How to put in your two weeks notice letter.

We’ll cover what you need to know about how to give your two weeks’ notice in the most professional way. The first step on how to put in your two weeks notice is to read the company’s employee’s handbook. 

Author: Douglas Wade, Attorney

Email  |  Call (800) 484-4610

If you know you want to quit, it’s best stay at your job for two weeks when possible. If you’re an at-will employee, you can leave your job at any time, and provide as little or as much notice of resignation as you like. As a matter of professional courtesy and keeping good relationship with an employer, an employee should give the employer two weeks notice when resigning.

This article will discuss how to give two weeks notice in ten steps as follows:

Step 1: Review The Employment Contract And Employee Handbook

You should start two weeks’ notice letter by reviewing the Employee Handbook and any Onboarding paperwork. The employee’s handbook may mention how to put in your two weeks notice of resignation. Before resigning, employees should review their employment contract. If they are an at-will employee, they risk being told to leave immediately. They should note non-compete clauses and seek legal advice if they need clarification.

Employees should “get their affairs in order” before they quit. They should tie up loose ends, such as:

  • Deleting personal files and emails
  • Noting the details of any clients or colleagues, they may want to contact
  • Have their personal belongings so they are easy to gather

Step 2: Keep the Two-Week Notice Letter Short And Simple.

Keep your two-week notice letter short, professional, and courteous. It is better not to say anything negative in your formal two weeks notice letter of resignation. The company will keep your two-week notice letter of resignation on record forever, and it’s not wise to vent or say anything negative that caused you to resign.

Employees sometimes need to think about what to say when resigning. However, less is more. Stay professional and positive, and keep the details brief. Employees can say, “A great opportunity has presented itself, and I have decided to take it. I have highly enjoyed my time here; thank you for everything.” The manager may have additional questions and may even suggest a counteroffer. Consider this in advance and what it would take to pass up the new job.

Once the resignation and two weeks’ notice are done, your boss can advise how to resign with HR and inform colleagues formally. End the meeting on a positive note by thanking the manager.

Step 3: Draft a Resignation Letter

Employers will sometimes require a resignation letter; generally, it is best to have a formal letter to hand in during the meeting. Although there is no rule on how to draft two weeks notice, the letter should be professional and brief. This resignation letter or two weeks’ notice letter should state that the employee is resigning, that they are giving two weeks’ notice and their final date of employment.

Sample Two Weeks Notice Letter

February 20, 2023

Dear (Supervisor’s name),

Please accept this letter as my formal notice of resignation from (job title) position at (company name). My final day of work will be [last date].

During the next two weeks, I will continue to work diligently to ensure a smooth transition. Please advise if there is anything I can do, whether assisting with recruiting a replacement or helping to train them.

It has been a pleasure working with you. I wish you and the team at (company name) continued success.

Sincerely,

(Your name)

Step 4: Provide A Last Date of Work.

While two weeks’ notice is customary, it is not always required. Employees should have their end date in mind when meeting with their manager to discuss their resignation. Sometimes, two weeks’ notice may not be possible due to starting a new job or moving to a new job. If so, the employee should apologize that two weeks’ notice was impossible and offer to help as much as possible with the transition. The most important thing is to leave the company with a good reputation. This is mainly if the employee stays in the same industry; they may work with colleagues or managers in future jobs.

The employer may ask their employee to stay longer to train a replacement or to help cover a busy period. Unless specified in their contract, the employee can respectfully decline. Employees can negotiate to stay longer if they wish; however, they should be firm on their final date and provide a resignation letter with the correct last date in writing.

Step 5: Verbally Tell Your Supervisor First.

Professionally, you inform your supervisor that you’re resigning in two weeks from your job verbally and on paper. Therefore, have a two weeks notice letter of resignation ready when you announce that you’re quitting.

Employees will often tell their colleagues that they are interviewing for other jobs, but when it is time to resign, the boss needs to hear first. If the employer hears from other people, it can sour the relationship. Put in the two weeks’ notice before telling people.

Step 6: Give Your Two Weeks Notice Letter in Person.

The prospect of giving your two weeks notice of resignation in person can be daunting. However, an employer will appreciate it. The meeting should be scheduled for a time that suits the manager. If a face-to-face meeting is impossible, schedule the meeting for video chat or over the phone.

