Flexible working agreed decision extension letter template
Our Flexible Working Agreed Decision Extension Letter Template streamlines extension requests, ensuring efficient communication and flexibility.
If you are seeking agreement to an extension of up to two weeks of the decision period to decide an employee's request for flexible working, issue this model letter template.
- 2 pages / 332 words.
- Last updated 06/06/2025.
- Designed for United Kingdom use.
- Suitable for use in other territories; check local laws first.
- Instantly download as Word / PDF / plain text, or send by email.
- Includes 12 months’ access, with all updates to this page provided free of charge and notified to you.
Flexible working agreed decision extension letter
[Sender name]
[Sender address]
[date]
[Recipient name]
[Recipient address]
Dear [Recipient first name],
Agreed extension of flexible working request outcome
I am writing to you about your flexible working request dated [insert date which appeared on employee's request], which we received on [insert date employer received the request].
Initially, the law requires us to notify you of our decision on your request within two months of the day on which we received it] However, we may agree between us to extend that initial decision period.
[As set out in my letter to you of [insert date], we previously agreed between us to extend the decision period so that we would not be obliged to notify you of our decision
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An employer would issue a Flexible working agreed decision extension letter when they require more time to consider an employee's request for flexible working arrangements. The letter informs the employee that the employer has not yet reached a decision on the request, but is willing to extend the decision-making period.
There may be various reasons why an employer would need to extend the decision-making period, such as the need to gather more information or to consult with other stakeholders. The Flexible working agreed decision extension letter would typically include a new deadline for the employer to make a decision.
This letter is an important communication tool as it shows the employer's commitment to giving the employee's request proper consideration. It also helps to manage the employee's expectations and provides them with a clear timeline for when they can expect to hear back from their employer. This can help to reduce anxiety and stress on the employee's part, while also allowing the employer to make a well-informed decision that takes into account the needs of both the employee and the business.
It is usually delivered to the Employee by the Employer / HR.
It should be actioned as soon as possible after an agreement has been reached to extend the decision timescale.
Compliance
Compliance
This Flexible working agreed decision extension letter template incorporates relevant UK laws and HR standards, including those listed below:
Employers have a legal obligation to respond to an employee's flexible working request within two months of receiving it. However, in some cases, the employer may require more time to consider the request properly. In such cases, the employer can agree to extend the decision-making period.
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Employers should notify the employee in writing within the original decision period that they are considering the request and that they may require an extension of up to an additional two weeks.
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Employers should only use the extension period when they need additional time to gather information, consult with others, or consider the request properly.
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Employers should inform the employee of the new deadline for the decision within the extension period.
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If the employer decides to grant the request, they should inform the employee in writing of the changes to their working arrangements and the date on which the changes will come into effect.
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If the employer decides to refuse the request, they should provide clear reasons for the decision in writing and explain the appeals process.
In summary, while employers are required to respond to flexible working requests within three months, they can agree to an extension of up to two weeks.
Flowchart
Flowchart
Check which resources should be implemeted before and/or after the Flexible working agreed decision extension letter template, to understand the workflow.
Flexible working application meeting script
Our flexible working application meeting script template guides productive discussions, ensuring clear communication and mutual understanding of flexible work arrangements.
Flexible working request acceptance letter
Use this model letter to provide an employee with formal acceptance of their flexible working request.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use this template in my small business?
Yes. The Flexible working agreed decision extension letter template is designed to be flexible and suitable for organisations of all sizes, including small businesses and charities. It follows UK employment law best practice, so even if you don't have an in-house HR team, you can confidently apply it.
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Is this template compliant with 2025 UK employment law?
Absolutely. All of our templates are drafted with the latest ACAS guidance and UK employment legislation in mind. We review and update them regularly, so you can be confident they remain compliant.
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Can I customise it for my organisation?
Yes, we highlight the areas that you need to update with your own details, and where you need to make decisions to suit your situation. This saves you time and ensures that you meet best practice.
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Do I get instant access?
Yes. Once purchased, you'll be able to download it instantly. Templates are provided in editable Word or Excel format so you can customise them easily, and in PDF format for easy sharing.
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What if I need more help, not just this template?
If you're looking for broader support, we also offer toolkits and library bundles that include this template, along with other HR templates and policies for fully managing your situation. These may be more cost-effective if you need deeper advice.
