Reasonable Accommodations at Work

“Reasonable accommodations” are modifications, changes or adjustments that allow employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of a job.

Here are some examples of reasonable accommodations that an employer may be required to make:

allowing an employee to take time off from work for doctor’s appointments
allowing an employee a flexible work schedule so that the employee may work more hours on “good days” and fewer hours when necessary
restructuring a job description to eliminate non-essential functions
providing technological devices such as talking computers
making restrooms accessible

Asking for Reasonable Accommodation

If you need an accommodation:

Tell your employer you have a disability (unless your disability is obvious).
Explain how your disability interferes with your ability to do your job.
Describe what accommodations you need in order to do your job.

You can make your request for a reasonable accommodation in person or in writing. It is better to put it in writing so you have a record of it.

If you don’t know what kind of accommodation to request, you can contact the Job Accommodation Network for additional information. They can also provide help if your employer refuses to discuss an accommodation with you.

Do You Need Proof?

If your needs are obvious you do not need to provide proof that you need an accommodation. Example: You need your work station to be modified to accommodate your wheelchair.

If your needs are not obvious, an employer can ask you for reasonable supporting documentation.

The documentation only needs to show that you have a disability and you need the accommodation you are asking for. You can ask your doctor or another health care provider to write a letter to give to your employer. Your employer does not have the right to see your entire medical record.

Follow this link to learn more about who is protected by reasonable accommodation laws.

What Is Required of Your Employer?

Employers need to make reasonable accommodations unless it causes them excessive hardship.

Your employer does not have to provide the exact accommodation you are requesting. The employer may select a less expensive accommodation as long as it is appropriate and meets your needs. For example, an employer may move your office to an accessible floor rather than install an elevator.

Employers are not required to provide accommodations that are personal in nature, such as providing you with hearing aids or a wheelchair.

If you are having trouble getting a reasonable accommodation, visit our W hat Employers Can Do and What to Do pages.