Step 7: Tell Close Colleagues In Person

Once an employee has formally submitted their two weeks’ notice, they may disclose their resignation to whomever they want. They should seek out mentors and colleagues they are close to and tell them before the news gets around. This will prevent any falling outs and preserve friendships. Employees who work in a team should discuss with their supervisor how to tell their team. While employees can share the news of their resignations online, they should do it professionally without negativity about the job they are leaving. Perhaps a better way would be to share the exciting news of a new job after the final day.

Step 8: Answer Questions

After giving a two weeks notice, employees should be prepared to answer questions from colleagues about what they plan to do next and why they’re leaving. The answer to this question should be positive, perhaps focusing on a new opportunity or a move to another city. Even if employees leave because they hate their job, they should not say so.

Step 9: Make the Transition Smooth

Employees should use their two weeks notice period of resignation to tie up loose ends and ensure their team has instructions for any projects or accounts they will take over. Their supervisor will be able to lay out things that need to be closed down and any training that needs to be given. The employee should be as helpful as possible and ensure the transition goes smoothly. Where appropriate, an employee can help find or train their replacement.

Step 10: Leave on A Positive Note

Even if an employee is glad to leave a company, they should try to leave on a positive note when putting in your two weeks notice of resignation. They may work with colleagues in the future and don’t want to be accused of having a bad attitude.

Employees should be kind and helpful to their colleagues and connect with them on social media before they leave. On the final day, they can send out a goodbye email to thank everyone for their help and support during their time in the role and wish them well for the future.

Quitting a job can be tricky, but staying positive and professional is paramount. Employees should aim to preserve their relationships with everyone.

Have a quick question? We answered nearly 2000 FAQs.

See all blogs: Business | Corporate | Employment

Most recent blogs:

California Labor Code 2699 Reform- What Employers Should Know About the 2024 PAGA Amendments

California Labor Code 2699 Reform: What Employers Should Know About the 2024 PAGA Amendments

California’s 2024 PAGA amendments change employer obligations, lower penalties, and set faster resolution methods for labor disputes. Companies should check compliance policies, wage practices, and training to prevent costly Private Attorneys General Act claims.
California Termination Laws Final Pay- What Employees Should Know About Last Paychecks and Penalties

California Termination Laws Final Pay: What Employees Should Know About Last Paychecks and Penalties

California employees are entitled to timely final paychecks after quitting or termination, with strict rules based on job type. Employers risk daily penalties up to 30 days if they delay owed wages or ignore payment regulations.
California Workplace Violence Prevention Plan- Employer Responsibilities

California Workplace Violence Prevention Plan: Employer Responsibilities

California employers must establish a Workplace Violence Prevention Plan by July 1, 2024, under Senate Bill 553 requirements. This plan includes risk assessments, employee training, incident reporting, crisis response, and recordkeeping to promote workplace safety.
Is It Illegal to Discuss Wages at Work What Employers and Employees Should Know

Is It Illegal to Discuss Wages at Work? What Employers and Employees Should Know

Employees have the legal right to discuss wages at work, even if company policies say otherwise. Employers can support fair pay and open communication to help maintain trust and reduce workplace conflicts.
How Long to Keep Pay Stubs and Payroll Records- IRS, FLSA, and Legal Rules Business Owners Should Know

How Long to Keep Pay Stubs and Payroll Records: IRS, FLSA, and Legal Rules Business Owners Should Know

Keep payroll records and pay stubs organized to meet IRS, FLSA, and legal requirements for audits, claims, or disputes. Storing records digitally reduces space use and keeps documents available beyond the required minimum retention periods.
California Mileage Rate 2025 IRS Figure, Reimbursement Policy, and Employer Instructions

California Mileage Rate 2025: IRS Figure, Reimbursement Policy, and Employer Instructions

California’s mileage reimbursement rate in 2025 is 70 cents per business mile, covering fuel, maintenance, insurance, and depreciation. Employers must ensure reimbursement complies with Labor Code Section 2802 and requires accurate mileage records from employees.
California Labor Code Section 2802- Employer Reimbursement Rules for Work Expenses

California Labor Code Section 2802: Employer Reimbursement Rules for Work Expenses

