35 Bulletproof Excuses to Get Out of Work [And Exactly What to Say to Your Boss]
Updated: November 2025
Sometimes you need a day off work, and fast. Maybe it's a legitimate emergency, maybe you're burned out, or maybe life just threw you a curveball that can't wait until the weekend.
The problem? Many workers don't know which excuses actually work and which ones will damage their credibility with their manager.
After 10+ years as a recruiter and hiring manager, I've heard every excuse imaginable. I've also seen which ones get approved without question and which ones raise immediate red flags in a manager's mind.
This guide covers 35 bulletproof excuses to get out of work that actually work, organized by situation type, along with exactly what to say to your boss. You'll also learn the critical difference between excuses that build trust and those that destroy it.
What Actually Makes an Excuse Bulletproof
After reviewing hundreds of absence requests over 10+ years, I've developed what I call "The Manager's Mental Checklist." When you call out, your boss is unconsciously running through these questions:
Does this pass the "front desk test"?
If your manager had to explain your absence to the CEO or a client who asks "Where's [your name]?", would they feel comfortable repeating your reason? "She has the flu" passes easily. "She said her cat looked at her funny" does not.
Could you have prevented this with better planning?
Flat tire at 8:45am when you start at 9am? Possibly preventable - you should have checked your tires or left earlier. Child suddenly sick at 6am? Completely unpreventable. Managers give grace to situations outside your control but grow frustrated with what looks like poor planning.
Does this match what I already know about you?
This is the credibility filter most people forget exists. If you've mentioned your aging parents before, "my father needs help" is instantly believable. If you've never mentioned parents in two years and suddenly have an elderly parent emergency, it raises questions.
Have I heard this excuse from you before?
Here's the uncomfortable truth: managers keep mental tallies. Your first "migraine" gets sympathy. Your third migraine in two weeks triggers a different conversation - one about seeing a doctor or discussing FMLA accommodations.
The excuses that work best pass all four tests simultaneously. They're situations any reasonable person would prioritize over work, couldn't have prevented with better planning, align with what your manager knows about your life, and don't repeat suspiciously often.
The Over-Explanation Red Flag
In my decade-plus of managing others, the single biggest indicator someone is lying is excessive detail. Honest people state facts simply: "I have food poisoning and can't come in." Dishonest people paint pictures: "So I went to this new restaurant last night, and I ordered the salmon which tasted a little off but I ate it anyway, and then around 2am I woke up and..."
If you find yourself explaining more than two sentences' worth of details, stop. You're making it worse.
When and How to Use These Excuses
Text, Email, or Call? How to Deliver Your Excuse
The delivery method matters as much as the excuse itself:
Call your manager directly when:
It's a same-day absence (less than 4 hours notice)
It's a serious emergency (accident, death, urgent medical)
Your workplace culture expects voice communication
You need to discuss coverage or urgent handoffs
Text or instant message when:
Your workplace uses Slack/Teams for quick communication
It's early morning and you don't want to wake your boss
You have a more casual relationship with your manager
You're too sick to have a conversation
Email when:
You're giving advance notice (next day or later)
You need to document the request formally
You need to loop in HR or multiple people
Your absence requires detailed handoff instructions
Pro tip from a hiring manager: Whatever method you choose, communicate as early as possible. A 5am text is better than an 8:55am call when you start at 9am. Early communication shows you still respect your job even when you can't be there.
Emergencies vs. Inconveniences: Know the Difference
This is where people get caught. A real emergency stops your day completely and cannot be postponed:
True Emergencies:
Car accident (yours or a family member's)
Sudden severe illness or injury
Death in the family
Gas leak or flood at home
Your child's school called and they need to be picked up
Inconveniences (Not Emergencies):
Traffic that makes you late
Feeling tired from staying up late
Minor headache or "just not feeling it"
Wanting to attend a friend's daytime event
Better weather than expected
I've managed employees who had genuine emergencies weekly (life is messy sometimes) and others who manufactured excuses monthly. The difference? Genuine emergencies come with genuine stress in the person's voice. Manufactured ones often come with poorly hidden relief.
One-Offs Are Fine. Patterns Destroy Credibility.
