Companies often worry that implementing a telework program would end up costing more money and time to set up than it is worth.  In an effort to support nation-wide telework efforts, Virginia passed a telework tax credit for employees to help cover any extra costs they will incur in a move to a more mobile and flexible workplace.

On Tuesday, April 12, Gov. Bob McDonnell signed the legislation:

"Eligible telework expenses" means expenses incurred during the taxable year pursuant to a telework agreement, in an amount up to $1,200 for each participating employee, that enable a participating employee to begin to telework…Such expenses include, but are not limited to, expenses paid or incurred to purchase computers, computer-related hardware and software, modems, data processing equipment, telecommunications equipment, high-speed Internet connectivity equipment, computer security software and devices, and all related delivery, installation, and maintenance fees…expenses may also include up to a maximum of $20,000 for conducting a telework assessment on or after January 1, 2012.”

(HB 2197, http://leg1.state.va.us/cgi-bin/legp504.exe?111+ful+HB2197)

This tax incentive is the boost companies need to get over their cost-fears and move towards implementation.  In the end, allowing for telework could save the company millions of dollars overall as the need for space can be great reduced and real estate can be cut.