Cover Letter Template (USA) – Free Examples for Any Job (Word & PDF)
Use this free cover letter template (United States): fill it in online, download it as Word or PDF, and follow our step-by-step guide – where to send it, whether it needs notarizing, what to attach and mistakes to avoid.
| Country | 🇺🇸 United States |
|---|---|
| Document type | Jobs & HR |
| Format | Word, PDF & fill in online |
| Cost | Free |
| Time to complete | about 5 minutes |
| Notarization | Not required |
| Length | One page |
| Format | PDF unless asked otherwise |
What is this letter for?
A cover letter introduces your resume and explains why you are a strong fit for a specific job. US employers expect one page, a tailored opening that names the role, two or three concrete achievements with numbers, and a confident closing that asks for an interview. Avoid personal details such as age, marital status or a photo.
Where do you send it?
Upload it with your resume on the employer’s application system or attach it to your email.
Does it need to be notarized?
Not required. Not applicable – sign electronically or type your name.
Step-by-step process
- Read the job posting and highlight the top three requirements.
- Match each requirement with one of your achievements.
- Write a specific opening naming the role.
- Close by asking for an interview.
- Proofread and save as PDF with your name in the file name.
What you need before you start
- The job posting and the hiring manager’s name
- Two or three achievements with numbers
- Why you want this company
How to use this template
- Click each yellow field inside the letter and type your details directly (Enter jumps to the next field).
- Read the text through; the “Edit” button lets you change any sentence.
- Click “Word”, “PDF” or “Copy”, then sign and send.
Free template : cover letter template
Your full name
Street address
City, State ZIP
Phone | Email
Today’s date
Hiring manager name
Company name
Company address
Re: Application for Job title
Dear Recipient name,
I am excited to apply for the Job title position at Company name. With number years of experience in field, I have key strength relevant to the job.
In my current role at Employer, I achievement with a number, e.g. increased sales by 25%. I also second achievement. These results reflect my skills in skill 1 and skill 2, which match your requirements.
I admire something specific about the company and would welcome the chance to bring the same results to your team. Thank you for your time; I look forward to discussing how I can contribute.
Sincerely,
Your full name
Letter variations
Career change opening
After [[number]] years in [[previous field]], I am moving into [[new field]], where my experience in [[transferable skill]] will help your team [[goal]].
Entry-level opening
As a recent [[degree]] graduate from [[school]], I completed [[internship/project]] where I [[result]], and I am eager to start my career at [[Company]].
Checklist before you send
- ☑️ Company and role named correctly
- ☑️ Hiring manager’s name spelled correctly
- ☑️ At least one achievement with a number
- ☑️ One page
- ☑️ PDF file named Firstname-Lastname-Cover-Letter
⚠️ Disclaimer: this template is for general guidance only and is not legal advice. Always check the requirements of the organization you are writing to before sending it.
🏛️ Official sources
Always check the latest rules on the official website before sending.
Common mistakes to avoid
- ❌ Generic letter sent to every company.
- ❌ No measurable achievements.
- ❌ Spelling mistakes in the company or manager’s name.
Tips before you send it
- Tailor every letter to the job posting.
- Use the hiring manager’s name when you can find it.
- Save as PDF unless the employer asks for Word.
Frequently asked questions
Do I still need a cover letter in the US?
Many employers still read them, and they help when you change careers or explain a gap.
How long should a cover letter be?
One page, three to four short paragraphs.
Should I include salary expectations?
Only if the posting asks for them.
What should I avoid?
Repeating your resume word for word, generic phrases and personal information.
Where do I send this letter (cover letter template)?
Upload it with your resume on the employer’s application system or attach it to your email.
Does this letter (cover letter template) need to be notarized?
Not required – Not applicable – sign electronically or type your name.