Mit freundlichen Grüßen verbleibe ich

Place this at the very end of your letter. It should be the last sentence before your signature. In German, you do not put a comma after it. This is a common mistake for English speakers. Just write the phrase and sign your name below. It usually stands on its own line. It looks clean and professional on the page.

Use this when writing to someone you don't know. It is perfect for job applications or banks. Use it when writing to a professor or a landlord. It shows you are serious and professional. It works well for physical letters sent by post. It is great for official government communication. If in doubt, use this to stay safe.

Never use this with your friends or family. It will sound like you are firing them. Avoid it in quick, casual office Slack messages. If you use it there, people might think you are angry. It is too heavy for a quick 'coffee?' invite. It would feel very cold in a birthday card. Don't use it with colleagues you see every day.

Germans love a clear distinction between private and professional life. This phrase acts as a polite wall. It maintains a respectful distance while being perfectly civil. It dates back to a time of very strict social hierarchies. Today, it remains a pillar of German business etiquette. It shows you understand German social rules. It is a sign of a well-educated writer.

The most common version is just Mit freundlichen Grüßen. Adding verbleibe ich makes it even more formal. It adds a touch of old-school class. If you are very angry or extremely formal, use Hochachtungsvoll. For a slightly softer touch, try Beste Grüße. If you know the person well, use Herzliche Grüße.