Arkansas Disability Resources
If you just got hurt on the job, received a diagnosis, or need to understand what Arkansas offers for people with disabilities, this page covers the major programs and how to access them.
Workers' Compensation
The Arkansas Workers' Compensation Commission oversees claims for employees injured on the job.
What to do if you're hurt at work:- Report the injury to your supervisor immediately.
- For emergencies, call 911 first, then report the claim.
- For non-emergencies, call Company Nurse at 1-855-339-1893 (for state employees) or contact your employer's workers' comp carrier.
- Complete required claim forms (Form 1, Form N, PECD Form 1).
- Employers with 3 or more employees must carry workers' compensation insurance.
- The employer directs initial medical care.
- Report injuries before seeking non-emergency medical treatment, or payment may be denied.
- Notify your employer as soon as possible after the injury.
- File a claim within 2 years of the injury.
- Arkansas Workers' Compensation Commission: 501-682-3930 / 1-800-622-4472
- Web: awcc.state.ar.us
- State employees: Public Employee Claims Division, Fax: 501-371-2733
State Disability Programs
Arkansas does not have a state disability insurance program. Disability benefits come through federal SSDI and SSI programs.
- Apply at ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213.
Medicaid
Arkansas Medicaid is administered by the Department of Human Services (DHS).
Key programs:- ARKids First (children)
- Medicaid for people with disabilities
- Home and community-based waivers
- Arkansas Works (Medicaid expansion)
- Online at access.arkansas.gov
- By phone: 1-855-372-1084
Vocational Rehabilitation
Arkansas Rehabilitation Services (ARS) under the Department of Workforce Services helps people with disabilities find and maintain employment. Services offered:- Vocational rehabilitation (adult services)
- Pre-employment transition services for students
- Assistive technology (AT@Work, ICAN)
- Stay at Work / Return to Work programs
- Telecommunications Access Program (TAP)
- Deaf and hard of hearing services
- Small business program
- Career development center
Disability Rights
Disability Rights Arkansas (DRA) is the state's federally designated Protection and Advocacy organization. Services:- Legal advocacy and support for people with disabilities
- Equal access to education, employment, and other opportunities
Veterans Services
The Arkansas Department of Veterans Affairs provides state-level assistance.
Contact:State Employment Protections
Arkansas has the Arkansas Civil Rights Act, which prohibits employment discrimination based on disability for employers with 9 or more employees. The Arkansas Governor's Commission on People with Disabilities also works on disability policy.
Where to file a complaint:- EEOC: 1-800-669-4000
- Web: eeoc.gov
Key Contacts
| Agency | Phone | Website | |--------|-------|---------| | Workers' Compensation Commission | 501-682-3930 / 1-800-622-4472 | awcc.state.ar.us | | DHS Medicaid | 1-855-372-1084 | humanservices.arkansas.gov | | Arkansas Rehabilitation Services | See website | dws.arkansas.gov | | Disability Rights Arkansas | See website | disabilityrightsar.org | | Social Security Administration | 1-800-772-1213 | ssa.gov |