20 Best Excuses to Miss Work on Short Notice (That Actually Work)

Need a day off ASAP but out of believable excuses? We’ve all been there. Whether you’re burned out, need a break, or just can't face your job today, having a solid reason can make all the difference. From sick days to pet emergencies, here are 20 believable, last-minute excuses to skip work without raising eyebrows.

 

Things to Remember Before Calling Out

• Keep it short: “I’m not feeling well” is often enough.
  
  

• Use specific but relatable situations: Illness, emergencies, or appointments work best.
  
  

• Avoid overused or exaggerated stories that can be checked or questioned.

 

1. You’re Sick

 

A classic go-to. Whether it’s a sore throat, flu, or stomach bug, a vague but convincing illness usually works.

“I woke up feeling awful—really sore throat and chills. I don’t want to risk spreading anything, so I’m staying home.”

 

2. Your Child Is Sick

 

If you have kids, this one’s golden. No one wants contagious kids around.

 

“My daughter has a fever and can’t go to school. I’ll be home taking care of her today.”

 

3. Emergency Doctor’s Appointment

 

Medical appointments are private and hard to question—just don’t overuse them.

“I finally got a last-minute doctor’s appointment I’ve been waiting weeks for. I’ll need to take the day.”

 

4. You Have Food Poisoning

 

Sudden, gross, and completely untraceable. Perfect.

“I’ve been sick all night with food poisoning and can’t keep anything down.”

 

5. Dental Emergency

 

Chipped teeth, root canals, and killer toothaches are easy to fake and usually earn sympathy.

“I cracked a tooth this morning and need an emergency dentist visit.”

 

6. You Have a Migraine

 

Debilitating and common. Bosses rarely question migraines.

“I’ve got a severe migraine and can’t look at a screen. I’ll need a sick day.”

 

7. You Had a Minor Injury

 

Sprains, pulled muscles, or cuts can keep you home without requiring a visible cast.

“I twisted my ankle last night and can barely walk today. Heading to urgent care.”

 

8. You Threw Out Your Back

 

Back pain is believable and respected—no one wants to hear more.

“I hurt my back moving furniture and can hardly sit up today.”

 

9. You Need a Mental Health Day

 

If your workplace values wellness, this is a valid and increasingly accepted reason.

“I’ve been really overwhelmed lately and need a mental health day to recharge.”

 

10. Covid Exposure

 

Still a legit excuse in many workplaces. Check your company’s protocol first.

“I was recently exposed to Covid and will stay home until I can test negative.”

 

11. You Just Donated Blood

 

This excuse paints you as a hero and gets you a break.

“I donated blood this morning and I’m feeling faint. I’ll need to take the rest of the day off.”

 

12. Pet Emergency or Vet Appointment

 

Pet parents understand—emergency vet trips come first.

“My dog ate something toxic, and I’m taking him to the vet right now.”

13. Flat Tire or Car Trouble

Perfect for jobs that require commuting. Bonus points if it’s raining.

“My car won’t start and I’m waiting for a tow. I’ll keep you posted.”

14. You’re Locked Out

Silly but believable. Works best for remote workers or early shifts.

“I locked myself out of my house with my keys inside. Waiting on a locksmith.”

15. You Got Stuck in Traffic or an Accident

Use sparingly—especially if your manager tracks traffic.

“There’s been an accident on my route and I’m stuck behind a closure. I won’t make it in today.”

16. Death in the Family

Use with caution and respect. Keep it vague.

“There’s been a loss in my family, and I need to take the day to be with them.”

17. Water Leak or Power Outage

Home emergencies are disruptive and understandable.

“There’s a leak in my apartment and I need to wait for maintenance to fix it.”

18. Sudden Anxiety or Panic Attack

This is serious—only use if you feel comfortable talking about mental health.

“I had a panic attack this morning and need time to recover before I can work.”

19. Stomach Issues or Bad Reaction to Food

Gross but effective. No one wants details.

“I had something that didn’t sit well and I’ve been in the bathroom all morning. Not safe for work.”

20. Allergy Flare-Up

Seasonal changes make this one extra believable.

“My allergies are out of control today. I can’t stop sneezing or see straight. Taking a sick day.”

Conclusion:

Whether you’re faking sick or taking a real emergency day, having a believable and empathetic excuse is key to calling off work last minute. These excuses work because they’re common, relatable, and hard to dispute—giving you the breather you need without unnecessary guilt or drama.