32 Good Excuses to Leave Work Early (And How to Ask)

Life doesn't always follow a schedule, and sometimes you need to leave work early.

Whether it's a doctor's appointment, a family emergency, or just needing a mental health break, there are plenty of valid reasons to head out before the end of the day. The trick is finding a good excuse that doesn't raise eyebrows or make you feel awkward about leaving.

In this blog, we'll explore the best and most believable excuses to leave work early, grouped into categories for different situations. We'll also provide tips on professionally asking for time off without disrupting your work or team. Whether it's a last-minute emergency or a well-planned excuse, we've got you covered!

Medical and Health-Related Excuses

Medical and health-related excuses are often the most valid and universally accepted when it comes to leaving work early. If you're feeling unwell or have a scheduled appointment, it's easier to justify stepping out without causing too much suspicion.

Let's check some of the best health-related excuses and sample messages to help you communicate professionally.

1. Doctor's Appointment

If you have a doctor's appointment scheduled, it's a straightforward and legitimate reason to leave early. Most workplaces are understanding of their employees' medical needs.

Sample message:

"Hi [Manager's Name], I have a doctor's appointment scheduled for this afternoon, so I'll need to leave the office by [time]. I've ensured my tasks for the day are up to date and will catch up on any remaining work tomorrow. Thanks for your understandin."

2. Dental Appointment

Your dental needs can't always be rescheduled around work. Dental issues are a great reason to leave early—just make sure to inform your boss in advance.

Sample message:

"Hi [Manager's Name], I have a dental appointment this afternoon that I booked a while ago. I'll need to leave work early at [time], but I'll ensure all my tasks are completed before I go. I'll also be available by phone if anything urgent comes up. Thank you!"

3. Mental Health Day

Taking care of your mental health is just as important as your physical health. If you're feeling overwhelmed, taking a break and returning refreshed is better.

Sample message:

"Hi [Manager's Name], I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed today and think it's best for my well-being if I take the afternoon off. I'd like to leave around [time] and will make sure to handle any important tasks remotely if needed. Thanks for understanding."

4. Sudden Illness (Upset Stomach, Cough, Fever)

Everyone has those days when an upset stomach or a sudden fever hits out of nowhere. It's better to go home and rest than risk spreading it to your coworkers.

Sample message:

"Hi [Manager's Name], I've developed an upset stomach and think it's best if I head home and rest. I'll leave around [time] and update you tomorrow, depending on how I feel. Let me know if you need anything urgent in the meantime."

5. Severe Headache or Migraine

A pounding headache can make it impossible to focus. If you're suffering from a migraine, it's best to call it a day and rest up.

Sample message:

"Hi [Manager's Name], I'm experiencing a severe migraine and am finding it difficult to concentrate. I think it's best if I leave work early to recover. I'll make sure to handle any urgent tasks once I'm feeling better. Appreciate your understanding."

6. Sick Child at Home

If your child falls ill, you may need to leave work early to take care of them. Most workplaces are understanding when it comes to family emergencies like this.

Sample message:

"Hi [Manager's Name], I've just received a call from my child's school that they're unwell and need to be picked up. I'll need to leave work early today but will ensure I'm available for any urgent matters remotely. Thanks for understanding."

7. Family Medical Emergency (Yours or a Relative's Health Crisis)

If there's a serious medical situation in your family, it's one of the few reasons that can excuse you from work at a moment's notice.

Sample message:

"Hi [Manager's Name], I've just been informed of a family medical emergency, and I need to leave work immediately. I'll be in touch with updates and ensure that my tasks are covered in my absence. Thank you for your understanding."

Family and Home-Related Excuses

When life throws you a curveball at home, sometimes you just have to dash out of the office.

Whether it's a family emergency or an unexpected home disaster, these excuses are usually met with sympathy and understanding—mainly when you communicate them well.

Here's a list of legit family and home-related excuses that'll have you out the door in no time.

8. Family Emergency (Child, Parent, or Relative)

When family calls, you've got to answer. A sudden family emergency—a sick child, an injured parent, or another urgent matter—always takes priority.

Sample message:

"Hi [Manager's Name], I've just received some urgent news about a family emergency that requires my immediate attention. I'll need to leave work early today and will provide updates as soon as I can. Please let me know if anything requires my immediate attention before I go."

