31 Bulletproof Excuses to Get out of Work (In 2024)
Ever feel like you need a day off but don’t know what to say?
You’re not alone.
But here’s the thing:
Not all excuses are created equal.
Some will get you a free pass, while others… well, let’s just say they might get you a pink slip.
Ready to master the art of the perfect work excuse?
Let’s dive in.
31 Bulletproof Excuses to Get Out of Work
1. The Classic Sick Day
Flu, fever, or a nasty cold. It’s contagious, you need rest, and nobody wants you spreading germs.
In Action
You: "Good morning, Mark. This is Jessica."
Boss: "Hi Jessica, how are you?"
You: "Not great, actually. I woke up with a fever of 101 and I'm feeling pretty awful. I don't think I should come in today."
Boss: "Oh no, that doesn't sound good. Have you taken anything for it?"
You: "I've taken some ibuprofen, but I think I need to rest. I'm worried about spreading this to the team."
Boss: "You're right, we don't want that going around. Can you send an email to reschedule your meetings for today?"
You: "Already on it. I'll make sure everything's covered. I should be back tomorrow if the fever breaks."
Boss: "Okay, take care of yourself. Let me know if you need an extra day."
You: "Thanks for understanding, Mark. I'll keep you updated."
2. Family Emergency
Sudden illness or accident involving a loved one? Bosses get it. Family comes first.
3. Car Trouble
Flat tire? Engine won’t start? It happens to everyone, and it’s hard to argue with.
In Action
You: "Morning, Lisa. It's David. I've got a situation here."
Boss: "What's up, David?"
You: "My car broke down on the highway. I'm stuck waiting for a tow truck."
Boss: "That's frustrating. Any idea how long it'll take?"
You: "The tow company said at least an hour. Then I need to get it to a mechanic."
Boss: "I see. What about the client meeting at 11?"
You: "I can definitely call in for that. Once I'm home, I'll log on and work remotely for the rest of the day."
Boss: "Sounds good. Let me know when you're back online."
You: "Will do. Thanks for being flexible, Lisa."
4. Home Emergencies
Burst pipe or gas leak? These need immediate attention.
In Action
You: "Hi Angela, it's Chris. We've got a situation at home."
Boss: "What's going on, Chris?"
You: "A tree fell on our roof during the storm last night. There's water coming in."
Boss: "Oh no, that sounds serious. Is everyone okay?"
You: "We're fine, but I need to deal with this ASAP. The insurance adjuster is coming this morning."
Boss: "Of course, that needs immediate attention. What about the Wilson account?"
You: "I've asked Kate to take point on that today. I'll be available by phone if she needs me."
Boss: "Good plan. Keep me updated on your situation."
You: "Will do. Thanks for understanding, Angela."
5. Medical Appointments
Especially those hard-to-reschedule ones. Health is important, after all.
6. Bad Weather
Snowstorm or hurricane making travel unsafe? Safety first!
7. Childcare Issues
Sick kid or daycare closure? Parents in management will definitely sympathize.
In Action
You: "Good morning, Robert. It's Emma."
Boss: "Hi Emma, what's up?"
You: "I've got a childcare emergency. My son's school just called - they're closing due to a gas leak."
Boss: "That sounds concerning. Do you need to pick him up?"
You: "Yes, I do. My usual backup sitter is out of town, so I'm in a bit of a bind."
Boss: "I see. What about the project deadline this afternoon?"
You: "I can work on it from home once I get my son settled. I'll have it in by 5 PM as planned."
Boss: "Okay, that works. Let me know if you need any support."
You: "I really appreciate your flexibility, Robert. I'll keep you posted."
8. Mental Health Day
Increasingly accepted. Shows you’re taking care of yourself.
Trying to get out of work due to burnout? Check out my article How Long Burnout Lasts Depending on your Job
9. Death of a Loved One
Morally ambiguous. Universally understood. No questions asked.
10. Jury Duty
It’s your civic duty. Employers are legally required to let you go.
You may need some proof for this one theoretically you could get a fake confirmation online (theoretically). It’s your civic duty. Employers are legally required to let you go.
11. Religious Observance
Showing respect for diversity (big companies love pretending they care about diversity). Hard to argue with faith.
12. Moving Day
It’s a hassle, and sometimes you just need that day.
13. School-Related Obligations
Parent-teacher conferences count!
14. Legal Obligations
Court appearances or lawyer meetings. The law waits for no one.
15. Public Transportation Issues
Delays happen. Especially believable in big cities.
16. Medical Tests
Some require recovery time. No one wants details.
17. Allergic Reactions
Especially if they’re severe. Health comes first.
18. Plumbing or Electrical Issues
Sometimes you need to be there for the repair person.
19. Identity Theft
Fraud doesn’t wait. You need to handle it ASAP.
20. Diarrhea
Shock factor. Too embarrassing to question. Use sparingly!
21. Pet Emergencies
Because Fluffy needs you too.
22. Locked Out
Of your car, your house, the more ambiguous the better. Won’t get you the whole day off but will get you the morning.
23. Skunk Spray
Unusual, but who wants that smell in the office?
24. Wardrobe Malfunction
Split your pants? Better get home and change. Won’t get you the whole day off but will buy you an hour or two.
A Few Fun Ones
Use these at your own risk:
25. Astrological Warning
Your horoscope is not a valid excuse.
26. Too Cold to Work
Unless you work outdoors in Alaska, probably not going to fly.
27. Attacked by Circus Clowns
Unless you’re in a Stephen King novel, this probably won’t fly.
28. Time Machine Malfunction
“I’m actually calling from 1985. See you in 38 years!”
29. Spontaneous Yodeling Syndrome
“I can’t stop yodeling and it’s driving my neighbors crazy!”
30. Glued to the Toilet
“I accidentally sat on a tube of superglue. The fire department is on their way.”
31. Unicorn in the Backyard
“I need to stay home and document this for science. It’s eating all my wife’s roses!”
The Art of the Excuse
Want to make your excuse bulletproof?
Follow these tips:
- Keep it simple: No need for a novel.
- Know your policies: Don’t get caught out.
- Communicate early: The early bird gets the… day off.
- Provide just enough details: But don’t overshare.
- Offer solutions: Show you’re still thinking about work.
The Bottom Line
Here’s the truth:
Everyone needs a day off sometimes.
But the key is to use these excuses wisely and infrequently.
Keep it honest, keep it simple, and always have a backup plan.
P.S. If you’re working this hard to get out of work, you made need a new job. Learn why changing jobs is a haircut decision and not a tattoo decision in my article here.
