Relieving Letter Format: Elements & 7 Free Templates

November 18th 2024

Leaving a job can be as impactful as joining one, and getting the relieving letter format right is crucial for both the employee and the company. This guide provides an in-depth look at relieving letter formats, essential elements, and actionable templates that founders and HR managers of startups can use. You'll find practical insights to maintain positive relationships with departing employees, all while ensuring legal and procedural compliance.

Before we begin, here’s how to quickly create, send, and sign employee letters on Craze. You can easily set up the letter, share it via email, and get it signed and approved by the right stakeholders based on their roles.

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Understanding the Importance of a Relieving Letter

Many HRs and founders overlook the importance of a proper relieving letter, leading to disputes. A poorly crafted relieving letter can hinder employees from getting new opportunities and impact the employer's brand reputation. It can even lead to compliance concerns, which can be costly for startups and small businesses.

Understanding the core aspects of a well-written relieving letter can ease these concerns and create a smooth offboarding process. Below, we break it down step-by-step, including real-life examples, samples, templates and legal compliance things to consider.

What is a Relieving Letter and Why It Matters?

Employers issue a relieving letter as an official document confirming the termination of an employee's service. It acts as proof that the employee has left the organisation without any pending obligations.

Key Benefits of a Relieving Letter

  • Legal Compliance: Ensures the employee has fulfilled all responsibilities.

  • Employee's Transition: Helps employees validate their employment history, crucial for joining a new employer.

  • Employer Benefits: Providing a clear and professional relieving letter helps maintain positive relations and enhances the company’s reputation.

Key Elements of an Effective Relieving Letter Format for 2024

Key Elements of an Effective Relieving Letter Format for 2024
Key Elements of an Effective Relieving Letter Format for 2024
Key Elements of an Effective Relieving Letter Format for 2024

A well-crafted relieving letter must include the following components:

  1. Employee's Full Name: Ensure that the name matches the official records.

  2. Designation and Department: Mention the last role held by the employee within the company.

  3. Dates of Employment: Include both the joining date and the relieving date.

  4. Roles and Responsibilities: Provide a brief mention of the roles the employee performed.

  5. Acknowledgement of Duties: Confirm that all responsibilities have been duly handed over.

  6. Company Seal and Signature: Validate the document with an authorised signatory's signature.

These components ensure that the relieving letter format is comprehensive and supports the employee’s future roles.

Relieving Letter Formats and Templates for 2024

Standard Relieving Letter Template

Appointment Letter for Part-Time Employees

[Company Letterhead]

Date: [Date of Issuance]

To Whom It May Concern,

This is to certify that [Employee Name], who was employed with [Company Name] as [Designation] from [Joining Date] to [Relieving Date], has been relieved from their duties.

During their tenure, [Employee Name] performed their responsibilities satisfactorily. We wish them all the best in their future endeavours.

Authorised Signatory

[Signature]

Short Version for Interns or Temporary Employees

[Company Letterhead]

Date: [Date of Issuance]

This is to certify that [Intern/Temporary Employee Name] has successfully completed their internship from [Start Date] to [End Date] with [Company Name]. We appreciate their contributions and wish them the best for their future.

Authorised Signatory

[Signature]

Comprehensive Relieving Letter Template for Senior Employees

[Company Letterhead]

Date: [Date of Issuance]

To Whom It May Concern,

This letter is to formally acknowledge that [Employee Name] has been relieved from their duties with [Company Name] as of [Relieving Date]. [Employee Name] joined our organisation on [Joining Date] and served as [Designation].

Throughout their employment, [Employee Name] played a significant role in [mention key responsibilities and achievements]. We appreciate their dedication and contributions.

We wish [Employee Name] success in all future endeavours.

Authorised Signatory

[Signature]

Project-Specific Relieving Letter Template

[Company Letterhead]

Date: [Date of Issuance]

To Whom It May Concern,

This is to certify that [Employee Name] was employed by [Company Name] as [Designation] from [Joining Date] to [Relieving Date]. [Employee Name] worked on [specific project name] during their tenure and has successfully completed all assigned tasks.

We wish [Employee Name] the best for their future.

Authorised Signatory

[Signature]

Immediate Relieving Letter Template

[Company Letterhead]

Date: [Date of Issuance]

To Whom It May Concern,

This letter serves to confirm that [Employee Name] has been relieved from their duties with [Company Name] effective immediately as of [Relieving Date]. [Employee Name] was employed as [Designation] from [Joining Date] to [Relieving Date].

We wish [Employee Name] all the best in their future pursuits.

Authorised Signatory

[Signature]

Relieving Letter Template for Contractors

[Company Letterhead]

Date: [Date of Issuance]

To Whom It May Concern,

This is to certify that [Contractor Name] provided services to [Company Name] as a contractor from [Start Date] to [End Date]. The contract obligations have been fulfilled, and all services have been satisfactorily completed.

We appreciate [Contractor Name]'s efforts and wish them success in future projects.

