What time of year is best to resign?

Asked by: Ellis Schowalter PhD  |  Last update: January 25, 2026
Score: 4.7/5 (1 votes)

“Employees who are planning to quit their jobs usually do so shortly after receiving a large bonus or profit-sharing payout. The majority of American companies distribute Christmas bonuses in late December, or profit-sharing payouts sometime in January, after the fiscal year ends.

What is the best time to put resignation?

If you prefer to inform them in person, giving your letter at the end of the day may increase your chances of finding them. Increasing your confidence about the decision: By completing a full workday, you can assess your job responsibilities again and work environment to verify your decision to resign.

What is the most popular month to quit a job?

Who's up for another Great Resignation? According to a recent analysis of Federal Reserve Bank data on quitting trends, next month might see us in the throes of a fresh exodus from the workplace. The data indicates there are two specific times of year when people tend to quit in higher numbers: January and August.

What is a red flag for quitting a job?

You may have emergency personal concerns that require an immediate exit, such as an illness or a need to care for a loved one. There is toxicity or harassment in the workplace. You feel unsafe at work.

What time of year is best to quit a job?

Generally, the most preferred and best month to resign from your job is December. That's because most American companies distribute their end-of-the-year bonuses in late December, and if you have made up your mind to leave, it is best to do it without missing out on it.

Are You Being Quiet Fired? Signs Your Company Is Hoping You Quit Your Job!

25 related questions found

What month do most people quit?

Thinking of handing in your notice? You're not alone. The third week of September sees 37% of all resignations in the year, according to cloud recruiters Resource On Demand.

Is it better to quit on a Friday or Monday?

When you turn in your notice on a Friday you can let the dust settle over the weekend. This will give your bosses and colleagues time to think through their reactions and when you come in on Monday, you can all be prepared with your ideas for a transition plan without being so emotionally fueled.

When to resign immediately?

Your mental and physical health should always be a priority when deciding whether to quit without notice. If staying any longer at your current position would affect your health, make a prompt but professional exit and focus on taking care of yourself.

Is it unprofessional to just quit?

1. Is it unprofessional to just quit? Yes! You should never simply quit your job.

Do employers get upset when you quit?

Think Rationally

Leaving a job can be an emotional experience for you and your boss. When you tell your supervisor you're quitting, you are essentially stating that you are firing him as your boss. He may feel shocked, angry, or defensive. He may have to answer to a superior about why you decided to leave.

Is it better to resign in the morning or afternoon?

If you feel you may face a hostile atmosphere, resign at the end of your workday so that you are no longer on company time and are in control of your schedule. Try to schedule any discussions for the following morning when everyone can face your departure after time to absorb and reflect on the news.

What is the hardest month to get a job?

The Worst Times to Look for Jobs
  • June to August: Summer Slowdown. Why it's tough: Summer is known as one of the slowest hiring seasons, especially in industries where employees and managers take extended vacations. ...
  • November and December: The Holiday Freeze.

What job is quit the most?

  • Welder, Cutter, Solderer or Brazer. ...
  • Forklift Operator. ...
  • Program Manager, IT. ...
  • Critical Care Registered Nurse. Median pay: $80,700. ...
  • Retail Sales Associate. Median pay: $30,700. ...
  • Software Development Engineer. Median pay: $88,800. ...
  • Senior Data Analyst. Median pay: $97,100. ...
  • Patient Care Coordinator. Median pay: $46,300.

Is it better to quit in December or January?

People regularly ask, “When is the best time of the year to resign?” Statistically, January and February are the months with the greatest number of job openings—and also the largest number of people applying for them.

Do you need to give a reason for resignation?

In your resignation letter you should explain clearly your reasons for leaving. If there's been a serious breach of contract, you might want to leave your job straight away instead of working your notice period. Doing this could be a breach of your employment contract, but it can be justified sometimes.

Should I talk to HR before resigning?

Once you know the legal details (see step 1 or speak to a lawyer), you should go speak to your boss or someone in Human Resources (HR) department before delivering your written letter of resignation. The conversation should address: That you're quitting. Why you're leaving.

What should you not say when quitting a job?

10 things you should never say when leaving your job
  • Don't bash your employer. ...
  • Don't apologise. ...
  • Don't give away too much. ...
  • Don't make any promises. ...
  • Don't sign anything. ...
  • Don't tell them who knew. ...
  • Don't say that you'll do an exit interview. ...
  • Don't tell them how long you've been looking.

How to resign without burning bridges?

Explore this list of steps to ensure you leave your job on good terms:
  1. Remain professional. One way to ensure you don't burn bridges is to always remain professional. ...
  2. Be honest. ...
  3. Return company equipment. ...
  4. Ask for feedback. ...
  5. Stay in contact. ...
  6. Follow through. ...
  7. Remain confidential. ...
  8. Be aware of existing relationships.

Can I quit my job if I am unhappy?

Quitting your job is a personal and potentially difficult decision. Whatever your reason, leaving a position is never a bad decision if it makes you feel happier, healthier or more aligned with your goals or values.

How do I know it's time to quit my job?

You are no longer able to fulfill your job responsibilities. There are substantially better opportunities available at another organization. You need more work-life balance. You dread going to work.

What is the best day of the week to resign?

Giving notice on a Friday allows them to have a full week to prepare for your transition and address any concerns. Avoiding the "Monday blues": By giving your notice on a Friday, you can avoid the Monday morning blues that often come with resigning from a job. This can help you start the week on a more positive note.

Can my employer sue me for quitting without notice?

The employer might agree to terminate this employment relationship only for specific reasons. On the other hand, the employee might agree to provide notice before quitting. If the employee violates this agreement and quits without the required advance notice, the employer could sue them for breach of contract.

Do you send a resignation letter to HR or manager?

Most companies ask you to deliver your resignation letter to your direct supervisor. You may also write to a letter to someone else, such as a more senior manager or member of human resources. Your employee handbook may have information about whom to address when sending a resignation letter.

What is the best time to resign?

Mr Blasco adds: “In terms of the timing of the day, resigning at the end of the workday can provide a cooling-off period overnight, which can help reduce immediate emotional reactions.” He notes that proper timing also helps managers ensure that critical knowledge and responsibilities are transferred properly.

What day of quitting is the hardest?

The first seven to 10 days are the toughest, and you may need the most help during these early days. Most people who smoke and use tobacco products return to doing so within the first three months. "Slips" (having a puff, smoking one or two cigarettes, getting some hits off a vape pen or e-cigarette) are pretty common.