and the timing of your resignation matters too.