How to Postpone Jury Duty and Check If You Need to Report Tomorrow (2026)
Updated 2026-11-04 · Tracked across 399 U.S. County Courthouses
Most courts let you postpone (defer) jury service once without a reason, as long as you ask before your report date. Excusals are different: you ask to be removed from service, usually for hardship, medical reasons, age or caregiving. Rules and deadlines are set by each state and court.
Postponement vs. excusal
| Postponement / deferral | Excusal / exemption | |
|---|---|---|
| What it does | Moves your service to a later date | Removes you from this summons |
| Typical reason needed | Often none for a first request | Hardship, medical, age, caregiver, prior service |
| How to request | Online juror portal, phone, or the summons reply form | Written request, sometimes with documentation |
| Deadline | Usually before your report date (often 5–10 days) | Before your report date |
How to check if you need to report
Many courts use a call-in or online status system: you check the evening before (often after 5:00 PM) using the juror number on your summons to see whether your group must report. Your summons tells you which system your court uses.
- Find your juror ID or participant number on the summons.
- Open your county page and follow the link to the official court site, or call the number on your summons.
- Check again the morning of service if your court updates overnight.
Before your report day
Look up your courthouse's juror phone rules and juror parking, and read what to bring to jury duty.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I postpone jury duty?
Use the method on your summons: most courts have an online juror portal, a phone line, or a reply form. Ask before your report date. Many courts grant one postponement without a reason.
How do I know if I have to report for jury duty tomorrow?
Check your court's juror status line or website the evening before, using the juror number on your summons. Many courts post reporting instructions after 5:00 PM.
What happens if I ignore a jury summons?
Courts can order you to appear and explain, and may impose a fine or hold you in contempt. Penalties vary by state. Contact the jury office as soon as possible if you missed your date.
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