How to reply to your manager's reply to your resignation
Updated November 12, 2026
Reply within a day, keep it calm and thankful, and confirm the facts: your last day, the handover plan, and any open items. If they made a counteroffer, answer it clearly and kindly. Check your contract for the notice period. You will want this manager as a reference, so end on good terms.
- Reply
- Within 1 day. Details like your last day and handover affect pay and paperwork. Putting them in writing now prevents later disagreement.
What your reply should say
- Thank them for their reply and for what you learned in the job.
- Confirm your last working day and notice period, based on your contract.
- Offer a handover plan, such as a document and training.
- Answer any counteroffer or request clearly, even if the answer is no.
3 replies you can copy
Pick the one that matches what you want to say, copy it, and change everything in [brackets].
1Confirm last day
They accepted and asked about timing.
Hi [Name], Thank you for your understanding. I confirm that my last working day will be [date], in line with my notice period. I will write a handover document for [project] by [date] and I am glad to train [colleague]. Please tell me about any other steps, such as returning equipment. Thanks, [Your name]
2Decline counteroffer
They offered more to keep you.
Hi [Name], Thank you for the offer to stay. I appreciate it, and it was not an easy decision. I have thought about it carefully, and I will still leave on [date]. I am grateful for what I learned here, and I will make the handover as smooth as I can. Thanks, [Your name]
3Offer a transition
They are worried about coverage.
Hi [Name], Thank you for your reply. I want to leave things in good shape. Here is my plan for the next [number] weeks: I will finish [task], document [process], and introduce [colleague] to [client or team]. Please tell me anything else you want covered before [last day]. Thanks, [Your name]
Already late? Send this instead
For when you are a few days late or more. Own the delay in one line, then do the job.
Hi [Name], Sorry for the slow reply to your note about my resignation. To confirm, my last working day will be [date]. I will prepare a handover plan for [project] this week and send it by [date]. Please let me know of anything else you need from me. Thanks, [Your name]
Mistakes to avoid
- Venting about the team or manager in writing. This email can resurface years later.
- Accepting a counteroffer in the heat of the moment. Take a day and think about why you were leaving.
- Agreeing to a shorter notice period without checking your contract and pay.
- Leaving the handover vague. A short list of open items protects your reputation.
Questions people ask
Should I consider a counteroffer?
It is your choice. Think about why you decided to leave and whether money alone fixes it. If you decline, say so kindly and quickly. If you consider it, ask for the offer in writing and take a day to decide. Check pay, benefits and any bonus conditions with HR or a lawyer before you sign a new date.
Can my manager shorten my notice period?
Possibly, but it depends on your contract and local rules. Ask for any change in writing and check how pay and benefits are affected. If unsure, ask a lawyer or HR before agreeing. Be wary of agreeing to anything on the spot. If the change is big, ask them to put it in writing.
More reply guides
How this page was made
Written by Westward, who make Orbit, as starting points you edit before sending. The replies use placeholders, not real people or real mail. Nothing here is legal, tax or medical advice; for contracts, money or health, check the document or ask a professional. All reply guides.