Resignation Letter Example in Canada: Simple Templates With or Without Notice

Looking for a resignation letter example in Canada or Quebec? A clear, short and dated letter is usually enough to communicate that you are leaving your job. It should avoid ambiguity about your decision, your last day and the notice you intend to give.

This guide includes a simple resignation letter template, a version with notice, a version without notice and a checklist before you send it. The rules can vary depending on your employment agreement, collective agreement, length of service and province.

This page provides general information and is not legal advice. Seek professional advice when your situation is specific or sensitive.

Simple resignation letter template with notice

Replace the bracketed text and adapt the end date to your situation.

[Your name]
[Your address]
[Your email and phone number]

[Date]

[Employer or manager’s name]
[Company name]
[Company address]

Subject: Resignation

Dear [Name],

Please accept this letter as formal notice of my decision to resign from my position as [job title] with [company name]. My proposed last day of work is [date], subject to confirmation of the notice period applicable to my situation.

Thank you for the experience I gained during my employment. I remain available to support an orderly transition before my departure.

Sincerely,

[Signature]
[Your name]

Resignation letter template without notice

Resigning without notice can have consequences. Review your employment agreement, collective agreement and the circumstances of your departure before using this version.

[Your name]
[Your address]
[Your email and phone number]

[Date]

[Employer or manager’s name]
[Company name]

Subject: Resignation effective [date]

Dear [Name],

I am writing to notify you of my resignation from my position as [job title] with [company name], effective [date].

I understand that the terms of the end of my employment may depend on my agreement, applicable law and the circumstances. Please confirm the administrative steps relating to my departure.

Sincerely,

[Signature]
[Your name]

What should a resignation letter include?

• your name and contact details;
• the date of the letter;
• the employer, manager or human resources contact who should receive it;
• a clear and voluntary statement that you are resigning;
• your job title;
• your proposed last day of work;
• the notice you are providing, when applicable; and
• your signature and a copy for your records.

You generally do not have to explain why you are leaving. If you choose to include a reason, keep it factual and professional. “I am resigning for personal reasons” may be enough.

Is resignation notice required in Quebec?

The CNESST explains that Quebec’s labour standards legislation does not set a specific resignation-notice period. However, article 2091 of the Civil Code of Québec provides for reasonable notice when an indeterminate-term employment contract ends. The assessment considers the nature of the job, the circumstances and the length of the employment relationship.

There is no universal rule that two weeks is always enough. A senior or hard-to-replace role, long service, a collective agreement or a contractual clause may affect the analysis. Before choosing your last day, review your agreement and ask for written confirmation.

If your employment is fixed-term, you are in a probationary period or a collective agreement applies, the rules may be different. Do not assume that one template fits every situation.

How should you deliver a resignation letter?

Send the letter to the appropriate person: your manager, the business owner or human resources. You may deliver it in person, by email or through the method required by your agreement or workplace policy.

Keep a copy and proof of delivery. In a sensitive or disputed situation, ask for written confirmation of receipt. Keeping a record is simply good documentation.

Can voluntary resignation affect employment insurance?

Yes. A voluntary resignation can affect eligibility for benefits. If your departure relates to health, harassment, safety, family responsibilities or another important circumstance, get information before resigning and keep the relevant documents. Consult Service Canada directly for the current rules.

If you are an employer: what should happen after receiving a resignation?

Receiving a resignation letter is also an important moment for the business. Confirm the end date, document the return of equipment, recover relevant access credentials and prepare amounts owing, including wages and vacation pay, according to the applicable rules.

It is also a useful time to review whether your employment agreements clearly address duties, confidentiality, intellectual property, non-solicitation and the end of employment. Lexstart’s employment contract template gives small businesses a standard starting point for these topics in common employment situations. It does not replace custom drafting when the role or legal risk is complex.

If a resignation involves a restrictive covenant, conflict, harassment allegation, immediate departure or question about the employee’s rights, Lexstart can connect you with a partner lawyer for tailored analysis. A template is useful for a straightforward situation; it is not a solution for a disputed file.

Frequently asked questions

Does a resignation letter have to be handwritten?

No. A typed and signed letter or an email may generally be sufficient, subject to the applicable requirements. Keep proof that it was sent.

Should I write “two weeks’ notice”?

Not automatically. In Quebec, notice must be reasonable for an indeterminate-term employment contract; no fixed period works for every job.

What if my employer refuses my resignation?

A clear and voluntary resignation is not a request for permission. The end date and notice period may still need to be discussed. Keep your letter and request written confirmation.

Can I resign during probation?

The answer depends on the agreement and the facts. Review the applicable terms before announcing your departure.

Key takeaways

The best resignation letter template is short, clear and adapted to your situation. State your decision, job title, delivery date and proposed last day. Do not assume that a standard notice period always applies: check your agreement, collective agreement and the rules in your province.

For employers, a resignation is a reminder of the value of clear employment agreements and organized corporate records. Explore Lexstart’s services or ask to be directed to the right professional.

This article provides general information and is not legal advice. Requirements can change and vary based on the facts, the agreement and the applicable province.