If you’ve asked your employer for disability accommodations more than once and gotten nowhere, the frustration you feel can be overwhelming. In California, workers with disabilities have strong legal protections, but that doesn’t mean every employer follows the rules.
If your requests for reasonable disability accommodations have been met with silence, vague excuses or outright denial, there are steps to take to assert your rights and push for the support you need to do your job.
Document every request and response
Start by gathering a clear paper trail. Save emails, HR forms, and any written communication related to your accommodation requests. If you’ve made verbal requests, follow up with a written summary. This documentation can be crucial if you need to escalate your case.
Ask for a written explanation
State law requires employers to engage in a good faith interactive process for accommodation requests. If your employer hasn’t responded or denied your request without explanation, ask why your request was rejected and get it in writing. This can reveal whether the denial was legally justified.
Understand your legal protections
Ignored accommodation requests may signal a violation of your rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA). These laws require employers to provide reasonable accommodations unless doing so would cause undue hardship.
File a formal complaint
You can file a complaint with California’s Civil Rights Department or the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). These agencies investigate discrimination claims and may help resolve the issue efficiently.
You deserve a workplace that supports your ability to thrive. It may be time to seek a legal helping hand if you’re struggling to get the accommodations you are entitled to under the law.