What is a Relieving Letter?
A relieving letter is an official document issued by an employer when an employee leaves the organization. It confirms that:
- The employee has been formally relieved from duties
- All company assets have been returned
- No dues are pending from either side
- The employment relationship has ended amicably
Key Characteristics:
✔ Legal Document – Serves as proof of employment termination
✔ Mandatory in Many Cases – Required for full & final settlement
✔ Future Reference – Needed for new job applications
Key Components of a Relieving Letter
A comprehensive relieving letter should include:
| Section | Details Required |
|---|---|
| Company Letterhead | Official branding with contact details |
| Employee Details | Full name, employee ID, designation |
| Date of Issue | When the letter is being issued |
| Last Working Date | Official date of separation |
| Reason for Leaving | Resignation, termination, contract end |
| Clearance Status | Confirmation of asset return |
| Dues Clearance | Salary, bonuses, etc. settled |
| Eligibility for Rehire | Whether employee can be rehired |
| HR/Manager’s Signature | With designation and date |
| Company Stamp | For authenticity (if applicable) |
Difference Between Relieving Letter and Experience Letter
| Factor | Relieving Letter | Experience Letter |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Formal termination proof | Employment details proof |
| Content Focus | Last working day, clearance | Job role, achievements |
| Mandatory | Often required for F&F | Optional but recommended |
| Usage | HR formalities | Future job applications |
| Issued When | Immediately after exit | Can be requested later |
Why is a Relieving Letter Important?
- Mandatory for Full & Final Settlement – Required to process pending dues
- Legal Protection – Proof of proper employment termination
- Future Employment – Many companies ask for previous relieving letters
- Visa Applications – Often needed for work visas abroad
- Background Checks – Validates your employment history
How to Write a Professional Relieving Letter (Step-by-Step Guide)
Step 1: Use Company Letterhead
Maintain professional branding throughout the document.
Step 2: Include Employee Details
- Full name
- Employee ID
- Designation
- Department
Step 3: Specify Employment Dates
- Joining date
- Last working date
Step 4: Mention Reason for Leaving
Examples:
- “Accepted resignation”
- “Completed contract term”
- “Mutual separation”
Step 5: Confirm Clearances
State that:
✔ All company assets returned
✔ No dues pending
✔ Access revoked
Step 6: Add Professional Closing
Example:
“We thank [Name] for their contributions and wish them success in future endeavors.”
Step 7: Sign & Stamp
- HR Manager’s signature
- Company stamp (if applicable)
Free Relieving Letter Generator Tool
Relieving Letter Generator
Sample Relieving Letter (Real-Person Example)
TechSolutions India Pvt. Ltd.
Corporate Office: Bangalore | HR Contact: hr@techsolutions.in
Date: 25th May 2025
Relieving Letter
Ref No: HR/REL/2025/108
This is to certify that Mr. Rohan Sharma (Employee ID: TS10578) was employed with our organization as Senior Project Manager from 12th March 2020 to 24th May 2025.
Mr. Sharma has resigned from his position and his last working day was 24th May 2025.
We confirm that:
✓ All company assets have been returned
✓ No financial dues are pending from either side
✓ All access privileges have been revoked
Mr. Sharma is eligible for rehire in future.
We appreciate his contributions during his tenure and wish him success in his future endeavors.
For TechSolutions India Pvt. Ltd.
Sincerely,
[Signature]
Priya Menon
HR Manager
(Company Stamp)
FAQs on Relieving Letters
Is a relieving letter legally mandatory?
A: While not universally required by law, most companies issue it as part of standard HR practices.
Can I join a new company without a relieving letter?
A: Many organizations require it, especially for background verification.
What if my company refuses to give a relieving letter?
A: You can:
- Send a formal written request
- Approach labor authorities (if applicable)
- Get a notarized affidavit as alternative proof
How long is a relieving letter valid?
A: It doesn’t expire – remains valid indefinitely as a record of your employment.
Can a relieving letter be issued after years of leaving?
A: Yes, but it’s easier to obtain immediately after separation.
Conclusion
A relieving letter is a critical document that formally closes your employment chapter while opening doors to new opportunities.
Key Takeaways:
✔ Always request your relieving letter before leaving
✔ Ensure it includes all key components
✔ Keep multiple copies safe for future needs
✔ Use our free generator for instant professional letters
📥 Download ready-to-use templates and streamline your career transitions today!