Accommodations
Accommodations, or worksite adjustments, are often needed to do a job.But do you know that you can also receive accommodations when applying for jobs, including the interview process? Check out this page to learn more about accommodations and how to get them before and after you get a job!
Types of Accommodations
Accommodations can be requested for limitations relating to a disability or medical need. Requests are not the same for everyone. Accommodations are made to meet the needs of each individual. Below you’ll find a few examples of common accommodation requests. For a searchable list of accommodations based on disability type, please visit the Job Accommodation Network's (JAN) Searchable Online Accommodation Resource (SOAR)- A standing work station, adjustable chair or footrest, headset or speaker phone
- A timer, verbal reminder, checklist or pictures of job tasks including instructions next to copiers or printers on how to use
- Perfume-free, decreased noise levels or clutter-free spaces
Requesting an accommodation:
Requesting an accommodation for a medical-related condition is most often an easy process. However, deciding when or how to ask an employer can be stressful.
Click any of the links below to learn more about when and how to ask an employer for an accommodation or work adjustment:
- Decisions about Disclosing Your Disability at Work
- Ideas for Writing an Accommodation Request Letter (JAN)
- Employees' Practical Guide to Requesting and Negotiating Reasonable Accommodations Under the ADA (JAN)
- Disability Disclosure and Interviewing Techniques for Persons with Disabilities (JAN)
Documentation
An employer may ask you to verify your medical condition. This is often a standard step in the process, especially if money is needed to pay for an accommodation.
Ask your medical professional for documentation related to your medical condition. You do not need to give your employer your entire medical history.
More information available from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission in: Enforcement Guidance: Reasonable Accommodation and Undue Hardship Under the Americans with Disabilities Act.Technical Assistance
Technical assistance is available to help you learn what kind of accommodation you need.
The Job Accommodation Network (JAN)
The Job Accommodation Network provides a wealth of information for employers and individuals on its website. They also provide training and free consulting services for employers of any size.
- Searchable Accommodation Resource (SOAR)
- Employer's Practical Guide to Reasonable Accommodation under the ADA
Maine CITE Coordinating Center
The Maine CITE Coordinating Center helps people get assistive technology as needed to perform their jobs. Maine CITE staff can also teach you how to use it!Assistive technology is equipment or devices that make it easier for people to live and work more independently - often can provide the solution for a particular job or worksite accommodation need.