Sample Telecommuting Policy

Telecommuting is a non-traditional benefit that gives employees the flexibility to work from home or an offsite location during normal business hours. Though it’s not a one-size-fits-all approach, many employers have introduced telecommuting policies for certain job roles to plus-up their benefits packages in an effort to attract and retain talent.

Below is an example of a telecommuting policy:

Telecommuting Policy

Begin by stating the objective and purpose before leading into the company’s policies for telecommuters:

Compensation and Work Hours

Explain how participating in the telecommuting program will/will not affect the amount of time the employee is expected to work per day/pay period, compensation, benefits, work status and job responsibilities.

Eligibility

Explain the criteria that must be met to be eligible to participate in the telecommuting program.

Equipment/Tools

Specify what tools/equipment (if any) that the company will provide for the employee to perform their duties. Also determine which party is responsible for repairs to company equipment and how any company-authorized equipment will be returned upon termination of employment.

Workspace

Clearly state any expectations for a designated workspace, including if the company will install equipment to be used while teleworking.

Office Supplies

Specify if office supplies will be provided by the company and if there will be any out-of-pocket expense reimbursement.

Worker’s Compensation

State that workers’ compensation coverage is only applicable to accidents in a designated work area.

Liability

Explain the company’s liability during employee’s agreed-upon work hours within the home workspace.

Dependent Care

Denote that company hours are for telework only.

Income Tax

Indicate that the company is not responsible for tax implications of maintaining a home office nor will it provide tax guidance on such matters.

Communication

Detail what forms of communication the employee must be available during core hours (e.g., phone and email), where client interactions will be conducted, and employee attendance requirements for meetings.

Evaluation

Indicate the employee’s agreement to participate in studies, inquiries, reports, and analyses relating to the telecommuting program.

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