One absence = Understanding
Two in a month = Noted but probably fine
Three in a month = "Is everything okay?" conversation
Four+ in a month = Performance review territory
This isn't about being heartless. It's about pattern recognition. Managers don't track individual absences as much as they notice when absences become predictable or frequent. The employee who's rock-solid for six months then needs two sick days in a week? No problem. The employee who needs a day off every other Monday? That's a pattern that triggers concern.
My advice: If you're genuinely having frequent health issues or life chaos, have a direct conversation with your manager. Say "I know I've been out more than usual; here's what's going on and here's my plan to address it." Transparency buys you more goodwill than mysterious recurring absences.
Emergency Situations (Use Immediately, No Advance Notice Needed)
These are the most bulletproof excuses because they're urgent and unpredictable. No reasonable manager will question them when used appropriately.
1. Sudden Illness or Fever
When you wake up genuinely sick (fever, chills, severe stomach issues) staying home protects both you and your coworkers. Post-COVID, managers are especially understanding about not spreading illness around the office.
What to Say:
"Good morning. I woke up with a fever and body aches. I don't think I should come in today. I don't want to risk getting the team sick. I'll update you later today on whether I'll be able to return tomorrow."
Manager’s Insight: Keep it brief and focus on not spreading illness. Most managers appreciate this consideration. Don't list every symptom. It sounds like you're trying too hard to convince them.
2. Food Poisoning or Stomach Issues
Nobody wants details about your gastrointestinal distress, and nobody will question it. This excuse is bulletproof specifically because it's too uncomfortable to investigate.
What to Say:
"I have severe food poisoning and won't be able to come in today. I'll reach out later if I'm able to return tomorrow."
When It Needs Proof: Almost never, unless you've used it multiple times in a short period.
3. COVID-19 or Flu Symptoms
Even if you're not sure what you have, mentioning COVID symptoms will get immediate understanding. Many companies still have policies about staying home when symptomatic.
What to Say:
"I woke up with a sore throat, chills, and fatigue. I'm taking a COVID test to be safe, but I won't be coming in today. I'll update you once I have the results."
Manager’s Insight: You don't need test results to stay home. Mentioning that you're testing shows responsibility without requiring proof.
4. Car Accident
Whether you're involved directly or it's a family member, car accidents are legitimate emergencies that no manager will question. They require dealing with police, insurance, and possibly medical attention.
What to Say:
"I was just in a car accident on my way to work. I'm okay, but I need to wait for the police report and deal with my insurance company. I won't be able to make it in today."
Or if it's a family member:
"My wife was just in a car accident. She's okay, but I need to go to the scene and make sure everything is handled. I'll update you later today."
Follow-up Tip: If you'll need multiple days off for injuries or vehicle issues, communicate that clearly: "The car is totaled so I may need to work from home tomorrow while I arrange alternative transportation."
5. Family Emergency
This is intentionally vague, and that's exactly why it works. Family emergencies cover everything from a parent's fall to a spouse's hospitalization to a house fire at your sibling's home.
What to Say:
"I have a family emergency I need to deal with today. I won't be able to come in. I'll reach out later with an update."
Manager’s Insight: Managers won't typically ask for details on this one, and if they do, that's a red flag about your workplace culture. You can offer minimal context ("my father is in the hospital") but you're not required to.
6. Death in the Family
This is one of the few excuses that's both bulletproof and gives you multiple days off. Most companies have bereavement leave policies specifically for this.
What to Say:
"My grandfather passed away last night. I need to take bereavement leave to be with my family and attend the funeral. I'll follow up with more details about how much time I'll need."
When to Give More Details: If you're requesting bereavement leave, you may need to provide the relationship to the deceased and estimated days needed. Check your company's policy.
7. Sick Child or Dependent
If your child has a fever, is vomiting, or got sent home from school, you have no choice but to stay home. Parents in management will immediately understand this one.
What to Say:
"My daughter woke up with a fever of 101 and is vomiting. I need to stay home with her today. I'll check in later to see if she's well enough for me to come in tomorrow."
Or:
"The school just called; my son is sick and needs to be picked up. My husband is out of town and I don't have backup childcare. I need to take the rest of the day off."
Manager’s Insight: If this becomes frequent (like when kids are constantly sick in their first year of school), keep your manager informed about the pattern. Transparency builds more trust than repeated surprise absences.
8. Home Emergency
Burst pipes, gas leaks, flooding, roof damage, or break-ins all qualify as legitimate emergencies that require your immediate presence. Your manager won't want you ignoring a potential disaster at your home.
