Writing a Letter of Retirement

Writing a letter of retirement is an experience that starts off with mixed emotions, you are glad that you are retiring, which means more time with your spouse and grand kids, but it also means that you will never work in the place which you helped grow in the last two decades and you won't see those faces you have are used to seeing everyday. Yes you will get to do so many of those things you didn't think you'd ever have the time to do, but at the same time you are going to be left with so much time on your hands. Mixed emotions right? And what makes it more difficult is the fact that you don't know what to write, where to start and what format to use.

Retirement letter writing tips

• Remember that while you are retiring, it is not the time to get even, set the record straight or even bring up past issues. Leave all this aside and just remember the good times and the things you learned during your tenure.
• Do not talk about any particular person in your letter, be as cordial as possible.
• Proper notice should be given to the company, six weeks is a good notice period. This notice can be given verbally but has to be followed by a written letter.
• Give your letter to the human resources department and discuss all paperwork and retirement formalities with them.
• Remember that in no case should your retirement letter have innuendoes, puns or jokes. Do not leave other with a bad taste in their mouth.

Letter of Retirement Format

Date - should be the date on which letter is being submitted.

There should be four black lines after the date.

Employer Information - this is where you give all details of the employer like:

• Name of supervisor
• Supervisor's title and designation.
• Name of Company
• Address of company
• City, State and Zip code of company.

RE (Regarding or subject line) - Retirement Resignation Letter from (name, title).

Salutation - include a suitable salutation:
Dear Mr./Mrs. (supervisor's name)

First paragraph - this states the reason for writing the letter, include that you are retiring from your position on a given date.

Second paragraph - this talks about the great opportunity you had working for the company. Be gracious irrespective what kind of experience you had in the organization.

Third paragraph - in this paragraph you must offer help in training and the transition process of the person who will be replacing you.

Fourth paragraph - this is optional information which should be included only if you want to continue working part-time or on a contractual basis. This is where you specify contact details regarding the same.

Fifth paragraph - this is where you thank your superiors, colleagues and supervisors for their help and support. Keep it short and simple.

Close - end the letter with any of these:

• Sincerely,
• Respectfully yours,
• With great respect and regard,

Leave some space, at least four blank line between the close and your name.

Contact information - this is essential and should include:

• Your name
• Your designation
• Email address
• Phone number - this is optional.