Direct Answer: The Slack auto-away timer triggers when Slack stops seeing activity or a client disconnects, usually after several minutes of inactivity. To reduce auto-away, keep a client connected, reduce sleep/lock disconnects, and use schedule-based presence when your device sleeps.

If you want a schedule-based way to stay active during work hours, see Idle Pilot or start free.

For the schedule-first overview, visit the Slack presence scheduler hub or the Slack auto-away fix hub.

TL;DR

Auto-away triggers after inactivity or disconnection.
Connected clients reset the timer.
Schedule-based presence is the most reliable fallback.

Slack Auto-Away Timer: How Long Until You Go Away?

Slack doesn’t publish an exact timer, but auto-away usually flips after a few minutes of inactivity or a disconnect.

Why it happens (how long until you go away)

Slack marks you away when:

It hasn’t seen recent activity
Your device sleeps or locks
A Slack web tab is suspended

That means auto-away can trigger even when you’re working in another app or on another device.

Options

Fix Slack + device settings: the safest starting point.
Make working hours explicit: reduces confusion when away flips happen.
Schedule-based presence: most reliable when devices sleep or disconnect.

Step-by-step

Keep the Slack desktop app running or a web tab open.
Increase sleep/lock timers within policy.
Disable browser tab suspension for Slack web.
If your laptop sleeps often, use schedule-based presence during work hours.

Risks / policy considerations

Hardware jigglers and scripts can violate IT policies.
Staying active outside real working hours can hurt trust.
Schedule-based presence is safest when aligned to true availability.

FAQs

What triggers the Slack auto-away timer?

Auto-away triggers when Slack stops seeing activity or a client disconnects.

How do I reduce Slack auto-away?

Keep a client connected, adjust sleep/lock settings, and use schedule-based presence if devices sleep often.

Does Slack auto-away have a fixed timer?

Slack does not publish an exact timer, but it typically flips to away after several minutes of inactivity.

Can I disable auto-away?

No official setting disables auto-away, but you can reduce false away signals with safer settings.

Summary: auto-away is simple, so your workflow has to be explicit. Keep clients connected, reduce sleep disconnects, and use schedule-based presence when needed.

Want a schedule-first fix? Visit the Slack presence scheduler hub or start free.