What is Vocational Rehabilitation?

Developing a long-term disability or sustaining a severe injury can cause significant changes in an individual's life. No longer feeling able to perform a job you once had or a task that is now challenging but was not before can be highly stressful. Vocational rehabilitation (VR) can enable those with disabilities to achieve quality employment.

Vocational rehabilitation supports individuals with disabilities (both adults and youth) to overcome barriers to prepare for, obtain, maintain, and advance in meaningful employment. All services are tailored to meet the individual's employment goals. Through a unique and flexible approach, your local vocational rehabilitation program can offer special equipment, appropriate education, and training opportunities to set you or someone you know up for success in entering the workforce.

Finding services in your area can be overwhelming, which is why the Rehabilitation Services Administration has compiled a list of agencies for all 50 states. This can be found here: https://rsa.ed.gov/about/states. Typically, you will find 1 VR agency that serves all individuals with disabilities in each state. For example, Riseability resides in Arizona, and if you are interested in vocational rehabilitation services in this state, the Rehabilitation Services Administration webpage is https://des.az.gov/services/employment/rehabilitation-services/vocational-rehabilitation-vr . Reaching out to someone from the above agency list is a great way to tap into a wealth of employment-related resources.

You may be eligible for services if you have a physical or mental impairment that presents a substantial barrier to employment. You may qualify if you need VR services to help prepare for employment and get or maintain employment. Moreover, if you currently receive Supplemental Security Income and/or Social Security Disability Insurance benefits, you are eligible for VR (unless you are too disabled to benefit).