What to Say:
"I woke up to a flooded basement - we have about a foot of water. I need to be here to deal with emergency repairs and salvage what I can. I'll keep you updated but I definitely can't come in today."
Or:
"We have a gas leak at the house. I've called the gas company but they said I need to be here when they arrive, and they can't give me a specific time. I need to take the day off."
Pro Tip: These are great examples of emergencies where you can offer to work remotely once the immediate crisis is handled: "Once the plumber is here and working, I can jump on my laptop if anything urgent comes up."
9. Severe Migraine
Over a billion people worldwide suffer from migraines; chances are your manager or someone they know has experienced one. This is bulletproof because migraines are legitimately debilitating and there's no good treatment except rest in a dark room.
What to Say:
"I have a severe migraine and can barely look at light. I need to stay home and rest in a dark room. I'll update you later today on tomorrow's availability."
When It Needs Proof: Only if you use it frequently. One migraine every few months won't raise questions.
10. Dental Emergency
A broken tooth, lost crown, severe tooth pain, or dental abscess can't wait for a convenient appointment time. Dental pain is also one of those things everyone has experienced and can empathize with.
What to Say:
"I woke up with severe tooth pain. I think I may have cracked a tooth. I called an emergency dentist and they can see me at 10am. I won't be able to come in today."
Or:
"My temporary crown came off and I need to see the dentist immediately to get it fixed. I'll be out most of the day."
Scheduled Absences (Give Advance Notice)
These excuses work because they're protected by law, company policy, or widely accepted social norms. The key is giving as much notice as possible.
11. Doctor's or Medical Appointment
Regular checkups, specialist appointments, medical tests, or procedures that can only be scheduled during business hours are universally accepted reasons to miss work.
What to Say:
"I need to schedule my annual physical for next Tuesday. My doctor is only available during work hours and the next opening isn't for three months. I'll need to take the day off."
Or for same-day urgent care:
"I've been having chest pain and need to go to urgent care to get it checked out. I won't be coming in today."
Proof Requirements: Some strict employers may ask for a doctor's note, especially if you need multiple days off. Most won't question a single appointment.
12. Jury Duty
This is perhaps the most bulletproof excuse on this list because it's legally protected. Employers cannot penalize you for fulfilling your civic duty. You'll typically receive a summons weeks in advance.
What to Say:
"I received a jury duty summons for December 15th. I'm required to report that day and may need the rest of the week depending on whether I'm selected. I wanted to give you a heads up so we can plan coverage."
Pro Tip: Bring a copy of your summons to give to HR. Some companies require documentation for their records.
13. Religious Holiday Observance
Federal holidays don't cover all religious observances. If you celebrate Diwali, Yom Kippur, Eid, or other holidays not recognized by your company, you have every right to request that day off.
What to Say:
"I'd like to request next Thursday off to observe Eid al-Fitr, which is a significant holiday in my faith."
Manager’s Insight: In the U.S., employers are required to reasonably accommodate religious observance unless it creates undue hardship. This is protected under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act.
14. Mental Health Day
Workplace culture around mental health has significantly improved. More companies now recognize that mental health is just as important as physical health, and taking a day to reset can prevent burnout.
What to Say:
"I'm requesting a personal day tomorrow to focus on my mental health. I've been under a lot of stress lately and need time to recharge so I can perform at my best."
Or keep it simpler:
"I need to take a mental health day tomorrow. I'll be back on Thursday ready to jump back in."
Manager’s Insight: You don't need to explain what's causing your stress or provide details. Many progressive companies now have specific "mental health days" as part of their PTO policy.
Logistical Disruptions (Usually Same-Day)
These situations are out of your control and prevent you from getting to work or working effectively.
15. Car Trouble
Dead battery, flat tire, engine won't start, or transmission problems can derail your morning. This excuse works once or twice but becomes suspicious if overused and may suggest you don't maintain your vehicle or have unreliable transportation.
What to Say:
"My car won't start this morning. I'm waiting for a tow truck to take it to the mechanic. I don't think I'll be able to make it in today, but I'll update you once I know more."
Or:
"I have a flat tire and the spare is also flat. I'm getting both fixed now but it'll take a few hours. I'll work from home once I'm back at the house."
When to Offer Alternatives: If you can work remotely, mention it: "Once I'm home, I can log on and take care of everything on my task list."
