Effective Sick Note Email Sample: How to Write a Professional Excuse Email

Sick Note Email Sample: How to Write a Professional Email When You’re Ill

We’ve all been there – waking up with a raging headache, a sore throat, or an upset stomach. Sometimes, we can push past the pain and head to work anyway, but other times, the only thing we can do is stay in bed and hope to feel better soon. In those cases, it’s important to let your employer know that you won’t be able to make it in.

Writing a sick note email can be a tricky task. You want to be polite, professional, and concise, all while conveying the severity of your illness. To help you out, we’ve provided some sick note email samples that you can use and edit as needed. Whether you’re feeling under the weather for a day or two or you need to take an extended break, we’ve got the right templates for you.

But first, let’s dive into what you should include in your sick note email. From the subject line to the closing, we’ll show you how to construct a well-crafted message that will keep your boss in the loop without leaving them feeling overwhelmed. So, let’s get started!

The Best Structure for a Sick Note Email Sample: An In-Depth Explanation

If you’re feeling under the weather and need to take time off work, sending a sick note email sample is a professional way to communicate your absence to your employer. However, it’s important to structure your email properly to ensure that it’s clear, concise, and easy to understand.

The first paragraph of your email should start with a greeting followed by a statement of your intention to take time off work due to illness. It’s important to be honest and transparent about your illness to avoid any confusion or misunderstanding. You should also include the date and duration of your absence to give your employer a clear idea of when you’ll be back.

The second paragraph should include any relevant details about your illness or medical condition. This might include your symptoms, any medication you’re taking, or any doctor’s orders that you need to follow. Providing this information will help your employer understand the severity of your illness and make arrangements for your absence.

The third paragraph is the perfect place to thank your employer for their understanding and support during your absence. It’s also a good idea to reassure them that you’ll be doing everything possible to get better quickly, so you can return to work as soon as possible.

Remember, when writing a sick note email sample, it’s important to keep your tone professional and respectful. Stick to the facts and avoid any unnecessary details or emotions. By following this structure, you’ll ensure that your email is clear, concise, and professional.

Sick Note Email Samples

Sick Note for Flu

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I am writing to inform you that I am unable to come to work today due to an onset of flu. I have been experiencing high fever, body ache, sore throat and headache, which has made it difficult for me to make it to the office.

As per the doctor’s advice, I need to take rest and medication to overcome this illness. I have already informed my colleagues about this situation, and I will make sure to complete all the pending tasks as soon as I recover.

Thank you for your understanding and support during this time. I will keep you updated on my recovery status and return to work as soon as possible.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Sick Note for Migraine

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I am writing this mail to inform you that I am unable to attend work today due to a severe migraine attack. I have been experiencing a pulsating headache, nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound since yesterday evening.

I have consulted a doctor, and he has advised me to take complete rest and avoid straining my eyes and brain. Due to this, I am unable to work from home as well.

I will make sure to complete all the pending tasks as soon as I am back to work. Thank you for your understanding and support during this difficult time.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Sick Note for Backache

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I am writing this email to inform you that I won’t be able to attend work today due to severe lower back pain. I woke up this morning with excruciating discomfort and stiffness in my back, making it difficult for me to move around.

I have made an appointment with a spine specialist and he has advised me to take some rest and ice application in the affected area. I will be taking medication and have been asked to refrain from any heavy lifting or movement for the next two days.

I will try my best to complete all the pending tasks once I get back to work. Thank you for your understanding and support during this time.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Sick Note for Stomach Infection

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I am writing to inform you that I won’t be available at work today due to a severe stomach infection. I have been experiencing mild fever, diarrhea, and vomiting since last night, which has made it difficult for me to come to the office.

I have consulted a doctor, and he has prescribed me medication along with a special diet plan for the next two days. Due to this, I won’t be able to work from home as well.

I will make sure to complete all the pending tasks once I come back to work. Thank you for your understanding and support during this time.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Sick Note for Eye Infection

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I am writing to inform you that I won’t be able to attend work today due to an eye infection. I have been experiencing redness, itching, and discharge from my eyes, which has made it difficult for me to focus on work.

I have visited a physician, and he has prescribed me eye-drops and advised me to take a day off from work to prevent the spread of infection to my colleagues. Due to this, I won’t be able to work from home as well.

