The Best Examples of Resignation Email Examples for Every Situation

Short and simple examples of resignation email examples for every situation

Let’s start with the most requested style: short, polite, and to the point. These are the best examples to use when your relationship with your manager is fine, you just need a clean exit.

Short notice, standard resignation email
This works when you’re giving two weeks’ notice and things are generally okay.

Subject: Resignation – [Your Name]

Hi [Manager’s First Name],

I’m writing to formally resign from my position as [Your Job Title], with my last working day being [Last Day, typically two weeks from today].

I’ve appreciated the opportunity to work with you and the team, and I’m grateful for the experience I’ve gained here. I’m happy to help with the transition over the next couple of weeks.

Thank you again for the support and guidance.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

This is one of the classic examples of resignation email examples for every situation where you don’t need to explain much. It hits the basics: clear notice, gratitude, and a transition offer.

Ultra-brief resignation email (when you’ve already talked in person)
Use this when you’ve already had a conversation and just need something for HR.

Subject: Resignation Confirmation – [Your Name]

Hi [Manager’s First Name],

As discussed, I’m confirming my resignation from my role as [Your Job Title]. My last working day will be [Last Day].

Thank you for the opportunities during my time here.

Best,
[Your Name]

This example of a resignation email is short, respectful, and gives HR what they need in writing.

Positive, grateful examples of resignation email examples for every situation

Sometimes you’re leaving a good job for a better fit—grad school, a promotion elsewhere, a move, or a career change. In those cases, you want your email to sound warm and appreciative.

Resignation email when you genuinely liked your job

Subject: Thank You and Resignation – [Your Name]

Hi [Manager’s First Name],

I’m writing to formally resign from my position as [Your Job Title], with my last working day on [Last Day].

This was not an easy decision. Working with you and the team has been one of the highlights of my career, and I’m truly grateful for the support, feedback, and opportunities I’ve received here.

Over the next [two weeks/notice period], I’ll do everything I can to make the transition smooth, including documenting my current projects and training a replacement if needed.

I hope we can stay in touch, and I’d welcome the chance to work together again in the future.

With appreciation,
[Your Name]

This is one of the best examples of a resignation email when you want to keep the door wide open. Notice the emphasis on gratitude and transition support.

Resignation email when leaving for a new opportunity

Subject: Resignation – [Your Name]

Hi [Manager’s First Name],

I’m writing to let you know that I’ve accepted a new opportunity and will be resigning from my role as [Your Job Title]. My last day will be [Last Day].

I’ve learned a great deal here, especially in [mention 1–2 specific skills, projects, or experiences]. I truly appreciate the trust and guidance you’ve given me.

I’m committed to making the handover as smooth as possible and will document my work and assist in transitioning my responsibilities.

Thank you again for everything. I hope our paths cross again.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

This example of a resignation email acknowledges the new role without oversharing or sounding like you’re bragging.

Examples of resignation email examples for every situation when you need to quit fast

Life happens: sudden health issues, family emergencies, unsafe work environments, or a toxic situation that’s gone too far. While employment law varies by state and country, many people end up resigning with little or no notice.

Before you send a same-day resignation, it’s worth understanding your rights and obligations. The U.S. Department of Labor has helpful information on worker protections and wage rules at dol.gov. Once you’ve checked what applies to you, you can adapt one of these real examples.

Resignation email with short notice (less than two weeks)

Subject: Resignation – [Your Name]

Hi [Manager’s First Name],

I’m writing to resign from my position as [Your Job Title], effective [Last Day, e.g., three days from now]. Due to unexpected personal circumstances, I’m unable to provide a longer notice period.

I understand this is shorter than usual, and I apologize for any disruption this may cause. I’m available to help with a brief handover and to share documentation on my current projects.

Thank you for the opportunities and support during my time here.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

Same-day resignation email (when you must leave immediately)

Subject: Resignation Effective Today – [Your Name]

Hi [Manager’s First Name],

I’m writing to inform you that I must resign from my position as [Your Job Title], effective today, [Date]. Due to serious personal circumstances, I’m unable to continue in my role or provide a standard notice period.

