Ending a letter might seem like a small detail, but it can completely shape the tone of your message. Whether you’re writing to a potential employer, a judge, a teacher, your friend, or even the love of your life—the closing lines matter.
A strong letter ending shows confidence, clarity, and respect. A weak one can make your message feel unfinished or unprofessional.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn:
- How to end a letter in different situations
- The best professional, formal, and informal closings
- What to avoid in letter endings
- Examples you can copy and use immediately
- How to end letters with regards, love, appreciation, or respect
- How to close business, resignation, complaint, teacher, or thank-you letters
This is your ultimate resource on how to end any letter the right way.
⭐ Why the Ending of a Letter Matters More Than You Think
Whether it’s a physical letter or an email, your closing influences how the reader feels when they finish reading. A good ending:
✔ Leaves a positive final impression
✔ Reinforces your purpose
✔ Shows professionalism
✔ Encourages a response (if needed)
✔ Strengthens relationships
A poorly chosen ending can sound too cold, too soft, too aggressive, or even confusing. That’s why choosing the right closing is essential.
1. How to End a Letter (General Guidelines)
Before choosing a specific closing, keep these universal rules in mind:
✓ Match the tone of the letter
A formal letter needs a formal ending. A friendly letter needs something casual and warm.
✓ Include a call to action when necessary
Example:
“I look forward to your response.”
“Please let me know if you need anything else.”
✓ Add your name clearly
Avoid nicknames in professional letters.
✓ Optional: Include contact details
Only needed for formal or professional letters.
General Letter Ending Examples:
- Sincerely,
- Warm regards,
- Best wishes,
- Kind regards,
- Respectfully,
- With appreciation,
2. How to End a Cover Letter
A cover letter closing should express confidence, gratitude, and interest in the position.
Best Closings for Cover Letters:
- Sincerely,
- Kind regards,
- Best regards,
- With appreciation,
- Respectfully,
Example Ending for a Cover Letter:
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills can contribute to your team.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
3. How to End a Formal Letter
Formal letters require a respectful, professional closing.
Formal Letter Closings:
- Respectfully,
- Sincerely,
- Yours faithfully,
- Yours sincerely,
- With respect,
Example:
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Yours sincerely,
[Your Name]
4. How to End a Letter to the Judge
Letters to a judge must be extremely respectful and neutral.
Approved Closings:
- Respectfully,
- Yours respectfully,
- With the utmost respect,
- Respectfully submitted,
Example Ending:
Thank you for taking the time to review my statement.
Respectfully,
[Your Full Legal Name]
5. How to End a Professional Letter
Professional letters require a polished, confident tone.
Professional Closings:
- Best regards,
- Kind regards,
- Sincerely,
- Yours sincerely,
- Warm regards,
Example:
Please feel free to contact me if you need any further information.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
6. How to End a Love Letter
Love letters should feel emotional, intimate, and sincere.
Romantic Closing Lines:
- With all my love,
- Forever yours,
- Yours truly,
- Always thinking of you,
- With love,
Example:
You mean more to me than words can express, and I am grateful for every moment we share.
With all my love,
[Your Name]
7. How to End a Letter to a Friend
Friendly letters can be casual, fun, or affectionate.
Friend Letter Closings:
- Take care,
- Your friend,
- Talk soon,
- Lots of love,
- Warmly,
Example:
Can’t wait to catch up soon!
Your friend,
[Your Name]
8. How to End a Resignation Letter
A resignation letter ending must be polite and non-emotional.
Best Resignation Closings:
- Sincerely,
- Kind regards,
- Best regards,
Example:
Thank you for the opportunity to be part of the team. I wish the organization continued success.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
9. How to End an Informal Letter
Informal letters can end casually.
Informal Closings:
- Cheers,
- Take care,
- All the best,
- See you soon,
Example:
Let’s catch up next time you’re in town.
Cheers,
[Your Name]
10. How to End a Letter With Love
Perfect for partners, family members, or close friends.
Closings With Love:
- With love,
- Love always,
- All my love,
- Lots of love,
Example:
Thank you for being such an important part of my life.
Love always,
[Your Name]
11. How to Write an End of Lease Letter
This ending should be formal and clear.
Closings for End-of-Lease Letters:
- Sincerely,
- Respectfully,
- Kind regards,
Example:
Please confirm the final inspection date at your earliest convenience.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
12. How to End a Letter of Interest
Show enthusiasm and eagerness.
Closings for Letter of Interest:
- Best regards,
- Sincerely,
- With appreciation,
Example:
I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your organization.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
13. How to End a Letter With Regards
“Regards” must match the tone.
Types of Regards Closings:
- Kind regards (warm but professional)
- Best regards (friendly professional)
- Warm regards (slightly more friendly)
Example:
Let me know if I can provide any further assistance.
Kind regards,
[Your Name]
14. How to End a Business Letter
Professional, short, and confident.
Business Letter Closings:
- Sincerely,
- Best regards,
- Respectfully,
- Cordially,
Example:
I appreciate your time and attention.
Cordially,
[Your Name]
15. How to End a Letter of Application
Similar to a cover letter—be confident and appreciative.
Letter of Application Closings:
- Sincerely,
- Best regards,
- Respectfully,
Example:
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to hearing from you.
Respectfully,
[Your Name]
16. How to End a Letter of Complaint
Be firm but polite.
Complaint Letter Closings:
- Sincerely,
- Regards,
- Respectfully,
Example:
I expect a prompt resolution to this issue and look forward to your response.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
17. How to End a Letter of Recommendation
Be professional and supportive.
Recommendation Closings:
- Sincerely,
- Warm regards,
- Respectfully,
Example:
Please feel free to contact me for any additional information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
18. How to End a Letter to a Teacher
Respectful but warm, depending on your relationship.
Closings to Teachers:
- Sincerely,
- Respectfully,
- Warm regards,
Example:
Thank you for your guidance and support.
Respectfully,
[Your Name]
19. How to End a Thank-You Letter
Show appreciation.
Thank-You Letter Closings:
- With gratitude,
- Sincerely,
- Warm regards,
- With appreciation,
Example:
Thank you again for your kindness and support.
With gratitude,
[Your Name]
20. Letter Closing Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Using overly casual endings in formal letters
❌ Using emotional closings in professional contexts
❌ Forgetting your name
❌ Using slang or abbreviations
❌ Adding unnecessary emojis
Always match the tone of the letter and the purpose.
Read Also : How to Combine Letter Writing for Income
# Final Thoughts
No matter who you’re writing to—a future employer, a friend, a loved one, or a judge—the way you end your letter shapes how your message is received.
A strong ending is:
✔ Clear
✔ Polite
✔ Appropriate
✔ Purposeful
Use these examples, tailor them to your situation, and your letters will feel polished, professional, and meaningful every time.
