Microsoft to require in-office work for Puget Sound staff

After previously mulling over the idea in the summer, Microsoft has ruled that its employees must work in the office three days per week starting in 2026.

Business Insider reported last month that an announcement from Microsoft would come in September. The Seattle Times confirmed the company mandate Tuesday.

Specifically, workers in the Puget Sound area living within 50 miles of a Microsoft office will only be allowed two weekly remote days by the end of February.

“We’ve looked at how our teams work best, and the data is clear: when people work together in person more often, they thrive — they are more energized, empowered, and they deliver stronger results,” Microsoft’s chief human resources officer, Amy Coleman, told The Seattle Times .

There’s no specific timeline for implem