How to Send Automatic Reply Emails in Gmail

Whether you’re going on vacation, stepping away for the weekend, or just want to let people know you’ve received their message, setting up automatic reply emails in Gmail is simple and effective.

Here’s how to do it—step by step.

1. Use Gmail’s Built-in Vacation Responder

Gmail has a built-in feature for automatic replies called Vacation Responder. It’s quick to set up and perfect for short-term auto-replies.

How to Enable It:

1. Open Gmail.
2. Click the gear icon (⚙️) in the top right and choose See all settings.
3. Scroll down to the Vacation responder section (under the “General” tab).
4. Check Vacation responder on.
5. Set the start and end date.
6. Write your subject and message.
7. (Optional) Check the box to send only to people in your contacts.
8. Click Save Changes.

✅ Done. Gmail will automatically reply to anyone who emails you during the dates you chose.

2. Create Advanced Auto-Replies with Filters

If you need more control—like sending auto-replies to specific senders or keywords—use Gmail filters and Templates.

Step 1: Turn on Templates

1. Click the gear icon → See all settings.
2. Go to the Advanced tab.
3. Enable Templates.
4. Click Save Changes.

Step 2: Create a Template

1. Compose a new email with the message you want to auto-send.
2. Click the three dots in the bottom right of the email draft.
3. Select Templates → Save draft as template → Save as new template.

Step 3: Set Up the Filter

1. In Gmail, click the search bar at the top and choose Show search options.
2. Fill in criteria (like “From” or keywords).
3. Click Create filter.
4. Check Send template, then select the one you saved.
5. Click Create filter again.

Now Gmail will automatically send that template whenever a message matches your filter rules.

Final Tips

• Avoid loops: Gmail only sends your vacation auto-reply once every 4 days per sender, so you’re safe from spam loops.
• Keep it clear: Say when you’ll be back and what to do if it’s urgent.
• Test it: Send yourself a test email to make sure it works as expected.

Wrap-Up

Whether you just want a simple out-of-office reply or a smart auto-responder for specific cases, Gmail has you covered. Use the built-in tools to stay responsive—even when you’re not around.

Got questions or want help setting up something more advanced? Drop a comment below or reach out!