by Retirement letter to clients is a meaningful way to express gratitude and say thank you, share personal reflections, and provide reassurance as you prepare to step away from your role.
Whether you've spent decades building relationships or a few impactful years serving your customers, this letter document as both a farewell and a bridge—honoring the past while preparing for the future.
In this article, we’ll explore how to craft a thoughtful and heartfelt letter announcing retirement that makes a lasting impression and maintains the trust you’ve worked so hard to build.
What is a retirement letter to clients?
A letter for retirement is a professional way to announce your decision to leave your position, while maintaining respect and appreciation.
Unlike a resignation letter, which is typically addressed to an employer, this paper is directed toward the individuals or organizations the retiree has served.
Its purpose is to:
- Proclaim the issue and provide the official date.
- Express gratitude for the loyalty and support.
- Reassure customers by sharing transition plans.
- Preserve goodwill.
How to write a retirement letter to clients?
A retirement letter to customers should do more than simply declare your departure—it should honor the relationship you've built and reassure clients about their future support.
Here's a step-by-step guide of what to say in a retirement letter.
1. Begin with a Clear Introduction
Your opening paragraph should get straight to the point. Outline that you are quitting, include your last working day, and briefly mention your current position and company.
Elements to add:
- Your official date.
- The company you've worked for.
- A tone that is forward-looking.
After nearly three decades with Edward Jones, I am officially retiring from my role as Financial Advisor on October 31, 2025. This decision follows thoughtful consideration. It comes at a time when I feel ready to embrace new personal pursuits and spend more time with loved ones.
2. Reflect on the Relationship
Your second block of the letter of retirement to clients should focus on appreciation. Customers have likely placed a great deal of trust in you—acknowledging that builds goodwill and preserves your legacy.
What to mention:
- Sincere thanks for their collaboration.
- Recognition of key moments.
- Language that feels subjective yet professional—avoid generic phrases.
I want to express my deepest gratitude for the trust you’ve placed in me over the years. Helping guide your financial planning and being part of your journey has been both an honor and a highlight of my career. Your support, encouragement, and partnership have made my work truly meaningful.
3. Provide Information About the Transition
Clients will naturally wonder what comes next. Use this section of the letter for retirement to give them a clear understanding of who will be handling their affairs. Describe how the changeover will work. Reassurance and clarity are key.
Things to note:
- The name and credentials of your successor or team.
- A summary of their experience, values, or expertise.
- Information on how clients will be contacted or how to reach out.
To ensure a smooth transfer, Sarah Jensen, CFP, will be taking over your financial planning and investment management. Sarah has been a trusted colleague at Edward Jones for over 15 years and is well-versed in our client-first approach. She has been fully briefed on your portfolio and financial goals and will be reaching out to schedule introductory meetings in the coming weeks. You can also contact her directly at sarah.jensen@edwardjones.com.
4. Add a Personal Reflection
This is your chance to incorporate a human touch—reflect on your career, growth, and the meaningful experiences you've had. Keep it short and heartfelt.
What to include:
- A brief statement on your journey or lessons learned.
- A note of fulfillment.
- Avoid overly emotional or lengthy goodbyes—this is still a business letter.
Looking back, I feel incredibly fortunate to have built lasting relationships and shared in so many important moments with clients like you. From navigating market shifts to celebrating milestones, every experience has shaped me both personally and professionally. I will carry those memories into retirement with gratitude.
5. Close with Warmth
Your retirement letter closing of the retirement message for client should tie everything together—reaffirm your thanks, share your best wishes, and offer a point of contact for questions. It should leave the door open for positive final impressions.
Thank you once again for your support, trust, and collaboration. I wish you continued success and happiness in the years ahead. If you have any questions during the reassignment, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Sarah or myself before my departure.
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What is a good retirement letter?
- Concludes a professional journey with heartfelt appreciation.
- Celebrates achievements and reflects on key moments or milestones reached throughout the career.
- Personalizes the message, sharing lessons learned and important experiences.
- Maintains respect while offering closure and leaving a sense of goodwill.
- Looks forward with enthusiasm for the next phase, while honoring the past.
- Invites continued communication, if suitable, fostering an ongoing connection.
Examples of retirement letter to clients
Sample retirement letter to clients for financial advisor
Edward Jones
Chicago, 12345
March 25, 2025Dear Mr. and Mrs. Thompson,
I hope this letter finds you well. It is with mixed emotions that I announce my retirement from Edward Jones, effective June 30, 2025. After over 35 years of working in the industry, I feel it’s time to step away and pursue personal interests.
I want to take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude for the trust you’ve placed in me over the years. It has been a privilege to help you navigate the complexities of your financial journey. The relationships I have built, including ours, are among the most rewarding aspects of my career.
To ensure a smooth transition, I’m pleased to introduce Sarah Jensen, a Senior Financial Advisor with over 15 years of experience. She will be fully assuming responsibility for your accounts and will be reaching out to schedule an introductory meeting. I have full confidence that Sarah will provide the same high level of service and care that you’ve come to expect.
Please do not hesitate to reach out to me or Sarah if you have any questions. I deeply appreciate our partnership and look forward to staying in touch as I begin this new chapter.
