Managing Remote And Telecommuting Employees: Formalize Everything In Writing

Remote work vs. telecommuting

First, it's important to clarify the difference between remote employees and telecommuting employees: the difference lies in whether the employee will or will not be required to report to a corporate office from his or her remote work location on a regular basis to attend events, meetings, etc.

• If the expectation does not apply to the employee, then the employee is considered working under a remote work arrangement.
• If the expectation does apply, then the employee is considered working under a telecommuting arrangement.

Does it matter from a legal standpoint? In short, yes because the potential legal issues associated with each arrangement differ and should be addressed accordingly.