California employers must reimburse workers for necessary expenses like phones, internet, mileage, and home office equipment. Employees can recover unpaid reimbursements through Labor Commissioner claims or class action lawsuits against violating employers.
Double Time California- When Employers Are Required to Pay Twice the Regular Hourly Rate and How It Is Calculated

Double Time California: When Employers Are Required to Pay Twice the Regular Hourly Rate and How It Is Calculated

California employers must pay double-time wages in situations like 12-hour shifts or working seven days without a break. This article covers who qualifies, common payroll mistakes, and how double-time compensation should be figured under California law.
Tip Pooling Rules in Every State- What Restaurant Owners Must Know

Tip Pooling Rules in Every State: What Restaurant Owners Must Know

Tip pooling laws vary by state, affecting how restaurants manage tips and comply with federal and local wage rules. Restaurant owners are required to follow guidelines to avoid fines, lawsuits, and disputes over tip distribution and service charges.
How Long Does an Employer Have to Pay You After Payday in California- Legal Timeframes, Rules, and Consequences

How Long Does an Employer Have to Pay You After Payday in California: Legal Timeframes, Rules, and Consequences

Employers in California must pay wages on time or face fines, including back pay and waiting time penalties for delayed checks. Employees may pursue compensation for late or missing pay through legal claims tied to payroll violations under state labor law.
CA Exempt Employee Classification- Definitions, Exemptions, and Legal Exposure for Employers

CA Exempt Employee Classification: Definitions, Exemptions, and Legal Exposure for Employers

Employers risk lawsuits and large settlements when CA workers are misclassified under state exemption rules. Roles must be reviewed regularly to match duties.
How to Get a Job at 14- Simple Steps for Teens Who Want to Start Working

How to Get a Job at 14: Simple Steps for Teens Who Want to Start Working

Many teens can get jobs at 14 with the right documents, clear goals, and a simple but effective resume. This article explains rules, permits, applications, interviews, and ways to stay focused during your first job search.
How Many Hours Can a 17-Year-Old Work in California During School Labor Rules You Should Know

How Many Hours Can a 17-Year-Old Work in California During School? Labor Rules You Should Know

California limits how many hours 17-year-olds can work during school to protect their safety, education, and wages. Know the labor rules that apply to minors and what families should do if employers violate state employment laws.
AB 1228 Summary - California Fast Food Law on Wages, Council Authority, and Business Impact

AB 1228 Summary: California Fast Food Law on Wages, Council Authority, and Business Impact

California's AB 1228 law sets a $20 hourly wage for fast food workers and forms a state-level Fast Food Council. It changes employment rules, impacts exempt pay requirements, and raises business cost issues for restaurants and their customers.
Can a 13 Year Old Work - 14 Real Ways for Young Teens to Earn Money Safely

Can a 13 Year Old Work? 14 Real Ways for Young Teens to Earn Money Safely

A 13-year-old can safely earn money through creative, age-appropriate jobs like babysitting, pet care, or blogging. This guide lists 14 proven options that balance responsibility, fun, and parental supervision.
Severance Pay California - What It Includes and How to Change the Terms

Severance Pay California: What It Includes and How to Change the Terms

California severance pay is not legally required, but agreements often include pay, benefits, and legal waivers. Employees can negotiate terms, challenge clauses, and improve severance offers with legal or personal review.
Employment Litigation - Key Issues in Job Termination, Discrimination, and Harassment Cases

Employment Litigation: Key Issues in Job Termination, Discrimination, and Harassment Cases

Employees may sue for job termination, discrimination, or harassment when workplace actions violate federal or state employment rules. This article explains legal protections, common violations, and employee rights involved in workplace-related lawsuits.
Company Morale - 20 Practical Ways to Improve Workplace Culture and Engagement

Company Morale: 20 Practical Ways to Improve Workplace Culture and Engagement

Improve company morale with 20 practical tactics that strengthen workplace culture, boost motivation, and support everyday team interaction. Encourage positivity, increase retention, and support employee satisfaction through real-world practices designed for today's professional environment.
California Mileage Reimbursement 2025 - Rate Details, Methods, and Employer Duties

California Mileage Reimbursement 2025: Rate Details, Methods, and Employer Duties

