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Resignation Templates

Free · United Kingdom · Not legal advice

Resignation Letter (UK)

A UK resignation letter confirms in writing that you are leaving, the notice you are giving, and your last working day. Copy the template below, then check the notice period in your contract before you hand it in.

How much notice to give in the United Kingdom

Once you have worked for an employer for at least one month, the statutory minimum notice you must give is one week. However, your employment contract can require more — one month is common for salaried roles, and senior positions often specify longer. You must give whichever notice is longer: the statutory minimum or the amount in your contract.

  • Under 1 month's service: no statutory minimum notice, but check your contract.
  • 1 month or more of service: at least 1 week's statutory notice.
  • Your contract can require more (often 1 month for salaried roles) — the longer period applies.
  • Your employer may offer payment in lieu of notice (PILN) or place you on garden leave.
  • You can usually use accrued holiday during your notice period by agreement.

For the official position, see GOV.UK guidance on handing in your notice and notice periods, and always read your own contract.

Standard UK resignation letter

Dear Alex Rivera,

I am writing to give notice of my resignation from my position as Marketing Coordinator at Acme Ltd. In line with my contractual notice period, my last working day will be 3 October 2026.

Thank you for the support and opportunities during my time here. I will do everything I can to complete my work and hand over my responsibilities before I leave.

Yours sincerely,
Jordan Lee

Short UK resignation letter

Dear Alex Rivera,

Please accept this letter as notice of my resignation from my position as Marketing Coordinator at Acme Ltd. My last working day will be 3 October 2026.

Thank you for the opportunity. I am happy to help with a smooth handover.

Yours sincerely,
Jordan Lee

Prefer to build your own wording? Use the resignation letter generator and adjust the tone, names, and dates.

Wording and format in the United Kingdom

In the UK people usually talk about “handing in your notice” and serving a “notice period.” Letters commonly open with “Dear [Name]” and close with “Yours sincerely.” Use UK spelling (organisation, apologise) and the day-month-year date format, for example 3 October 2026.

What to do

  • State that you are resigning and give your exact last working day
  • Match your notice to the longer of your contract or the statutory minimum
  • Keep a dated copy of the letter or email for your records
  • Offer a practical handover during your notice period

What to leave out

  • Complaints or grievances (raise those through the proper process)
  • Guessing your notice instead of checking your contract
  • Leaving without written confirmation of your last day

UK resignation letter FAQ

How much notice do I have to give in the UK?

If you have worked for your employer for at least one month, the statutory minimum is one week's notice. Your contract may require more — often one month for salaried roles — and you must give whichever period is longer. This is general information, not legal advice.

Do I have to give a reason for resigning in the UK?

No. You do not need to explain why you are leaving. A short, polite letter confirming your resignation and last working day is enough.

Can I resign by email in the UK?

Usually yes, unless your contract says notice must be given in a specific way. Email creates a clear dated record. Check your contract or staff handbook if you are unsure.

What is garden leave?

Garden leave is when your employer asks you to stay away from work during your notice period while still being paid. Your employer may also offer payment in lieu of notice (PILN) so you can leave sooner. Check your contract for either clause.

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