The Connectivity Allowance, formerly known as the Wireless Device Allowance, provides eligible employees with a wireless device allowance and an internet allowance. Employees required to utilize a County wireless device for their job responsibilities, or employees identified as mandatory remote workers can be eligible for an allowance.
A wireless device refers to cell phones, multi-use devices (iPhones, Androids, tablets, etc) and similar telecommunication devices that are used to make or receive wireless phone calls and transmit data on the public cell phone networks.
When a Connectivity Allowance is determined to be needed, employees must complete the Connectivity Allowance Request (LCHR-12) and submit it to their supervisor for approval.
Once approved, the allowance will be set up in UKG by the department Payroll Rep, and the employee will receive the selected monthly allowance in the first paycheck of each month.
Connectivity Allowances will be ongoing until the department decides to end the allowance; they do not need to be renewed each year.
If the stipend needs to be cancelled or the amount needs to be changed, a new form should be submitted. The department Payroll Rep will then enter the change in UKG and upload the new form.
The allowance does not have to be for an entire year. Stipends can be used for temporary employees, for project work, or for “one-off” reimbursement.
The basic criteria for establishing need for a wireless device for County business include, but are not limited to:
- Need for 24/7 emergency communication.
- Large amounts of time spent away from the office during the workday for business activities other than teleworking. Employees are responsible for work related voice and data communications charges while teleworking.
- A need for others to be in regular communication with the individual when they do not have access to a landline.
- Personal safety concerns for individuals while traveling, working evening hours, working in isolated areas, or working in high crime areas.
- A need to contact an individual after normal business hours on a regular basis.
The wireless device is a personal device owned and operated by the employee. This device may be used for both business and personal use.
