Wisconsin Disability Resources
If you just got hurt on the job, received a diagnosis, or need to understand what Wisconsin offers for people with disabilities, this page covers the major programs and how to access them.
Workers' Compensation
The Wisconsin Division of Workers' Compensation under the Department of Workforce Development handles claims.
What to do if you're hurt at work:- Report the injury to your employer immediately.
- Seek medical treatment -- you may choose your own doctor.
- File a claim if benefits are denied.
- Notify your employer as soon as practicable.
- File a formal claim within 2 years (6 years for occupational diseases).
- Employers with 3+ employees must carry workers' compensation.
- Temporary total disability pays 66 2/3% of average weekly wage.
- Employee chooses the treating physician.
- Phone: 608-266-1340
- Web: dwd.wisconsin.gov/wc
State Disability Programs
Wisconsin does not have a state disability insurance program. Apply through federal SSDI/SSI.
Medicaid
Wisconsin Medicaid is called BadgerCare Plus and Medicaid.
How to apply:- Online at access.wisconsin.gov
- By phone: 1-800-362-3002
Vocational Rehabilitation
The Wisconsin Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) helps people with disabilities find employment.
Contact:- Phone: 608-261-0050 / 1-800-442-3477
- Web: dwd.wisconsin.gov/dvr
Disability Rights
Disability Rights Wisconsin is the state's federally designated Protection and Advocacy organization. Contact:- Phone: 608-267-0214 / 1-800-928-8778
- Web: disabilityrightswi.org
Veterans Services
The Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs provides state-level assistance.
Contact:- Phone: 608-266-1311 / 1-800-947-8387
- Web: dva.state.wi.us
State Employment Protections
Wisconsin has the Wisconsin Fair Employment Act, which prohibits disability discrimination for employers with 1 or more employees.
Where to file a complaint:- Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development, Equal Rights Division: 608-266-6860
- Web: dwd.wisconsin.gov/er
Key Contacts
| Agency | Phone | Website | |--------|-------|---------| | Division of Workers' Compensation | 608-266-1340 | dwd.wisconsin.gov/wc | | BadgerCare Plus (Medicaid) | 1-800-362-3002 | access.wisconsin.gov | | Division of Vocational Rehab | 1-800-442-3477 | dwd.wisconsin.gov/dvr | | Disability Rights Wisconsin | 1-800-928-8778 | disabilityrightswi.org | | Equal Rights Division | 608-266-6860 | dwd.wisconsin.gov/er | | Social Security Administration | 1-800-772-1213 | ssa.gov |