Pay & working terms · 4 min read
How to write a resignation letter in Kenya, with a template
How much notice the law requires, what to put in the letter, a template you can adapt, and the steps that protect your final pay.
A resignation letter is short, but it does real work. It starts your notice period, fixes your last day and becomes the record if your final pay is disputed. Here is what the Employment Act says about notice, what to include, and a template written for Kenyan workplaces.
How much notice you must give
Section 35(1) of the Employment Act sets the default notice by how often you are paid. If you are paid monthly, the contract ends twenty eight days after you give notice in writing. If you are paid at shorter intervals, it ends at the end of the next pay period after written notice. If you are paid daily, it can end at the close of any day.
Your contract can require longer notice, and then the longer period applies (section 35(2)). Read the termination clause before you write anything.
On probation the rule is shorter: either side can end a probationary contract with at least seven days' notice, or seven days' pay instead (section 42).
Paying instead of working the notice
Either side may end the contract without notice by paying the other the wages for the notice period (section 36). If you need to leave at once, your employer can ask you to pay the wages for the notice you did not give. Agree any shorter notice in writing.
What to put in the letter
- The date, and the name and title of the person you report to or HR.
- A clear sentence that you are resigning from your position.
- The notice you are giving and your last working day.
- An offer to hand over your work.
- A request for your final dues calculation, certificate of service and certificate of pay and tax.
You do not have to give a reason. If you are leaving because of unpaid salary or another breach, say so plainly in one sentence and keep a copy, because it may matter later.
A template you can adapt
[Date] [Name of manager or HR Manager] [Company name] Dear [Name], I am writing to resign from my position as [job title], giving [28 days / the notice in my contract] notice in line with my contract. My last working day will be [date]. I will hand over my work and company property before that date and I am happy to help train a colleague. Please share the calculation of my final dues, including pay for leave earned and not taken, and confirm when I will receive my certificate of service and my certificate of pay and tax. Thank you for the opportunity to work here. Yours sincerely, [Full name] [Staff number, phone number]
Send it so you can prove it
- Send it by email to your manager and HR, or hand in a printed copy and ask for it to be signed as received with the date.
- Keep your own copy with the acknowledgement.
- Work the notice period or agree in writing on a different last day.
- Return company property and ask for a written note that you did.
Do not simply stop coming to work. Walking out without written notice can leave you owing notice pay and weakens any later claim.
Sources and further reading
Explore this topic
Frequently asked questions
How much notice do I give when resigning in Kenya?
If you are paid monthly, twenty eight days' written notice unless your contract requires more (Employment Act, section 35). On probation, at least seven days (section 42).
Can I resign without serving notice?
Yes, by paying the wages for the notice period instead (section 36), or by agreeing a shorter notice with your employer in writing.
Do I have to give a reason for resigning?
No. If the reason is a breach such as unpaid salary, stating it briefly in the letter keeps a record.
What should I ask for when I resign?
A calculation of your final dues, your certificate of service under section 51 and your certificate of pay and tax for KRA.