Work From Home Request Email Template

Asking to work from home still feels like a risk for many employees, even where remote work is common. A strong remote work request makes the business case: you're not asking for a perk, you're proposing an arrangement that benefits both you and the team.

Original Message

Can I work from home? I'd rather not come into the office.

Professional Version

Hi [Manager's Name],

I'd like to discuss the possibility of working from home [frequency: one day per week / full-time / for the next month].

I believe this would allow me to [benefit: focus on deep work / manage a logistical situation / maintain productivity without commuting time]. I have a dedicated workspace and reliable internet, and I'm committed to maintaining full availability and communication with the team during core hours.

I'm happy to start with a trial period of [X weeks] so we can assess whether it's working effectively. Would you be open to discussing?

Thanks,
[Your Name]

Polite Version

Hi [Manager's Name],

I hope you're doing well. I wanted to bring up something I've been thinking about — working from home [frequency].

I feel I could be very productive in a home environment, and I'd love to try it. I'd suggest a trial period so you can evaluate how it works before committing to anything long-term.

Would you be open to a quick chat about it?

Thanks so much,
[Your Name]

Firm Version

Hi [Manager's Name],

I'd like to formally request the option to work remotely [frequency]. I have the necessary setup at home and can maintain full availability during core hours.

I propose a [X-week] trial to assess effectiveness.

Regards,
[Your Name]

When to Use This Template

  • When you want to request a formal or informal remote work arrangement
  • When you're returning to the office after a period of working from home and want to maintain flexibility
  • When a life change makes remote work practically necessary
  • When you want to propose a trial period to reduce the perceived risk for your manager

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making it about personal preference only: Frame it around productivity, deep work, and output quality, not just preference.
Not addressing communication and availability concerns: Pre-empt this by committing to specific availability and check-in practices.
Asking for too much too soon: Starting with one or two remote days per week is a more achievable first step.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my manager denies my request without a reason?

Ask politely for more context: 'Is there a specific concern I could address?'

How do I handle colleagues who resent remote workers?

Stay responsive, over-communicate availability, and let your output speak for itself.

Working from home tomorrow — short version

Hi [Manager], I will be working from home tomorrow, [date]. I will be available at my usual hours and reachable by email and [chat tool]. Please let me know if that causes any issues.