Resigning after maternity leave is a choice you have—and most working moms know that. However, many struggle with the how. While some parents resign to become stay-at-home moms or dads, others are looking for a new opportunity that fits this new chapter in their lives. In this case, how you resign is important, because you might need your former employer as a reference.
Here are our tips on how to write a resignation letter after maternity leave. Plus, some expert legal insight into the potential drawbacks of this decision.
Can I resign after maternity leave?
Yes, you can resign after maternity leave.
The only impediment would be a contractual agreement demanding you to stay longer. “Unless you are contractually bound to stay in your job for a certain amount of time—because, for example, you signed an employment contract for a five-year term and you are only in year two of the job—you are legally entitled to quit,” says Lisa Guerin, J.D. and legal expert at legal resource network Nolo.
Still, there are some legal matters to know before submitting your resignation letter.
Potential drawbacks of resigning after maternity leave
For starters, you won't be eligible for unemployment benefits. “Unemployment benefits are available only to those who lose their jobs, not those who quit voluntarily,” Guerin says. “Although many states allow employees who quit for certain compelling personal reasons to remain eligible for unemployment, quitting to stay home with a healthy baby will disqualify you.”
You also might have to pay back your health insurance premiums. “If your maternity leave was covered by the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), your employer was legally required to continue your health insurance benefits during your time off,” she says. “If you decide not to come back from leave, your employer has a right to seek reimbursement of any money it paid to keep your health benefits in place.” If you return to work for at least 30 days, this right of reimbursement doesn't apply.
Finally, your resignation might affect other employment benefits. Guerin suggests checking your employee handbook to fully understand the potential consequences. “Will you be fully vested in your retirement benefits, for example? Will you have to pay back all or part of a signing bonus? What are the rules about company property, such as a car, laptop, or phone?” she says. “You'll want to know all of the consequences of quitting before you make a final decision.”
Reasons to quit after maternity leave
The reasons behind a resignation after maternity leave vary between families. Some parents decide to stay at home in the first years of their children's life. Other parents struggle with the stress of juggling parenthood and their careers.
Finances also come into play. A 2024 survey conducted by Motherly revealed that 66% of moms considered leaving the workforce last year due to childcare costs and stress. According to the same survey, half of non-working moms listed affordable childcare as a requisite for returning to or entering the workforce.
How to write a resignation letter after maternity leave
Regardless of the reasons, resignation letters are pretty straightforward and short. Start by clearly stating your intention to resign and your last working day. Express your gratitude for the opportunity to leave a positive impression, even if you’re ready to move on. Mention your willingness to help with the transition—without promising more than you can commit to. Finally, wrap up with well wishes for the team, and add your contact info if you'd like to stay in touch.
Here's that info again, in a list:
- Your intention to resign
- Your last day of employment
- Why you're resigning
- An offer to help with the transition
- Your thanks to the employer
Ideally, you should give two weeks' notice, so the employer has time to hire a replacement, but it's not mandatory. “Your decision will depend on what kind of relationship you hope to maintain with the employer and how you think they might react,” Guerin says. “Giving as much notice as possible might leave you in the best position for the future, in case you need a reference for a new job.”
Since printed resignation letters typically aren't mandatory anymore, you can submit your resignation letter via email. If you do decide to send a printed letter, use a business letter format and confirm the receiver's information is correct. Any missing information could result in the letter not being delivered, causing miscommunication between you and the employer.
Resignation letter after maternity leave: Examples
Depending on the circumstances of your resignation, you’ll find one of these two examples of resignation letters for parents on maternity leave helpful.
Example #1: Resignation letter during maternity leave with two weeks' notice
Subject: Two weeks notice - Ann Thomas
Dear Richard,
Please accept this letter as formal notification that I am resigning from my position as data analyst with Data Plus, effective two weeks from today, November 5, 2024.
During this past month on maternity leave, I put a lot of thought into what my next steps would be as a new parent. After much consideration, I have decided not to return to the workforce for now.
Thank you so much for welcoming me to your team and for the opportunities I’ve had over these past four years. I have greatly enjoyed my time at Data Plus and learned so much with you and the data team.
Please let me know if there’s anything I can do to help with the transition—you can reach me over email.
I wish you and the company continued success and appreciate your understanding.
Sincerely,
Ann Thomas
Example #2: Immediate resignation letter due to taking care of baby
Subject: Resignation letter - Taylor Smith
Dear Julie,
It’s with regret that I inform you of my resignation from my position as sales manager with Sales Blue, effective today, November 5, 2024. After careful consideration, I have decided that I need to dedicate the next year to taking care of my child. Please accept my apologies for the short notice.
Thank you for the opportunity and professional growth. I am forever grateful for this experience. I am willing to help with the transition process in the next few days to the best of my ability. I am available over email.
I appreciate your understanding.
Sincerely,
Taylor Smith
Not returning to work after maternity leave letter: Template
Here's a template you can adapt to your particular situation.
Subject: Resignation letter - [Full name]
Dear [supervisor name],
I/m writing to inform you that I am resigning from my position as [your job title] with [company name]. My last day of employment will be [date]. After careful consideration, I decided that [brief explanation of the situation].
I am deeply grateful for the opportunity and professional development in these past [years at the company]. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help with the transition process; you can contact me by [your preferred means of contact].
I wish you and the company continued success.
Thank you for your understanding.
Sincerely,
[your name]
What happens after you send your resignation letter
Be aware that even if you give your employer two weeks' notice, they can terminate your employment immediately if they choose. “Although the FMLA requires employers to return workers to their former position once the leave is over, this obligation ends once you give notice that you will not return to work,” Guerin says. “You might find yourself cut off from health insurance and any employer-provided paid leave programs you were using.”
With that in mind, assess your options to make the best decision for you and your family. If you need help understanding the implications of resigning after maternity leave, consider consulting with an employment attorney.
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