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Free template · four formats

Two weeks notice template.

Four free two weeks notice templates — a simple notice, one with a reason, one for when you can't give the standard two weeks, and a grateful version for leaving on a high. Each is short, professional, and ready to send. Copy directly.

What's on this page

  1. Four notice templates — pick the one for your situation.
  2. Frequently asked questions — legal requirements, in-person vs email, walk-outs.
  3. Related resources — resignation letter templates, exit conversation prep.
II.
II.The templates

Four formats. Copy directly.

Template 01 / 04

1. Simple two weeks notice

When to use it: The default. Most professional, hardest to fault. No reason, no explanation, no apology. Just the facts.

[Date] [Manager's name] [Manager's title] [Company name] Dear [Manager's name], I am writing to formally notify you of my resignation from my position as [Job title] at [Company name], effective two weeks from today, on [End date]. I appreciate the opportunities I have had during my time here. Over the next two weeks, I am committed to wrapping up my current responsibilities and supporting a smooth transition. Please let me know how I can be most helpful during this period. Thank you for the experience. Sincerely, [Your full name]
Template 02 / 04

2. Two weeks notice with reason

When to use it: When you have a clean, stateable reason — relocation, new role, returning to study, family responsibility. Honest and forward-looking; doesn't over-explain.

[Date] [Manager's name] Dear [Manager's name], Please accept this letter as two weeks notice of my resignation from [Job title], effective [End date]. I have accepted a position [as / with / to pursue] [brief reason — e.g., "a Senior Engineer role at another company" / "a graduate program starting in September" / "a relocation to be closer to family"]. This decision was difficult, and I have valued my time at [Company name]. During the next two weeks I will document my current projects, brief [colleague name] on outstanding items, and support the recruitment or onboarding of my replacement however I can. Thank you for the opportunities and trust over my time here. Sincerely, [Your full name]
Template 03 / 04

3. Immediate notice (can't give two weeks)

When to use it: When circumstances prevent the standard notice — health emergency, family crisis, safety concern, hostile environment. Brief, doesn't explain unless you choose to.

[Date] [Manager's name] Dear [Manager's name], I am writing to inform you that I am resigning from my position as [Job title] at [Company name], effective immediately, as of [Today's date]. I regret that personal circumstances do not allow me to provide two weeks notice. I will return any company property by [Date — typically within 3-5 business days] and am available by email if there are urgent handover items. Thank you for your understanding. Regards, [Your full name]
Template 04 / 04

4. Grateful two weeks notice (leaving on good terms)

When to use it: When the relationship matters going forward — references, future re-employment, ongoing partnership. Warm without being effusive.

[Date] [Manager's name] Dear [Manager's name], After [time at the company], I have made the decision to move on from [Company name]. Please accept this letter as my two weeks notice; my last day will be [End date]. I want to take a moment to say thank you. The work I've done here — particularly [one specific thing] — has shaped how I think about [field / discipline]. The people on this team have set a bar I'll carry forward. I'll spend the notice period documenting open work, briefing [successor or peer], and being available for any handover conversations. I hope our paths cross again. With genuine thanks, [Your full name]
III.
III.Frequently asked

Questions about two weeks notice.

Is two weeks notice required by law?

In the US (49 of 50 states with at-will employment), no — you can legally resign at any time, with any amount of notice. Two weeks is the professional norm. The exception: if your employment contract specifies a longer notice period (common for senior executives, often 30-90 days), the contract controls. In Australia and the UK, statutory notice is based on length of service.

Should I tell my manager before sending the letter?

Yes — in person, or video call for remote. The conversation should happen first; the letter is the written record handed over at the end of that conversation. Sending the letter cold is awkward and makes the conversation harder, not easier.

Can my employer ask me to leave immediately instead of working the two weeks?

Yes. The notice period is what you're offering; the company can decline it and pay you out, or simply walk you to the door. This is more common than people expect, especially for client-facing or technical roles where the employer doesn't want a departing employee with access. Don't take it personally.

What if I haven't gotten a new job yet?

Then resigning is a financial decision, not a tactical one. The notice letter is the same regardless of whether you have a next role lined up. If you do — never reference the new role in the letter beyond a high-level reason (or no reason at all). The letter goes in your HR file and can surface later.

IV.
IV.Related templates

Other free templates.

The same situation from different angles.

V.
V.The HR library

For employers, the other side.

If you're receiving a resignation rather than giving one — offer letters for the successor, termination conversations for the employees who don't resign on their own.