The elektronische Arbeitsunfähigkeitsbescheinigung (eAU; electronic certificate of incapacity for work) is a digital doctor's note. It confirms that you are unable to work because you are sick.
If a doctor determines that you are unable to work, your doctor's office creates an eAU. This applies to people with gesetzliche Krankenversicherung (statutory health insurance). If you have a private Krankenversicherung (private health insurance), ask your doctor's office for a printed copy of your doctor's note. Send the copy to your employer.
Important: Always let your employer know when you’re sick.
The eAU is a digital document. You can often get a printed copy for yourself from your doctor's office. It shows, for example, the dates when you are unable to work. Your employer does not receive information about your diagnosis, meaning the reason why you are unable to work.
