How do you write a resignation letter for health reasons?

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 Maddy Price / The Balance

Are you resigning from a job for medical reasons? When you need to leave your job due to health issues, you may choose to let your employer know the reason for your resignation letter. How much information you share is entirely personal. Some employees are comfortable discussing personal information with their managers, especially if they have a friendly relationship.

Others maintain a professional distance and don’t wish to disclose private circumstances at work. You don't have an obligation to share your reason for resigning with your employer.

Check Your Eligibility for Leave Benefits

Before you resign, be aware of your rights and any benefits you may be entitled to during the course of your illness. Do note that, depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) or worker's compensation or disability benefits, or you may be eligible to take a leave of absence rather than resigning.

Note

Confirm your eligibility for leave with your manager or human resources department before submitting your resignation.

Resigning From Your Position

When you resign from your job, it’s always a good idea to speak with your manager in person, when possible. You should strive to provide two weeks' notice as well, or the amount of time recommended in your employee handbook or employment contract.

Unfortunately, sometimes circumstances arise that require you to resign immediately, and, if you need to, you should do so as gracefully as possible.

What to Include in Your Resignation Letter

You are not obligated to provide a reason when you resign. If you prefer to keep your health issues confidential, it's acceptable to write a simple note stating that you are leaving and informing your employer of your last day of work.

If you prefer to share some of the details, you can inform your employer that you are resigning because of your health and provide as much or as little information as you are comfortable with.

Note

You should try to provide notice two weeks in advance when possible, although you may be unable to give notice if your situation dictates.

Tips for Writing the Letter

Your resignation letter can be submitted by email or as a business letter. In an email, your subject should be clear and concise: Resignation—Firstname Lastname. A business letter should begin with your contact information, followed by the date and the manager’s contact information. Some other tips:

• Begin your letter with a salutation: Dear Mr./Ms. Lastname, or Dear Firstname, depending on your relationship and the formality of your office.
• Your first paragraph should include two pieces of information—that you are resigning from your position and your last day of work.
• If you wish to share your reasons for leaving, you can use your second paragraph to explain.
• Your final paragraph should express your appreciation for the time you shared with the company and the opportunities you had there.
• Close with your signature: Sincerely, Firstname Lastname followed by your typed signature. In an email, your contact information should be included in your signature.

Resignation Letter for Health Reasons Example

You can use this sample as a model to write a resignation letter. Download the template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online), or read the text version below.

Resignation Letter Example (Text Version)

If submitting your resignation via letter, this is a template you can follow:

Your Name
Your Address
Your City, State Zip Code
Your Phone Number
Your Email

Date

Name
Title
Organization
Address
City, State Zip Code

Dear Mr./Ms. Lastname:

It greatly saddens me to send you this letter of resignation. Effective the end of this month, I will no longer be working here as a P.E. teacher.

Recently I have been noticing some changes in many aspects of my life, both personally and professionally. I have been overly exhausted, constantly in pain, and feel that my productivity has been cut in half. I went to a doctor, and I have been diagnosed with Fibromyalgia, a condition that involves chronic pain and soreness. Because of the high activity level consistent with my work, I am no longer able to teach my students effectively, and I do not want them to be impacted by this. My doctor agreed with me that this is the best decision for all involved.

I have so enjoyed my time here at FMA Middle School. My work gave me great satisfaction, and I never will forget the last 20 years of incredible friends and colleagues that I have gained. I hope we will still stay in touch despite my early exit.

Please let me know if there is any way I can help in finding my replacement. Although I no longer can do the work I once could, I hope to remain a resource and that we will stay in touch. Thank you so much for all the opportunities, and I wish everyone at FMA the very best.

Sincerely,

Signature (hard copy letter)

Your Typed Name

Email Resignation for Health Reasons Example

If you need to resign via email, you can use this sample as a template.

Subject: Resignation—Firstname Lastname

Dear Mr. Manager,

I regret to inform you of my resignation, effective July 12, 2021. Due to a recent diagnosis, I have become aware that my illness will require extended treatment and recovery, and I am unsure that my ability to perform the duties of my present position will return.

I appreciate your understanding. If there is anything I can do to help during the transition, please let me know.

Sincerely,

Firstname Lastname

444-555-1212

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