Calling in Sick During Your Notice Period

Everyone · Explainer · Updated October 1, 2026 · LearnLife Editorial

What does calling in sick during your notice period mean?

Calling in sick during your notice period means informing your employer that you cannot work due to illness after you have given notice that you are leaving the job. The notice period is the time between submitting your resignation and your last official day at work. During this time, you are still an employee and entitled to benefits like sick leave, just as before. Calling in sick signals that you need time off for health reasons, even though your departure is imminent. It is important to be honest and follow your employer’s sick leave policy, as misuse during this short time can damage your professional reputation. For example, if you handed in your resignation on June 1st with a two-week notice, and on June 7th you feel sick and cannot work, calling in sick on June 7th means you are requesting a sick day within your notice period.

How does calling in sick during the notice period work?

When you call in sick during your notice period, notify your employer as soon as you realize you are unable to work. Use the usual communication method—whether that's a phone call, email, or company app. For example, if your last day is July 15th and on July 10th you develop the flu, you would call your manager early in the morning and say:

“Hi [Manager’s Name], I’m not feeling well today with a fever and won’t be able to come in. I’ll keep you updated and get a doctor’s note if needed.”

Your employer may ask for a doctor’s note, especially if you take multiple days off. Your sick leave during the notice period may be paid or unpaid, depending on company policy and state laws. If you have accrued sick leave, you may use it during your notice period. Be sure to ask about this when you give your notice. Remember to keep communication open, especially as you may still need to complete handover tasks or assist with training your replacement during your sick days.

Why does it matter to know if you can call in sick during your notice period?

Knowing your rights and responsibilities regarding sick leave during the notice period helps you avoid conflicts and protects your professional reputation. If you are genuinely sick, you should not feel pressured to work. However, abusing sick leave during your notice period—such as calling in sick without a real illness—can harm your relationship with your employer and affect future references. For example, if you call in sick the day after submitting your resignation without valid reason, your employer might question your professionalism. Understanding company policies, keeping clear communication, and providing medical proof when necessary will help you leave on good terms. This knowledge also helps protect your health and legal rights as your employment ends.

What do people often confuse with calling in sick during the notice period?

People sometimes confuse calling in sick with quitting without notice or taking vacation during their notice period. Here’s how these differ:

Another confusion is whether calling in sick extends your notice period. In most cases, the notice period countdown continues whether you are at work or sick unless your employer agrees to extend it. Clarifying these terms prevents misunderstandings about your obligations during your notice period.

What should you do before calling in sick during your notice period?

Before calling in sick, take these steps to protect yourself and maintain professionalism:

1. Review your company’s sick leave and notice policies. Check your employee handbook or ask HR about how sick leave works during the notice period.
2. Assess your symptoms honestly. Only call in sick if you genuinely cannot work.
3. Notify your employer early. Use the standard method—phone, email, or app—and inform your manager or HR as soon as possible.
4. Use clear, polite wording. For example: > “Hello [Manager’s Name], I’m feeling unwell today with [brief symptoms]. I won’t be able to work but will keep you updated.”
5. Offer to help if possible. If you feel up to it, offer to provide handover notes or brief colleagues remotely.
6. Get a doctor’s note if required. Many employers request medical proof, especially for multiple days off.

Following these steps helps maintain trust and ensures your sick leave is respected.

How can you handle your responsibilities if you get sick during your notice period?

Even if you fall ill during your notice period, you can manage your responsibilities thoughtfully:

• Communicate updates promptly. Let your manager know if your illness lasts longer than a day or two.
• Provide handover information. If you can, prepare notes on your current projects or tasks to help colleagues or your replacement.
• Delegate urgent tasks. If possible, suggest someone who can cover critical work while you are away.
• Keep documentation. Save emails, doctor’s notes, and any communication regarding your absence.
• Discuss options with HR. If illness prevents you from finishing the notice period, ask about early release or paid/unpaid leave alternatives.

For example, if you are sick for three days during a two-week notice period, send a daily update email and submit a doctor’s note. This approach shows responsibility and helps your employer plan accordingly.

What are your rights and limits regarding sick leave during the notice period?

Your rights to sick leave depend on your employer’s policy, your employment contract, and state laws. Here are key points:

• You may use accrued paid sick leave during your notice period if allowed.
• Some states require employers to let employees use sick leave during notice periods; others don’t.
• Employers can request medical proof for extended sick leave.
• Employers may choose to waive the notice period or pay you instead of requiring you to work if you are sick.
• Sick leave does not usually extend the notice period unless agreed upon.

If you feel your rights are being denied, you can contact local labor boards or legal aid for advice. Always check your company handbook and state labor department for specific rules.

What to do next if you are sick during your notice period?

If you become ill during your notice period, follow these steps:

1. Notify your employer immediately using your company’s preferred method.
2. Provide honest information about your illness and expected return.
3. Obtain a doctor’s note if required or if your absence extends beyond one day.
4. Communicate frequently about your recovery and ability to complete your notice period.
5. Offer assistance with handover tasks if you are able.
6. Keep records of all communications and medical documentation.
7. Review your pay and benefits to understand how sick leave affects your final paycheck.
8. Consult labor rights resources if you face issues with your employer around sick leave during notice.

This proactive approach helps maintain good relations and protects your rights as you finish your job.

Frequently asked questions

Can my employer refuse to accept my sick leave during the notice period?

If your sick leave is legitimate and you follow company policies, your employer generally cannot refuse it. They may require a doctor’s note, especially for multiple days. If they refuse, ask for an explanation and contact labor rights organizations if needed.

Does calling in sick during the notice period extend my last day of work?

Usually, no. The notice period continues even if you are sick unless your employer agrees to extend it. Your last official day remains as initially agreed.

Am I paid for sick days during my notice period?

Payment for sick days depends on your employer’s policy and state laws. If you have accrued sick leave, you may be compensated for sick days taken during your notice period. Confirm with HR or your employee handbook.

What if I quit without giving notice but get sick afterward?

Once you quit without notice, you are no longer employed and cannot call in sick for that job. Your sick leave rights end with your employment. Seek medical care independently and inform any new employer if needed.

Should I provide a doctor’s note when calling in sick during my notice period?

Yes, especially if your absence lasts more than one day or if your employer requests it. A doctor’s note verifies your illness and supports your sick leave claim during your notice period.