What to say when you call in sick

Check the rules first

Your workplace's call-in rules say who to tell, how, and by when.

• Who: your manager, the supervisor on shift, or a call-in line.
• How: a call, a text, an email or a scheduling app.
• When: how long before your shift starts.

Look in your handbook or schedule app. If nothing is written down, call your manager as early as you can.

What to say

Say three things: you're sick, you won't be in today, and when you'll update them.

"Hi, it's [name]. I'm sick and won't be in for my [time] shift today.
I'll update you by [time] about tomorrow.
[One handover note, if anything is urgent.]"

Then stop, and answer any questions they have.

If you get voicemail

Leave the same three lines, plus your number.

"Hi, it's [name], calling at [time]. I'm sick and won't be in for my [time] shift today. I'll update you by [time]. You can reach me at [number]."

Then send a text or email if your workplace allows it, so there's a written record. More in how to leave a voicemail that gets a callback.

What you don't need to say

You don't need to describe the illness or apologize at length.

Bring a doctor's note only if your policy asks for one. Rules on notes vary by employer and by state or province.

Can someone else call in sick for you?

Often yes, but check your policy, since some employers want to hear from you directly.

If your policy says to call yourself, do that, even if the call is short. If it doesn't, a family member or an assistant can pass the message on.

Let Phone Bud make the call

Type who to call, their number, and the message in your own words.

Phone Bud introduces itself as your assistant, passes the message on, and leaves a voicemail if no one answers. The notes tell you who it reached and what they said.

Here's a made-up example.

Limits

Phone Bud passes on your message, and you handle anything after that.

• It introduces itself as your assistant, says it's an AI if asked, and never claims to be you or a person.
• A later reply reaches you only if your number is in the message, or you call from your own number verified in Settings.
• It can't transfer the call to you.
• It calls US and Canada numbers only.

Related

See the page for calls you'd rather not make, how Phone Bud can pass on a message, ready-made phone call scripts, and whether AI phone calls are legal. All guides.

FAQ

Do I have to say why I'm sick?

Usually not. Saying you're unwell and can't come in is enough, unless your policy asks for more.

Can someone else call in sick for me?

Many workplaces accept it, but check your policy, since some require you to call yourself.

Is it OK to call in sick by voicemail?

If no one answers, yes. Follow up by text or email if your workplace allows it.

Can an AI call in sick for me?

Yes. Phone Bud calls as your assistant, passes on the message, and leaves a voicemail if no one answers.