> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://learn.withessential.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://learn.withessential.com/administration/settings/configure-custom-task-timing.md).

# Configure Custom Task timing

Custom Task settings control when Essential creates internal recurring-service tasks. They are independent from the customer-facing Automated Outreach sequence.

> **Where to find it:** Settings -> Automations -> Custom Tasks tab

1. Use the **Active / Paused** switch to resume or freeze Custom Task creation without changing the schedule.
2. Set **Days before due** to choose the lead time from each recurring service's due date.
3. Choose **Relative to due date** to use that lead time directly. Turn on the weekday option to count the lead time in business days and skip weekends.
4. Choose **Fixed day of month** to snap the calculated task date to the nearest occurrence of a selected calendar day. Turn on the weekday option to move a fixed date that lands on a weekend to the next weekday.
5. Under **Folder terminology**, set the name used for this recurring-service folder in the Tasks sidebar and Task Statuses settings.
6. Click **Save changes**. Recalculating existing recurring services may take a few minutes.

Automated Outreach and Custom Tasks have separate Active / Paused switches. Pausing one does not pause the other.

While Essential is still completing a new business's setup review, the switch is locked and automations stay paused; it unlocks once the review is done.

## Related guides

* [Configure the automated outreach sequence](/administration/settings/configure-the-automated-outreach-sequence.md)
* [Set the confirmation email for automated outreach](/administration/settings/set-the-confirmation-email-for-automated-outreach.md)


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