According to a recent blog post by FlexJobs.com, the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals has ruled that telecommuting is a reasonable accommodation for workers who can’t make it to the office, and that simple “face time” isn't a good enough reason for someone to be required to be in the office. This is great news for cancer patients and survivors who need a more flexible work option!

Reasonable accommodations are a protection under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The ADA requires eligible employers to make “reasonable accommodations” to allow employees to function properly on the job. Accommodations may include modifying work schedules, reassigning an employee to a less physically taxing position or providing a more comfortable chair.

Now that telecommuting is a reasonable accommodation by law, it will be much more difficult for an employer to deny requests. However, you should still prepare ahead of time how you will have this discussion with your manger. For tips on talking to your manager and asking for reasonable accommodations, check our our articles Cancer and the ADA and Sharing the News. Also, download your FREE copy of our Manger's toolkit, which outlines this discussion with your manager, as well as your rights, here!

If you are looking for flexible work that allows you to telecommute, we highly recommend FlexJobs.com. FlexJobs is a trusted resourc that only posts legitimate telecommuting, part-time, flexible, and freelance jobs. Use the code "CANCER" for a 50% discount! You can also learn more tips on looking for work during or after cancer on our Job Search Call coming up on June 26th! More information and registration can be found here.