I recognize the impact this may have and regret the short notice. I’m willing to assist remotely where possible to share key information or access needed for my current work.

Thank you for the opportunity to work with you and the team.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

These examples of resignation email examples for every situation are not fun to send, but they are professional, clear, and respectful.

Examples of resignation email examples for every situation with personal reasons

You don’t owe anyone your entire life story. Still, many people prefer to mention broad personal reasons—health, caregiving, relocation, or education—without going into sensitive details. For health-related resignations, you might also find it useful to review trusted medical information from sources like Mayo Clinic or MedlinePlus if you’re navigating complex conditions.

Resignation email for health reasons

Subject: Resignation – [Your Name]

Hi [Manager’s First Name],

I’m writing to resign from my position as [Your Job Title], with my last working day on [Last Day]. Due to ongoing health issues, I need to step back from my current responsibilities to focus on treatment and recovery.

I appreciate the support and understanding you and the team have shown me. I’ll do my best to assist with the transition over the next [notice period] by documenting my work and handing off current projects.

Thank you for your consideration during this time.

Best,
[Your Name]

Resignation email for family or caregiving reasons

Subject: Resignation – [Your Name]

Hi [Manager’s First Name],

I’m writing to submit my resignation from my role as [Your Job Title], effective [Last Day]. Due to changing family responsibilities, I need to step away from my position to focus on caregiving.

I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had here and for your support. During my remaining time, I’ll work to transition my responsibilities and ensure a smooth handover.

Thank you for your understanding.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

Resignation email due to relocation

Subject: Resignation – [Your Name]

Hi [Manager’s First Name],

I’m writing to resign from my position as [Your Job Title], with my last working day on [Last Day]. I’ll be relocating to [City/State/Country], and unfortunately, I won’t be able to continue in my current role.

I’ve enjoyed working with you and the team and appreciate the experiences I’ve gained here. I’ll do everything I can during my notice period to support a smooth transition.

Thank you again for the opportunity.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

These are all real examples of how to reference personal reasons without oversharing or inviting unwanted questions.

Professional but honest examples when the job wasn’t a fit

You might be leaving because the role isn’t what you expected, the culture is off, or you’re burned out. In 2024 and 2025, burnout and mental health continue to be major reasons people change jobs, as reflected in ongoing workplace research from organizations like APA.org and other labor studies.

You don’t need to vent in writing. Keep it honest but diplomatic.

Resignation email when the role isn’t a good fit

Subject: Resignation – [Your Name]

Hi [Manager’s First Name],

I’m writing to resign from my position as [Your Job Title], with my last working day being [Last Day]. After careful consideration, I’ve realized that this role isn’t the right long-term fit for me.

I appreciate the opportunity to work with you and the team and the experience I’ve gained during my time here. I’ll focus on transitioning my responsibilities and documenting my current projects before my departure.

Thank you for your understanding.

Best,
[Your Name]

Resignation email after a short time in the role

Subject: Resignation – [Your Name]

Hi [Manager’s First Name],

I’m writing to resign from my position as [Your Job Title], with my last day on [Last Day]. While I’ve appreciated the chance to work with the team, I’ve realized that this position is not aligned with my long-term career goals.

I understand the impact of leaving after a short time and I’m committed to making the transition as smooth as possible. I’ll document my work and remain available during my notice period for any questions.

Thank you for the opportunity and your understanding.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

These examples of resignation email examples for every situation where the job just isn’t right keep your reputation intact and avoid turning your inbox into a therapy session.

Examples of resignation email examples for every situation in remote and hybrid work

Remote and hybrid work are no longer unusual. Many resignations now happen from home offices, coworking spaces, or coffee shops. The basics of a good resignation email haven’t changed, but it helps to acknowledge the virtual setup.

