How to Text Your Boss to Ask to Work From Home
Sometimes you need to work from home and a text is the fastest way to let your boss know. Maybe you are waiting on a delivery, feeling under the weather, or just need a focused day without the commute. Here is how to ask without overthinking it.
Casual but Responsible
RecommendedHi [Boss Name], would it be okay if I worked from home today? [I have a repair person coming this morning / I am not feeling 100% but can still work / I need a focused day to finish the report]. I will be fully available on Slack and email, and I do not have any in-person meetings on the calendar. Let me know!
Alternative Versions
Polite Same-Day Request
politeGood morning [Boss Name], would you mind if I worked from home today? [Brief reason]. I have checked my calendar and do not have any in-person commitments. I will be online and reachable the whole day.
Short and Confident
directHey [Boss Name], going to work from home today -- [brief reason]. Nothing on the calendar that needs me in office. I will be available on all the usual channels. Let me know if that is a problem.
More Formal Version
professionalHi [Boss Name], I wanted to check in about working remotely today. I have [reason], and I believe I can be just as productive from home. I will make sure to stay available on [Slack / Teams / email] and attend all scheduled meetings virtually. Please let me know if you need me in the office instead.
Day-Before Request
warmHi [Boss Name], quick question -- would it be alright if I worked from home tomorrow? I have [reason] and thought it would be easier to handle from home. I will have my laptop and everything I need. Totally understand if you need me in the office though!
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When to Use This
Send this when: • You need to work remotely for a specific reason today • Your workplace allows occasional WFH but you need to ask • You have a texting relationship with your manager • It is a same-day or next-day request, not a permanent arrangement • You want to show you are still committed to getting your work done
What Not to Say
Avoid: • Texting at 8:55 AM when you are supposed to be in at 9 • Making it sound like you just do not want to come in • Being vague about why -- give at least a brief reason • Forgetting to mention you will be reachable • Asking on a day you know there are important in-person meetings