You want to give at least a two weeks' notice. In this article, we cover everything you need to know about writing a resignation letter without notice and provide an example to get you started.California's labor laws do require you to give at least 72 hours' notice if you want your final paycheck at the time you leave. If you live in an at-will state, there is no requirement to give any notice for leaving or for your termination. You should be prepared to leave at any time. We've rounded up tips and examples for writing a resignation letter that'll help you maintain work relationships long after leaving a company. Just keep it short and sweet. Don't go into story telling mode. It's always best to resign from your job in person and give as much notice as you can. Absent a written contract indicating otherwise, an employee does not have to provide a reason, or "cause," for the resignation.