Relieving Letter Overview and Format

author portrait

Lasya Pamidi

Employment documents
Legal
relieving letter
Last updated on August 10th, 2021

What is a Relieving Letter?

A Relieving Letter is provided by the employer when an employee resigns formally. This letter is an acceptance to his/her resignation. The roles and responsibilities of the employee as per the employment contract shall be relieved.

Future employers can ask for relieving letters from the employee from previous organisations since it acts as a written statement of the fact that the employee left previous employments without issues. In terms of the Shops and Establishments Act of most states, a service certificate/ relieving letter must be given promptly.

Other names for this document are Employee Experience Letter, Experience Letter, Relieving Letter, Service Certificate, Employee Proof of Employment Letter

When to use the letter?

An employer gives this letter to an employee on the last working day or upon receipt of the request for the same.

This document should be printed on the letterhead of the company where the employee has worked. It has to be signed by the authorised representative i.e HR manager of the company.

Elements of a Relieving Letter

Relieving Letter Format
Download Relieving Letter Format fro your Company
Download
Relieving Letter Format
Download Relieving Letter Format fro your Company
Download

FAQs

What is an Employment Contract?

An Employment Contract or Employment Agreement is a legally binding employment document that lays down the stipulations relating to the performance of an employee’s duties during the course of his employment. 

How is a Relieving letter different from that of a letter of Termination?

A letter of Termination of Employment is provided when an employer has terminated the employment of an employee for various reasons. However, a Relieving Letter is provided by the employer when an employee resigns formally.

Is it compulsory to give your employee a relieving letter?

No, it’s not compulsory. However, most companies so to maintain relationships with employees.

Got Questions? Ask Away!

  1. Hey @HarshitShah

    The things to include in an employee’s personnel file are:

    • Job application, CV and cover letter
    • Education and past employment info
    • Role description
    • Job offer letter and employment contract
    • Emergency contact information
    • Training records
    • Payroll and benefits information (but not bank details)
    • Performance appraisal forms
    • Disciplinary action reports
    • Employee resignation letter
    • Exit interview documentation
    • Any other documentation related to employment