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Aug 20, 2013

Is working from home a reasonable accommodation?

A: If an employee has a disability, you may have to make an accommodation that will allow the employee to complete the essential functions of his or her job. Working from home could be considered, but only if the employee can actually do the job successfully from home, and even then it might not be the only option. If being on-site is a necessary part of the job, working from home is not going to be an effective reasonable accommodation. You will have to explore other options. Your Vigilant staff representative can help you navigate this process.

Q: One of our supervisors brought in a doctor’s note saying that she can only work from home. Do we have to allow it?

This website presents general information in nontechnical language. This information is not legal advice. Before applying this information to a specific management decision, consult legal counsel.
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About the Author

Lorraine Amrine

Employment & Labor Attorney Vigilant Law Group
  • Eastern Michigan University, B.S. in philosophy and political science
  • Lewis & Clark College, Northwestern School of Law, J.D.
  • Attorney licensed in Oregon and Washington
  • Relentless knitter

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