Ohio Disability Resources
If you just got hurt on the job, received a diagnosis, or need to understand what Ohio offers for people with disabilities, this page covers the major programs and how to access them.
Workers' Compensation
The Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation (BWC) administers the state-run workers' comp fund (monopoly state fund system).
What to do if you're hurt at work:- Report the injury to your employer within 24 hours.
- Seek medical treatment.
- File a First Report of Injury with BWC.
- Report as soon as possible (within 24 hours recommended).
- File a formal claim within 2 years.
- Ohio is a state-fund state -- most employers obtain coverage through BWC, not private insurers.
- Temporary total disability pays 72% of full weekly wage (up to maximum).
- Phone: 1-800-644-6292
- Web: bwc.ohio.gov
State Disability Programs
Ohio does not have a state disability insurance program. Apply through federal SSDI/SSI.
Medicaid
Ohio Medicaid is administered by the Department of Medicaid.
How to apply:- Online at benefits.ohio.gov
- By phone: 1-800-324-8680
Vocational Rehabilitation
Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD) provides vocational rehabilitation services. Contact:- Phone: 614-438-1200 / 1-800-282-4536
- Web: ood.ohio.gov
Disability Rights
Disability Rights Ohio is the state's federally designated Protection and Advocacy organization. Contact:- Phone: 614-466-7264 / 1-800-282-9181
- Web: disabilityrightsohio.org
Veterans Services
The Ohio Department of Veterans Services provides state-level assistance.
Contact:- Phone: 614-644-0898
- Web: dvs.ohio.gov
State Employment Protections
Ohio has the Ohio Civil Rights Act, which prohibits disability discrimination for employers with 4 or more employees.
Where to file a complaint:- Ohio Civil Rights Commission: 614-466-2785 / 1-888-278-7101
- Web: crc.ohio.gov
Key Contacts
| Agency | Phone | Website | |--------|-------|---------| | Bureau of Workers' Compensation | 1-800-644-6292 | bwc.ohio.gov | | Dept. of Medicaid | 1-800-324-8680 | benefits.ohio.gov | | Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities | 1-800-282-4536 | ood.ohio.gov | | Disability Rights Ohio | 1-800-282-9181 | disabilityrightsohio.org | | Civil Rights Commission | 1-888-278-7101 | crc.ohio.gov | | Social Security Administration | 1-800-772-1213 | ssa.gov |