# How much notice do I have to give when I resign?

> Quick answer · Last updated 22 August 2026

Canonical HTML: https://moneyguide.org.uk/answers/how-much-notice-do-i-give-to-resign-uk/
Markdown mirror: https://moneyguide.org.uk/answers/how-much-notice-do-i-give-to-resign-uk.md

## In short

If you have been employed for one month or more, the legal minimum you must give is one week. Your contract can require longer — follow the longer period. Statutory notice the employer must give you when they dismiss you is different (up to twelve weeks).

Employment Rights Act 1996 section 86: an employee with a month’s service must give at least one week. Many contracts say one month or three months. Resign in writing, date it, and keep a copy. Template: [resignation letter](/templates/resignation-letter-uk/).

You are due pay for notice you work, or pay in lieu if the employer agrees PILON. Accrued holiday is paid with final pay and is taxable. Report the last wage to Universal Credit if you claim it. ACAS: https://www.acas.org.uk/notice-periods/notice-when-resigning

Notice pay explainer: [notice period pay](/work-earnings/notice-period-pay-entitlements/).

## Related

- [Resignation letter template](https://moneyguide.org.uk/templates/resignation-letter-uk/)
- [Notice period pay](https://moneyguide.org.uk/work-earnings/notice-period-pay-entitlements/)
- [Holiday pay](https://moneyguide.org.uk/work-earnings/holiday-pay-and-entitlement/)

## Primary source

acas.org.uk/notice-periods/notice-when-resigning

---

Independent UK money guidance from [Money Guide](https://moneyguide.org.uk). Information only — not regulated financial advice.