Resignation letter: UK template
UK resignation letter: notice period, last working day, handover offer and professional tone — template, checklist and generator.
A resignation letter records your intention to leave, your notice period and last working day in writing. In the UK it should be clear, dated and aligned with your contract — even when you have already told your manager verbally. This guide explains content, notice, delivery and common mistakes — not legal advice.
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A resignation letter records your intention to leave, your notice period and last working day in writing. In the UK it should be clear, dated and aligned with your contract — even when you have already told your manager verbally. This guide explains content, notice, delivery and common mistakes — not legal advice.
The Tailero resignation generator produces a formal one-page letter with notice period and last day. Sample below (James Wilson). Check your contract before sending.
Essential content
State clearly that you are resigning, reference your contractual notice period, give your last working day (accounting for holidays if needed), and offer a reasonable handover.
Keep tone neutral and professional — even if leaving on difficult terms. Avoid detailed grievances in the letter; use HR processes separately if needed.
Include date, your signature (if required by employer policy), and the manager or HR addressee. If your contract lists a notice period in weeks, quote it explicitly to avoid disputes.
| Element | Required | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Resignation statement | Yes | I hereby resign from… |
| Last working day | Yes | Friday 28 March 2027 |
| Notice reference | Recommended | Per my contract (4 weeks) |
| Handover offer | Recommended | I will ensure a smooth handover |
Notice period and timing
Statutory minimum is often one week after one month of service; contracts commonly require one to three months for senior roles. Read your contract first.
Your last day should match contractual notice — confirm with HR if you are unsure about bank holidays or accrued leave.
Probation notice is often one week — check your employment agreement. Gardening leave may apply for senior roles — confirm dates in writing with HR after resignation is accepted.
How to deliver it
Follow your contract: email may suffice in some firms, others expect a signed letter. Keep a copy with the date visible.
Tell your manager in person or by call before or when you send the letter. HR needs written confirmation for records.
Offer handover notes and document open tasks — this protects references and professional relationships. Agree knowledge-transfer dates early in the notice period.
Mistakes to avoid
Resigning in anger on the same day without checking notice. Burning bridges in the letter text.
Assuming you can leave immediately without agreement — pay in lieu must be agreed. Request a written reference process if your sector expects one.
Forgetting to return equipment or clarify leave balance with HR. Confirm pension and benefits end dates in your exit checklist.
Resignation template PDF — free
Sample (James Wilson) shows UK tone and length. Personalise in the generator.
Update your CV before your next application. ACAS guidance recommends keeping resignation letters factual; your contract remains the legal source for notice. Keep a dated copy for your records and confirm holiday balance with HR.
Checklist
- Notice period stated
- Last day confirmed
- Professional tone
- Copy saved
- Manager informed
- Handover offered
FAQ
Do I need a resignation letter if I told my manager in person?
Yes — most employers require written confirmation for HR records and payroll.
Can I leave immediately?
Only by agreement with your employer or if you accept pay in lieu of notice. Check your contract.
Must I give a reason?
No for standard resignation — keep the letter factual.
Email or signed letter?
Follow company policy — many UK firms accept email to HR.
Garden leave?
If offered, confirm dates in writing with HR — still send resignation first.
Reference after resigning?
Request in writing what will be said — standard in UK exit process.