If you’re struggling to do your federal job because of a medical condition, reasonable accommodation may help you stay in your position a little longer – but it’s also a key step if you’re considering a way out of federal service through an option like Disability Retirement.
Before you can apply for Disability Retirement, your agency has to explore whether adjustments can help you keep working. Here’s what you need to know about your options – and your rights.
Q: What is a Reasonable Accommodation, really?
A: It’s a change to your job or work environment that helps you keep doing your essential duties, even with a medical condition. Think: changing your schedule, getting assistive tech, or adjusting where you work.
Q: Can I get an accommodation to work from home permanently?
A: That depends. Telework was common during the pandemic, but many agencies are pulling it back. If your doctor says you medically need telework and your job can still be done effectively, it’s worth requesting. But agencies don’t have to approve every request -they just need to consider it seriously.
Q: Is part-time work considered a reasonable accommodation?
A: Not usually. OPM typically doesn’t see part-time work (or “light duty”) as a valid accommodation – especially if your job is officially full-time.
Q: What if my agency wants to take away some of my duties?
A: That’s not usually allowed. OPM requires that you still be able to do the “essential functions” of your position. Just taking away your duties isn’t a real fix – and it’s not something OPM accepts if you later apply for Disability Retirement.
Q: Can my agency just reassign me to a different job instead?
A: Yes – and they have to try. Before you can even apply for Federal Disability Retirement, your agency must look for other positions: same grade and pay, in the same commuting area, and ones you’re actually qualified for. If nothing fits, only then is disability retirement on the table.
Q: What if I’m about to be part of a VERA or RIF? Should I still ask for accommodation?
A: Absolutely. Even during a VERA (Voluntary Early Retirement Authority)
or a RIF (Reduction in Force), your rights still apply. If you can keep working with accommodation and want to, you have every right to request it.
Q: Can I use up my sick leave and call that an accommodation?
A: Unfortunately, no. Using leave – even if it helps you hang on a bit longer – isn’t considered a reasonable accommodation by OPM. It’s a short-term fix that can help prove your medical issue is impacting your work, but it’s not considered an accommodation.
Q: What happens if my agency can’t accommodate me?
A: That’s when you might be eligible for Federal Disability Retirement. But they have to show they tried – whether that’s changing your duties, adjusting your schedule, or offering reassignment.
If you still have questions about Reasonable Accommodations, check out this webinar then reach out for a 100% free 1-on-1 consultation. We’ll help you get started on the right path.
