How to create an absence request without a defined end date?

Some leaves, such as prolonged medical leave, maternity leave, or unpredictable personal absences, do not have a confirmed return date.

For these cases, Day.io allows open absence requests, where only the start date is defined. When the employee returns, the requester edits the request and adds the end date so punch registration returns to normal. 

Key actions or configuration

1. Open the Absence & Vacation menu
   • Sign in to Day.io on the computer.
   • Click Absence & Vacation in the side menu.
   • Click + New request.
     
     
2. Choose the appropriate category
   • Select Medical or Other, depending on the absence type.
   • Only Medical and Other categories allow absences without a return date.
   • Vacation usually requires a start and end date.
   • Select the correct subcategory, such as medical note, maternity leave, or personal reasons.
     
     
3. Select full day and enable open absence
   • On the request screen, enable All day.
   • Enable Set without end date.
   • This removes the end date field.
   • Choose the start date using the calendar.
   • Add comments or attachments if needed.
   • Click Confirm.
     
     
4. Edit the request when the employee returns
   • When the employee returns, access Absence & Vacation.
   • Find the open absence.
   • Click the request and select to Edit at the pencil icon in the top right corner.
   • Enter the return date as the day immediately before the actual return.
   • Save the change.
   • The request is updated with the end date and the absence days are calculated automatically.
     
     

Tips or Troubleshooting

• Inform HR about the expected return whenever possible.
• Supervisors should track open requests regularly.
• Attach documents to support the request and speed up approval.
• Use the most specific subcategory available.

Best Practices

• Use open-ended absence only for cases without a confirmed return date.
• Update the request as soon as the return date is known.
• Keep HR and the manager informed.
• Avoid using this option for vacation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use this option for vacation?
   Usually vacation requires both start and end dates.

2. Who can edit the request when the employee returns?
   It depends on permissions. Companies may allow the employee or only the supervisor to edit it.

3. Is the request automatically approved?
   Not necessarily. It follows the standard approval flow.