Two weeks notice letter (template and examples)
Updated
A two weeks notice letter tells your employer you are resigning and that your last day will be two weeks from now. In the US it is the standard professional courtesy, although in most states it is not a legal requirement unless your contract or company policy says so. Keep the letter to a few lines: the position you are leaving, your last day, and a short thank-you.
How to calculate your last day
Two weeks usually means ten working days. If you give notice on Monday, March 2, your last day would normally be Friday, March 13. Confirm the date with HR, especially if you work shifts or weekends.
Template
[Date]
Dear [Manager's name],
Please accept this letter as my two weeks' notice of resignation from my position as [job title] at [company]. My last day of employment will be [date].
Thank you for the opportunities I've had during my time here. I'm happy to help with the transition, including documenting my current projects and training my replacement.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
Replace the text in square brackets.
Short examples for common situations
| Situation | Example line |
|---|---|
| Retail / hourly job | "Please accept this as my two weeks' notice. My last shift will be Saturday, June 13." |
| Leaving for a new role | "I've accepted a new position and my last day here will be Friday, June 12." |
| Offering more time | "My last day will be June 12, but I'm happy to stay until June 19 if that helps the handover." |
Is two weeks' notice required?
- Most US jobs are at-will: you or the employer can end employment without notice.
- Your employment contract, a union agreement or company policy may require notice — and may affect paid-out vacation or eligibility for rehire.
- Some employers end your employment on the day you give notice; ask in advance whether you'll be paid for the notice period if that happens.
- Outside the US, notice periods are usually set by contract or law. UK readers should see our resignation letter guide.
Tips for a smooth exit
- Tell your manager in person before sending the letter.
- Don't include complaints; save feedback for an exit interview if you want to give it.
- Prepare a handover document listing tasks, contacts and passwords to transfer.
- Ask a colleague or manager for a reference letter while your work is fresh in their mind.