Insights

How to Make a Disability Accommodation Request That Holds Up

You do not need to file paperwork or use legal terms to trigger your right to a disability accommodation. A plain request is enough to start your employer's obligations. Still, how you make the request affects how smoothly it goes and how well you are protected if your employer mishandles it.

Make the request clear and in writing

Tell your employer that you have a medical condition and that you need an adjustment to do your job. Put it in an email so there is a record of what you asked for and when. You do not have to disclose every medical detail, but you should connect the condition to the specific change you need.

Be specific about what would help

Identify the accommodation you have in mind, such as a modified schedule, equipment, a leave of recovery, or reassignment. If you are open to alternatives, say so. This invites the interactive process and shows good faith.

Provide supporting documentation

Your employer can ask for reasonable medical documentation confirming the condition and the need for accommodation. Get a note from your provider that ties the limitation to the requested change. Keep a copy of everything you submit.

Track the response

Note the date you made the request
Save any forms the employer asks you to complete
Record meetings and what was discussed
Keep copies of approvals, denials, and follow up messages

If your employer stalls or refuses

Delay can itself be a violation when an employer simply sits on a request. If you are denied, ask for the reason in writing. And if you are disciplined or terminated after requesting an accommodation, the timing can support a retaliation claim. At that point, talk to an attorney before making any major decisions.

At John J. Zidziunas & Associates, LLC, our employment lawyers represent employees in New Jersey and throughout the New York City area. To talk through your situation with an attorney, call (212) 516-1868 or reach out to us for a free, confidential consultation. We work on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing unless we recover for you.

BACK TO BLOG

News

Insights