Can Claude Code run on a schedule when my computer is off?

Yes, with Anthropic cloud routines. A routine saves a prompt, repositories and connectors and runs on a schedule in the cloud, so it can keep working while your laptop is closed. The feature is a research preview, starts at a one-hour interval, and uses subscription usage. For a simple check and message, I use a plain script instead.

Cloud routines

Anthropic’s routines run in its cloud on a schedule and can continue while a laptop is closed. They are available as a research preview on Pro, Max, Team and Enterprise, according to the documentation checked 2026-10-18.

Local options

A scheduled task or /loop on your computer depends on that machine being available. Choose a cloud routine when the work needs to run independently of your local computer.

When a plain script beats AI

My watcher Wren is a plain script with no AI. Every 30 minutes it checks scheduled jobs and stuck pipeline runs, flags a pipeline job quiet for 20 minutes, and posts a morning report at 8 only when there is something worth saying.

Limits to know

The routines documentation describes a minimum one-hour interval, subscription usage and a research preview. Cloud routines use a fresh clone rather than local files. See the current documentation for details.

How I set up jobs for people

My Plan and Setup calls cover jobs that keep working while you are away. The calls page has details.

FAQ

Can Claude Code run on a schedule?

Yes. Anthropic’s cloud routines can run a saved prompt on a schedule.

Does it run if my computer is off?

Cloud routines run on Anthropic’s cloud, so they can run while your computer is off.

What is the shortest interval?

The documentation checked 2026-10-18 lists a minimum interval of one hour.

Does a routine use my plan limits?

The documentation says runs draw down subscription usage.

Can it access my local files?

Cloud routines use a fresh clone. A local task can use files available on its computer.

How do I schedule one?

Anthropic’s routines documentation describes setup. The /schedule command needs a claude.ai login.

Is it free?

The documentation lists routines as a research preview on Pro, Max, Team and Enterprise, with usage drawing down subscription limits.

When should I use a script instead of AI?

Use a plain script when the job is a predictable check and message. My Wren watcher is an example.

Sources

https://code.claude.com/docs/en/routines, checked 2026-10-18

For the hands-on steps, see The Power-User Setup Guide. For personal help, book a call.