Documents on this website are being reviewed and updated as necessary to comply with President Trump's executive orders.

Reasonable Accommodations

A reasonable accommodation is any change to the hiring process, the job, the way the job is done, or the work environment that allows a person with a disability who is qualified to perform the job's essential functions to enjoy equal employment opportunities. Accommodations are considered “reasonable” if they do not create an undue hardship or a direct threat.

In other words, reasonable accommodations can be thought of as “productivity enhancers” that allow workers with disabilities to contribute their all, and employers to benefit from a broader talent pool that includes workers with different abilities. Reasonable accommodations are made to maximize the productivity of workers with disabilities; many of these accommodations can benefit all employees. For example, everyone can benefit from facility enhancements such as ramps, accessible restrooms, and ergonomic workstations. Contrary to popular belief, most reasonable accommodations involve little or no cost.

Reasonable accommodations can take many different forms. For example, an employer may provide employees with a flexible schedule, frequent breaks, or a place to sit when standing isn't necessary. Other common accommodations include:

  • Providing important feedback in writing rather than verbally, or providing materials in Braille
  • Providing a parking space near the employee entrance
  • Allowing an employee’s service animal into the workspace
  • Installing a ramp or modifying workstations to accommodate wheelchair users
  • Purchasing software that magnifies the computer screen
  • Providing sign language interpreters or closed captioning at meetings and events

Funded by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy, the Job Accommodation Network (JAN)(link is external) provides free, expert, and confidential guidance on workplace accommodations and disability employment issues. Working toward practical solutions that benefit both employer and employee, JAN helps people with disabilities enhance their employability. It shows employers how to capitalize on the value and talent that people with disabilities add to the workplace.

Read “What Is ‘Reasonable Accommodation’?(link is external)” from the ACL-funded ADA National Network.


Last modified on 07/07/2025

    
         Back to Top