Experience Letter and Relieving
Letter are two crucial documents that an employee typically receives upon
leaving a company. Both letters serve different purposes, although they may
contain similar information. Here's an overview of each and their respective
templates:
1. Experience Letter
An Experience Letter is
issued by the employer to confirm the employment history of the employee. It
serves as a formal acknowledgment of the employee's tenure, role, and
performance within the company. This letter is often used by the employee when
seeking future employment, as it reflects the employee’s experience, skills,
and contributions.
Components of an Experience
Letter:
- Employee Details:
Name, employee ID, designation, department, and dates of employment.
- Job Responsibilities:
Brief overview of the employee's role and main duties.
- Performance:
A note on the employee's work performance, skills, and accomplishments (if
applicable).
- Duration: The total period
of employment.
- Reason for Leaving:
Sometimes included, especially if the employee is leaving on good terms.
- Closing Statement:
A positive note, wishing the employee well for future endeavors.
2. Relieving Letter
A Relieving Letter is
issued when an employee leaves the company. It confirms that the employee has
been relieved of their duties and that their employment with the company has
officially ended. It is typically issued after the employee has completed the
exit formalities, including handing over their responsibilities, returning
company property, and settling financial dues.
Components of a Relieving
Letter:
- Employee Details:
Name, employee ID, designation, and department.
- Confirmation of Employment End:
Statement confirming the employee’s last working day.
- Notice Period Compliance:
Confirmation that the employee has either served or been exempted from
their notice period.
- No Dues Clearance:
Mention that the employee has cleared all financial dues and returned all
company property.
- Well Wishes:
A positive statement wishing the employee success in future endeavors.
Key Differences Between
Experience Letter and Relieving Letter:
|
Aspect |
Experience Letter |
Relieving Letter |
|
Purpose |
To certify the employee's
experience and performance. |
To confirm the end of
employment and relieve the employee of all duties. |
|
Content |
Focuses on role,
responsibilities, performance, and skills. |
Focuses on the date of
separation, no dues clearance, and release from responsibilities. |
|
When Issued |
Issued when the employee
requests it, generally after leaving. |
Issued after the employee
has completed all exit formalities. |
|
Typically Includes |
Job responsibilities,
performance, and contributions. |
Confirmation of last working
day, clearance of dues, and return of assets. |
Example: Combined Experience
and Relieving Letter
Some companies combine both
documents into one letter, especially if the employee has completed all
formalities and is leaving on good terms. Here’s a combined version:
Important Considerations:
- Tone and Content:
Both letters should maintain a formal, positive, and professional tone.
Even in cases of termination, it is important to avoid negative comments.
- Legal Requirements:
Ensure that both letters comply with any local labor laws or contractual
obligations, especially when it comes to the termination process or the
reasons for leaving.
Timing: The Relieving Letter should only be issued once all formalities have been completed (such as the return of company property and financial settlements).
