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"Vocational Rehabilitation: The Complete Guide"

Vocational Rehabilitation

Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) is a federally funded, state-administered program that helps people with disabilities prepare for, find, and keep jobs. Every state, territory, and many tribal nations have a VR program. The services are individualized -- what you get depends on what you need.

VR is not a welfare program. It's an employment program. The goal is a specific job outcome for you, not just general support.

Who Is Eligible

To qualify for VR services, you must meet two criteria:

  1. You have a physical or mental impairment that creates a substantial barrier to employment
  2. You need VR services to prepare for, get, keep, or regain a job
That's it. There is no income test. There is no age limit (though services are focused on working-age adults and transition-age youth).

Automatic Eligibility

If you receive SSI or SSDI, you are presumed eligible for VR services unless the state agency determines you are too severely disabled to benefit from services. This is rare.

Eligibility Timeline

Your state VR agency must make an eligibility determination within 60 days of receiving your application.

Order of Selection

When VR agencies don't have enough resources to serve everyone, they implement an "order of selection" -- a priority system based on severity of disability. People with the most significant disabilities are served first. If your state is under order of selection, you may be placed on a waiting list even if you're eligible.

What Services Are Available

VR is an individualized program. You won't get the same services as everyone else. What you receive depends on your disability, your goals, and what you need to get there.

Common VR services include:

What VR Does Not Cover

VR is not a permanent support program. It provides time-limited services to help you reach a specific employment goal. Once you achieve that goal and maintain employment, your case is closed.

VR also can't pay for services that another program is available to cover. They will coordinate with other agencies and programs to avoid duplication.

The Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE)

After you're found eligible, you and your VR counselor develop an Individualized Plan for Employment. This is your roadmap. It spells out:

Your Rights in the IPE Process

If you and your counselor can't agree on the IPE, you have the right to appeal.

How to Apply

  1. Find your local VR office. Every state has a VR agency, and many have local offices throughout the state. Start at your state's workforce or rehabilitation services website, or find your state agency through the EARN network at askearn.org.
  2. Submit an application. You can usually apply by contacting your local office directly. Some states allow self-referral online. Schools, hospitals, doctors, and other agencies can also refer you.
  3. Meet with a counselor. A VR counselor will review your application, gather information about your disability and work history, and determine your eligibility.
  4. Develop your IPE. If eligible, you'll work with your counselor to create your employment plan.
  5. Receive services. Follow your IPE, check in with your counselor, and work toward your employment goal.

Where to Find Your State VR Agency

Some states have separate agencies for people who are blind or visually impaired.

If You Disagree with a Decision

If you disagree with any decision made by your VR agency -- eligibility, services, your IPE, or case closure -- you have the right to appeal.

Client Assistance Program (CAP)

Every state has a Client Assistance Program that provides free advocacy and information to people applying for or receiving VR services. CAP can help you understand your rights, navigate the system, and advocate on your behalf.

CAP is independent from the VR agency. Find yours through your state's Protection and Advocacy organization.

Appeal options typically include:

  1. Informal resolution -- Talk with your counselor's supervisor
  2. Mediation -- A neutral third party helps you and the agency reach agreement
  3. Administrative review or hearing -- A formal process to challenge the decision

VR and Other Programs

Ticket to Work

If you receive SSDI or SSI, the Ticket to Work program can work alongside VR. Your state VR agency is a qualified Employment Network under the Ticket to Work program.

Centers for Independent Living (CILs)

CILs provide job coaching, training, and information about disability in the workplace. They focus on independence and self-advocacy. Find yours at ilru.org.

VA Vocational Rehabilitation (Chapter 31)

If you're a Veteran, VA has its own vocational rehabilitation program (VR&E, or Chapter 31) that is separate from state VR. You may be able to use both, depending on your situation.

Key Contacts

Related Programs