If your request for reasonable accommodations at work has been denied, you may feel frustrated, confused or even singled out. Accommodations are a key protection under the Americans with Disabilities Act, and denial can raise serious concerns. In these moments, seeking legal guidance from the start may be critical to understanding your rights and determining the best course of action.
Employers must participate in an interactive process to evaluate whether an accommodation is feasible. A denial does not always mark the end of the conversation. There may still be ways to clarify information, propose alternatives or pursue other internal and external options for resolution.
Steps to consider after denied reasonable accommodations
If your request was denied, consider the following actions to help protect your rights and promote continued dialogue.
- Request a written explanation of the denial: Ask your employer to clearly explain why the request was denied. This can reveal whether the denial was based on a misunderstanding, a lack of documentation or a claim of undue hardship.
- Propose alternative accommodations: If your original request was not approved, you can still work with your employer to identify other reasonable solutions. Suggest specific alternatives that could meet your needs without placing an undue burden on the business.
- Gather and submit additional documentation: Your employer may need more medical information to support the accommodation. Ask what type of documentation is required and submit clear, job-related details to support your request.
- Explore internal appeal options: Some workplaces have formal processes for appealing accommodation denials. This may involve submitting a form to human resources or escalating the issue to a higher-level manager.
- Seek assistance from advocacy services: If internal solutions are not working, protection and advocacy agencies may be able to support your efforts. These organizations often help individuals assert their workplace rights under disability laws.
Taking action after a denial may feel overwhelming, but you do not have to do it alone. Seeking legal guidance early on may help you understand your rights and strengthen your position in the process.