Knowing how to decline a job offer respectfully is a crucial professional skill. You may need to write a formal job offer decline letter for various reasons, such as receiving a better opportunity or a low salary offer.
A well-crafted job offer refusal letter sample can help you maintain a positive relationship with the employer. Using a sample letter for rejecting a job offer ensures you remain polite and professional, keeping the door open for future possibilities.
Sample Letter to Decline a Job Offer Due to Low Salary
[Your Full Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager’s Name]
[Hiring Manager’s Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
Re: Job Offer – [Job Title]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name],
Thank you so much for offering me the position of [Job Title] at [Company Name]. I sincerely appreciate you taking the time to interview me and share more about this exciting opportunity.
After careful consideration, I have decided to decline the offer at this time. While I was very impressed with the team and the role, the salary offered does not align with my expectations and financial requirements.
It was a pleasure getting to know you, and I wish you and [Company Name] all the best in finding a suitable candidate. I hope our paths cross again in the future.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
Formal Job Offer Decline Letter
Subject: Job Offer – [Job Title]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name],
Thank you for the recent job offer for the [Job Title] position. I am grateful for the opportunity and your consideration.
After careful thought, I will not be accepting the position at this time. This was not an easy decision, but I believe it is the best one for my career goals.
I wish you and the company success and thank you again for your time.
How to Decline a Job Offer Respectfully
Subject: Regarding Your Offer for [Job Title]
Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last Name],
Thank you again for the generous job offer. I truly enjoyed learning about the role and meeting the team at [Company Name]. Your passion for your work was evident, and it made this a very difficult decision.
With much consideration, I have decided to pursue another opportunity that is more closely aligned with my long-term career objectives.
I deeply appreciate your time and the offer. I wish you the best of luck in your search and hope to stay in touch professionally.
Sample Letter Rejecting Job Offer
Subject: [Job Title] Position
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
Thank you for offering me the [Job Title] role. I appreciate you extending the offer.
However, I am writing to inform you that I will be declining the position. I have accepted another role that I feel is a better fit for me at this point in my career.
Thank you once more for the opportunity.
Job Offer Refusal Letter Sample
Subject: Declining Job Offer
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
Thank you for your time during the interview process and for the job offer for the [Job Title] position.
While I am grateful for the offer, I have decided to decline it. I wish you all the best in finding a suitable candidate for the role.
Tips for Writing a Job Offer Decline Letter
- Be Prompt: Respond as soon as you have made your decision so the company can move forward with other candidates.
- Show Gratitude: Always start by thanking the hiring manager for their time and for the offer.
- Be Clear and Direct: State your decision to decline the offer clearly to avoid any confusion.
- Keep it Brief: There is no need for a lengthy explanation. A few professional sentences are sufficient.
- Maintain a Positive Tone: Avoid any negative comments about the company, the job, or the salary. The goal is to leave on good terms.
- Proofread: Ensure your letter is free of any spelling or grammatical errors before sending it.

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