It is important to write an excuse letter when you are unable to attend work as it is a polite gesture and provides a notification to your manager. Whether it is a brief email or a formal letter, informing your manager in advance allows them to make necessary arrangements for your absence. Additionally, the excuse letter serves as a documented record that can be used as proof of your absence and the reason for it in the future. This can be helpful in case you need to provide verification of your absence for any reason.