Flexible working request letter

Use this letter to ask your employer for a change to your working pattern, such as different hours, part-time work, compressed hours or working from home. A clear written request that shows how the change would work makes it easier for your employer to say yes.

Your letter

This is general information to help you understand your options — not legal advice. Laws change and depend on your circumstances; before you act, check with an official body, a union, a legal aid service or a lawyer. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.

Tips

Check your employer's policy and the law where you live: some countries have a formal statutory request process with deadlines for the employer's reply.
Focus on how the work will still get done, and offer a trial period to make it easier to agree.
You do not usually have to explain why you want flexible working, but it can help if it is linked to caring responsibilities or health.
Keep a copy of the request and note the date you sent it.

Flexible working request letter

Your details

Your letter