Relieving Letter Format: Sample, Meaning and What to Do If HR Delays It

Last updated: 31 October 2026

Your new employer's HR has one more request before your joining is confirmed: "Please share your relieving letter." Here is what that document is, what it should say, and what to do if your old company is slow to give it.

What is a relieving letter?

A relieving letter is an official letter from your employer confirming that your resignation was accepted and that you have been relieved of your duties. New employers ask for it to make sure you have left your previous job properly and aren't still on someone else's rolls.

Relieving letter vs experience letter

See our experience letter format for a sample of the other one.

Relieving letter format (sample)

[Company letterhead]

Date: [DD Month YYYY]

To,
[Employee name]
Employee ID: [ID]

Subject: Relieving letter

Dear [Employee name],

This is with reference to your resignation dated [date]. We confirm that your resignation has been accepted and you are relieved of your duties as [designation] with effect from the close of working hours on [last working day].

We confirm that you have handed over your responsibilities and company property, and that your full and final settlement will be processed as per company policy.

We thank you for your contributions and wish you success in your future endeavours.

For [Company name]

[Name]
[HR Manager]
[Signature and seal]

What it should include

• Company letterhead, date, signature and seal.
• Your name, employee ID and designation.
• Date of your resignation and your last working day.
• A line confirming you were relieved of duties.

When will I get it?

Usually on your last working day or after your exit formalities and full and final (F&F) settlement. Under the Code on Wages, which came into force on 21 November 2025, wages due on resignation must be paid within 2 working days of separation, which should speed up F&F at many companies (LiveLaw, October 2026). The relieving letter itself has no fixed legal deadline.

What if HR delays or refuses it?

1. Ask in writing. Email HR with your resignation acceptance and last working day attached.
2. Escalate politely to the HR head or your former manager.
3. Tell your new employer. Many accept the resignation acceptance email, final payslip and F&F statement while the letter is pending.
4. For unpaid dues, you can approach your state labour department.
5. Legal notice: a lawyer can send one if needed.

Note: in May 2026, the Bombay High Court held that an employee who left in breach of a valid service bond could not force the employer to issue a relieving letter (Bharat Aviation v. Soni). Serving your notice period or agreeing a buyout in writing avoids most of these problems.

This is general information, not legal advice. Your employment contract and your state's rules apply. For a dispute, speak to a lawyer.

Related: resignation letter format and how to negotiate salary for your next role.

FAQs

What is a relieving letter?

A letter from your employer confirming your resignation was accepted and you were relieved of duties on a specific date.

Is a relieving letter mandatory?

Many employers ask for it, but there is no single law requiring every employer to issue one. Most companies issue it as standard practice.

What is the difference between a relieving letter and an experience letter?

A relieving letter confirms you left properly; an experience letter confirms your role and tenure. Some companies combine them.

How long does it take to get a relieving letter?

Usually on your last day or after F&F settlement, which can take from a few days to a few weeks.

What if my company doesn't give a relieving letter?

Ask in writing, escalate within HR, share your resignation acceptance with your new employer, and seek legal advice if needed.