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How to Request the Accommodations You Have the Right To

By Alexandria “Lexi” Bibbs

How to Get Accommodations: A Step-By-Step Guide

Accommodations exist to give people with disabilities equal access—not special treatment. This page explains how to identify what you need, how to request accommodations, what documentation may be required, and what to do if your request is denied.

What Counts as an Accommodation?

Plain definition: An accommodation is any reasonable change that helps you access work, school, housing, services, or public spaces.

Examples:

  • Extra time on tests
  • Modified work schedule
  • Assistive technology
  • Note-takers, interpreters, captioning
  • Physical access (ramps, seating changes)
  • Flexible attendance policies
  • Sensory-friendly adjustments

Steps

Step 1 - Identify What You Need
A simple question to ask: “What barrier am I facing, and what adjustment would remove it?”
Examples:
  • Barrier: Chronic pain makes sitting long hours difficult → Accommodation: hybrid work or ergonomic chair.
  • Barrier: ADHD impacts timed exams → Accommodation: extended testing time.

Step 2 - Request Accommodations in Writing

Providing a written request creates a paper trail.

Basic script (copy-and-paste):

Subject: Accommodation Request
Hello [Name],
I am requesting reasonable accommodations under the ADA/Section 504 due to a disability. The accommodation(s) I need are:
  • [List accommodation]
  • [List accommodation]
These adjustments will allow me to fully participate and perform my responsibilities.
Please let me know the next steps or if you need documentation.
Thank you,
 [Your name]

Step 3 - Documentation (If Required)

Employers/schools may ask for documentation, but it does not need to disclose a diagnosis.

You can provide:

  • A note from a healthcare provider
  • Functional limitations (not medical history)
  • Explanation of needed accommodations

They cannot:

  • Ask for your entire medical history
  • Demand specific wording
  • Ask whether you “deserve” accommodations
  • Ask for documentation if the disability is obvious

Step 4 - The Interactive Process
This is a required conversation between you and the institution. It should include:
  • Discussion of your needs
  • Possible alternative accommodations
  • Timelines for implementation
Important: Delays = violations. They must act promptly.

If Your Request is Denied

You have options:

  • Ask for the denial in writing
  • Request clarification on the reason
  • Submit additional documentation
  • Appeal internally (HR, disability coordinator, dean)
  • File a complaint externally (EEOC for work, OCR for schools)
  • Seek legal help — many nonprofits assist for free

Tips for Success

  • Keep all emails, notes, and documents
  • Submit requests early in the semester/work cycle
  • Bring someone to meetings if allowed
  • Use clear, simple wording
  • Be specific about what barrier you’re facing
  • Know that retaliation is illegal