Use “To Whom It May Concern” with every main word capitalized and a colon at the end in modern professional writing.

Correct capitalization and punctuation

Use this standard format as your default:

To Whom It May Concern:

Key points:

  • Capitalize each main word: To , Whom , It , May , Concern.
  • Use a colon, not a comma: To Whom It May Concern:.
  • Put it on its own line as the salutation, then double-space or leave one blank line before the body, depending on your document style.

Common wrong versions (and why)

  • to whom it may concern (all lowercase) – seen in some style discussions but considered too casual or incorrect for formal business writing.
  • TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: (all caps) – looks like you’re “shouting” and is usually discouraged.
  • To whom it may concern, – only first word capitalized and comma; more informal and not standard in modern business style.

Why it’s capitalized this way

Many business-writing and interview-prep resources treat the phrase like a formal title or stand‑in for a name , so they capitalize each principal word. This signals formality and professionalism in contexts like:

  • General applications or inquiries when you truly don’t know the recipient.
  • Broad letters of recommendation or reference.
  • Complaints or formal inquiries to an organization, not a specific person.

Some guides argue for minimal capitalization (only “To”) on general English- grammar grounds, but current business and PR–oriented advice trends toward capitalizing every main word.

Tiny style checklist (quick scoop)

  • Use when the recipient really can’t be identified.
  • Prefer a specific name or role (e.g., “Dear Hiring Manager”) when possible; it feels more modern and less “stuffy.”
  • Keep the rest of the letter consistent in tone and formatting (standard font, 11–12 pt, clean layout).

TL;DR: In a resume, cover letter, reference, or formal email, write it as To Whom It May Concern: with each main word capitalized and a colon.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.