I will make sure to complete all the pending work once I come back to work. Thank you for your understanding and support during this time.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Sick Note for Allergy

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I am writing to inform you that I won’t be attending work today due to a severe allergic reaction. I have been experiencing symptoms such as rashes, itching, and swelling on my face and neck area since last night.

I have consulted a doctor, and he has prescribed me medication and advised me to stay at home for the next 24 hours to avoid any allergic triggers. Due to this, I won’t be able to work from home as well.

I will make sure to complete all the pending work once I come back to work. Thank you for your understanding and support during this time.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Sick Note for Dental Procedure

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I am writing to inform you that I won’t be available for work for the next two days due to a scheduled dental procedure. The treatment requires me to undergo anesthesia and surgical intervention, which will need me to take complete rest for the next few days.

I have already informed about this situation to my team members and have assigned my work to a colleague who will work on my behalf during my absence.

Thank you for your understanding and support during this time. I will keep you updated on the recovery process and will come back to work as soon as possible.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Tips for Writing a Sick Note Email

As much as we wish to give our 100% every single day, there will be times where our health takes a toll on us and we have to take a day or two off work. Writing an email to your boss or HR department can be daunting, especially when you’re not feeling your best. Here are some tips to help you write a sick note email:

1. Be clear and concise. State the reason for your absence in a direct and straightforward manner. Avoid being too detailed or giving unnecessary information that might confuse or overwhelm the reader. Keep it short and sweet.

2. Use a professional tone. Remember that you’re writing to your boss or a representative of the company, so it’s important to maintain a professional tone. Avoid using informal language or being too casual in your email.

3. Provide a clear timeline for your absence. Let your employer know when you will be absent and if there are any potential changes to your schedule. Giving a clear timeline helps your employer plan their workload and ensure that everything runs smoothly even in your absence.

4. Express your gratitude. A simple ‘thank you’ can go a long way. Show your appreciation for your employer’s understanding and support during your absence. It’s a good way to maintain a positive relationship with your employer and colleagues.

5. Follow company procedure. Every company has different procedures when it comes to sick leave. Check your company’s policy to ensure that you’re following the correct process. This may involve providing a doctor’s note or filling up a leave application form.

6. Plan ahead. If possible, give your employer advance notice of your absence. This allows them to plan and make necessary arrangements to ensure that everything runs smoothly in your absence. It also shows that you’re considerate of your employer’s needs.

Writing a sick note email may seem like a simple task but it’s important to get it right. It helps ensure a smooth transition during your absence and maintains a positive relationship with your employer and coworkers. By following these tips, you can write a professional and effective sick note email that gets the job done.

FAQs about Sick Note Email Sample


What is a sick note email?

A sick note email is an electronic message that an employee sends to their employer to inform them that they are unable to work due to illness or recuperation. It serves as a formal request for leave and can help the employer keep track of their staff’s absence.

What should I include in a sick note email?

A sample sick note email should include the date, your name, your position, the date you intend to return to work, a brief explanation of your illness, and your contact details in case your employer needs to get in touch with you.

When should I send a sick note email?

You should send a sick note email as soon as possible, preferably before your scheduled work hours, to give your employer enough time to make alternate arrangements if necessary. You should also keep them updated regularly on your recovery status.

What are the benefits of using a sick note email template?

Using a sick note email template saves you time and ensures that all the necessary information is included. It also helps to maintain professionalism and standardizes the communication between the employee and employer.

Can a sick note email be rejected?

Yes, your employer has the right to reject your sick note email if it does not meet the company’s policy on sick leave or if they believe you are abusing the sick leave benefit. However, they must provide a valid reason for doing so.

Do I have to provide proof of illness when sending a sick note email?

Your company’s sick leave policy will determine whether or not you need to provide proof of your illness. In some cases, a doctor’s note or medical certificate may be required, while in others, a self-declaration may suffice.

Can I request for a sick note email if I am a freelancer or contractor?

If you work as a freelancer or contractor, you may not be entitled to sick leave benefits. However, it is recommended that you still inform your employer/client of your illness and provide an estimated time of recovery as soon as possible.

Thanks for Stopping By!

That’s all for our sick note email sample article. We hope you found it helpful and that it eased some of your stress when thinking about taking a sick day. Remember, taking care of yourself is important, and it’s okay to take a break when needed. We’ll see you again soon with more articles that are just as warm and cosy as this one!