Free Resignation Letter Template
A professional resignation letter giving notice, confirming your last day, and asking about final pay, benefits and returning company property.
A resignation letter gives written notice that you are leaving, states your last day and keeps the relationship professional. Check your contract for required notice, and ask in writing about final pay, unused vacation, benefits and equity deadlines.
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RESIGNATION LETTER [YOUR NAME] [YOUR ADDRESS] [DATE] [MANAGER NAME] [TITLE] [COMPANY NAME] [COMPANY ADDRESS] Dear [MANAGER NAME], Please accept this letter as formal notice of my resignation from my position as [JOB TITLE] at [COMPANY NAME]. My last day of employment will be [LAST DAY], which provides [NUMBER] weeks' notice [in line with my employment agreement]. I am grateful for the opportunities I have had here, and I will do my best to ensure a smooth handover. Over the coming weeks I will [complete / hand over] [KEY PROJECTS OR RESPONSIBILITIES] and document my work for [COLLEAGUE OR TEAM]. To help me plan, could you or HR please confirm in writing: 1. The date and amount of my final paycheck, including any accrued, unused vacation or PTO. 2. When my health insurance ends and how to receive COBRA information. 3. The status of any bonus, commission or equity, including any deadline to exercise stock options. 4. How and when to return company equipment and access cards. 5. Any continuing obligations under my employment agreements. Thank you again for your support. I wish you and the team continued success. Sincerely, [YOUR NAME] [PERSONAL EMAIL] [PERSONAL PHONE] --- This free template is provided by ClauseAudit for general informational purposes and is not legal advice. Have it reviewed before use. Replace all [BRACKETED] placeholders.
When to use this template
- You have accepted a new job and need to give notice.
- Your contract requires written notice of resignation.
- You want a record of your last day and questions about final pay and benefits.
How to fill it in
- Check your employment agreement or handbook for the required notice period.
- Enter your last day and match the notice to what you owe.
- List projects you will hand over, briefly and positively.
- Keep the questions about pay, benefits and equity; answers in writing help later.
- Use a personal email and phone so the company can reach you after you leave.
Key clauses to check
- Notice period
- Giving less notice than your contract requires can have consequences, such as losing a bonus or accrued benefits.
- Final pay
- State law sets deadlines for final paychecks, and some states require payout of unused vacation.
- Equity deadlines
- Stock options often must be exercised within about 90 days after leaving.
- Continuing obligations
- Confidentiality, non-solicit and non-compete terms may apply after you leave.
State-specific notes: CA, TX, NY, FL, IL
Employment rules that affect this template in the five largest states, summarized as of 2025. Laws change and cities add their own rules, so confirm the current law before signing.
California
- Final wages are due immediately on termination, and within 72 hours if an employee quits without notice (immediately with 72 hours’ notice). Late payment triggers waiting-time penalties.
- Accrued, unused vacation is earned wages and must be paid out on separation; “use it or lose it” policies are not allowed.
Texas
- Final pay is due within six calendar days after a discharge, and by the next regular payday after a resignation.
- Payout of unused vacation depends on the employer’s written policy or agreement.
New York
- Final wages are due by the next regular payday after separation.
- Unused vacation must be paid out unless a written policy clearly says otherwise.
Florida
- Florida has no specific final-paycheck deadline or vacation payout statute; the employer’s policy and agreement control.
Illinois
- Final compensation, including earned vacation, is due by the next regular payday after separation.
Another state? See the rules for all 50 states and DC.
Frequently asked questions
How much notice should I give when resigning?
Two weeks is customary in the US, unless your contract requires more. Senior roles often have longer notice periods.
Do I have to give a reason for resigning?
No. A short, positive letter without detailed reasons is usually best.
Will I be paid for unused vacation?
It depends on your state and employer policy. Some states, including California, require payout of accrued vacation.
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This free template is general information, not legal advice, and is no substitute for a qualified attorney. Laws vary by state; have it reviewed by a lawyer before you use or sign it.