Introduction

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Retiring is one of life’s biggest milestones. After decades of hard work, writing a professional retirement letter to your employer ensures you leave on good terms. It’s more than just a formality—it’s a respectful way to confirm your retirement date, give proper notice, and express gratitude.

So how much time should you allow your employer? Most experts recommend giving at least 2–3 months’ notice. For higher-level positions, 3–6 months is ideal to allow for a smooth transition.

To make this easier, here are 10 retirement letter templates you can copy, paste, and customize for your situation.

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How Much Notice to Give Before Retirement

• Entry & mid-level positions: 2 months is usually enough.
• Senior or specialized roles: 3–6 months’ notice is courteous.
• Executives: 6 months or more is often expected.

This gives your employer time to find and train a replacement, reassign responsibilities, and plan a farewell.

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Top 10 Retirement Letter Templates

Below are ready-to-use retirement letter formats for different situations. Each one is professional, respectful, and easy to customize.

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1. Simple Retirement Letter

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I am writing to formally announce my retirement from [Company Name], effective [Date].  

I want to thank you and the company for the opportunities I have had during my time here. It has been a privilege to work alongside such a talented team.  

Please let me know how I can help during the transition period.  

Sincerely,  
[Your Name]  

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2. Gratitude-Focused Retirement Letter

Dear [Manager’s Name],

After much thought, I have decided to retire from my position at [Company Name], with my last day being [Date].  

I am deeply grateful for the experiences, support, and professional growth I have enjoyed here. Working at [Company] has been a highlight of my career.  

I will do all I can to ensure a smooth transition.  

Warm regards,  
[Your Name]  

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3. Early Notice Retirement Letter (6 Months’ Notice)

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I would like to give six months’ notice of my retirement, effective [Date].  

Providing this much notice will allow sufficient time for a smooth handover of my responsibilities. I am happy to assist with training or knowledge transfer.  

Thank you for everything over the years.  

Sincerely,  
[Your Name]  

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4. Retirement Letter with Transition Offer

Dear [Manager’s Name],

Please accept this letter as formal notice of my retirement from [Company Name], effective [Date].  

I am committed to supporting the transition process and would be glad to help in training my replacement or documenting responsibilities.  

Thank you for the opportunity to contribute to the company’s success.  

Sincerely,  
[Your Name]  

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5. Retirement Letter for Long-Term Employees

Dear [Manager’s Name],

After [X] years with [Company Name], I am announcing my retirement, effective [Date].  

It has been a rewarding journey, and I am proud of the work we accomplished together.  

I look forward to assisting in the transition and staying connected.  

With gratitude,  
[Your Name]  

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6. Retirement Letter Highlighting Future Plans

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I am writing to inform you of my retirement from [Company Name], effective [Date].  

While I look forward to pursuing personal interests and spending more time with family, I am grateful for the professional experiences this company has provided me.  

Thank you for your leadership and support.  

Sincerely,  
[Your Name]  

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7. Formal Retirement Letter

Dear [Manager’s Name],

This letter serves as formal notification of my retirement from [Company Name], effective [Date].  

I will continue to perform my duties with full dedication until my final working day and am available to assist with the transition.  

Respectfully,  
[Your Name]  

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8. Short & Professional Retirement Letter

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I am retiring from [Company Name], effective [Date].  

I appreciate the opportunities I’ve had here and wish the company continued success.  

Sincerely,  
[Your Name]  

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9. Retirement Letter with Thanks to Colleagues

Dear [Manager’s Name],

Please accept this letter as formal notice of my retirement, effective [Date].  

I want to express my gratitude not only to management but also to my colleagues. Working alongside such a supportive team has been a true privilege.  

Thank you for everything.  

Best regards,  
[Your Name]  

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10. Retirement Letter Requesting a Flexible Transition

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I am officially retiring from [Company Name], with my last day being [Date].  

If possible, I would like to explore flexible transition options, such as part-time consulting or phased retirement, to ease the handover process.  

Thank you for your consideration and support.  

Sincerely,  
[Your Name]  

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Tips for Writing Your Retirement Letter

• Be clear about your final date – don’t leave room for confusion.
• Show gratitude – thank your employer and colleagues.
• Offer transition support – it leaves a positive impression.
• Keep it professional – even if you’re eager to leave.

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Conclusion

Your retirement letter is more than a formality—it’s your final professional impression. By giving at least 2–3 months’ notice (or longer for senior roles) and using one of these 10 retirement letter templates, you’ll exit gracefully and respectfully.