Writing an Absence Excuse Letter for Work [with Sample]

However, without going into too many details, it needs to mention the reason that the leave is required. This means the employee doesn’t simply request leave, but mentions the reason they need it.  

For example, because they were in an automobile accident and have broken bones, or they have the flu and have been instructed by a doctor to take bed rest. If the leave involves having surgery, the employee should state the type of surgery and the date it will be performed.

letter needs to be professional

This letter will most likely become part of the permanent file of the employee, which is another reason it needs to be professional. 

The employee’s handbook or contract will give instructions for applying for leave, and give the name of the person to whom the letter should be addressed. 

If the employee has any questions, they can contact the human resources department to get the specific guidelines.

Before writing the absence excuse letter, the employee should speak to colleagues to arrange how their work will be covered, so this can be mentioned in the letter. 

Employers will appreciate the foresight and be happy that it is taken care of, so they don’t have to organize it. 

If it is not possible for the employee to arrange for their work to be covered, it is recommended they give their employer enough advance time to make plans to cover the position.

The letter should include:

• The exact dates the employee will be absent including the date they will resume work
• How they have arranged for their work or projects to be completed
• The name of other employees who are taking on the work
• A letter from their doctor or other medical record that proves they require the leave
• A completed leave form if applicable

Here is a sample absence excuse leave letter for work. It should be sent by certified mail, so the sender has proof of the time and date it was received. 

This could be important if there is any legal question pertaining to the proper method of requesting the leave. 

Sample Absence Excuse Letter For Work

Your Name
Your Address
City, State, Zip Code

DATE

Employer’s Name
Employer’s Position
Company or Institution’s Name
Employer’s Address
City, State, Zip Code

Dear Employer’s Name,

This letter is accompanying my medical leave form to inform you that I am requesting excused leave for three weeks from DATE to DATE. I will resume work on DATE.