Best Excuses to Work From Home [33 Word-for-Word Scripts]
The landscape of remote work has shifted dramatically. As more companies mandate office returns and hybrid schedules, knowing how to secure legitimate work-from-home days has become essential. After managing hundreds of remote workers over the past decade and reviewing thousands of WFH requests, I've identified exactly which excuses work—and which get rejected immediately.
This guide covers proven excuses to work from home that managers actually accept, complete with word-for-word scripts you can adapt. Whether you need a last-minute reason for today or want to build a case for permanent remote work, these strategies come directly from the hiring side of the table.
In this article:
33 legitimate excuses to work from home (categorized by urgency)
Real email scripts that have secured WFH approval
Why each excuse works from a manager's perspective
Red flags that trigger immediate denial
How to maintain credibility when requesting remote work
Why These Excuses Work: A Recruiter's Perspective
I've worked hybrid and permanently remote since 2017. As a recruiter and talent manager who's overseen consultants at hundreds of companies, I've seen both sides: employees requesting WFH and managers evaluating those requests. The excuses that consistently get approved share three characteristics:
Empathy triggers - Managers can relate to the situation
Productivity assurance - You demonstrate continued work output
Minimal disruption - The team's workflow remains intact
The excuses that fail? Those that suggest you won't actually be working, create coverage problems, or get used too frequently.
Good Excuses to Work From Home: Strategic Principles
Before diving into specific excuses, understand these core principles that dramatically increase approval rates:
For Last-Minute Requests:
Call your manager directly rather than email—tone matters
Emphasize you'll meet or exceed your daily metrics
Be prepared to prove productivity if asked
Use sparingly to maintain credibility
For Permanent Arrangements:
Frame it around business benefits (productivity, cost savings)
Have predetermined KPIs ready to measure success
Offer a trial period to prove the concept
Back claims with data from past remote work success
For All WFH Requests:
Maintain transparency with public calendars and regular updates
Respond to messages promptly during working hours
Dress professionally for video meetings
Build trust through consistent performance before asking
Never lie—damaged credibility is nearly impossible to rebuild
Best Excuses to Work From Home Last Minute
These are the most effective reasons when you need to work remotely today or tomorrow with minimal notice. Success rate: 70-90% depending on your track record and manager.
1. Dental Emergency
Why it works: Dental pain is universally understood and often requires same-day appointments. Managers know you can't function effectively with severe tooth pain, but you're capable of working between appointments.
Success rate: Very high. I've personally approved this dozens of times.
Example script:
Cole,
I had a root canal done on Tuesday and this morning I'm having intense pain in the back of my mouth. The dentist is able to get me in, but it's in the middle of the day. Would it be ok if I work from home today so I can still make significant progress on my projects? Driving to and from the office twice is simply going to take away over half of my working hours today and I think working from home might be a better solution.
2. Doctor Appointment (Short Notice)
Why it works: Medical appointments often have unpredictable availability due to cancellations. This excuse balances health needs with work commitment.
Success rate: High, especially if the appointment timing would require significant commute time.
Example script:
Cole,
My doctor just called and because of a cancellation, they are able to see me today instead of next week. The appointment is only 30 minutes long, but because of the time of day, it would severely impact my ability to make meaningful progress on my work. Is it possible for me to work from home today? I would be available during normal business hours if anyone needs anything, except for between 1:30 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. for the doctor's appointment.
3. Home Emergency
Why it works: Home emergencies require immediate attention and often need you present for service providers. No reasonable manager expects you to let your home flood while sitting at your desk.
Success rate: Extremely high. This is one of the most bulletproof excuses.
Common scenarios:
Burst pipes or plumbing issues
HVAC system failure
Electrical problems requiring emergency repair
Security concerns
Fire or water damage
Example script:
Cole,
I woke up this morning to a burst pipe and my living room is flooded. I need to stay home today and wait for the plumber to show up this morning. Rather than take the day off, can I work from home? I just need to be here when they show up, but outside of that, there shouldn't be any disruptions to my day and I feel I can still make meaningful progress on our backlog.
4. Important Package Delivery
Why it works: This one is hit-or-miss. High-value items requiring signature can justify WFH, but many managers suggest office delivery instead.
Success rate: Moderate. Best for items that legitimately can't be delivered to office.
