How to request flexible working jobs

Flexible working jobs are a great way to balance work and life. Whether it’s a flexible work-from-home job or adjusting your hours, these roles let you work in a way that fits your lifestyle. Ready to make the shift? Here’s everything you need to know about making a flexible working request, what to expect, and how to handle the tax side of things. 

What are flexible working jobs?

Flexible working jobs are roles that give employees the freedom to work outside of the traditional 9-to-5 office schedule. Whether it’s choosing your hours or working from your home, these roles give you the flexibility to make work fit around your life (not the other way around).

Flexibility can come in many forms, such as: 

• Part-time work: work fewer hours and still have time for life’s other priorities. Hello, hobbies! 👋
• Compressed hours: full-time hours, but squeezed into fewer days.
• Job-sharing: team up with someone to split the workload (and the responsibility).
• Flexitime: start early, finish early, or hit snooze and start late. Your call.
• Remote working: work from anywhere, whether it’s your kitchen table or a tropical beach. Wi-Fi permitting, of course.

One of the most popular options today is flexible work-from-home jobs. These roles let you work remotely, so you can skip the commute and focus on your tasks from the comfort of your own space.🏡

So, if you’re ready to say goodbye to the office grind and hello to a more balanced work life, these jobs could be just what you’re looking for.  

How to make a flexible working request 

Ready to trade in traditional office hours for something that actually fits your life? 🙌 Making a flexible working request is the first step. Here’s how to go about it:

Check if you’re eligible

In the UK, employees can request flexible working from their first day on the job and employers must consider flexible working requests in a ‘reasonable manner’. 

Plan your proposal 

Think about the changes you want. Is it fewer hours, working remotely, or a four-day week? Be specific. Then, consider how this could benefit your employer – less office space, fewer coffee supplies, and a happier you!

Put it in writing

Your request must be in writing, either as an email or a letter. Be sure to include the following:

• The date of the request.
• A statement that this is a statutory request for flexible working. 📄
• The type of flexibility you’re asking for.
• When you’d like it to start. 📅

Be ready for questions

Your manager might want to discuss your request before making a decision. Be prepared to explain how you’ll handle your workload and keep things running smoothly.

Wait for the verdict

Employers have two months to make a decision, so don’t panic if you don’t hear back right away. And if your flexible working request is approved, congrats! 🎉Your employer will need to update your contract to reflect the new working arrangement.

But if the answer is a “no”, they’ll need to provide clear business reasons for the refusal. If you’re not happy with the decision, you might have the option to raise a complaint with an employment tribunal. 

What are the tax implications of flexible working jobs?

Flexible working jobs are great for your work-life balance, but they can also have a few tax twists you should know about. Here’s the lowdown:

1. Home office tax deductions: working from home? You might be able to claim a portion of your bills (think electricity, heating, and internet). 
2. National Insurance contributions (NICs): a change in your hours or income might affect your NICs. For example, working less could reduce contributions, while working more could increase them. 👀
3. Income tax and PAYE: modifying your hours or salary could affect your PAYE deductions and tax code. Always double-check your payslips to ensure you’re paying the right amount of tax. 

Had your flexible working request declined?

It happens! Sometimes your flexible working request gets declined. 😕 But don’t worry. If your request is turned down, your employer must provide clear reasons, usually related to business needs like team productivity or company operations.

If you’re not happy with the response, you can appeal. Start by checking your company’s appeal procedure, then follow the steps, whether that’s submitting a written appeal or attending a meeting.

And remember, just because it’s a no now doesn’t mean you can’t try again later, things change, and flexibility could be back on the table when the time’s right! 

Flexibility awaits 

Flexible working jobs can be a breath of fresh air, offering you the freedom to work in a way that suits your lifestyle. But before you send in that flexible working request, make sure you’re prepared. With a solid appeal strategy and some persistence, you could land your dream work setup. And if you’re feeling unsure about the tax side of things, getting expert advice can keep things smooth sailing.