Set Up Out of Office Auto-Reply

Set Up Automatic Replies in Outlook

Let people know you're away by setting up an automatic out-of-office reply.

Outlook Desktop (Windows)

1. Click File in the top menu
2. Click Automatic Replies (Out of Office)
3. Select Send automatic replies
4. Optionally set a date range (recommended)
5. Type your message in the Inside My Organization tab
6. Click the Outside My Organization tab for external contacts
7. Check Auto-reply to people outside my organization
8. Choose whether to reply to contacts only or anyone
9. Type your external message
10. Click OK

Outlook Web (outlook.office.com)

1. Click the Settings gear in the top right
2. Click View all Outlook settings
3. Go to Mail > Automatic replies
4. Turn on Automatic replies
5. Set your date range and messages
6. Click Save

Sample Out of Office Message

"Thank you for your email. I am currently out of the office with limited access to email. I will return on [DATE]. For urgent matters, please contact [COLLEAGUE NAME] at [EMAIL]. I will respond to your email upon my return."

Tips

• Always set an end date so replies turn off automatically
• Include an alternate contact for urgent issues
• Keep the message professional and brief
• Don't include sensitive information in external replies

Need more help? Contact our helpdesk and we'll be happy to assist you.