Example script:
Cole,
I have a new iPhone being delivered today and I'm worried about it sitting on my front doorstep all day. I'd like to work from home today while I wait for the package. I have everything I need and I'll make myself available to anyone on the team for status updates as well. Would it be ok if I work from home while waiting on this package?
Pro tip: This works better if you frame it as a one-time necessity due to porch theft problems in your neighborhood.
5. Personal Injury
Why it works: Injuries that don't prevent work but make commuting difficult are legitimate concerns.
Success rate: High, especially for obviously mobility-limiting injuries.
Example script:
Cole,
Last night at our company basketball tournament I think I twisted or sprained my ankle and it's difficult to walk or drive. I'd like to ask permission to work from home for the next two days while I recover. Fortunately, I don't type with my feet so I'm more than capable of working, it's just making it into the office poses some challenges.
6. Mental Health Day
Why it works: Mental health awareness is increasing in workplaces. Companies are recognizing that burnout prevention is cheaper than replacement costs.
Success rate: Moderate to high, depending on company culture. Use carefully.
Example script:
Cole,
I woke up this morning not feeling 100% me. I've had some additional stress at work and with month-end close starting today, I feel a bit overwhelmed. I also don't want to leave the team hanging during the month-end close if I take a personal day. I'd like to request to work from home today. I think staying home will give me the space I need to destress and I'm confident that I can also get all the reconciliations done from home before I shut down for the day. I will also keep my Slack on all day so it will be as if I was there in the office.
7. Pregnancy Discomfort
Why it works: Pregnancy symptoms are unpredictable and protected under employment law in most jurisdictions. Managers are typically very accommodating.
Success rate: Extremely high.
Example script:
Cole,
As you know my baby is due in the next two weeks and it's become more and more challenging to get around. I've been contemplating starting my maternity leave early, but with the important projects we're trying to wrap up, I'd rather work from home for a few weeks until the baby arrives. What are your thoughts about me working remotely for the next week or two?
8. Minor Illness (Not Contagious Enough for Sick Leave)
Why it works: Post-COVID, managers are hyper-aware of office transmission risks. According to the CDC, employees working while mildly ill can reduce productivity by up to 30% and risk spreading illness to colleagues.
Success rate: Very high, especially in health-conscious workplaces.
Best for: Minor cold symptoms, mild headache, seasonal allergies, recovering from food poisoning
Example script:
Cole,
I woke up with a fever this morning and had some nausea through the night. I feel better now and I'm able to work but I don't want to get the whole office sick. Would it be okay for me to work from home today?
9. Car Problems
Why it works: Transportation failures are completely outside your control and instantly relatable.
Success rate: High, but be prepared to provide updates on repair status.
Common scenarios:
Flat tire
Dead battery
Engine won't start
Scheduled for repair
Example script:
Cole,
As I was about to leave for the office this morning, I realized that I had a flat tire. It's not safe to drive 30 miles on it so I've made an appointment to have it replaced today at noon. In the meantime, I'd like to work from home.
10. Family Emergency
Why it works: Family crises require immediate attention. Most managers understand this takes priority over office presence.
Success rate: Very high. Use sparingly and honestly.
Example script:
Cole,
My brother passed away this morning from cancer and I need to be home with my family. I also know that we have to complete the proposal for X account by tomorrow. I'd like to work remotely today on the proposal. I think it will help take my mind off of things while I am present for my family at the same time. Would it be okay to work from home today?
11. Food Poisoning
Why it works: Bathroom proximity is essential with digestive issues. No one wants details, and no manager wants this in the office.
Success rate: High. This excuse is self-explanatory.
Example script:
Cole,
I've been up most of the night due to what I suspect is food poisoning from a restaurant last night. As you can probably imagine, I don't think I'd be very effective in the office today. Rather I'd like to propose that I work from home today while I work out my digestive issues.
12. Sick Child
Why it works: Parents can't send sick children to school or daycare. Managers who are parents immediately relate.
Success rate: Extremely high.
Example script:
Cole,
My son woke up with a fever and cough. I'm going to keep him home from school today, but rather than take the day off myself, I'd like to work remotely from the house. With the exception of picking up his prescription around 10 a.m., I'll be available all day.
