How to Enable Out of Office Replies in Outlook for Windows 11

Written byRichardTech Writer, IT Professional

Aug 19, 2023 Updated Apr 17, 2026 2 min read

This guide explains how to set up automatic “Out of Office” replies in the new Outlook app for Windows 11.

The new Outlook for Windows app has a clean, modern design. It supports Microsoft 365 work or school accounts, Outlook.com, Hotmail, and Gmail accounts. The app is packed with tools, including support for email signatures, external email accounts, and automatic replies.

Why use automatic replies?

An “Out of Office” reply is an email that sends itself automatically. It tells people you are away and when you will be back. You can add details like who to contact for help while you are gone. This keeps your communication professional and helps people know why you aren’t replying right away.

What happens when you are done?

Once you turn this on, anyone who sends you an email will receive your custom message automatically. You won’t have to check your inbox while you are away.

How to set up automatic replies

You can turn these replies on or off whenever you need to. Follow these steps:

1. Open the open the new Outlook app app on your Windows 11 computer. You can find it by clicking the Start button and searching for “Outlook.”
2. 
4. Click the Settings button. It looks like a gear icon in the top right corner of the window.
5. 
7. On the Settings page, click the Accounts tab on the left.
8. Select Automatic replies under your email account list.
9. 
11. Choose the email account you want to use if you have more than one.
12. Toggle the Automatic replies switch to On.
13. To turn it off later, simply toggle the switch to Off.

When you have Automatic replies turned on, you can choose a few extra options:

• Send replies only during a time period: You can pick a specific start and end time. If you do not pick a time, Outlook will keep sending the reply until you turn it off manually.
• Block my calendar: You can choose to block your calendar or decline new meeting invites during your time away.

Finally, type the message you want people to see in the text box provided.

Note: No administrator privileges are required to perform these steps. You can manage these settings using your standard user account.

Summary

Setting up automatic replies in the new Outlook app is a simple way to manage expectations while you are away from your computer. By following the steps above, you can ensure your contacts receive a professional message explaining your absence and expected return date, all without needing to send individual emails yourself.