Resignation email guide
A resignation email should be as clear as a printed letter: last day, notice period, and a professional tone. Draft the body in the fillable template, then paste into your work mail after you have spoken with your manager.
Subject line examples
Resignation — Jordan Lee
Notice of resignation — Sam Nguyen, last day 13 November 2026
Resignation letter — [Your Name]
Email checklist
- Send to your direct manager; CC HR only if that is policy
- State your role and final working day in the first paragraph
- Match the notice your contract or local practice requires (US two weeks vs AU award/contract)
- Offer a handover; keep optional reasons short
- Attach a PDF letter if HR asks for a signed copy
- Send during business hours when possible, not late Friday night
Body structure
Use the same blocks as a formal letter: salutation, resignation + last day, notice/transition, thanks, forwarding contact, closing. The resignation letter template fills those fields on a classic sheet you can print or copy.
Related
For US notice timing and step-by-step writing help, see two weeks’ notice.
Load a US or AU sample, edit your details, save a browser draft, then paste into email or print.
Open resignation letter templateFAQ
What subject line should I use for a resignation email?
Keep it plain and searchable, for example: “Resignation — [Your Name]” or “Notice of resignation — [Your Name], last day [date].” Avoid vague subjects like “Quick chat” or “Update.”
Should I resign by email or in person?
Best practice is to tell your manager in person or by video call, then follow up with a written resignation (email or letter) so HR has a clear record of your last day.
Who should be copied on a resignation email?
Usually your direct manager is the primary recipient. CC HR if that is company practice, or send HR a separate copy. Do not mass-CC the whole team before your manager has been informed.