13. Migraine
Why it works: According to the NIH, approximately 12% of adults suffer from migraines. Managers who've experienced them understand the debilitating nature, while also recognizing you can often work from a quiet, dark space at home.
Success rate: Very high with managers familiar with migraines.
Example script:
Cole,
I woke up with a severe migraine this morning and I won't be able to make it into the office. Is it possible to work from home today? I think some medicine and staying in will do some good, but I'd also like to get my normal workload completed too.
14. Childcare Emergency
Why it works: Childcare is unpredictable and universally understood by managers who are parents. Daycare closures, sick babysitters, or school cancellations happen without warning.
Success rate: Extremely high. Most managers accept this immediately.
Example script:
Cole,
My three year old's daycare just sent me an email stating that they will not be open today. Apparently there was a power outage at the facility and they don't expect it to be turned back on until tomorrow. Because of this I need to work from home today. I expect to complete all my business reviews for our enterprise clients today and I'll be available if anyone needs anything.
15. COVID Exposure or Symptoms
Why it works: No manager wants a COVID outbreak in the office. This excuse immediately triggers workplace safety protocols.
Success rate: Extremely high. Near-automatic approval.
Example script:
Cole,
I just found out that I was exposed to Covid this morning. Two days ago I spent quite a bit of time with the exposed person in close quarters and I'm concerned that I may have it as well. The doctor says I can't test until at least Day 3 (tomorrow) and I don't want to risk taking out the entire office. For the most part, I feel fine but out of concern for everyone else, I'd like to request to work from home for today.
I will test tomorrow and hopefully, it will be negative.
16. Car Accident
Why it works: Accidents create immediate logistical and emotional disruption. Managers universally understand this situation.
Success rate: Extremely high.
Example script:
Cole,
You're probably wondering why I didn't show up to work this morning. On my way to the office, I was in a car accident. Everyone is fine, but my car is pretty damaged. I need to take this morning off to speak with the insurance company and take a minute for myself, but I'd like to work from home for the second half of the day. I have some key client calls that I was planning to make today and I don't want to push them into tomorrow. Would it be ok if I work from home from 1 p.m to 5 p.m. today?
17. Home Break-In or Vandalism
Why it works: Security incidents require immediate attention for police reports and insurance claims. The stress impact is also legitimate.
Success rate: Very high.
Example script:
Cole,
I woke up to a smashed car window and my vehicle being vandalized. I'm filing a police report this morning and I have to wait for instructions from the insurance company. Obviously, I don't think it's safe to drive to the office. Could I work from home today while I work out the next steps with the insurance company?
18. Delayed or Cancelled Flight
Why it works: Travel disruptions are completely outside your control and increasingly common. Airlines have faced significant operational challenges post-pandemic.
Success rate: Very high, especially if returning from business travel.
Example script:
Cole,
I was planning on returning to the office tomorrow after a weekend in San Francisco, but my flight has been canceled. The next available flight leaves tomorrow night so I'll be staying an extra day here. Would it be possible to work remotely from the hotel? I have everything I need to accomplish my goals for the day.
19. Severe Weather Conditions
Why it works: Safety concerns override office presence. Managers don't want liability for forcing employees to drive in dangerous conditions.
Success rate: Extremely high, varies by region and actual weather severity.
Example script:
Cole,
A bad ice storm went through my area last night and the roads are covered with black ice and snow. I don't think it's safe to drive into the office today. Because of this I'd like to work remotely from home out of safety concerns.
20. Overslept / Alarm Didn't Go Off
Why it works: While not ideal, everyone has overslept at least once. The honesty and desire to still be productive can work in your favor.
Success rate: Moderate. Don't use this more than once, maybe twice in your entire career at a company.
Example script:
Cole,
My alarm never went off this morning. I want to first apologize for any inconvenience this causes you or the team. I'd like to work from home today if possible so I can get to work right away and not miss another two hours getting ready and commuting into the office.
21. No Water at Home
Why it works: This is a legitimate infrastructure issue that makes it impossible to shower or use facilities. It's embarrassing to admit but shows consideration for coworkers.
Success rate: High. The honesty and consideration for others makes this work.
Example script:
Cole,
Apparently, a car took out a hydrant in our neighborhood this morning and as a result, I have no water pressure. We have no water whatsoever. If you approve, I'll be working from home today so the rest of the office doesn't have to witness my grunge.