9. Unexpected Home Maintenance or Repairs (Burst Pipe, Power Outage)

There's nothing like the joy of owning or renting a home… until something goes horribly wrong! If a pipe bursts or the power goes out, you'll need to head home quickly to avoid a major mess (or worse, a flooded living room).

Sample message:

"Hi [Manager's Name], I've just been informed that there's a burst pipe at home, and I need to be there to manage the repairs. I'll need to leave work early, but I'll ensure my tasks are covered and will follow up once I'm back. Thank you for understanding."

10. Pet Emergency (Illness, Vet Appointment)

Your furry friend isn't feeling well, and let's face it—they can't exactly take themselves to the vet. When your pet has an emergency, leaving work early to care for them is perfectly reasonable.

Sample message:

"Hi [Manager's Name], I need to leave work early today as my pet is unwell, and I need to take them to the vet. I'll handle any urgent tasks remotely and ensure nothing is left unattended. Thanks for your support."

11. School Event or Childcare Crisis

If you're a parent, school events or sudden childcare issues can pop up when you least expect them. Whether it's a last-minute school pickup or an emergency at daycare, these things can't wait.

Sample message:

"Hi [Manager's Name], I've just been informed by my child's school that I need to pick them up early due to an unexpected issue. I'll be leaving work at [time], but I'll make sure to follow up with anything urgent once I'm back online. Appreciate your understanding."

12. Loss of Personal Belongings (Keys, Wallet, etc.)

Misplacing your wallet or keys can turn a regular day into a minor disaster. If your important belongings are missing and you need to find them, heading out early makes perfect sense.

Sample message:

"Hi [Manager's Name], I've just realized that I've misplaced my wallet/keys, and I need to leave early to sort this out. I'll make sure all my tasks are covered before I go and will check in if anything urgent arises. Thanks for understanding."

13. Severe Weather Conditions or Natural Disaster

When the weather outside is more "danger zone" than "sunshine and rainbows," it's time to head home early. No one wants to be stuck in the office during a storm or, worse, trying to drive through dangerous conditions.

Sample message:

"Hi [Manager's Name], Due to the severe weather warning in my area, I'd like to leave early today to ensure I can get home safely. I've completed most of my tasks, but I'll be available remotely if needed. Thanks for understanding."

Professional and Work-Related Excuses

Sometimes, your reason for leaving early isn't because of personal emergencies but rather professional obligations. Whether it's a client meeting, networking event, or jury duty, these work-related reasons are valid and often hard to argue with.

Let's dive into the best professional excuses to leave work early and how to communicate them effectively.

14. Business Networking Event

Building connections is crucial in any profession. At times, important networking events may clash with work hours. Leaving a little early for one of these events isn't just a good excuse—it's a smart career move.

Sample message:

"Hi [Manager's Name], I have a business networking event this afternoon, and I'll need to leave work early to attend. I've wrapped up my tasks for the day but will be available if anything urgent comes up. Thanks for understanding!"

15. Client-Related Obligations

Sometimes, your clients require your attention outside of the office, and that's just part of the job. Whether it's an off-site meeting or a last-minute call, leaving early to attend to client matters is almost always a valid reason.

Sample message:

"Hi [Manager's Name], I have a client meeting this afternoon that I must attend off-site. I'll be leaving work around [time], but I'll ensure all my tasks are covered before I go. Please let me know if you need anything else before I head out."

16. Professional Development Activity (Workshop, Training)

Investing in your growth isn't just beneficial for you—it's good for the company, too. If you need to attend a workshop or training session, it's an easy way to justify leaving work early.

Sample message:

"Hi [Manager's Name], I'm attending a professional development workshop this afternoon and must leave early. I've ensured all my work is completed, but I'll be available for anything urgent. Thank you!"

17. Jury Duty or Legal Appointment

Few things are as official as a jury duty notice or a legal appointment. These obligations are non-negotiable; any reasonable manager will understand if you need to leave early to handle them.

Sample message:

"Hi [Manager's Name], I've been called for jury duty this afternoon, and I'll need to leave early to attend. I've wrapped up my tasks for the day but will follow up if anything urgent comes up. I appreciate your understanding!"

Personal and Urgent Life-Related Excuses

Sometimes, life throws unexpected personal tasks or responsibilities your way, and you need to head out of the office early to take care of them.

These excuses often relate to personal obligations that just can't wait—things like civic duties or religious observances. Here are some excuses that will come in handy.

