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As a remote worker, you may be questioning whether your employer should pay for the equipment, technology, and other resources you need to perform your job effectively, much like they would if you were working in the office.
Order lunch, fire up Slack, and prepare for your afternoon shower. It’s Work From Home Week! Whether you’re working from your couch or a nearby coffee shop, Mytour is here with tips on how to stay productive, maintain balance, and preserve your sanity during remote work, whether it’s for a day or for the long haul.
Though remote workers and freelancers are often discussed together, there is an important distinction to make here: As a freelancer, you’ll probably have to provide your own supplies (and don’t forget to write them off on your taxes). However, as a remote worker, you may be able to discuss with your employer the possibility of having the necessary items covered for your daily tasks.
As noted by FlexJobs, companies handle this in various ways. Some offer a stipend that can be used for necessary supplies; others may expect employees to provide all their equipment; while some provide company-issued computers that must be returned if the employee leaves. The approach varies by company.
Remote.co, a platform dedicated to assisting businesses in creating remote work policies, outlines what companies are willing to pay for and what they aren't:
Laptops and phones: Very likely.
Printers, scanners, multiple monitors, and copiers: Not likely, although designers and programmers may have a better chance of getting at least one additional monitor.
Desks, chairs, or filing cabinets: Unlikely, unless an ergonomic chair is needed due to Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines.
VPN: If your job requires accessing the company network remotely, your employer may cover the cost of a VPN. Additionally, you might be able to request partial reimbursement for your Internet expenses.
“It is recommended that employers provide telecommuters with the necessary equipment to perform their work efficiently and securely,” writes Remote. This usually means a company-provided laptop, assuming the budget allows it. However, smaller businesses might not be able to provide this. In that case, you might want to request an allowance for equipment.
Your computer should also come preloaded with the software necessary for your job. Designers, for example, need access to the Adobe Suite or another product of the company’s choice. If your role involves frequent meetings, the device should be equipped with videoconferencing software. Also, remember to ask your employer to reimburse any business-related costs or send you to conferences or training events, if such benefits are available to non-remote employees.
If you’re new to remote work, get to know your employer’s policies—but don’t hesitate to request more if you need it. And be sure to check out the rest of our Work from Home Week tips and guidance.