22. Lost Car Keys
Why it works: Misplacing keys is frustrating but relatable. Shows you're trying to salvage the day rather than writing it off.
Success rate: Moderate. Works best if you have a solid track record.
Example script:
Cole,
I seem to have misplaced my car keys. I've been searching for an hour and cannot find them. Rather than miss the entire day or show up hours later, I'd like to get started on work from home today.
23. Wildlife Safety Issue
Why it works: Depending on your location, wildlife can be a legitimate safety concern. Fish and Wildlife typically advises staying indoors when dealing with dangerous animals.
Success rate: High in areas where this is plausible (rural/mountainous regions).
Example script:
Cole,
I woke up this morning to a bear in my backyard. I've called Fish and Wildlife and they are coming to deal with the situation, but they've advised me not to leave my home. Can I work from home today while I wait for our new bear friend to be relocated?
Good Excuses to Work From Home Temporarily
These reasons work best when you can plan 1-3 days in advance but need temporary WFH arrangements.
24. Heavy Traffic Day (Planned)
Why it works: Traffic studies show predictable patterns. For example, UCLA research shows Thursday is the worst traffic day in Los Angeles. Rather than waste hours in traffic, you redirect that time to work.
Success rate: Moderate to high, especially in congested metros with documented traffic patterns.
Example script:
Cole,
Take a look at this study done by UCLA. It confirms what I've been feeling every Thursday. On average, we spend 20 extra minutes in traffic commuting to the office that day. That's a total of almost three hours a day for most of us.
What are your thoughts about working from home on Thursdays? I know I would be more energized starting my day without sitting in an extra 20 minutes of traffic and I could get an extra hour of work in easily. Would you be open to trying this out and seeing if we notice an increase in productivity?
25. Large Project Requiring Deep Focus
Why it works: Deep work productivity research shows that focused work without interruptions can increase output by 40%. Smart managers recognize this trade-off.
Success rate: High for employees with strong performance records.
Example script:
Cole,
That RFP deadline is coming up next week and it has been really difficult to make meaningful progress with the constant interruptions at the office. I'd like to work from home for a couple of days this week so I can focus on it without any disruptions. If we can secure it, it's worth $2.4M annually. I just need the time to focus on it away from everything.
26. Jury Duty
Why it works: Civic duty is legally protected. Jury selection often involves long waiting periods where you can work.
Success rate: Very high.
Example script:
Cole,
I've been selected for jury duty and have to report this Friday. Most of the day I'll be sitting in the waiting room and I'd like to get some work done. Would it be ok if I work remotely? I'll turn my slack status on while I'm working in case anyone needs anything and off if they require me to sit for selection so you know I'm not working at that time.
27. Scheduled Home Maintenance
Why it works: Tradespeople operate on business hours and often have long wait times for appointments. Rescheduling can mean months of delays.
Success rate: Very high when framed properly.
Common scenarios:
Plumber
Electrician
HVAC technician
Internet/cable installation
Major appliance delivery
Example script:
Cole,
Next week I have our cabinet company coming in to replace our kitchen cabinets on Thursday and Friday. Can I work from home on those days so I can let the contractors in and out as well as keep up with my workload?
28. Major Road Construction
Why it works: Construction, accidents, or infrastructure work can double commute times. Working those hours is more valuable than sitting in traffic.
Success rate: High, especially in congested metropolitan areas with documented closures.
Example script:
Cole,
They are shutting down Interstate 91 on Wednesday for repairs and the only alternative way to the office is to go around Mt. Shasta, adding over 2 hours to my commute. Rather than be exhausted from the extra commute each day, I'd like to work from home if you approve.
29. Returning Equipment (Cable Box, etc.)
Why it works: Returning equipment to retail locations during business hours can consume significant time. Working remotely allows you to handle the errand while maintaining productivity.
Success rate: Moderate. Works better when you frame it as minimizing disruption.
Example script:
Cole,
We canceled our cable service last week and I have to return this equipment to their retail store which is in (city). Rather than take time off to commute 30 minutes south and then another 60 minutes north to the office, I'd like to propose that I work from home next Tuesday to take care of this and still be productive on my tasks. I will only be offline for about an hour in the morning and then I can work the rest of the day.
