In India, notice periods typically last 60 to 90 days, but new employers may want you to start earlier. Enter your details to generate a polite email to request an early release from your manager.
Your email
Subject:Request for early release — [Your name], [Your job title]
Dear [Manager's name],
You know that I resigned from my role as [Your job title] at [Company name] on [Date you resigned]. With my notice period, my last working day would be [Last day as per notice period]. I'm reaching out to ask for an earlier release, with [Last day you are asking for] as my stated last day.
[Reason]
I understand the need for a smooth transition and will ensure the team isn't left in the lurch. By [Last day you are asking for] I will:
- record my ongoing projects, procedures, and main contacts
- finish or hand off all outstanding tasks to the person you choose
- guide my replacement or a coworker on all necessary details
- remain reachable by phone for a few weeks after my departure, should any queries arise
I'd appreciate your support in getting this request through HR. I'm available to discuss the handover plan with you at your convenience.
Thank you for your understanding.
Regards,
[Your name]
[Your job title]
Words in [brackets] are what you replace. The generator above fills them in for you.
With a full handover plan
Subject: Request for early release — [Your name], [Your job title]
Dear [Manager's name],
You know that I resigned from my role as [Your job title] at [Company name] on [Date you resigned]. With my notice period, my last working day would be [Last day as per notice period]. I'm reaching out to ask for an earlier release, with [Last day you are asking for] as my stated last day.
[Reason]
I understand the need for a smooth transition and will ensure the team isn't left in the lurch. By [Last day you are asking for] I will:
- record my ongoing projects, procedures, and main contacts
- finish or hand off all outstanding tasks to the person you choose
- guide my replacement or a coworker on all necessary details
- remain reachable by phone for a few weeks after my departure, should any queries arise
I'd appreciate your support in getting this request through HR. I'm available to discuss the handover plan with you at your convenience.
Thank you for your understanding.
Regards,
[Your name]
[Your job title]
Offering a notice period buyout
Subject: Request for early release with notice period buyout — [Your name], [Your job title]
Dear [Manager's name],
You know that I resigned from my role as [Your job title] at [Company name] on [Date you resigned], and given my notice period my last working day would be [Last day as per notice period]. I'm requesting an earlier release, noting [Last day you are asking for] as my final working day.
[Reason]
I am ready to buy out the remainder of the notice period as per the company policy. Could you please ask HR to confirm the buyout amount, and whether it will be offset against my full and final settlement or handled separately?
Before departing, I will execute a full handover, including documenting my tasks and instructing whoever takes on my duties.
Thank you for considering my request.
Regards,
[Your name]
[Your job title]
Adjusting against leave balance
Subject: Request to adjust leave balance against notice period — [Your name], [Your job title]
Dear [Manager's name],
You know that I resigned from my role as [Your job title] at [Company name] on [Date you resigned], and according to my notice period my last working day would be [Last day as per notice period]. I want to ask if my remaining leave balance can be applied to the notice period, allowing [Last day you are asking for] to be my last day.
[Reason]
If the leave balance doesn't cover the entire period, I'm willing to buy out the remaining days following company policy. Could you check with HR if this adjustment is feasible?
Before leaving, I will finalize a complete handover, including documenting my work and briefing whoever will assume my responsibilities.
Thank you for your understanding.
Regards,
[Your name]
[Your job title]
Tips
First, check your appointment letter. It details the notice period and if a buyout option is available.
Discuss early release with your manager before sending the email. Their agreement is usually required, and HR will process it.
Ask your new employer if they can cover or repay the notice period buyout. Some employers offer this, especially for an earlier start date.
Receive written confirmation of your last working day from your manager or HR by email before setting a start date with your new employer.
Continue working as usual until your early release is confirmed. Leaving without approval can delay your relieving letter and final settlement.
Requesting an Early Release Made Simple
If you're navigating a job change and face a long notice period, this tool can help. When your new employer needs you to join sooner, use the tool to draft an email. It generates a polite request for an early release that you can send to your manager.
This tool complements your job search on IT & Tech Jobs. It's useful right after you receive a new offer but still have a notice period to serve. By filling in your specific dates, you can quickly create an email that asks for a quicker release from your current role.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my employer deny an early release?
Yes. Whether you get an early release is up to your employer. If they decline, you must either complete the notice period in your contract or pay the buyout if allowed by your contract.
How does a notice period buyout work?
Paying your employer for notice days you skip to leave early is known as a notice period buyout. How this is calculated—whether on basic or gross pay—depends on your appointment letter and company policy. The notice period calculator can provide an estimate.
Can I use my leave balance instead of serving the notice period?
Some companies let you do this, while others don't and will pay unused leave in the full and final settlement. Check the HR policy or ask HR before planning on it.
When should I request an early release from my job?
Ask as soon as you know your new joining date, ideally when you resign. The sooner you ask, the more time your manager has to arrange the handover.