How to Get Certificate of Employment (COE) | 3 Easy Steps

Need proof that you’re working or used to work in a company?

Whether you’re applying for a new job, a loan, or a visa — one of the most common documents you’ll be asked for is a Certificate of Employment (COE).

In this guide, we’ll explain How to Get Certificate of Employment, what details it should include, and how to ask for one properly — whether you’re currently employed or already resigned.

Let’s make this adulting task quick and easy.

What is a Certificate of Employment?

A Certificate of Employment (COE) is an official document issued by a company that confirms your work history with them. It shows that you were (or still are) an employee of that company.

A COE usually includes:

Your full name
Job position/title
Employment status (e.g., regular, contractual, resigned)
Date you started and ended (or are still working)
The name of the company
A short statement confirming your employment
Signature of an authorized person (HR or supervisor)

Why is it important?

You may need a COE when you:

Apply for a new job
Process a bank loan
Request travel documents like a visa
Enroll in school or apply for scholarships
Or simply to verify your work background

Think of it as your proof of work experience — a document that says “Yes, I worked here and this was my role.”

Who Can Request a Certificate of Employment?

Under Philippine labor law, any employee has the right to request a Certificate of Employment (COE) — whether you’re still working or you already left the company.

Here’s who can ask for one:

✅ Current Employees

If you’re currently employed, you can request a COE anytime — especially if you need it for job applications, visa processing, or financial needs.

✅ Resigned or Former Employees

Even if you’ve already left the company, you can still ask for a COE. Just make sure you indicate your last working day and contact the HR department or your former supervisor.

According to DOLE, employers are required to issue a COE within 3 working days upon request — no excuses.

✅ Probationary, Contractual, or Part-Time Employees

Yes, you can still request a COE even if you didn’t become regular. As long as you were hired and worked for the company — you are entitled to get one.

Bottom line: If you worked for a company — even for just a few weeks — you have the right to ask for a Certificate of Employment.

How to Request a Certificate of Employment

Requesting a Certificate of Employment (COE) is easy — just keep it professional and polite. Most companies already expect it and will issue it once you ask.

Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Prepare Your Request

Before anything, make sure you know:

Who to contact (usually HR or your direct supervisor)
What to include in your request (see below)

Step 2: Send a Formal Request

You can send your request through:

Email
HR request form
Company portal (if available)
In person (for smaller offices)

Sample Email Format:

Subject: Request for Certificate of Employment

Dear [HR Officer/Sir/Ma’am],

Good day! I would like to kindly request a Certificate of Employment for [purpose – e.g., job application, visa, loan, etc.].

Here are my details:

Full name: [Your Full Name]
Position: [Your Job Title]
Department: [If applicable]
Employment period: [Start Date] to [End Date or “Present”]

I hope to receive the certificate within the standard processing time. Thank you very much for your assistance.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Number]

Step 3: Wait for Processing

According to DOLE Labor Advisory No. 06, Series of 2020, employers must issue the COE within 3 working days from the date of request — whether you’re still employed or have already resigned.

Pro tip: Always follow up nicely if there’s a delay — and make sure your contact details are correct so they can reach you.

Conclusion

Learning how to get Certificate of Employment is simple — and every employee should know how to request one confidently.

Whether you’re still working or already resigned, you have the right to ask for a COE, and your employer must provide it within a few working days.

Just send a clear and professional request, include the right details, and follow up if needed.

Your Certificate of Employment is more than just a document — it’s proof of your work experience and a valuable requirement for job hunting, travel, or financial needs.

Now that you know how to get Certificate of Employment, it’s time to make your move and get that proof you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long will it take to get a COE?

According to DOLE, once you follow the process on how to get Certificate of Employment, your employer must issue it within 3 working days from the date of request.

How many days to get COE after resignation?

Even after you resign, you still have the right to request it. When you know how to get Certificate of Employment after leaving a company, you should expect it to be released within 3 business days, just like with current employees.

What is a valid reason to get Certificate of Employment?

You don’t need a specific reason. Whether it’s for a new job, loan, visa, or just for your own records — all are valid reasons. As long as you worked there, you can follow the steps on how to get Certificate of Employment anytime.

How long is a COE valid?

There’s no official expiration, but most companies or agencies prefer a COE that’s issued within the last 3 to 6 months. When learning how to get Certificate of Employment, it’s best to request a recent one for updated info.

Is it okay to ask for Certificate of Employment?

Yes, absolutely! It’s your legal right as a worker. If you’ve been employed, it’s 100% okay to learn how to get Certificate of Employment and request one from your company — no need to feel shy about it.

Can I get a COE even if I went AWOL?

Yes, you still have the right to request it. Even if you went AWOL, companies are required to issue a COE with your job title and duration.

Knowing how to get Certificate of Employment in this case just means being clear and polite when requesting it.

Does a COE need to be notarized?

No. You don’t need to notarize it. When you follow the usual process on how to get Certificate of Employment, the document just needs to be officially signed by your HR or authorized company representative.

Can an employer refuse to give a Certificate of Employment?

No. If you were officially hired and worked for the company, they cannot refuse. Under labor laws, employees have the right to request — and know how to get Certificate of Employment properly.

Can I request a COE more than once?

Yes! You can request a COE anytime you need it — even multiple times. Just make sure to follow your company’s procedure on how to get Certificate of Employment to avoid delays.

What if the company is already closed — can I still get a COE?

If your company has permanently closed, it may be harder but not impossible to get your COE.

You can try contacting the last HR personnel, manager, or owner if you still have their details. If not, you may ask how to get Certificate of Employment from someone with authority who can still verify your work — like a direct supervisor or former team lead.

If needed, you can also use past payslips or employment contracts as supporting documents for job applications.

References

Department of Labor and Employment. (2020). Labor Advisory No. 06, Series of 2020: Guidelines on the Payment of Final Pay and Issuance of Certificate of Employment. Republic of the Philippines. Retrieved June 12, 2025, from https://www.dole.gov.ph/news/labor-advisory-no-06-20-guidelines-on-the-payment-of-final-pay-and-issuance-of-certificate-of-employment/

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