Phone script · Your manager or supervisor

Calling in sick

Call or message as early as you can, follow your workplace's call-out rules, and keep it short. You don't owe anyone your medical details.

Have this ready

Your work schedule, so you know which shift you'll miss
Your manager's number, and your workplace's call-out policy
Your employee handbook, if you have one, for sick-leave rules

What to say

Open
“Hi, this is [your name]. I'm calling because I'm sick and can't come in for my [day, time] shift.”
Keep it short
“I'm not well enough to work today. I'll keep you posted.”
Offer what helps
“[Name] mentioned they might want extra hours, if that helps. / I can send over where I left off on [task].”
Say when you'll update
“I'll let you know by [time] tomorrow if I'll be back.”
Close
“Thanks for understanding.”

Write down the date, the name of the person you spoke with, and what they said.

Rather text or email?

The same ask, written down. Fill in the brackets, then copy. A written message also gives you a dated record.

Text to your manager

Hi [manager's name], it's [your name]. I'm sick and can't make my [day, time] shift. I'll update you by [time] tomorrow about whether I'll be back. [Name] mentioned wanting extra hours, if that helps. Sorry for the short notice.

Email

Subject: Out sick today, [date]

Hi [manager's name],

I'm sick and won't be able to work my [day, time] shift today. I'll let you know by [time] tomorrow whether I'll be back.

[Optional: Here's where I left off on (task): (one line). (Coworker) has the details.]

Thanks for understanding,
[Your name]

After the call

There's currently no federal requirement for paid sick leave, so whether you're paid for a sick day depends on your employer's policy and where you live. Check your handbook. Source: Dept. of Labor¹
For a serious health condition, the Family and Medical Leave Act gives eligible workers up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave. You qualify after 12 months and 1,250 hours with an employer that has at least 50 employees within 75 miles. Source: Dept. of Labor¹
Federal law strictly limits what an employer can ask about your health, and your medical information should be kept private. Source: EEOC³

The full lesson: Your rights at work

Sources

U.S. Department of Labor Sick leave
U.S. Department of Labor Family and Medical Leave Act
U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission Your rights (youth at work)

Last checked October 2, 2026 against the sources listed.

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