16. Dangerous Weather Conditions
Snow, ice storms, flooding, or other severe weather that makes travel unsafe is a completely legitimate reason to stay home. Safety always trumps attendance.
What to Say:
"We got about 10 inches of snow overnight and the roads haven't been plowed. It's not safe for me to drive in. I'll work from home today if that works, otherwise I'll need to take a PTO day."
Manager’s Insight: This is especially bulletproof if others in your area are also calling out for the same reason. Managers won't question it when half the team can't make it in. And no one wants an accident because they wouldn’t let you stay or work from home due to bad weather.
17. Public Transportation Failure
Subway delays, bus cancellations, or train breakdowns happen regularly in cities. This excuse is most believable if you commute to work via public transit regularly.
What to Say:
"The Metro is completely shut down due to an earlier incident. The next train won't arrive for two hours and I'd be extremely late even then. Can I work from home today?"
Pro Tip: Offer to work remotely when possible. It shows you're still willing to work despite the disruption.
18. Locked Out of Home or Car
It happens to everyone eventually. Whether you locked your keys inside your car or can't get into your house, you need to wait for a locksmith, and they don't operate on your schedule.
What to Say:
"I locked my keys in my car and I'm waiting for a locksmith. They said the earliest they can get here is in two hours. I may be significantly late or need to take the morning off."
Or:
"I'm locked out of my house and my spare key is inside. I'm waiting for a locksmith. I won't be able to make it in on time today."
19. Daycare or School Closure
Unexpected daycare closures, school shutdowns due to gas leaks, weather-related school cancellations, or teacher strike days leave working parents scrambling. Managers with children will immediately understand.
What to Say:
"The school just sent an alert that they're closed today due to a power outage. My usual backup sitter is unavailable. I need to take the day off to watch my kids."
Manager’s Insight: If you can work from home with kids there (depending on their age), offer it: "I can log on and work from home, though I may be less responsive than usual."
20. Important Delivery or Installation
When you're expecting a major appliance delivery, furniture installation, or critical repair with an "all-day window," you may need to be home. With package theft affecting millions of Americans, expensive deliveries are a legitimate concern.
What to Say:
"Our new washer and dryer are being delivered tomorrow between 8am and 6pm. I need to be home to receive and supervise the installation. Can I work from home that day?"
When This Works Best: For large or expensive items that require installation or signature. Using this for a basic Amazon delivery won't be as believable.
Personal Health & Well-Being
These excuses prioritize your physical or mental health. They're increasingly accepted in modern workplaces.
21. Running Out of Critical Medication
If you take heart medication, diabetes medication, or other essential prescriptions and run out unexpectedly, you need to address it immediately. No manager wants responsibility for a medical emergency that could have been prevented.
What to Say:
"I just realized I'm out of my blood pressure medication and took my last pill this morning. I need to contact my doctor and go to the pharmacy. This may take several hours, so I'm taking the day off to handle it."
22. Severe Allergies
With one in three U.S. adults having allergies, this is increasingly relatable. Severe allergy flare-ups can cause swelling, difficulty breathing, and inability to function normally.
What to Say:
"My allergies are extremely severe today. I'm having throat swelling and can't stop coughing. I think it's best I stay home and take allergy medication."
When to Use: Spring pollen season, after spending time in a dusty environment, or after exposure to a known allergen.
23. Injury
Whether you threw out your back, sprained your ankle, cut yourself badly, or injured yourself in another way, physical injuries can prevent you from safely commuting or working.
What to Say:
"I slipped on ice this morning and injured my ankle. I can't put weight on it and need to go get it X-rayed. I won't be coming in today."
Or:
"I threw my back out at the gym last night and can barely move today. I need to rest and possibly see a doctor. I'll update you on tomorrow's availability."
Manager’s Insight: Offering to work from home (if your job allows) shows commitment: "I can't drive safely, but if you need me to log on from home for anything urgent, just let me know."
24. Medical Testing
Some medical tests require fasting, sedation, or preparation that makes working impossible. Colonoscopies, blood work, MRIs with contrast, or diagnostic procedures often need same-day recovery.
What to Say:
"I have medical testing tomorrow that requires sedation. I won't be able to drive afterward, so I'll need the full day off."
Proof Requirements: Generally not needed unless it becomes frequent or your employer has strict absence policies.
