Out of Office Message for Bereavement: 16 Templates
I'm sorry you're here because it means you're experiencing a difficult loss. Setting a professional yet compassionate out of office message is one small task you can control right now. Below are 16 ready-to-use templates that let your colleagues know you're away due to bereavement, without over-explaining.
Thank you for your email. I am currently out of the office due to a family bereavement and will not be checking emails during this time. I expect to return on [date]. Please contact [colleague's name] at [email/phone] for immediate assistance.
Provides contact for urgent matters. Adjust date as needed.
I'm out of the office due to a family loss and will be returning on [date]. I appreciate your understanding during this difficult time.
I'm currently away on bereavement leave and unable to respond to emails until [date]. For urgent matters, please reach out to [colleague's name] at [email/phone].
I've stepped away from work due to a personal loss. I'll be back on [date] and appreciate your patience.
Hello, I'm currently out due to a family bereavement. If your matter is urgent, please contact [colleague's name] at [email/phone]. Thank you for understanding.
I am out of the office on bereavement leave. I look forward to returning on [date] and appreciate your understanding as I navigate this personal time.
Due to a recent family loss, I am not available to respond to emails until [date]. Please contact [colleague's name] for urgent inquiries.
I'm away from work on bereavement leave. I plan to return on [date], and your patience is appreciated during this time.
Thank you for your message. I am currently out of the office due to a family loss and will return on [date]. For immediate assistance, please contact [colleague's name].
Consider adding the colleague's phone number for easier contact.
I'm taking some time off due to a personal loss. I'll be back at work on [date]. Thank you for your understanding.
I'm currently on bereavement leave. I plan to return on [date]. For any urgent issues, please reach out to [colleague's name] at [email/phone].
I'm away from my desk due to a family bereavement and expect to resume work on [date]. Your understanding is appreciated.
Thank you for reaching out. I'm currently out due to a recent loss and will return on [date]. For urgent matters, please contact [colleague's name].
I am on bereavement leave and away from work. I hope to be back on [date]. I appreciate your patience during this time.
I'm currently out of the office due to a family bereavement and will not be checking emails until my return on [date].
I'm taking time off due to a personal family loss. I'll be back at work on [date] and thank you for your kind understanding.
No messages match those filters — try widening one. Or build a custom message for your exact situation.
What not to say
- ✗ "I'm sorry for any inconvenience."
Apologizing for a family loss frames your grief as a disruption. Prioritize your own needs.
- ✗ "I will respond to emails ASAP."
This implies checking emails during bereavement, adding undue pressure. Set clear boundaries.
- ✗ "I am dealing with personal issues."
Vague language can lead to misunderstandings. Be clear about bereavement to reduce speculation.
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Build a personal messageQuestions people ask
How long should my out of office message be active for bereavement?
It depends on your company's bereavement policy and your personal needs. Typically, bereavement leave can range from a few days to two weeks. Ensure your message aligns with your planned return date, and adjust if needed.
Should I specify the nature of the bereavement in my message?
It's a personal choice. While some prefer to keep it general with terms like 'family bereavement,' others may choose to specify ('loss of a parent') if they feel comfortable. Both options are valid.
Is it necessary to provide a colleague's contact in the message?
Providing a colleague's contact is helpful, especially if urgent matters need attention in your absence. Confirm with the colleague beforehand and ensure they agree to cover for you.