Receiving a counter offer after resigning is common, but accepting it isn't always the best career move. If you've decided to stick with your original plan to leave, you need to communicate your decision clearly and respectfully. A formal counter offer decline resignation letter reaffirms your departure date and expresses gratitude for the opportunity, ensuring you leave on good terms.
Example letter
Apex Innovations
Thank you so much for the generous counter offer and for your continued belief in my contributions to Apex Innovations. After careful consideration, I must respectfully decline the offer and reaffirm my resignation, with my last day remaining May 29, 2026.
This was not an easy decision, as I have truly enjoyed my time working with you and the marketing team over the past three years. I deeply appreciate the opportunities I've had to grow professionally and the support you have shown me during my tenure.
I am fully committed to ensuring a smooth handover of my responsibilities before my departure. Please let me know how I can best assist with wrapping up my current projects and transitioning my duties to the rest of the team.
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Build your resume →Tips for writing this letter
1. Be appreciative but firm
Start by thanking your employer for the counter offer and the value they place on your work. However, make sure your decision to decline is stated clearly so there is no room for misinterpretation.
2. Reiterate your end date
Clearly restate your final working day in the letter. This helps reset expectations and shifts the focus back to the transition process.
3. Keep reasons brief
You don't need to go into excessive detail about why you are turning down the counter offer. A simple statement that you have decided to pursue another opportunity that aligns with your long-term goals is sufficient.
4. Focus on the transition
Spend the remainder of the letter discussing how you will help hand over your work. This shows professionalism and leaves a lasting positive impression.
Do's and don'ts
✓ Do
- Express genuine gratitude for the counter offer and their confidence in you.
- Clearly state that your decision is final to avoid further negotiations.
- Reaffirm your commitment to a smooth transition before your departure.
✗ Don't
- Don't use the letter to air grievances or explain why the counter offer wasn't enough.
- Don't leave the door open for further counter offers if you are certain you want to leave.
- Don't delay sending this letter once you have made your decision.
Frequently asked questions
Should I explain why the counter offer wasn't enough?
No, it's best to avoid discussing specific numbers or reasons. Simply state that after careful consideration, you have decided to move forward with your original plan to leave.
Is it okay to decline a counter offer via email?
Yes, an email is acceptable, especially if you have already discussed the counter offer verbally. Follow up your conversation with this formal written decline for HR records.
What if my boss gets angry that I declined the counter offer?
Maintain your professionalism and reiterate your gratitude for the offer. Focus the conversation on how you can help make the transition as smooth as possible for the team.
What comes next?
Once you've submitted your resignation, it's time to update your resume for the next chapter. Our free builder makes it easy to create a polished, ATS-friendly resume in minutes.
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