25. Witnessing or Involved in a Crime
If you witness a serious accident, crime, or violent incident, you may need to stay and give a police statement. This is both a civic duty and often necessary for insurance or legal purposes.
What to Say:
"I witnessed a serious accident on the freeway this morning and stopped to help. I'm currently waiting to give a statement to the police. I don't know when I'll be able to leave, so I may not make it in today."
Manager’s Insight: This is extremely rare, which makes it even more bulletproof. No reasonable manager will question you staying at a scene where you're needed as a witness.
Lower-Risk Excuses (Use Occasionally)
These excuses work but are less bulletproof because they could raise questions if overused. Deploy strategically.
26. Pet Emergency
With 44% of U.S. households owning a dog, pet emergencies are increasingly accepted. Your dog eating something toxic, getting injured, or suddenly becoming ill are legitimate reasons to miss work - especially if you don't have someone else who can take them to the vet.
What to Say:
"My dog ate something toxic and I need to get him to the emergency vet immediately. I won't be able to come in today."
Or:
"My cat is having difficulty breathing and I need to take her to the vet right away. I'll update you later today."
Manager’s Insight: This works best if your manager knows you have pets. If you've never mentioned having a dog and suddenly have a dog emergency, it may not land as well. It will also work better with managers who have pets themselves because they will be able to empathize more with your situation.
27. Donating Blood
Blood donation can leave you feeling lightheaded or weak, especially if you have a reaction. Most managers won't question this because it's a community service.
What to Say:
"I donated blood this morning and had a stronger reaction than expected - I'm feeling very lightheaded. The nurse recommended I go home and rest for the day."
When to Use: This only works as a same-day excuse after you've already donated. Don't schedule blood donation as a way to get out of work—that's unethical on multiple levels.
28. Cramps or Menstrual Issues
Severe menstrual cramps affect millions of women and can be genuinely debilitating. Most managers won't ask follow-up questions because it's a private health matter.
What to Say:
"I'm having severe menstrual cramps and can barely move. I need to stay home today."
Manager’s Insight: Keep it simple and don't over-explain. This shouldn't need justification, though unfortunately, some managers (especially male ones) still don't take it seriously. That's a them problem, not a you problem.
29. Lost Keys
This falls into the "frustrating but believable" category. Everyone has lost their keys at some point. It won't get you a full day off, but it can buy you a few hours.
What to Say:
"I can't find my car keys anywhere and I've looked everywhere. I'm waiting for my partner to bring me the spare set. I'll be late this morning but should be there by 11am."
Warning: This excuse gets less believable if you use it more than once. Most people implement a key system after losing them once.
30. Technical Difficulties (Remote Workers)
If you work from home and your internet goes out, your computer crashes, or you have a power outage, you genuinely can't work. This has become more accepted since the remote work boom.
What to Say:
"My internet is completely down. I called the provider and they're saying it won't be restored until this evening due to a damaged cable. I can't work without it. I'm taking a PTO day unless you need me to try working from a coffee shop."
Manager’s Insight: Offering alternatives (coffee shop, library, coworking space) shows you're trying to find solutions, which builds credibility.
31. Elderly Parent Needs Assistance
As the population ages, more workers find themselves caring for elderly parents. Falls, medication confusion, or sudden health scares often require immediate adult child intervention.
What to Say:
"My father fell this morning and I need to take him to the hospital to get checked out. He's 78 and lives alone. I'll be out today and will update you on tomorrow."
32. Work-Related Conference or Professional Development
If your field requires continuing education credits (CPE) or you're attending an industry conference that benefits your role, this is actually a work-related absence that many employers will support—or even pay for.
What to Say:
"I have an opportunity to attend the [Industry Conference] next month, which offers sessions on [relevant skills]. This would count toward my required CPE credits. Can we discuss getting company support for this?"
Recruiter's Insight: Frame this as a professional development opportunity that benefits the company, not just you. Share what you'll learn and how you'll apply it.
Funny Excuses to Get Out of Work (Use at Your Own Risk)
Over the years, I've heard some absolutely wild excuses that technically worked - though they came with consequences ranging from office legend status to becoming "that person."
If you have the guts (and the comedic timing), these might actually get you out of work. But don't say I didn't warn you.
33. The Medical Mystery Excuse
What to say:
"I think I have a tapeworm and I know someone who got cancer from one before. I need to get this looked at immediately."