Resignation email for a remote role

Subject: Resignation – [Your Name]

Hi [Manager’s First Name],

I’m writing to resign from my remote position as [Your Job Title], effective [Last Day].

I’ve appreciated the chance to collaborate with you and the team across time zones and to work on [mention specific projects or responsibilities]. I’ve learned a lot from this experience.

Over the next [notice period], I’ll make sure all documentation, files, and access are organized so the transition is as smooth as possible. I’m also happy to join a handover call to walk through my current work.

Thank you again for the opportunity to be part of the team.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

Resignation email when you’re open to freelance or contract work later

Subject: Resignation – [Your Name]

Hi [Manager’s First Name],

I’m writing to formally resign from my role as [Your Job Title], with my last day on [Last Day].

I’ve truly enjoyed working with you and the team and would be open to supporting on a freelance or contract basis in the future if there’s a need and the timing works.

In the meantime, I’ll focus on documenting my current projects and making sure everything is in good shape for whoever takes over my responsibilities.

Thank you for the opportunity and for your support.

Best,
[Your Name]

These are smart examples of resignation email examples for every situation in modern, flexible workplaces where you might cross paths again as a contractor or consultant.

How to customize these real examples so they sound like you

Think of these templates as outlines, not scripts carved in stone. The best examples work because they follow a simple structure you can tweak:

Start with a clear subject line.
Use something like “Resignation – [Your Name]” or “Resignation Effective [Date] – [Your Name].” Your manager and HR should know exactly what the email is about at a glance.

State your resignation and last day early.
Don’t bury the headline. In the first or second sentence, say you’re resigning and include your final working day. This keeps everything clear and avoids confusion about timing.

Decide how much explanation you’re comfortable sharing.
All the examples of resignation email examples for every situation in this guide use light, high-level explanations. You can:

• Mention a general reason (new opportunity, relocation, personal reasons), or
• Skip the reason entirely and simply say you’re resigning.

Both are acceptable in professional settings.

Add genuine gratitude (even if it’s brief).
You don’t have to gush, but one or two honest lines of appreciation go a long way. Focus on what you learned, people you enjoyed working with, or opportunities you were given.

Offer reasonable transition help.
You’re not promising to work nights and weekends. Just mention that you’ll document your work, answer questions, or help with a handover during your notice period.

End on a professional, friendly note.
“Best regards,” “Sincerely,” or just “Best,” plus your name, keeps it formal but not stiff.

If you follow this structure, you can turn any of these real examples into your own polished, professional exit email.

FAQ: Common questions about resignation emails (with examples)

How long should a resignation email be?
Most resignation emails are 150–250 words. Many of the examples of resignation email examples for every situation above fit on a single screen. Short, clear, and polite beats long and emotional.

Do I have to give a reason for resigning in my email?
No. None of the best examples require a reason. It’s common to say something general like “for personal reasons” or “after careful consideration,” but you’re not obligated to explain details.

Can you give an example of a resignation email with no reason given?
Sure:

Hi [Manager’s First Name],

I’m writing to resign from my position as [Your Job Title], with my last working day on [Last Day].

I appreciate the opportunities I’ve had here and the support from you and the team. I’ll focus on ensuring a smooth transition of my responsibilities over the next [notice period].

Thank you again.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

This is a clean example of a resignation email that gives no reason and still sounds professional.

Should I send my resignation by email or in person?
If possible, talk to your manager first (in person or via video/phone), then follow up with an email for the official record. But many workplaces—especially remote or hybrid—accept email as the primary method. Check your employee handbook or HR policies if you’re unsure.

Who should I send my resignation email to?
Typically, you send it to your direct manager and CC HR if your company has an HR department. Some organizations have specific instructions in their policies or onboarding materials.

You don’t have to overthink this. Pick the example of a resignation email that’s closest to your situation, adjust a few sentences to match your voice, double-check dates and names, and hit send. The goal isn’t to write the perfect goodbye—it’s to leave with your professionalism, reputation, and options for the future fully intact.