If you have a disability, your employer must make reasonable accommodations that can help you do your job. Many people do not know that they are eligible for these protections.
Explore the types of reasonable accommodations allowed under federal laws such as the Americans With Disabilities Act.
Types of accommodations
You can request any kind of accommodation that falls within a reasonable cost and effort for your employer. Examples of common reasonable accommodations include:
- Flexible or telecommute schedules to accommodate medical appointments such as chemotherapy visits
- Physical renovations such as wheelchair-accessible updates to office space
- Adaptive and assistive communication technologies
- Available materials in large-print and Braille
- Resources and tools to facilitate your job performance
Your employer must make a good faith effort to approve your accommodation unless you work for a company with fewer than 15 workers. This includes responding to your request within a reasonable time period.
The request process
Your company may have a specific process for reasonable accommodation requests. However, you do not have to follow any special format as long as you make your request in writing.
Federal law requires managers and human resources staff to consider your request. You must supply documentation from your doctor if asked to do so. You can also have your doctor, your attorney or even a trusted family member ask your employer for an accommodation on your behalf.
You have the right to appeal if your employer denies your request for reasonable accommodation. Your employer legally cannot fire or demote you because of this type of request.