18. Religious or Cultural Observance

Religious or cultural practices often require time away from work, and most managers will understand if you need to leave early to observe an important tradition.

Sample message:

"Hi [Manager's Name], I have a religious observance today that I need to attend, and I'll need to leave work early around [time]. I've completed my tasks for the day, but please let me know if there's anything urgent to handle before I go. Thank you for understanding."

19. Voting or Civic Duties

When it's time to cast your vote or perform another civic duty, leaving work early is a valid and responsible decision. Everyone understands the importance of participating in democratic processes.
Sample message:

"Hi [Manager's Name], I need to leave work early today to vote in the election. I've made sure my tasks are up to date, but I'll be available for anything urgent if needed. Appreciate your understanding!"

20. Personal Errands (Banking, Legal Matters, DMV)

Sometimes, personal errands like banking, legal appointments, or DMV visits are unavoidable and can't always be scheduled outside of work hours.

Sample message:

"Hi [Manager's Name], I have an urgent personal errand (banking/legal appointment) this afternoon, and I'll need to leave work early to take care of it. I've ensured my work is on track, but I'll be available remotely for anything urgent. Thanks for your understanding!"

21. Community Service or Volunteering

Volunteering or participating in community service activities is a positive and often respected reason for leaving work early—especially if your company values social responsibility.

Sample message:

"Hi [Manager's Name], I've committed to volunteering this afternoon and will need to leave work a little early. I've ensured that all my work is covered and will be available remotely if anything arises. Appreciate your support!"

Clever Excuses to Leave Work Early

Sometimes, you need to get creative with your excuses, especially when there's no pressing emergency, but you still need to head out.

These clever excuses are subtle enough to avoid raising suspicion but believable enough to get you out of the office when necessary. Let's explore some of the best ones.

22. Security Alarm Triggered at Home

Nothing gets attention like a home security alarm going off. It's one of those emergencies where no one will question your need to dash home.

Sample message:

"Hi [Manager's Name], I just received a notification that my home security alarm has gone off. I need to leave early to check on it, but I've ensured my tasks are up to date. I'll be available remotely if anything urgent comes up."

23. Internet or Power Outage

Suppose the internet or power goes out at home. This can cause a disruption that needs your immediate attention, especially if it affects your remote work capabilities.

Sample message:

"Hi [Manager's Name], I've been informed that there's a power outage at home, and I need to leave early to fix it. I've ensured my tasks are covered and will update you once everything is resolved. Thanks for your understanding."

24. Unexpected Important Delivery at Home

We've all been there—waiting for an important package that requires a signature. If it's valuable or time-sensitive, leaving early to receive it makes sense.

Sample message:

"Hi [Manager's Name], I have an important delivery scheduled for this afternoon. I need to be home to receive it. I'll leave early today but will handle any outstanding tasks once I'm back. Let me know if you need anything before I head out."

25. In-Laws Showed Up Unexpectedly

When family members (especially in-laws) make an unannounced visit, sometimes you just have to leave work early to manage the situation.

Sample message:

"Hi [Manager's Name], My in-laws have just arrived unexpectedly, and I need to head home early to accommodate them. I've made sure my work is complete, but I'll be available remotely if needed. I appreciate your understanding!"

Last-Minute Excuses to Leave Work Early

Sometimes, emergencies or unexpected situations pop up at the worst possible times.

These last-minute excuses are perfect when you need to leave work quickly without much prior notice. Let's go over some of the best options for those sudden moments.

26. Car Trouble or Breakdown

Cars have a habit of breaking down at the most inconvenient times, and this excuse is both believable and urgent enough to justify leaving early without much explanation.

Sample message:

"Hi [Manager's Name], my car broke down, and I need to leave early to get it to the mechanic. I've ensured my tasks for the day are handled, but I'll be available by phone if you need anything urgent. Thanks for understanding!"

27. Doctor's Appointment That Came Up Last Minute

Sometimes, you manage to snag a last-minute appointment with your doctor, and those slots are too rare to pass up. It's a legitimate and time-sensitive reason to leave early.

Sample message:

"Hi [Manager's Name], I just got a last-minute opening for a doctor's appointment this afternoon, and I need to leave early to attend. I'll ensure all my work is up to date before I go. Appreciate your support!"