Why it works: Nobody wants to question anything involving parasites or cancer. The sheer specificity and urgency makes your manager want to end the conversation as quickly as possible.
Warning: You may need to commit to this story longer than you'd like. Be prepared for follow-up questions when you return.
34. The Embarrassing Wardrobe Malfunction
What to say:
"I'm going to need to go home and take the day off. I was in the parking lot unloading my stuff and I ripped a giant hole in the crotch of my pants. I'm so embarrassed to even tell you. I can't come in today. I need to go home and change. I don't think I can return to work today."
Why it works: The embarrassment factor is real enough that your manager will feel awkward pushing back. Everyone has had a wardrobe malfunction at some point.
Bonus: This excuse has the rare quality of being simultaneously believable and too uncomfortable to verify.
35. The Performance Art Excuse (Most Effective)
What to say:
"I won't be in because I have diarrhea—" (start speaking faster) "—oh my gosh, I'm sorry, I gotta hang up now!" (hang up immediately)
Why it works: The performance sells it. The sudden urgency, the abrupt hang-up, the implicit "emergency in progress" makes it bulletproof. No manager wants a callback to discuss details.
Warning: You might become known as the "serial pooper" at the office. But I guarantee it works if you have the comedic timing to pull it off.
Manager’s Take: I've actually had someone use a version of excuse #3 on me. They called, sounded genuinely distressed, and hung up mid-sentence. Did I question it? Absolutely not. Did I ever forget it? Also no. Use wisely.
Excuses That Need Documentation
Understanding which excuses require proof can help you prepare appropriately:
Always Requires Proof Sometimes Requires Proof Rarely Requires Proof Jury duty (summons) Medical appointments (if frequent) Illness/fever (one-off) FMLA leave (medical docs) Injuries (if extended absence) Food poisoning Workers' comp claims Doctor's appointments (if multiple) Mental health day Bereavement (obituary/program) COVID testing Migraine Car accident (if insurance claim) Family emergency
Manager’s Pro Tip: Even when proof isn't required, having it available builds trust. If you say you had a doctor's appointment, having the appointment reminder card in case you're asked demonstrates honesty.
Red Flags That Destroy Your Credibility
After reviewing hundreds of absence requests as a manager, here are the patterns that immediately raise suspicions:
Pattern #1: Strategic Timing
Always calling out on Mondays or Fridays
Absences that conveniently happen before/after holidays
Missing work during major events, concerts, or sports games
Recurring absences on days you have difficult meetings or deadlines
Pattern #2: Over-Explanation
Providing an excessive amount of detail unprompted
Explaining symptoms in medical detail
Offering information nobody asked for
Changing your story when asked follow-up questions
From a manager's perspective, over-explanation is the #1 indicator someone is lying. Honest people state the facts simply and move on.
Pattern #3: Frequency
Using the same excuse multiple times in a month
Missing work more than 2-3 times per quarter without legitimate reason
Having emergencies that happen suspiciously often
Missing more days than your PTO allows
Pattern #4: Social Media Mistakes
Posting vacation photos on days you claimed to be sick
Checking in at events during "work hours"
Sharing concert or game attendance when you claimed an emergency
Being visibly active online when you're supposedly too sick to work
Reality Check: Your manager sees your social media. Even if you're not connected directly, someone in your network is. A single photo of you at a baseball game on a "sick day" can end your credibility permanently.
Excuses to Never Use
These excuses will damage your professional reputation or are simply too unbelievable:
❌ "I don't feel like coming in today" - Even if it's true, never say this
❌ "I'm too tired because I stayed up late" - This signals poor personal responsibility
❌ "My alarm didn't go off" - Works once, maybe. Never twice.
❌ "I have a hangover" - Obviously disqualifying
❌ "I'm job hunting" - Keep this private until you have an offer
❌ "Traffic is really bad" - Leave earlier or take PTO
❌ "My horoscope said I shouldn't come in" - Just no.
❌ Anything involving a fake death - Morally wrong and often gets discovered
Manager’s Harsh Truth: I've seen people fired for faking family deaths. The company found out through social media or when HR asked for an obituary. Don't go there.
Should You Feel Guilty About Taking Time Off?
Here's this manager’s perspective most people don't hear:
Time off is part of your compensation package. You've earned it. Using your PTO days or taking an occasional sick day doesn't make you a bad employee; it makes you a functional human being.
