Resignation notice periods in the UK
Your notice period is the time you remain employed after resigning. Acas says the written statement of employment particulars must state how much notice an employee must give, and a contract or staff policy may require more than the statutory minimum.
UK resignation notice period checklist
First check your employment contract, written statement of employment particulars and any relevant staff policy. These may require more notice than the statutory minimum. If you have employee status and have worked for at least one month, the statutory minimum when resigning is normally one week's notice unless an exception applies.
When does resignation notice start?
Your contract may specify when notice begins. If it does not, Acas guidance says the notice period generally starts the day after you tell your employer you are resigning. Written notice can raise questions about when it was received and there has been a reasonable opportunity to read it, so keeping a clear written record is sensible.
Can you leave without working all your notice?
You and your employer can agree a different arrangement, but simply leaving early without agreement may breach the employment contract. Situations involving an alleged serious breach by the employer can be legally different and may affect notice and possible claims, so individual advice can be important.
Create your resignation letter free
No account. No subscription. Nothing you type is uploaded to MyDocMaker.
Open Resignation Letter Builder →Start with your contract or written statement
Check the notice term that applies to you rather than assuming a standard period.
Know the statutory minimum
Acas and GOV.UK say an employee who has worked for at least one month generally must give at least one week’s notice, subject to exceptions.
Contractual notice can be longer
Your employment terms may require more notice than the statutory minimum.
Leaving early needs care
If you want to leave before the notice period ends, discuss it with your employer. Acas recommends getting any alternative agreement in writing.
Serious breach situations are different
If you believe your employer has seriously breached your contract and you feel forced to resign, constructive dismissal and notice can be complex. Get appropriate advice before relying on a standard resignation letter.
Once you know your notice period, see What to Include in a Resignation Letter or open the Resignation Letter Builder.
Official source: Acas: notice when resigning. Employment circumstances vary, so check current official guidance where necessary.