Good Excuses to Leave Work Early at Night

When you're working late, leaving early might still be necessary. These excuses are tailored to situations that arise in the evening, helping you make a smooth exit without repeating earlier reasons.

28. Neighbor's Emergency Request

If your neighbor needs urgent assistance—whether helping them with an emergency or being there for them in a crisis—it's a reasonable excuse to leave work early at night.

Sample message:

"Hi [Manager's Name], my neighbor is in an emergency, and I've been asked to assist. I'll need to leave work early tonight to help out. I've completed my tasks for the day and will be available remotely. Thanks for your support!"

29. Locking Yourself Out of the House

Locking yourself out late at night can be a big problem, especially if you're stuck without a way to get in. It's a unique but relatable reason to head out early.

Sample message:

"Hi [Manager's Name], I just realized I've locked myself out of the house, and I need to leave early to handle the situation. I'll finish up my tasks before I go. Appreciate your understanding!"

Excuses to Leave Work Early for an Interview

You need to be strategic when you're trying to attend an interview without making it obvious. These fresh excuses will allow you to leave work discreetly for an interview without duplicating earlier reasons.

30. Personal Errand That Can't Be Rescheduled

A personal errand like picking up something urgent that can't wait for another day is a simple yet effective excuse for leaving early for an interview.

Sample message:

"Hi [Manager's Name], I have a personal errand that came up last minute and can't be rescheduled. I'll need to leave work early, but I'll finish my tasks before I go. Please let me know if you need anything before I head out."

31. Medical Tests or Screening

Sometimes, you must attend a scheduled medical test or screening that cannot be moved. This is a valid reason to leave work early, and no one will question it.

Sample message:

"Hi [Manager's Name], I've managed to secure an appointment for a medical test that's been pending for a while. I need to leave early to attend, so I'll ensure my work is up to date before I go. Thanks for your support!"

32. Personal Financial Meetings (e.g., Mortgage or Loan Appointment)

Suppose you need to attend a financial meeting for something like a mortgage or loan approval. In that case, it's a legitimate reason to leave work early and can be used discreetly for an interview.

Sample message:

"Hi [Manager's Name], I need to attend a last-minute financial meeting this afternoon regarding my mortgage/loan. I'll make sure all my tasks are handled before I leave. Thank you for understanding!"

Bad Excuses for Leaving Work Early

While you may think your reason is completely legitimate, it may come off as a sign of laziness or poor work ethic. Hence, it's probably best to avoid using bad excuses to leave work early – unless you intentionally want to be seen as a less-than-reliable employee. Think twice before using any of these excuses to leave work early.

1. Boredom

There is a possibility that you might feel bored at times, but that is not a good reason to leave early. Preferably, it is best to let your supervisor know you're done with your current tasks and have a new one to work on. It will increase your credibility in their eyes while killing your boredom.

2. Going to hang out with friends

Having a few friends in town to hang out with might be nice, but that doesn't mean you should skip work to do it. That will be a poor excuse to use and even make you look like a slacker.

In case of such events, plan it and request time off ahead of time. It will help you to enjoy time with friends without feeling guilty.

3. Being hungover

When your party hat is on, and you're living it up, you'll probably pay for it with a nasty hangover the next morning.

However, using a hangover as an excuse to leave work early the next day will make you look irresponsible. Nevertheless, it can also give your manager or supervisor a negative impression of you.

4. Recreational activities

It doesn't matter if you have a jamming session with your bandmates after work or booked a Zumba class; it is not a professional practice to ask your employer to leave work early for these reasons — unless it is a company-sponsored event.

Recreation and leisure time is important for your health and well-being. Still, it should not intermingle with your professional responsibilities.

5. Going for a job interview

Using a job interview as an excuse to leave work early is a big NO — unless you have been laid off. Such kind of request might jeopardize your current relationship with your employer.

How to Professionally Ask to Leave Work Early

Now that you have a list of good excuses, the next step is to ask your manager or supervisor in the right way.

It's not just about what you say, but how you say it. Being polite, respectful, and transparent will go a long way toward making your request acceptable.

Here's how to handle it professionally.

Know Your Company's Policies

Before making any requests, ensure you know your company's policies around taking time off. Some organizations might require formal requests or documentation, while others might be more flexible.

Be Transparent and Honest

Honesty goes a long way. If you're upfront about why you must leave early, your manager will be more likely to understand and approve your request. Just avoid making excuses that sound too far-fetched.

