Early Release (ER) When a cast member clocks in for their shift, they can request an Early Release. Throughout the day, Coordinators and Managers will monitor their staff and determine whether or not they can send some cast members home early.

At Walt Disney World in 2026, the term "Early Release" usually refers to the "Early Theme Park Entry" benefit, which allows guests staying at Disney Resort hotels (and select other partner hotels) to enter any of the four theme parks 30 minutes before the official public opening every day of their stay. This is a critical advantage for guests looking to ride high-demand attractions like Seven Dwarfs Mine Train or Avatar Flight of Passage with minimal wait times. It is important to distinguish this from "Rope Drop," which is when the park officially opens to all guests. During the early entry period, only select sections of the parks are operational, such as Fantasyland and Tomorrowland in Magic Kingdom. To participate, you must show your "Key to the World" card, MagicBand, or use the Disney MagicMobile service at the park entrance. This benefit is available on both check-in and check-out days, providing a powerful way to maximize your park time and avoid the heaviest crowds that arrive later in the morning.