How to Ask for a Character Reference Letter (5 Examples You Can Use)

Requesting a character reference can feel daunting, but a thoughtful and professional approach will make it easier for the person to say yes.

Below are five examples of letters to request a character reference for different situations, followed by helpful tips for crafting your own.

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Sample Letter 1: General Character Reference Request

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]

[Recipient’s Name]
[Recipient’s Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]

Subject: Request for Character Reference

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I hope this message finds you well. I am reaching out to ask if you would be willing to provide a character reference for me. I am in the process of [specific purpose, e.g., “applying for a volunteer position,” “joining a professional organization,” or “securing a rental property”].

Given our relationship and your knowledge of my [specific qualities, e.g., “work ethic,” “integrity,” or “commitment to community service”], I believe you would be able to provide a thoughtful and genuine reference. Please let me know if this is something you would feel comfortable doing. I am happy to provide additional information or answer any questions to make the process as straightforward as possible.

Thank you for considering my request. Your support would mean a great deal to me.

Warm regards,
[Your Full Name]

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Sample Letter 2: Reference for Job Application

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]

[Recipient’s Name]
[Recipient’s Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]

Subject: Request for Character Reference for Job Application

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I hope you are doing well. I am currently applying for a position as [job title] at [company name], and I was wondering if you would be willing to provide a character reference on my behalf.

Having worked with you during [specific time period or situation], I feel you are familiar with my [specific qualities, e.g., “reliability,” “problem-solving abilities,” or “strong interpersonal skills”]. A reference from you would provide valuable insight into my character and abilities.

If you’re open to assisting, I’d be happy to provide any details about the role or the qualities the employer is looking for. Thank you so much for considering this request.

Best regards,
[Your Full Name]

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Sample Letter 3: Reference for Housing Application

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]

[Recipient’s Name]
[Recipient’s Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]

Subject: Request for Character Reference for Housing Application

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I hope this message finds you well. I am currently in the process of applying for a rental property at [property address/location] and would greatly appreciate it if you could provide a character reference for me.

The property management team is looking for references to confirm my [specific qualities, e.g., “responsibility,” “reliability,” or “respect for others”]. Given your familiarity with my character, I believe your input would be invaluable.

If you are able to assist, I am happy to provide additional details about the process or answer any questions you might have. Thank you for your time and support.

Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]

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Sample Letter 4: Reference for Court/Legal Purposes

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]

[Recipient’s Name]
[Recipient’s Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]

Subject: Request for Character Reference for Legal Proceedings

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I hope you are doing well. I am writing to ask if you would consider providing a character reference for me in relation to [specific legal matter, e.g., “a court hearing on [date]” or “a custody case”].

Your familiarity with my [specific qualities, e.g., “integrity,” “dedication as a parent,” or “contribution to the community”] makes you an ideal person to speak on my behalf. If you are able to assist, I would be more than willing to provide further details about the process and what might be expected.

Thank you for considering this request. Your support would mean so much to me during this challenging time.

Kind regards,
[Your Full Name]

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Sample Letter 5: Reference for Academic Purposes

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Email Address]
[Phone Number]
[Date]

[Recipient’s Name]
[Recipient’s Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]

Subject: Request for Character Reference for Academic Application

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I hope this message finds you well. I am applying for admission to [academic program or school name], and I am reaching out to ask if you would be willing to provide a character reference for my application.

Your insight into my [specific qualities, e.g., “dedication to learning,” “collaboration skills,” or “perseverance”] would greatly enhance my application. I am happy to provide more details about the program and the qualities they are looking for in applicants.

Thank you for considering this request. Your support would mean so much to me as I pursue this next step in my education.

Warm regards,
[Your Full Name]

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Tips for Writing a Request for a Character Reference

1. Be Polite and Respectful: Always express gratitude for their time and consideration.
2. Provide Context: Clearly explain why you need the reference and how they can help.
3. Highlight Their Knowledge of You: Mention why you believe they are well-suited to provide the reference.
4. Make It Easy: Offer to provide additional details or answer any questions they might have.
5. Be Specific: Tailor your letter to the particular situation, whether it’s for a job, housing, or another purpose.

By following these examples and tips, you can confidently ask for a character reference that strengthens your application.