Authorised Signatory

[Signature]

Relieving Letter Template for Employees on Probation

[Company Letterhead]

Date: [Date of Issuance]

To Whom It May Concern,

This is to certify that [Employee Name] was employed on a probationary basis with [Company Name] from [Joining Date] to [Relieving Date]. During this period, [Employee Name] performed their duties as [Designation].

We wish them the very best in their future endeavours.

Authorised Signatory

[Signature]

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Real-Life Scenarios: Using the Right Relieving Letter Format

For an Intern

A short and direct relieving letter, confirming the completion of the internship period and acknowledging the intern's contributions, is appropriate.

For a Contractor

Include the project name and duration in addition to employment dates to ensure clarity on the end of contractual obligations.

For a Full-Time Employee

Use the comprehensive version to mention roles, responsibilities, and achievements, especially when the employee held a critical position.

For an Employee Leaving Immediately

If an employee leaves without notice, issue an immediate relieving letter that notes the sudden nature of the departure.

Mistakes to Avoid When Drafting Relieving Letters

Mistakes to Avoid When Drafting Relieving Letters
Mistakes to Avoid When Drafting Relieving Letters

To make sure your relieving letter serves its purpose effectively, avoid these common errors:

  • Incorrect Dates: Always double-check the dates of joining and leaving.

  • Vague Role Descriptions: Provide accurate role details to ensure clarity for future employers.

  • Lack of Company Information: Include your company’s name, address, and contact details.

Mistakes in relieving letters can negatively impact the employee's career progression and poorly reflect on your brand’s reputation.

How Craze Can Help Simplify the Process

Automation with Craze can ensure that every relieving letter is crafted with precision, saving you time while maintaining compliance. By automating the generation of these documents, you can ensure consistency, legal accuracy, and a positive lasting impression.

Here’s a quick how-to guide to create a relieving letter or any other template on Craze in seconds.

Automate your HR processes today to provide your employees with a hassle-free offboarding experience and maintain a strong brand reputation.

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FAQs

What is a relieving letter format?

A relieving letter format is the structured outline used by employers to confirm an employee's exit from the company.

How can I create an effective relieving letter?

An effective relieving letter should be concise, and clear, and include all the necessary components, such as dates, responsibilities, and a signature.

What are the key elements to include in a relieving letter?

Employee name, designation, employment dates, acknowledgement of responsibilities, and company signature.

Can I use a relieving letter template for interns or contractors?

Yes, there are specific templates suitable for interns and contractors that are more concise compared to full-time employee templates.

What if an employee leaves without notice?

In such cases, mention the lack of notice and ensure that all other necessary details are still included in the letter.

Real-Life Scenarios: Using the Right Relieving Letter Format

For an Intern

A short and direct relieving letter, confirming the completion of the internship period and acknowledging the intern's contributions, is appropriate.

For a Contractor

Include the project name and duration in addition to employment dates to ensure clarity on the end of contractual obligations.

For a Full-Time Employee

Use the comprehensive version to mention roles, responsibilities, and achievements, especially when the employee held a critical position.

For an Employee Leaving Immediately

If an employee leaves without notice, issue an immediate relieving letter that notes the sudden nature of the departure.

Legal & Compliance Aspects to Consider

Legal & Compliance Aspects to Consider
Legal & Compliance Aspects to Consider

Employment Agreement Clauses

Ensure that the relieving letter aligns with the clauses mentioned in the employment agreement. This includes the notice period, handover responsibilities, and any pending dues.

Full and Final Settlement

Verify that all dues, including salary, bonuses, or any other payments, are cleared before issuing the relieving letter.

Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA)

Remind the departing employee of any continuing obligations, such as a non-disclosure agreement, to protect company information.

Company Assets

Ensure all company assets, such as laptops, ID cards, or other equipment, are returned before issuing the relieving letter.

Compliance with Labour Laws

Ensure that the relieving process complies with local labour laws, including final settlement timelines and the issuance of documents.

Mistakes to Avoid When Drafting Relieving Letters

Mistakes to Avoid When Drafting Relieving Letters
Mistakes to Avoid When Drafting Relieving Letters

To make sure your relieving letter serves its purpose effectively, avoid these common errors:

  • Incorrect Dates: Always double-check the dates of joining and leaving.

  • Vague Role Descriptions: Provide accurate role details to ensure clarity for future employers.

  • Lack of Company Information: Include your company’s name, address, and contact details.

Mistakes in relieving letters can negatively impact the employee's career progression and poorly reflect on your brand’s reputation.

Summary
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Built for founders by founders in India 🇮🇳

Products
Features
Contractors
Reimbursements
Flexible benefits
Reports
Compliance
Documents

© 2024 Craze Technologies. All rights reserved

Built for founders by founders in India 🇮🇳

Products
Features
Contractors
Reimbursements
Flexible benefits
Reports
Compliance
Documents

© 2024 Craze Technologies. All rights reserved