Q: How do I apply for Vocational Rehabilitation Services?
A: You’ve got a few easy options:

  • Call or visit your local VR office to set up an appointment with a Counselor.
  • Fill out the online application form.
  • Download the PDF application, complete it, and return it to your local office.

Q: How do I know if I am eligible for services?
A: Your Counselor will review medical and/or psychological information to decide if you qualify. They’ll walk you through the process and explain the criteria. If you already receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you automatically meet the basic eligibility.

In general, you may be eligible if:

  • You have a physical or mental condition that makes it harder to get or keep a job.
  • That condition creates a significant barrier to employment.
  • You can benefit from VR services in reaching a work goal.
  • You need VR services to prepare for, get, keep, or return to a job that fits your strengths, abilities, and choices.

Q: If I am determined eligible, what is the process to receive services and how long does it take?
A: Once you’re found eligible, you and your Counselor will create an Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE). This plan is built around your interests, strengths, abilities, and goals. How long it takes depends on the type of job you want and the services you’ll need to get there.

Q: How long does it take to find out if I’m eligible?
A: You’ll get a decision within 60 days of submitting your signed application.

Q: How much do your services cost?
A: There’s no cost while we determine your eligibility. If you qualify, you and your Counselor will build your Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE). Depending on your financial situation, you may be asked to share in some of the costs of your program.

Q: What are my options if I get placed on a job that I don’t like? If I quit, do I have to apply for services again?
A: You won’t be placed in a job you didn’t choose—your IPE is designed with your input, so your job goal should reflect what you want. If you don’t like a job, you don’t have to accept it. If you take a job and later decide to quit, you don’t need to reapply if your case is still open. If your case has been closed, you can apply again.

Q: What services can Vocational Rehabilitation provide?
A: VR offers many types of support, depending on your Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE). Services may include:

Career Support

  • Career counseling and guidance
  • Assessments to figure out your skills, interests, and needs
  • Job search, placement, and retention assistance
  • Follow-up support after you start work

Training & Education

  • Vocational training or college support
  • On-the-job training opportunities
  • Transition services for students moving from school to work

Health & Accessibility

  • Diagnosis and treatment of physical or mental conditions (if not covered by other sources like insurance)
  • Rehabilitation technology (adaptive devices, software, etc.)
  • Personal assistance services
  • Interpreter or reader services for people who are deaf or blind
  • Orientation and mobility training for individuals who are blind

Financial & Practical Support

  • Help with transportation
  • Maintenance support for extra costs while receiving services
  • Tools, equipment, or occupational licenses needed for work

Self-Employment

  • Support for starting a small business
  • Access to a VR business consultant
  • Guidance in developing a business plan

Specialized Employment Options

  • Supported employment for those needing long-term job assistance

Q: If I’m on Social Security Disability Insurance and get a job, do I lose my Social Security benefits?
A: Not right away. You’ll have a trial work period before your benefits are affected. The rules can be complex, so it’s best to discuss your specific situation with your Counselor while creating your IPE.

Q: What if I’m in a good job and no longer receiving Social Security benefits, then become unemployed again?
A: If you lose your job, you can reapply for Social Security benefits. You can also come back to Vocational Rehabilitation for help finding new employment.

Q: Can Vocational Rehabilitation help me to start my own business, or do you only place people in jobs as employees?
A: Yes, VR can support self-employment. If starting a small business is the right fit, you and your Counselor will create a business plan together. You may also meet with VR’s business consultant to make sure your plan is strong and realistic.