What Disabilities Are Eligible for Federal Workplace Disability Accommodations?

If you're a federal employee living with a disability, you have the right to request reasonable accommodations to help you perform the essential functions of your job. But what exactly qualifies as a disability under federal law? Below, our experienced federal employee workplace disability attorneys at The Law Firm of John P. Mahoney, Esq., Attorneys at Law, PLLC will provide an overview of the types of disabilities that may be eligible for workplace accommodations.

What Is Considered a Disability Under Federal Law?

The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is the primary law protecting the rights of individuals with disabilities in federal employment. To be considered a disability under this law, you must meet one of the following criteria:

• A physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities. Examples include:
  • Vision impairments (blindness, low vision)
  • Hearing impairments (deafness, hard of hearing)
  • Mobility impairments (amputations, arthritis, back injuries)
  • Neurological impairments (multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease)
  • Mental health conditions (depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder)
  • Learning disabilities (dyslexia, ADHD)
  • Chronic illnesses (diabetes, asthma, cancer)
• A record of such an impairment. This means you had a disability in the past, even if it no longer substantially limits you.
• Being regarded as having such an impairment. This occurs when an employer mistakenly believes you have a disability, even if you don't.

Common Disabilities Eligible for Accommodations

While the definition of disability is broad, some conditions are more commonly associated with workplace accommodations than others. These conditions include:

• Sensory disabilities: Vision, hearing, and speech impairments.
• Mobility impairments: Difficulty walking, standing, sitting, or reaching.
• Cognitive impairments: Learning disabilities, memory problems, or difficulty concentrating.
• Mental health conditions: Depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and other mental illnesses.
• Chronic health conditions: Diabetes, asthma, cancer, and other conditions requiring ongoing management.

It's important to note that this is not an exhaustive list. If you have a condition that significantly impacts your ability to perform job functions, you may be eligible for accommodations.

Speak with Our Dedicated Federal Employee Disability Attorneys Today!

If you believe you have a disability that qualifies for workplace accommodations, the first step is to initiate an interactive process with your agency. This involves discussing your limitations and exploring potential accommodations.

Our federal employee disability lawyers at The Law Firm of John P. Mahoney, Esq., Attorneys at Law, PLLC can guide you through the process and advocate for your rights. If you face challenges in obtaining necessary accommodations, we can help you understand your options and protect your interests.

Call us at (202) 350-3881 or contact us online today to schedule a confidential consultation with our federal employee disability legal team.