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The basics
The UK National Careers Service says having a gap "is not a problem, but you might be asked about it," and that the important thing is to be open and honest. You only need to share what you are comfortable sharing, especially about health.
- Keep dates honest. Don't stretch a job to cover a gap.
- A one-line note is enough on the resume. Save detail for the cover letter or interview.
- Show anything useful you did: a course, volunteering, caring, freelance work.
Short wording for common reasons
| Reason | Example line (made-up) |
|---|---|
| Caring for family | Career break, Jun 2022 – Aug 2023: full-time carer for a family member |
| Layoff or redundancy | Role cut in a company restructure, Mar 2024 |
| Study | Completed a bookkeeping certificate, Sep 2023 – Feb 2024 |
| Health | Career break for health reasons, now fully available for work |
| Travel or gap year | Travelled and volunteered at a community farm, 2023 |
All example lines are made-up. Use your own true dates and reasons.
Where to put it
- As its own line in your work history, in date order.
- Or in a cover letter paragraph; see how to write a cover letter.
- A hybrid format can put skills first while keeping dates clear.
Related: Volunteer experience · Career change resume · Certifications. Check your resume with the free ATS resume checker.
Sources
- National Careers Service (UK): Explain a gap in your employment
- National Careers Service (UK): How to write a cover letter
Advice differs by employer and country. Follow the job ad when it asks for something specific.
FAQ
Should I explain a gap on my resume?
A short, honest line is enough for most gaps. You can give more detail in a cover letter or interview.
Can I hide a gap by changing dates?
No. Wrong dates can come up in background or reference checks. Keep dates true.
Do I have to say it was for health reasons?
Share only what you are comfortable with. "Career break, now available for work" is fine.
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