From my vantage point hiring and managing people for over a decade, the employees who never take time off often:
Experience burnout and quit unexpectedly
Make more mistakes from exhaustion
Create resentment in their teams
Have lower long-term productivity
The best employees know when to step back and recharge. Taking care of yourself isn't selfish; it's how you sustain a long, successful career.
You don't owe your manager your entire life story. A simple, professional explanation is sufficient. You're not required to share every detail of your personal life to justify taking a day off.
Patterns matter more than individual days. Missing one day every couple months with legitimate excuses won't hurt your career. Missing multiple days every month will—regardless of your excuses.
Quick Reference: What to Say Template
Use this framework for any excuse:
Opening: State the situation clearly
Impact: Explain you can't come in (or will be late)
Solution: Offer what you'll do to minimize disruption
Follow-up: Commit to updating them
Example:
"Hi [Manager], I woke up with a high fever and body aches. I won't be able to come in today. I don't want to risk spreading this to the team. I'll send you a quick email with status updates on my current projects so nothing falls through the cracks. I'll let you know later today whether I'll be able to return tomorrow."
This template works for almost every excuse on this list. Keep it professional, brief, and focused on solutions.
The Bottom Line: Use Wisely, Not Often
After 10+ years managing people, here's what I want you to understand:
These 32 bulletproof excuses work because they're believable, urgent, and fit situations that genuinely happen to people. They're tools for navigating real emergencies and necessary personal time - not a cheat code to avoid work whenever you feel like it.
One unexpected absence is understandable.
A pattern of absences is career-limiting.
The people who handle absences best do three things:
Communicate early - The earlier you notify your manager, the more understanding they'll be
Keep it simple - Don't over-explain or provide unnecessary details
Show responsibility - Offer solutions for coverage and follow through on commitments
Your reputation is built over hundreds of days of showing up and performing well. Don't risk it by abusing excuses that should be reserved for when you truly need them.
Be honest when possible. Be strategic when necessary. And remember, the goal isn't to get out of work. It's to protect your health, handle true emergencies, and maintain the energy and focus you need to excel when you are at work.
Looking for more career advice from a recruiter and manager’s perspective? Check out these related OptimCareers guides:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most bulletproof excuses to miss work?
The most bulletproof excuses are sudden illness, family emergencies, car accidents, jury duty, and death in the family. These situations are urgent, unpredictable, and widely accepted as legitimate reasons to miss work without advance notice.
How do I tell my boss I can't come to work last minute?
Call or text your manager as early as possible with a clear, brief explanation: "I won't be able to come in today due to [situation]. I'll [mention any coverage or follow-up you'll provide] and update you later today." Keep it simple and professional without over-explaining.
Do I need a doctor's note to miss work?
It depends on your company's policy and the length of your absence. Most employers don't require a doctor's note for one-day illnesses, but may request documentation for absences lasting 3+ days or for patterns of frequent sick days. Check your employee handbook for specific requirements.
What excuses don't require proof?
Excuses that typically don't require proof include single-day illnesses (fever, food poisoning, migraine), mental health days, minor car trouble, and family emergencies. However, if any excuse is used repeatedly, managers may start requesting documentation.
Can I get fired for calling out of work?
In most U.S. states with at-will employment, you can be terminated for excessive absenteeism, especially if it's unexcused or forms a pattern. However, you're protected from termination when using FMLA leave, taking time off for jury duty, or requesting reasonable accommodations for disabilities. Single, legitimate absences with proper notice rarely result in termination.
How many times can I call out of work?
This varies by company policy, but generally, calling out more than 2-3 times per quarter raises concerns. What matters most is the pattern - occasional absences for legitimate reasons are accepted, while frequent unexplained absences can lead to disciplinary action. Always check your company's attendance policy.
What should I not say when calling out of work?
Avoid over-explaining with excessive details, don't admit to preventable situations (like hangovers), never blame your alarm not going off, and don't say "I just don't feel like coming in." Also avoid lies that can be verified, especially through social media. Keep it brief, professional, and truthful.
Cole Sperry has been a manager since 2002, leading teams of over 20 across multiple industries and job functions. Today Cole runs a boutique advisory firm consulting with dozens of recruiting firms and is the Managing Editor at OptimCareers.com.
