17 Good Reasons & Excuses To Call Off Or Miss Work

I’ve also heard some pretty wild excuses and thought I’d share them for fun. They may work for you if you have the guts to share them. My dog was bit by a possum on our morning walk and I’m worried about an infection. The vet said I should bring them in right away so I won’t be able to make it into work. Without going into too much detail, I’m in a rough spot mentally with anxiety over the wedding and I need to take some time off today.

Many companies offer a bereavement benefit that allows you to take paid time off for a certain number of days. Check with your HR if you’re unsure if this is a benefit you have. My nanny called in sick at the last minute this morning and I can’t find anyone else to watch our kids. I was just rear-ended on my way to work today. I’m ok, I’ve called the police department, but I have to wait on someone to get here and contact the insurance company.

Even when your reasons are real, timing affects how they’re perceived. A dentist emergency such as a severe toothache.Oral health issues can be unbearable and need immediate care. Finally, stay in touch with your company as much as possible. If you find out you need more time off than you originally thought, tell them immediately. This will make it clear to your team that you take your job seriously. Illness doesn’t just strike the important people in your life.

Family Matters (Because You Have a Life Outside Work)

As we all know, we can’t control what life throws at us. It would be nice to know when emergencies are going to happen, but that’s not realistic. At some point or another, you might need to call out of work at the last minute — here are three reasons why. Either way, you may be asked to show your official jury summons to your employer, so be prepared. If you receive a jury summons in the mail, you have one of the best excuses to call out of work.

• Most understanding managers aren’t going to question the issue too much.
• It’s a practice that challenges us to look inward at our experience, though it’s personal and unique to every individual.
• You can say that you need time to travel to get to the wedding or the wedding is during the day.
• If you’re having trouble with your internet connection, remote work can feel just about impossible.

I was up last night with chills and the worst sore throat of my life. I went in and took a Covid and Flu test but I’m waiting for the results. I’m going to stay home and rest today while I wait for the results. Bulletproof excuses to get out of work typically involve something that is out of your control. Sometimes they are last minute, sometimes they are not. They may also include things protected by law or that are simply too taboo for anyone to question you.

What Are the Good Reasons to Call Out of Work? – Wrapping Up

If you find yourself unable to get to work due to a transportation problem, contact your employer immediately. Be prepared to discuss potential solutions, such as finding alternative transportation or doing your work from home. The need for home repairs, such as fixing a leak or dealing with an emergency, can come up without warning. In these situations, it’s important to address the issue promptly to prevent further damage. Again, let your supervisor know as soon as you can that you’re handling a problem.

In that case, I recommend taking a mental health day. That’s what mental health days are for, after all. Everyone understands that people need time off for family emergency.

• If you rely on your car to get to work and it is unavailable due to mechanical issues, you can inform your boss of the situation and get the day off.
• Either way, you may be asked to show your official jury summons to your employer, so be prepared.
• They also know that certain situations require immediate action.
• Longer notice is always preferred when it’s possible.
• If you wake up at 6 am with a migraine or you’re up with a sick child at 3 am, you can even go ahead and send them an email at this hour.

If your pet has an emergency, that’s certainly an acceptable excuse to call out of work. Your dog might’ve gotten into the trash and potentially eaten something poisonous. Or you notice your cat is limping and not eating.

Excuses to Leave Work Early 34 Excuses That Work

You suffered a minor injury that requires rest.Twisted ankles, sprains, or falls may not require hospitalization but still need downtime. You’re recovering from a medical procedure.Even outpatient procedures often require a day or more to rest and heal. You woke up with flu-like symptoms.It’s best to stay home and monitor your condition instead of risking the health of your team. Whether it’s a pipe burst or a bedbug infestation, problems with your home can distract you from working. These situations are almost always sudden and disruptive, so you’ll probably have to call out at the last minute to manage the emergency. If you have a less serious car problem, you can just call out of work for a few hours.

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Thank you for your understanding and support during this unexpected situation. The whole idea is to ensure you keep your employers in the loop in the right way and avoid any potential misunderstandings. While it’s not always necessary to provide plans for covering missed work during your absence, it can be helpful and appreciated by your employer. This shows that you are responsible and considerate of the impact your absence might have on other team members or company. However, the “best” excuse to missing work largely depends on the individual situation and the employer’s policies. It’s always best to be honest and communicate with as much notice as possible with your employer about any necessary absences.

Last-Minute Call-Out Excuses That Won’t Get You in Trouble

Specifically, brief explanation if you’re comfortable, e.g., “a close relative has been hospitalized and requires my immediate presence”. I anticipate returning to work by expected return date. Thank you for your support during this difficult time. Realistically, it’s anything that doesn’t occur in your everyday life.

Yet, studies show that working while sick negatively impacts your job performance. You might be doing the work, but if you’re not reasons to call out fully present, you’re bound to make errors or turn in lower-quality work. Remember that work-life balance isn’t just a buzzy phrase—it’s essential for your long-term productivity and health.

There Is Inclement Weather

If you’re unhappy with your job or certain day-to-day aspects, take it up with your manager or HR. There are many good ways to deal with those problems. You’re within your right to explore career options and interview for new positions.

Childcare issues (sudden closure of a child’s school or daycare).

Just be clear and direct, give the general excuse/reason that you’re going to use to miss work, and then stop talking and see how your boss responds. If you say you have a sick child, you don’t need to share every symptom as proof that they’re not feeling well. If your employers don’t recognize your particular religious holiday, don’t shy away from bringing it up, as it is another valid excuse to call out of work.