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In the fast-paced business world of 2026, closing your business letter effectively is crucial, just as important as how you begin it. The challenge lies in knowing how to end your correspondence in a way that is both professional and personable.
Whether you are drafting a letter or email to your supervisor, client, or colleague, this guide will explore the best practices for concluding your business letter, including effective closing phrases and common pitfalls to avoid.
Key Takeaways
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“Sincerely,” “Regards,” and “Best,” remain top choices for closing a business letter.
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End your letter with a strong call to action, an invitation for further communication, or a note of gratitude.
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Select your closing based on the letter’s intention and your relationship with the recipient.
- 12 Best Ways to Close a Business Letter
- What to Consider When Deciding on Your Closing
- How to Format Your Business Letter Closing
- What Not to Use as a Business Letter Closing
- Best Ways to Close Your Business Letter Body Paragraphs
- Business Letter Closings FAQ
- References
- Sign Up For More Advice and Jobs
12 Best Ways to Close a Business Letter
Business letters can conclude in two primary styles: formal and informal. Below are examples of effective closing salutations.
Formal Closing Salutations
The following closings convey a professional tone suitable for correspondence with your boss, a prospective employer, potential business partners, or new clients.
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Sincerely. A timeless formal closing that is both respectful and appropriate for various contexts.
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Best regards. A slightly warmer option that conveys professionalism with a touch of friendliness.
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Respectfully. Ideal for situations where you wish to express utmost deference.
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Thank you. A fitting choice for letters expressing gratitude, but consider using it judiciously if it’s repeated in the letter.
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With gratitude. Suitable for appreciation letters, highlighting the positive impact of the recipient.
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Appreciatively. A less formal, yet professional closing that avoids the redundancy of “thanks.”
Informal Closing Salutations
These closings convey a friendly tone while maintaining professionalism, suitable for letters to colleagues, established clients, or acquaintances.
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Regards. A neutral and professional closing that works well in most business situations.
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Best. A concise and positive sign-off that is commonly accepted in modern business correspondence.
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Thanks again. Perfect for reiterating gratitude, especially if mentioned earlier in the letter.
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Many thanks. This is effective for expressing appreciation, especially when making a request.
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Best wishes. A friendly closing that conveys warmth without compromising professionalism.
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Warm regards. A contemporary closing for those familiar with the recipient.
What to Consider When Deciding on Your Closing
As you conclude your business letter, consider the context and your relationship with the recipient. Here are key factors to weigh:
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Consider the context of your letter. The purpose of your message should dictate the closing you choose.
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Consider the level of formality. Your closings should reflect your relationship with the recipient, with more formal options for unfamiliar contacts.
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Consider your objectives. Choose a closing that aligns with your goals for the letter and matches your writing style.
How to Format Your Business Letter Closing
Decide whether your letter will be sent via physical mail or email, as this impacts your closing format. Here’s how to format your closing:
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Determine your delivery method. Physical letters convey a personal touch, while emails are quicker but still require professionalism.
Closing a physical letter
Leave space for your signature under the closing:“Sincerely,
Joseph Miller”Closing an email
Emailed closings do not require a handwritten signature:“Sincerely,
Joseph Miller” -
Add your contact information. Include relevant details after your name to help your recipient respond efficiently.
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Maintain professionalism throughout. Ensure consistency in font, alignment, and tone throughout the letter.
What Not to Use as a Business Letter Closing
Avoid the following closings, which may come across as too casual or unprofessional:
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Love
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Fondly
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XO
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Yours truly
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Bye for now
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Cheers
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Ciao
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Peace
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See ya later
Best Ways to Close Your Business Letter Body Paragraphs
Make sure your final sentence has impact. It should encapsulate the essence of your message. Here are effective strategies to close your letter:
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A call to action. If you need a response, indicate your expectation clearly, such as specifying a date for a follow-up.
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An offer for further contact. Let the recipient know they can reach out anytime for assistance.
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A note of thanks. Reinforce your appreciation for their time or efforts as a powerful closing statement.
Business Letter Closings FAQ
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What can I use instead of “Sincerely” in business?
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Best regards
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Respectfully
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With gratitude
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Regards
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Best
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Thanks again
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Many thanks
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Best wishes
Select the option that best aligns with your letter’s purpose and formality.
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How do you politely end a letter?
Close politely with a call to action, a note of thanks, or an invitation for further discussion, followed by a professional closing salutation.
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How do you say thank you professionally?
Express gratitude by closing with a reiteration of your thanks, such as “I appreciate your time” or “Thank you for considering…”
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How do you end a business letter professionally?
To maintain professionalism, use closings like “Sincerely,” “Regards,” or “Respectfully.”
References
Author
Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.
