General
Questions and answers
If the position was posted as one for which work would be performed remotely, then the agency should provide the incumbent with the equipment needed to effectively perform the duties of the position. If the agency is permitting remote work at the incumbent’s request, the agency has latitude to decide what equipment to offer. Similarly, because participation in telework is voluntary, and initiated at the employee’s request, agency policies may vary as to what is supplied for telework. Of course, agencies should consult with their Chief Information Officers or equivalents about security requirements with respect to information technology, which may determine who should be permitted to acquire such equipment. Where possible, agencies should also outline in their remote work and telework policies the equipment and services the agency will provide and the equipment and services employees will be expected to provide, under various circumstances. These provisions will vary among agencies, according to specific guidance, allowances, and restrictions.
All teleworkers and remote workers must be made aware that any Government items provided to an employee remain the property of the U.S. Government and must be managed and handled in accordance with Government-wide and agency-specific policies and guidance. The general principle is that the Government may not provide items that are used significantly for non-official activity (see GAO B-326021 decision).
Agencies should use agency property and excess property to the greatest extent practicable before acquiring new property (FMR 102-36). Agencies should address in their telework and remote work policies the disposition of Government-provided resources.
Telework.gov also describes critical IT, property, and security considerations related to telework.