30. Preparing for Major Event
Why it works: Event preparation often requires coordination with vendors, suppliers, and venues during business hours. For event-critical roles, this is understood.
Success rate: High for roles with event responsibilities.
Example script:
Cole,
We've got the Gala coming up next week and I need a couple of days to really focus on preparing for the event. As long as you approve, I'll be working remotely for the next three days as I meet with vendors and review everything we need to accomplish for the event.
31. Recovery from Minor Surgery
Why it works: Medical procedures often have recovery periods where you can work but not commute. Examples: wisdom teeth removal, minor outpatient procedures, vasectomy.
Success rate: Very high with doctor's note if requested.
Example script:
Cole,
As I mentioned earlier, I have my vasectomy coming up next Thursday. Depending on how I feel, I'd like to work from home on Friday as I continue to recover. Would this be okay with you?
32. Taking Teen to College
Why it works: This is a major life milestone that any parent or decent manager understands. You can balance family presence with work obligations.
Success rate: Very high, especially with advance notice.
Example script:
Cole,
I'm taking Brandon to college for the first time next week - a big milestone! Monday and Wednesday we have events that we are attending with him, but Tuesday I'm stuck in the hotel all day. I'd like to make some progress on our work. Would it be okay to work remotely on Tuesday instead of taking the day off?
33. New Pet Training
Why it works: This is admittedly a weak excuse, but in pet-friendly company cultures with understanding managers, it can work for a day or two.
Success rate: Low to moderate. Highly dependent on manager's attitude toward pets.
Example script:
Cole,
We rescued a new puppy last night from the shelter and she's not potty trained yet. I don't have anyone to stay home with her today as she gets acclimated to our home. Would you be ok if I work from home for the next two days?
Best Excuses to Work From Home Permanently
Making the case for permanent or hybrid remote work requires a different approach. These strategies focus on business benefits rather than personal circumstances.
Strategy 1: Increased Productivity
The pitch: According to Stanford research, remote workers are 13% more productive than office counterparts. Build your case around measurable output increases.
How to present it:
Document your current productivity metrics
Propose a 30-day trial with agreed-upon KPIs
Track and report weekly progress
Demonstrate sustained improvement
What to emphasize:
Fewer interruptions enable deep work
Flexible hours match your peak productivity times
Reduced commute fatigue improves work quality
You'll work longer hours with time saved from commuting
Red flags to avoid:
Don't claim you'll be "just as productive" (aim higher)
Avoid suggesting office time is wasted (focus on what you'll gain)
Never imply you don't need to be measured
Strategy 2: Elimination of Office Distractions
The pitch: Open offices and "quick questions" fragment focus. For knowledge workers, uninterrupted time is the most valuable resource.
Supporting data: Research from the University of California shows it takes an average of 23 minutes to fully refocus after an interruption.
How to present it:
Identify specific projects requiring concentrated work
Quantify interruption frequency (track for a week)
Propose specific days for focused remote work
Maintain availability for critical meetings via video
Strategy 3: Commute Time Economics
The pitch: Long commutes waste productive hours and contribute to burnout. For employers, this time could be redirected to work.
By the numbers:
Average American commute: 54 minutes daily (U.S. Census Bureau)
Annual commute time: 225 hours (nearly 6 work weeks)
Commute stress reduces productivity by up to 15%
Example script:
Cole,
I've been thinking about my 2-hour daily commute and how we could convert some of that time into productive work. If I worked remotely 3 days per week, I could start 30 minutes earlier each of those days. That's 6 extra hours per month dedicated to work—almost a full workday. Combined with the focus benefits we've discussed, I believe this could increase my output significantly. Would you be open to a 60-day trial?
Strategy 4: Childcare Cost Reduction
The pitch: According to the U.S. Department of Labor, average annual childcare costs exceed $17,000 in many markets. For valuable employees, remote work can be more cost-effective than raises.
How to present it:
Acknowledge the concern about childcare distractions
Propose specific work hours when child is napping/with other parent
Commit to exceeding current performance metrics
Request a trial period to prove the concept
Critical success factor: You must absolutely crush your metrics during the trial. This only works if you can genuinely deliver.
Example script:
Cole,
I wanted to discuss a proposal that could benefit both of us. With childcare costs exceeding $17,000 annually, I'm looking at ways to make this financially sustainable while maintaining my commitment to excellence here. I'd like to propose a hybrid remote arrangement where I work from home 3 days per week.
