Properly Resigning from Federal Service: A Guide for Employees

Special Update Note: due to the current situation facing federal employees, this article was reviewed for accuracy and updated on November 1, 2025.

The process of transitioning from federal service to the private sector can be complex, and times of uncertainty—like the recent, and ongoing, government shutdown—highlight the need for clear guidance. Many federal employees worry about potential negative consequences, such as "job abandonment," (especially in Title 38 healthcare employees who work for the Veterans Administration) if their resignation isn't processed correctly, especially when HR staff are unavailable due to furlough.

This article provides essential, easy-to-understand information on how to properly resign from federal employment, ensuring your professional separation is handled smoothly and your interests are protected.

Process for Resigning from Federal Service: Key Points

What is a Resignation from Federal Service?

In the federal sector, a resigning from federal service is a voluntary separation from employment initiated by the employee with a federal agency. It is an employee's election to leave their position. The agency cannot prevent or delay an employee from resigning.

Advance Notice to the Agency

• Legally, advance notice is NOT required. You can inform your supervisor that you are resigning effective immediately. Official federal guidance (OPM) does not mandate advance notice.

• The agency is generally required to process your action as a resignation without negative remarks or documentation.

• Professional Recommendation: We highly recommend providing advance notice whenever possible. This is standard professional practice and provides sufficient time to properly complete clearance procedures, which can impact departing benefits like annual leave payout and continuing healthcare.

The Formal Written Notice is Essential

Your notice of resignation should never be verbal. All notices should be clearly expressed in writing and must contain the following information:

• Reason for the resignation.

• Date, time, and office location of submission.

• Effective date and time of the resignation. (Separations are effective at midnight unless a different time is indicated on the SF-50.)

• To whom the notice is addressed.

• The employee's signature with their name clearly printed underneath.

• A current forwarding address and phone number should also be included.

TIP: Part E of the SF-52 (Request for Personnel Action) may be used to officially document an employee's reason for resigning.

Can I Change My Mind After Submitting a Resignation?

In the majority of cases, yes, you can rescind your resignation right up until the effective date and time. However, there are exceptions that are dependent on the specific facts and circumstances.

Agency-Prescribed Procedures for Departing

Each federal agency, and often localized workgroups, relies on established internal protocols for voluntary separations. Your local Human Resources (HR) and/or Fiscal/Payroll offices will likely control these procedures.

• Follow these procedures! It is vital to follow all internal clearance procedures, especially concerning the turn-in of agency equipment. Failure to do so could result in a collection notice or other complications.

• Retain Documentation: Employees should keep a copy of all documentation associated with the clearance procedures.

Download a Complete Copy of Your Official Personnel Folder (OPF)

Before your final departure, make every effort to download or obtain a complete copy of your Official Personnel Folder (OPF). This comprehensive record will be essential for any future employment or benefits-related inquiries. If you are unsure how to do this, contact your human resources.