The phrase “To Whom It May Concern” is a formal salutation used in letters and documents when the specific recipient is unknown. It signals that the information contained within is relevant to whomever is in a position to address the matter at hand. This approach is common for situations such as employment verification, general inquiries, or when providing a reference without knowing the hiring manager’s name.
While “To Whom It May Concern” is a universally understood greeting, consider alternatives if possible. If you can identify a department or specific role, addressing the letter directly to that entity can create a more personalized and impactful message. However, when you are lacking specific contact information, using “To Whom It May Concern” remains a perfectly acceptable and professional approach.
To Whom It May Concern Letter & Invoice Samples
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Sample 1: Employment Verification
To Whom It May Concern,
This letter is to verify that Jane Doe was employed by Acme Corp from January 2018 to June 2023 as a Marketing Manager. Her responsibilities included [list key responsibilities]. Please contact us if you require further information.
Sincerely,
John Smith, HR Manager -
Sample 2: General Inquiry
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to inquire about the availability of [product/service] at your location. I am interested in [specific details]. Could you please provide me with more information and pricing details?
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name] -
Sample 3: Character Reference
To Whom It May Concern,
It is with great pleasure that I recommend [Name] for [Position/Opportunity]. I have known [Name] for [Number] years as [Your Relationship]. They are a [Positive Adjective] and [Positive Adjective] individual with a strong work ethic.
Sincerely,
[Your Name] -
Sample 4: Invoice Example – Unpaid Balance
To Whom It May Concern (Accounts Payable Department),
Please find attached invoice #12345 for $500, which is currently overdue. The due date was [Date]. We kindly request you review this and remit payment as soon as possible.
Sincerely,
[Your Name/Company Name] -
Sample 5: Permission Request
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to request permission to [State the request clearly – e.g., use your facilities for a training workshop]. [Provide details about the request – e.g., date, time, number of attendees]. I would be grateful if you could consider my request.
Sincerely,
[Your Name] -
Sample 6: Complaint Letter
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to express my dissatisfaction with [product/service]. [Describe the issue clearly and concisely]. I would appreciate it if you could investigate this matter and provide a resolution.
Sincerely,
[Your Name] -
Sample 7: Letter of Introduction
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to introduce [Name] who is [brief description – e.g., a valued client/partner]. [He/She] is interested in [state their interest]. Please extend to [him/her] any assistance you can provide.
Sincerely,
[Your Name] -
Sample 8: Scholarship Application
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to apply for the [Scholarship Name] scholarship. [Briefly describe your qualifications and why you are a suitable candidate]. I am confident that I can make a significant contribution to [field of study].
Sincerely,
[Your Name] -
Sample 9: Donation Request
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to request a donation to support [Cause/Organization]. [Explain the cause and how the donation will be used]. Any amount you can contribute would be greatly appreciated.
Sincerely,
[Your Name/Organization] -
Sample 10: Request for Information
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to request information about [Specific topic/area]. I am particularly interested in [Specific details]. Thank you for your assistance.
Sincerely,
[Your Name] -
Sample 11: Apology Letter
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to sincerely apologize for [Describe the incident]. I understand that my actions have caused [Consequences] and I take full responsibility. I will ensure this does not happen again.
Sincerely,
[Your Name] -
Sample 12: Letter of Recommendation for University
To Whom It May Concern,
It is with great enthusiasm that I recommend [Name] for admission to your university’s [Program Name] program. I have known [Name] for [Number] years as their [Your Role – e.g., Teacher, Mentor]. They possess exceptional [Skills/Qualities] and a strong dedication to [Field of Study]. I highly recommend them without reservation.
Sincerely,
[Your Name], [Your Title] -
Sample 13: Invoice Example – Request for Payment
To Whom It May Concern (Accounts Payable),
This email serves as a reminder regarding invoice # [Invoice Number] for [Amount] due on [Due Date]. The invoice is attached for your convenience. Kindly process the payment at your earliest convenience.
Sincerely,
[Your Name/Company Name] -
Sample 14: Letter of Support
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to express my strong support for [Project/Initiative/Person]. [Clearly and concisely state the reasons for your support and the potential benefits]. I believe that [it/they] will make a significant positive impact.
Sincerely,
[Your Name] -
Sample 15: Open Job Application
To Whom It May Concern (Hiring Manager),
I am writing to express my interest in potential opportunities at [Company Name]. I have [Number] years of experience in [Relevant Field] and possess skills in [List Key Skills]. I am confident that my skills and experience align with your company’s needs. My resume is attached for your review.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Conclusion
Using “To Whom It May Concern” can be effective in certain situations, as demonstrated by the varied samples above. Remember to tailor the content of your letter to the specific purpose and provide all necessary information clearly and concisely. While alternatives are preferred when possible, this salutation remains a valuable tool for formal communication when the recipient is unknown.