In new Outlook for Windows, open Settings → Accounts → Automatic Replies. In classic Outlook, look under File → Automatic Replies. If the button is missing in classic Outlook, check the mailbox type. A POP or IMAP account may need a vacation responder from its own mail provider.
01Start with the mailbox you want to answer from
Section linkA work mailbox and a personal mailbox can appear in the same Outlook window. Match the settings to the address that should send the reply. If the classic File menu is absent, follow the new Outlook path. For an Outlook.com or Microsoft 365 work mailbox with web access, open that same mailbox in Outlook on the web and look under Settings → Accounts for Automatic Replies.
02Choose the fallback for a POP or IMAP account
Section linkFor a mailbox from another provider, sign in to that provider’s webmail and look for a vacation or out-of-office setting there. Microsoft also documents a reply rule for classic Outlook, but that rule needs Outlook to keep running while you are away. Use the webmail setting if it is available and you plan to turn off the computer.
03Check the dates and audience before saving
Section linkIf you have the built-in control, set the dates you will be away and review whether external senders should get a response. For a work mailbox, sending only to external contacts limits who receives the message when that option is available. Save the setting, then reopen it and check the mailbox, dates and audience.