policies every remote business should have

Here’s a comprehensive list of essential policies every remote business should have to ensure legal compliance, clarity, accountability, and a healthy work culture:

Jun 24, 2025 - 16:38
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✅ 1. Remote Work Policy

Outlines expectations and rules for remote employees, including:

  • Work hours and availability

  • Home office requirements

  • Time tracking or productivity tools

  • Communication protocols

  • Eligibility for remote work (fully remote, hybrid, etc.)


✅ 2. Cybersecurity & Data Protection Policy

Critical for protecting company and client data:

  • Use of VPNs, antivirus software, firewalls

  • Guidelines for handling confidential data

  • Password management (e.g., using 1Password, LastPass)

  • Two-factor authentication (2FA) requirements

  • Reporting breaches or phishing attempts


✅ 3. Code of Conduct

Establishes behavioral expectations:

  • Respectful communication

  • Anti-discrimination and harassment rules

  • Conflict resolution protocols

  • Social media guidelines


✅ 4. Communication Policy

Ensures smooth collaboration across time zones:

  • Preferred communication channels (Slack, Zoom, Email, etc.)

  • Response time expectations

  • When to use async vs. live communication

  • Rules for meeting scheduling and attendance


✅ 5. Time Tracking & Productivity Policy

Helps ensure accountability and fair pay:

  • Clock-in/out procedures (if applicable)

  • Use of tools like Toggl, Harvest, Clockify

  • Guidelines for breaks, overtime, or flexible hours


✅ 6. Performance Management Policy

Describes how performance is measured and reviewed:

  • KPIs or OKRs

  • Frequency of reviews (monthly, quarterly, annually)

  • Feedback process and goal-setting procedures


✅ 7. IT & Equipment Policy

Outlines company support and employee responsibilities:

  • What tech is provided (laptops, monitors, etc.)

  • Reimbursement process for home office expenses

  • Maintenance and return of company assets


✅ 8. Expense Reimbursement Policy

Covers reimbursable items like:

  • Internet, software subscriptions

  • Travel (if any)

  • Home office setup

  • Reimbursement submission process


✅ 9. Leave & Time Off Policy

Clarifies paid time off (PTO), sick leave, and more:

  • Vacation accrual and approval

  • Public holidays across time zones

  • Sick, parental, and mental health leave


✅ 10. Intellectual Property (IP) Agreement

Ensures the company retains ownership of work created:

  • Work-for-hire clause

  • IP ownership and transfer

  • NDA/confidentiality clauses


✅ 11. Health & Wellness Policy

Supports remote employees’ mental and physical well-being:

  • Mental health days

  • Access to virtual counseling or wellness apps

  • Encouragement of breaks and work-life balance


✅ 12. Termination & Offboarding Policy

Defines the process for resignations or terminations:

  • Notice periods

  • Access and account deactivation

  • Return of assets

  • Exit interviews and feedback


🧩 Optional but Helpful Policies: