Wi-Fi for Remote Workers - Who Should Pay?

Businesses with remote workforces have seen the benefit of reduced office-related overheads for the past few years. However, should they be paying for internet access for their remote teams? In this article, we cover both sides of the debate.

In 2020, most businesses adapted to remote work due to necessity. Since then, it has become the norm, as businesses who don't necessarily need to be in the office at all times identified flexible working policies as a key employee perk that seemingly benefits everyone. Working parents report feeling the benefit of more time at home, and there are a number of reports highlighting that businesses have benefitted from being able to remove geographic restrictions to hiring, opening up new avenues for talent to enter the business.

For businesses, there have been quite a few benefits to leaving the office. Reduced headcount has enabled them to reduce utilities usage, including internet services.

However, this has pushed the cost of those utilities onto the remote workforce, who now have to heat their homes during the work week and ensure their home internet connection is capable of handling corporate workloads.

Remote workers who have had to upgrade their internet provision argue that their businesses should be covering this upgrade, as it is a necessary tool to ensure they can fulfil their responsibilities.

We'd love to hear your opinions on the matter!