Employer asking to disclose DISABILITY

Google
ECyG30

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ECyG30
Apr 1, 2020 26 Comments

I am being asked by my employer whether I have disability (I am Software Engineer).
I have "anosmia" (lack of smell). It is considered "invisible disability" <https://www.disabled-world.com/disability/types/invisible/anosmia.php>.

Should I select that I have disability, or not?
I am not asking if anosmia is considered real disability, but rather what are the implications of reporting that to my employer. Would I have benefits out of this or there would be some drawbacks?

Thanks

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TOP 26 Comments
  • It would affect OPs ability to smell like success
    Apr 1, 2020 0
  • Amazon
    TCtothaMAX

    Go to company page Amazon

    TCtothaMAX
    So you can’t smell what the rock is cooking?
    Apr 1, 2020 1
  • Ironclad
    ⌐(ಠ۾ಠ)¬

    Go to company page Ironclad

    ⌐(ಠ۾ಠ)¬
    If your disability doesn''t affect your daily work, then probably zero benefits.
    Apr 1, 2020 0
  • I would disclose, but I would have a conversation about it with HR/Recruiting as opposed to via a form or email so that you can clearly explain what it is and the fact that it has never and will never get in the way of performing your job duties. And that you need no special accomodations.

    HR cares about this from a reporting standpoint.

    But if the company takes issue with this and it somehow prohibits you from getting an offer, then they are a lousy place to work in the first place.
    Apr 1, 2020 5
    • Whatever you think is best. Just providing my perspective. I'm in in-house Talent Acquisition with a software company for context if helpful.
      Apr 1, 2020
    • Convoy
      YepH76

      Go to company page Convoy

      YepH76
      I would ask how that question is job related. They would be wise to reframe it as “can you lift 50 lbs”. They are foolish to ask such a broad question and if you are not hired after disclosing I would talk to an attorney. This is a super rookie move on this company’s part.
      Apr 10, 2020
  • Amazon
    yuriy

    Go to company page Amazon

    yuriy
    It can never hurt (and occasionally can help) to be in some protected class. If you're black, or female, or veteran, or disabled — go ahead and disclose it on the form. I'm none of the above, so I always refuse to self-identity.
    Apr 1, 2020 1