I understand the concern about productivity with a child at home. Here's my plan: I'll work during scheduled nap times and when my partner is home in the evenings, ensuring I have dedicated focus time. I propose we set aggressive KPIs—specifically a 10% increase in my current output metrics—for a 90-day trial period. If I hit those numbers, we continue. If not, we revert to the current arrangement.
Strategy 5: Prior Remote Work Success
The pitch: If you performed well during pandemic remote work, you have proof of concept. Use historical data to make your case.
What to present:
Performance reviews from remote work period
Productivity metrics comparing remote vs. office
Completed projects during WFH period
Testimonials from managers or colleagues
Example script:
Cole,
I've been reflecting on my performance during our remote work period from 2020-2022. According to my performance reviews from that time, I exceeded targets by an average of 18% while working remotely. I also received the Innovation Award for the client retention program I developed during that period.
I believe we proved the model works for my role. I'd like to propose transitioning to a permanent hybrid schedule—3 days remote, 2 days in office. This maintains the collaboration benefits of in-person time while optimizing for the focused work that drives my best results. Would you be open to discussing this?
Strategy 6: Environmental Impact
The pitch: For companies with sustainability commitments, reduced commuting directly supports environmental goals.
Supporting data:
Average car emits 4.6 metric tons of CO2 annually (EPA)
Remote work can reduce carbon footprint by 54% per employee
Companies face increasing pressure for ESG compliance
Success rate: Moderate. Works best with companies that have formal environmental initiatives.
Note: Use this as a supporting argument, not the primary reason. Combine with productivity or cost-saving benefits.
Strategy 7: Relocation Circumstances
The pitch: When life circumstances require relocation, your value to the company may exceed the inconvenience of remote management.
When this works best:
You're in a specialized role that's hard to replace
You have deep institutional knowledge
Your performance record is exceptional
The company has other remote workers
How to present it:
Give as much advance notice as possible
Emphasize your commitment to the company
Address potential concerns proactively (time zones, availability, etc.)
Offer to travel quarterly for in-person collaboration
Example script:
Cole,
I need to discuss a personal situation that will impact my work location. My spouse has accepted a position in Denver that's a significant career opportunity for our family. I'm planning to relocate with them in three months.
I've valued my five years here and the progress we've made on the enterprise accounts. Rather than resign, I'd like to propose transitioning to a fully remote role. I recognize this is a significant change, but I believe we can make it work because:
All my current clients are managed virtually already I'm willing to maintain Eastern time zone hours I'll fly in quarterly for team meetings and planning sessions My performance metrics have consistently exceeded targets
I'm committed to making this transition seamless. Can we discuss the specifics of how to structure this arrangement?
Strategy 8: Enhanced Creativity and Flexible Hours
The pitch: For roles requiring creative thinking, rigid office hours can be counterproductive. Innovation happens on its own schedule.
When this works:
Creative fields (design, writing, strategy)
Problem-solving roles
Innovation-focused positions
How to present it:
Acknowledge the need for core collaboration hours
Propose flexible scheduling around team meetings
Emphasize you'll be more available (not less) with flexible hours
Commit to response time standards
What NOT to Say: Excuses That Get Rejected
After reviewing thousands of WFH requests, these excuses consistently fail or damage credibility:
The Gym/Workout Excuse "I want to work from home so I can work out during lunch."
Why it fails: Suggests you're prioritizing personal activities over work
The Vague "Personal Day" Request "I just need a personal day to work from home."
Why it fails: Provides no context for the manager to evaluate
The Regular Pet Care Excuse "My dog needs company."
Why it fails: Ongoing pet needs suggest you can't fully focus on work
The Traffic Complaint (When Used Too Often) "Traffic is really bad today."
Why it fails: If traffic is always bad, this becomes a permanent relocation request, not a temporary WFH need
The "I Just Don't Feel Like Coming In" Any variation of honesty about not wanting to commute without a legitimate reason.
Why it fails: Shows lack of professional judgment
The Detailed Medical Information Overshare Providing unnecessary graphic details about symptoms.
Why it fails: Makes managers uncomfortable and is unprofessional
The Last-Minute Vacation Extension "I'm going to work remotely from Hawaii for another week."
