Business letters: Reference initials

Reference initials are an optional part of a business letter.

When the letter has been typed by someone other than the writer, reference initials may be used to indicate the identity of the typist (and sometimes, the identity of the writer).

The typist’s initials, usually in lowercase, are placed at the left margin, on the second line below the signature block. (See Business letters: Model letter in recommended format.)

The initials of the writer are usually omitted. However, when the writer of the letter is not the person whose name appears in the signature block, the writer’s initials may be added before the typist’s.

If used, the writer’s initials are usually in capital letters and are separated from the typist’s by a colon or oblique:

• AK:md (Anya Kurek wrote the letter; Mark Douglas typed it.)
• DSM/lr (David St. Martin wrote the letter; Lara Rossini typed it.)

Additional information

• Correspondence and addresses – Guidelines and resources
• Business letters: Model letter in recommended format