California employers must reimburse staff for business-related vehicle use based on mileage rates or alternative approved methods. The 2025 policy outlines IRS rates, covered expenses, and mandatory employer responsibilities under California labor law.
Temporary Disability California - Workers’ Compensation Coverage, Benefit Limits, and Qualifying Conditions

Temporary Disability California: Workers’ Compensation Coverage, Benefit Limits, and Qualifying Conditions

Temporary disability in California pays part of your wages after a workplace injury confirmed by an approved medical provider. Eligibility, time limits, and payment amounts depend on work status, legal codes, employer options, and medical updates.
Legal Age to Work in 2025- Employment Limits for Minors

Legal Age to Work in 2025: Employment Limits for Minors

State and federal laws set age, hour, and job restrictions for minors working in 2025 to protect their safety. Review employment limits for children across all fifty states, including agricultural rules, certificates, and non-hazardous job requirements.
Abusive Conduct Under California Law- Definition, Workplace Examples, and Employer Obligations

Abusive Conduct Under California Law: Definition, Workplace Examples, and Employer Obligations

Abusive conduct in California workplaces includes bullying, hostile language, and exclusion that disrupts an employee's job performance. Employers must provide harassment prevention training and meet legal obligations under FEHA and Senate Bill No. 778.
Minimum Wage in San Diego 2025- Updated City and County Pay Rates for Employers

Minimum Wage in San Diego 2025: Updated City and County Pay Rates for Employers

Minimum wage in San Diego City is $17.25 per hour in 2025, while the county rate remains $16.50. Employers must comply with state, city, and county wage laws or face penalties for underpayment and related violations.
California Labor Law - 2025 Employer & Employee Guide to Wages, Breaks, Leave, and Rights

California Labor Law: 2025 Employer & Employee Guide to Wages, Breaks, Leave, and Rights

California’s 2025 labor laws address wages, breaks, overtime, workplace safety, discrimination, sick leave, and employee protections. This guide outlines rules on scheduling, payroll, final paychecks, paid sick time, and employment standards for minors.
California Final Paycheck Law - Payment Timelines, Legal Rules, and Employer Responsibilities

California Final Paycheck Law: Payment Timelines, Legal Rules, and Employer Responsibilities

California employers must follow exact final paycheck rules when employees quit or are fired, or risk paying penalty wages. The article covers payment timing, employer duties, and industry-specific exceptions including film, oil drilling, and agriculture.
Can You Work at 14 in California - Laws, Restrictions, and Permits for 14- and 15-Year-Olds

Can You Work at 14 in California? Laws, Restrictions, and Permits for 14- and 15-Year-Olds

Minors aged 14 can work in California, but strict federal and state labor laws limit hours, industries, and duties. Work permits are mandatory for 14- and 15-year-olds, and employment is subject to revocation if conditions are violated.
How Many Hours Is a 9-5 Job - Daily, Weekly, Monthly, and Yearly Breakdown

How Many Hours Is a 9-5 Job? Daily, Weekly, Monthly, and Yearly Breakdown

A 9–5 job typically means eight hours daily, totaling 40 hours weekly across five standard workdays. Monthly and yearly hours vary depending on vacations, with most averaging 160 monthly and 2,000 annually.
Exempt Employee California 2025 Rules, Salary Thresholds & Classification Tests Explained

Exempt Employee California: 2025 Rules, Salary Thresholds & Classification Tests Explained

California's 2025 exempt employee rules include new salary thresholds for fast food and healthcare workers under state wage laws. Detailed tests determine exemption status based on duties, salary structure, and consistent application of independent judgment.
Fair Chance Employers A 2025 Guide to Compliant and Inclusive Hiring Practices

Fair Chance Employers: A 2025 Guide to Compliant and Inclusive Hiring Practices

Fair chance hiring promotes compliance with evolving state and federal laws that support inclusive recruitment for applicants with records. Employers must assess convictions individually, follow proper procedures, and align background checks with job relevance and legal standards.
PAGA Claims in California How Workers Can File and What Penalties Employers Face

PAGA Claims in California: How Workers Can File and What Penalties Employers Face

Employees in California can file PAGA claims for labor violations and recover civil penalties on behalf of the state. Penalties vary by infraction, and employers may reduce liability if violations are corrected within the allowed timeframe.

Free Consultation