Warm regards,
Michael Bennett
Senior Financial Advisor
Edward Jones
Healthcare sample letter announcing your retirement
Retirement announcement email to law customers
Kirkland & Ellis LLP
Chicago, IL
April 1, 2025Subject: A New Chapter: My Retirement Announcement
Dear Mr. Roberts,
I am writing to inform you that after 40 years with Kirkland & Ellis, I will be retiring as a partner in our Department on May 15, 2025. This decision has been bittersweet, as I’ve thoroughly enjoyed working on your legal matters and collaborating with you over the years.
Throughout my career, my goal has always been to provide reliable and strategic legal counsel, and it has been a privilege to serve you. I want to personally thank you for your trust and partnership throughout the years.
To ensure a seamless transition, I’m excited to introduce my colleague, Emily Simmons, who will be taking over your cases moving forward. Emily is a highly skilled attorney with extensive experience in mergers and acquisitions. She will be in contact with you shortly to discuss any ongoing or future legal needs.
I want to take this opportunity to express my deep appreciation for your confidence in me. I look forward to hearing about your continued success and wish you all the best in the years ahead.
Warm regards,
Thomas Walker
Partner, Corporate Law
Kirkland & Ellis LLP
Sample letter of retirement in hospitality
Retirement letter template for technology
Tech Solutions Inc.
San Francisco, CA 94105
April 10, 2025Subject: Retirement Announcement and Next Steps
Dear Mrs. Patel,
I’m writing to let you know that after 30 years of providing IT consulting services, I will be retiring on June 1, 2025. It’s been an incredible journey working with you and your team. I’m extremely grateful for the trust you’ve shown in my expertise and services.
I’ve greatly enjoyed collaborating with you on various technology projects over the years. I’m proud of the solutions we’ve implemented together. I want to reassure you that your ongoing IT support will remain uninterrupted after my retirement.
To ensure a smooth handover, I’m introducing Kevin Lee, who will be taking over as your primary consultant. Kevin has been with Tech Solutions for 12 years. He has worked alongside me on several key initiatives, so he’s very familiar with your systems and needs. Kevin will be reaching out shortly to schedule a meeting and discuss next steps.
Thank you once again for the privilege of working with you. I’m excited for you and your team’s future success and trust that you’ll be in excellent hands moving forward.
Best regards,
David Harris
Senior IT Consultant Tech Solutions Inc.
Sample letter announcing your retirement to clients in construction
Retirement thank you letter to clients in real estate
Haven Realty
Los Angeles, CA
April 12, 2025Subject: A Farewell and My Retirement Announcement
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Davis,
I wanted to personally let you know that I will be retiring from my position on May 31, 2025. It has been a pleasure helping you find your dream home, and I truly appreciate your trust in me during this important process.
I’m pleased to introduce Mark Johnson, who will be taking over as your primary real estate agent moving forward. Mark has been with Haven Realty for over 10 years and has a wealth of experience in the Los Angeles market. He will reach out soon to ensure you’re fully supported, whether for future property transactions or ongoing questions.
Thank you once again for the opportunity to work with you. I wish you many happy years in your new home, and I know you’ll be in good hands with Mark.
Warmest regards,
Linda Carter
Senior Real Estate Agent
Haven Realty
Retirement notice to clients in education
Retirement announcement email to customers in marketing
Creative Minds Marketing
Austin, TX 73301
April 20, 2025Subject: Announcing My Retirement and Next Steps for Your Account
Dear Maria,
It is with mixed emotions that I share the news of my retirement from Creative Minds Marketing, effective May 31, 2025. After 30 years in the marketing industry, it’s time for me to focus on personal passions and travel.
Working with you and your team has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my career. Together, we’ve achieved remarkable milestones, and I’m proud of the work we’ve done to elevate your brand.
To ensure that your marketing efforts continue seamlessly, I’m excited to introduce Sarah Miller as your new point of contact. Sarah has been with Creative Minds for over 8 years and has played a significant role in many successful campaigns. She’ll be in touch soon to discuss how we can continue to drive results for your brand.
Thank you for the wonderful partnership over the years. I’m confident that you will be in great hands with Sarah, and I look forward to hearing about your continued success.
Best regards,
Paul Jenkins
Senior Marketing Consultant
Creative Minds Marketing
Retirement letter to clients in insurance
Example retirement message for client in retail
City Boutique
New York, NY 10001 April 25, 2025Subject: Retirement Announcement & A Fond Farewell
Dear Ms. Walker,
After 30 wonderful years at City Boutique, I am excited to announce my retirement, effective June 15, 2025. It has truly been a pleasure helping you find the perfect pieces for your wardrobe over the years. I want to thank you for your loyalty and trust.
Your support has meant a lot to me, and I will always cherish the personal connections I’ve made with you.
I’m pleased to introduce Olivia Brooks, our new Senior Sales Consultant, who will be taking over your account. Olivia has been with City Boutique for 10 years and is passionate about fashion and customer service. She will ensure you continue receiving exceptional service as you shop with us.
I wish you all the best and thank you once again for your years of support. I’m confident that Olivia will make your future visits just as enjoyable as they have been with me.
Warmest regards,
Alice Johnson
Senior Sales Consultant
City Boutique
Conclusion
In conclusion, a well-written retirement letter to clients is an essential part of transitioning.
Whether through a formal letter or an email, the key is to maintain professionalism while showing appreciation and offering continued support. By taking the time to craft a meaningful farewell, you leave a lasting, positive impression on your customers, solidifying the foundation for future success for both parties.
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