Essential Functions
The fundamental job duties that an employee must be able to perform, with or without accommodation.
Essential functions are the fundamental duties of a job: the core tasks that the position exists to perform. They are distinguished from marginal functions, which are secondary or occasional duties.
A function may be essential because: - The position exists specifically to perform that function - There are limited employees available to perform the function - The function requires specialized expertise
Why it matters: You must be able to perform the essential functions of your job (with or without accommodation) to be protected under the ADA. However, employers cannot artificially inflate what's "essential" to deny accommodations.
Evidence of essential functions includes: - Written job descriptions (prepared before advertising the job) - Amount of time spent performing the function - Consequences of not requiring the function - Work experience of past and current employees
ernesty provides general information and tools to help you understand and organize your situation. It is not legal advice, and it is not a substitute for advice from a licensed attorney about your specific circumstances.