An acknowledgement email confirms that you received a message or document and sets expectations for what happens next. If you are not approving, agreeing, or completing the request yet, say exactly that.
Table of Contents
How to approach it
- Confirm receipt and name what arrived, especially when several files or requests are involved.
- State your next action and timing, or explain what you need before you can proceed.
- If no response is needed, say so. A clear acknowledgement can prevent a second follow-up from the sender.
Useful wording examples
- Received—thank you. I’ll review the proposal and send comments by Wednesday.
- I’ve received the signed agreement and routed it to our finance team. No further action is needed from you right now.
- Thanks for the update. I’m acknowledging receipt and will confirm the revised delivery date tomorrow.
Copy-and-adapt template
Subject: Received — [document/request]
Hi [Name],
Received—thank you. I’ll [review/process/route] [item] and will [reply with outcome] by [date]. No further action is needed from you right now unless [condition].
Best,
[Your name]
What to avoid
Do not write ‘noted’ when the reader needs to know whether you will act, approve, or simply retain the information.
Related email guides
For the broader framework, see Reply To Confirmation Email. You may also find How To Reply To An Email useful for the next step.