Federal telework is governed by the Telework Enhancement Act of 2010 (Public Law 111-292). The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) issues government-wide guidance, but each agency writes and runs its own program. Telework.org is an independent site and is not affiliated with OPM. Always check the official sources below.
What the law requires
- Each executive agency must establish a telework policy.
- Agencies must determine which employees are eligible and notify them.
- Employees must have a written telework agreement with their manager before teleworking.
- Agencies must provide interactive telework training.
- Each agency must appoint a Telework Managing Officer.
Who is not eligible under the Act
The Act bars telework for employees disciplined for being absent without permission for more than five days in a year, or for viewing, downloading or exchanging pornography on a federal computer or while performing official duties. Agencies may also exclude positions whose duties require daily on-site work, such as handling secure materials or providing in-person services.
Eligibility decisions
Eligibility is decided by your agency, based on the duties of the position and your own conduct and performance record. Policies, approval processes and the number of permitted telework days differ between agencies and can change. See agency telework policies.
Official sources
- OPM telework guidance (opm.gov/telework)
- Telework.gov, the federal government telework site
- Telework Enhancement Act of 2010 on congress.gov
Need to put an arrangement in writing? Use our telework agreement template as a starting point, but your agency's own form takes priority.
Frequently asked questions
What law governs federal telework?
The Telework Enhancement Act of 2010 (Public Law 111-292) requires each executive agency to set a telework policy, determine employee eligibility and notify employees of it, and have written agreements in place for employees who telework.
Who decides if a federal employee can telework?
Each agency decides, under its own policy and the Telework Enhancement Act. OPM provides government-wide guidance but does not approve individual arrangements.
Where can I find official federal telework guidance?
OPM publishes guidance at opm.gov/telework and the government-wide telework site is telework.gov. Your agency's telework coordinator and policy are the final word for your job.