Choose the Right Timing

Timing is everything. Don't ask to leave early, right when a major project is due or in the middle of a team crisis. Wait until your absence won't cause unnecessary stress or disruptions.

Be Proactive and Provide Updates

Offer to finish any urgent tasks before you leave and let your manager know how you'll handle any remaining work. Showing that you've thought ahead will make it easier for them to approve your request.

Offer a Plan for Managing Your Workload

If leaving early means someone else needs to cover for you, have a plan ready. Either delegate your tasks to a coworker or assure your manager that everything is under control.

Show Appreciation

Always thank your manager for understanding. A little gratitude goes a long way in maintaining a positive relationship, especially when you need a favor, like leaving early.

Factors That May Affect Your Likelihood to Leave Early

Just like no two employees are the same, no two workplaces are similar. Some companies are more understanding and flexible about its work hours, while others are less so. So, it's important to know how your workplace operates before you make any excuses to leave work early.

A little early departure isn't a big deal once in a while. But some situations might make getting approval for your early leave difficult. Here are some factors that might affect the likelihood of your excuses to leave work early:

1. Culture of the company

When deciding whether to make any excuses to leave work early, company culture is the first thing to consider. For example, suppose you work for a company that values work-life balance and allows you to manage your schedule. In that case, you can likely request some time off without any problems.

While there are some organizations where you have to show up to work early and stay late, leaving you no room for a work-life balance, such a rigid schedule can negatively impact your chances of requesting time off.

Therefore it is wise to find a company that has a good work culture and allows for a work-life balance. Though it’s difficult to assess a company's culture before you start working for it, tools like the Vantage Lens can be of great help in this regard.

2. Policies of the Organization

Every organization has policies regarding leave, such as sick leave, casual leave, vacation time, and personal days. These policies may vary from company to company and act as employees' guidelines.

Before you make any excuse for leaving early, you need to be aware of the rules laid down by the management in this regard. The information will help you understand what may be considered valid grounds for leaving early and what might not.

3. Your habits in the workplace

Your current employer might not give you a hard time about leaving early if you are not the poster child for making excuses to leave work early.

Your habits in the workplace are a reflection of your work performance. So, if you are frequently seen with negative workplace habits, your employer might not take your request seriously.

4. Relationships with your supervisor

How you forge your relationship with your boss will impact many things in your career. Among them, one is your chances of leaving early.

When you have a good rapport with your supervisor, you will have a better chance of getting their approval. Furthermore, a professional and productive relationship with your boss will instill confidence and trust. So, you can make them better understand your situation and ask them to grant your request.

On the contrary, things can get a little grim if you are on bad terms with your boss. So, evaluate this factor before you come up with an excuse.

Key Takeaways

It is important to understand that not all excuses are created equal. While some excuses are better, some make it harder to leave work early and even hurt your credibility.

Furthermore, excuses alone can't get you out of work early. Other factors such as company culture, organization policies, habits, and relationships with supervisors are crucial in increasing your chances of getting approval to leave early. Therefore, you should not use an excuse before understanding how your workplace operates. Also, it is essential to be honest, and not abuse the privilege of leaving early.

Overall, if you are in good standing with your employer, have a valid reason, and are honest, leaving work early should not be an issue.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it bad to ask your boss to leave work early?

It's okay to ask your boss for an early departure from work, but make sure to complete all essential tasks beforehand. Be polite and clear in your request, and prioritize important work to avoid misunderstandings.

Would asking to leave early at work be unprofessional?

It depends. If you frequently make this request without a valid reason, it can reflect poorly on your professionalism. However, if you have a legitimate excuse and have completed all of your assigned work, asking to leave early politely and professionally is acceptable.

What counts as a family emergency?

A family emergency is when something really important happens and you have to deal with it right away. This could be something like someone in your family getting really sick or passing away, or something bad happening to your home like a fire or flood. It's crucial to let your boss know about the emergency and figure out what you need to do next.

Can I Get Fired for Leaving Work Early?

In most cases, you won't get fired for leaving work early—especially if you have a valid reason and you've communicated with your manager. However, habitually doing it without approval or using questionable excuses could harm your reputation and, over time, put your job at risk.

Should I Provide Documentation for Medical or Legal Appointments?

Some workplaces may ask for documentation, especially if you're leaving for medical or legal reasons. It's always good to have it ready if your employer asks for confirmation.