Why it fails: Creates concerns about actual work vs. vacation time
How to Maintain Credibility With WFH Requests
Your long-term ability to work remotely depends on trust. Here's how to build and maintain it:
Performance is Everything
Consistently meet or exceed metrics
Deliver high-quality work regardless of location
Be responsive during working hours
Volunteer for challenging projects
Communication is Critical
Provide regular updates without being asked
Use public calendars so teammates see your availability
Over-communicate during remote days
Respond to messages within 15 minutes during work hours
Frequency Matters
Don't use the same excuse repeatedly
Space out WFH requests (aim for no more than 2-3 last-minute requests monthly)
If you need regular remote work, make a formal arrangement
Honesty Compounds
Never fabricate excuses—it destroys trust permanently
If caught lying, your WFH privileges likely disappear
Managers talk to each other about problem employees
Build the Track Record First
Establish yourself as a high performer before requesting flexibility
New employees requesting frequent WFH face higher scrutiny
Wait at least 3-6 months in a new role before making requests
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most believable excuse to work from home?
Home emergencies (burst pipes, HVAC failure) and childcare emergencies rank as the most universally accepted excuses. They're outside your control, require immediate attention, and managers can easily empathize. Medical appointments and minor illnesses are also highly credible when used appropriately.
How do you politely ask to work from home?
Call your manager directly rather than emailing, explain the situation clearly and briefly, emphasize that you'll maintain productivity and be available during working hours, and specify exactly what you need (e.g., "work from home today" vs. "take the day off"). Always frame it as a request, not a demand.
Can I work from home if I have a doctor's appointment?
Yes, this is one of the most accepted excuses. Medical appointments—especially those scheduled at inconvenient times or on short notice—are legitimate reasons to work remotely. Frame it around minimizing time away from work rather than taking a full day off. Most managers appreciate employees who want to remain productive.
How many times can you use work from home excuses?
This depends on your performance track record and company culture. Generally, 2-3 last-minute requests per month is the maximum before managers start questioning patterns. If you need regular WFH arrangements, make a formal proposal for a hybrid schedule rather than relying on repeated excuses.
What excuses do managers see through immediately?
Package delivery (unless high-value), traffic complaints used frequently, vague "personal day" requests without context, and pet care needs. These suggest either poor planning or prioritizing personal convenience over work commitments.
Is mental health a valid excuse to work from home?
Increasingly, yes. Workplace culture is shifting to recognize mental health as equivalent to physical health. However, success depends heavily on your company's culture and your manager's attitudes. Frame it professionally and emphasize your commitment to meeting work obligations while addressing your wellbeing.
Should I lie about being sick to work from home?
Never. Lying destroys credibility permanently and can result in disciplinary action if discovered. If you need a mental health day or simply need to work from home for focus, find a legitimate reason or use a personal day. The short-term gain isn't worth the long-term damage to trust.
What if my manager denies my work from home request?
Accept the decision professionally and ask if there's a better alternative. You might propose taking a half-day instead, or ask which future circumstances would justify WFH. Understanding your manager's criteria helps you frame future requests successfully. Pushing back aggressively damages your relationship.
Can I work from home permanently without moving?
Many companies now offer hybrid arrangements where you're in office 2-3 days per week. Build a business case focused on productivity improvements and propose a trial period with measurable KPIs. Permanent full remote without relocation is harder to secure but possible if you're in a specialized role with strong performance history.
Do I need to provide proof for work from home excuses?
Generally no for one-time requests like illness or car trouble. For extended absences or situations like jury duty or surgery recovery, managers may request documentation. Company policies vary, so check your employee handbook for specific requirements.
Final Thoughts: Strategic Remote Work Requests
The most successful remote workers don't rely on excuses—they build systems that make WFH the logical choice. After a decade of managing remote teams, I've seen that sustainable work-from-home arrangements come from proven performance, not perfect excuses.
Use these scripts when genuine situations arise, but invest more energy in becoming the employee managers trust to work remotely. That trust, once earned, is more valuable than any excuse in this article.
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Cole Sperry is Managing Editor at OptimCareers.com. As a former recruiter, hiring manager, and career coach, he provides career guidance from the perspective of someone who's made hiring decisions, managed teams, and coached professionals through workplace challenges.
