Reasonable accommodation

The term reasonable accommodation is used somewhat differently in different laws:

  • Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Under the ADA, reasonable accommodation refers to the workplace. The US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) says that a reasonable accommodation is “In general, an accommodation is any change in the work environment or in the way things are customarily done that enables an individual with a disability to enjoy equal employment opportunities.” A reasonable accommodation can be a physical change, a policy change, or a change in how an employee works. It can also be a piece of equipment given to an employee. A reasonable accommodation allows a person with a disability an equal opportunity to do a job and its functions, or to have an equal opportunity to apply for a position. 
  • Rehabilitation Act: The Rehabilitation Act covers federal employment as well as any agency or contractor receiving federal financial assistance. For example, most colleges and universities are covered by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. A student with a disability may receive an adjustment in their academics—such as a sign language interpreter—that allows them to have an equal opportunity to participate in and benefit from education.
  • Fair Housing Act (FHA): Under the FHA, a reasonable accommodation is a change in a housing provider’s policies to allow a person with a disability to have an equal opportunity to use and enjoy their residence. For example, a reasonable accommodation under the FHA could be an apartment complex allowing a resident to have an assistance animal even though pets are not permitted otherwise.

[ Read: About Reasonable Accommodations in the Workplace ]

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Small business - What is an accommodation under the ADA?
Social media banner with a background image of an open work environment with several people working at computers; most are seated and one is standing. The text says: What is an accommodation under the ADA? Any change in the work environment, or in how things are usually done, to help a person with a disability apply for a job, perform the duties of a job, or enjoy the benefits and privileges of employment.
Small business - Recruiting and hiring people with disabilities
Social media banner with a background image of a job candidate speaking to an interviewer. The text says: Recruiting and hiring people with disabilities: Tell applicants about their right to an accommodation and how to request one; Host career fairs and interviews in accessible locations; Provide online accessibility for job postings.
Small business - ADA basics for small employers?
Social media banner with a background image of a friendly meeting between two co-workers. The text says: What are a few ADA basics to know as a small employer? The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is about equal opportunity, not about a disability quota. Don’t assume that someone with a disability is less qualified based on their disability.
Small business - Why does workplace inclusion matter?
Social media banner with a background image of a workers in a large wood shop. One worker has an artificial leg. The text says: Why does workplace inclusion matter? A work culture based on including all people and building trust brings benefits. Workers learn to perform more effectively, have less stress, and are less likely to leave their jobs. And, teams function better!
Small business - People with disabilities get the job done
Social media banner with a background image of a person pointing with a pen at a paper on a bulletin board. The text says: People with disabilities get the job done. The work may be done in a slightly different way due to a reasonable accommodation, but employees with disabilities are held to the same productivity and conduct standards as others.