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Free letter template · Word

Termination During Probation Letter

A termination during probation letter informs a probationer that their employment will not be confirmed and will end during or at the close of the probation period. It refers to the probation clause, the feedback given in probation reviews and the shorter notice that usually applies during probation.

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[Company Logo][Company Name]

TERMINATION OF EMPLOYMENT DURING PROBATION

Ref. No.:
[Reference Number]
Date:
[Date]

Private and Confidential

To,
[Employee Name]
[Designation], [Department]
Employee ID: [Employee ID]

Subject: Non-Confirmation and Termination During Probation

Dear [Employee Name],

You joined [Company Name] on [Date of Joining] as [Designation] on probation for a period of [Probation Period], as stated in Clause [Clause Number] of your appointment letter.

During your probation, your progress was reviewed with you by [Reporting Manager] on [Date] and [Date]. In these reviews, the expectations of the role, particularly [key expectation 1] and [key expectation 2], were discussed, along with the support available to you. (If applicable: Your probation was extended on [Date] to allow further time.)

After careful assessment, the management has concluded that your performance and fit with the requirements of the role do not meet the standard needed for confirmation. We have therefore decided not to confirm your employment, and your services will stand terminated with effect from [Last Working Day].

As per your appointment terms, the notice period during probation is [Notice Period]. Retain one: (a) You will serve this notice until [Last Working Day]. OR (b) You will be paid [Amount] in lieu of notice and are relieved from today.

Your final settlement will include salary for days worked, any eligible leave encashment as per policy, and reimbursement of approved claims, less lawful deductions. It will be paid within [number] days after you return company property and complete exit clearance with [HR Name].

A relieving letter stating your period of service and designation will be issued to you. We thank you for your efforts and wish you success in your career.

Yours sincerely,

For [Company Name]
[Authorised Signatory]
[Designation]
Received by
[Employee Name]
Date: [Date]

What this template includes

  • Joining date and probation period from the appointment letter
  • Dates of probation reviews and feedback shared
  • Statement that employment will not be confirmed
  • Probation notice period or salary in lieu
  • Final dues for days worked
  • Return of assets and exit steps
  • Courteous, non-judgemental tone

When to use it

  • A new hire has not met the expectations set for the probation period
  • Probation reviews have shown gaps that were discussed but not closed
  • The role or fit has not worked out and confirmation will not be offered
  • Probation notice terms in the appointment letter allow early exit

How to customise this template

  1. 1Copy the probation and notice clause from the appointment letter
  2. 2List the review dates and the main expectations shared
  3. 3Remove the extension paragraph if probation was not extended
  4. 4Check whether a probation extension is more appropriate than termination

HR tips

  • Give regular feedback during probation so the decision is not a surprise
  • Decide before the probation end date to avoid deemed confirmation issues under some policies
  • Keep the reason brief and job-related
  • Pay salary for every day worked, including the last day

Even during probation, termination should be fair and in line with the appointment terms. Use this template as a starting point and review it against standing orders, applicable labour laws, state rules and your policies, with a legal adviser where needed.

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Frequently asked questions

Can a company terminate an employee during probation without notice?+

Only if the appointment letter permits it. Many letters provide a shorter notice, such as one or two weeks, during probation, or pay in lieu.

Should a reason be given for termination during probation?+

A short job-related reason is good practice, such as not meeting the role's requirements, linked to the reviews held during probation.

Is the employee entitled to an experience letter after probation termination?+

A service or relieving letter stating the period worked and designation is normally issued. It should be factual and need not mention the reason.