12.2 Core Vocational Rehabilitation Services

DVR staff shall ensure that the following core vocational rehabilitation services are available:

Pre-employment transition services shall be provided to students with disabilities, regardless of whether the student has applied or been determined eligible for vocational rehabilitation services. These services are:

● Job Exploration Counseling is career counseling designed to assist students in exploring career options, developing motivation for employment, and understanding the role of high school and postsecondary education.

● Work-Based Learning Experiences use the workplace or realistic work situations to provide students with the knowledge and skills that will help them connect school to future career opportunities. These experiences augment the learning process and can include both in-school and after-school opportunities as well as experiences outside the traditional school setting, such as internships.

● Counseling on Postsecondary Education is counseling and guidance on a variety of postsecondary education and training opportunities including community colleges, colleges, and universities, career pathway-related workshops/training programs, trade/technical schools, military, and postsecondary programs at community colleges, colleges, and universities for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

● Workplace Readiness Training is provided to develop the skills and behaviors that are necessary in any job, including specific social or interpersonal skills and independent living skills that are required for employment success.

● Instruction in Self-Advocacy supports a student’s ability to effectively communicate, negotiate, and/or assert their own interests and/or desires, including the development of the skills necessary for self-determination.

Pre-employment transition services are provided to students with disabilities in order to further develop an awareness of career and education opportunities, the general skills needed for employment success in any field, and the skills needed to appropriately advocate for themselves as they prepare to exit secondary education and enter the workforce or other post-school activities.

For additional information and guidance on the provision of pre-employment transition services, please see DVR Service Delivery Policy Chapter 15: Transition.

Assessment services shall be provided for determining eligibility, severity of disability, and vocational rehabilitation needs, including, if appropriate, assessment by personnel skilled in rehabilitation technology. Evaluation and diagnostic services are procured only when necessary to supplement the use of existing information. Diagnostic services may include situational assessments in community-based settings and community rehabilitation program facilities to assess work behaviors, interpersonal skills, and job-related skill levels. When necessary, personal adjustment evaluations may be provided to assess an individual’s skills, behaviors and needs in the areas of independent living, communications, mobility and community travel, and personal functioning. Personal adjustment evaluations shall be relevant to employment.

When necessary, supplemental assessment activities may be provided following the implementation of eligibility and/or Individualized Plan for Employment.

Vocational rehabilitation counseling and guidance, including information and support services to assist an individual in exercising informed choice, shall be provided throughout an individual’s rehabilitation process to encourage and facilitate full participation in the DVR program. Planned counseling and guidance shall be identified as a specific service in an individual’s IPE for the purpose of addressing identified vocational impediments.

Benefits counseling services shall be available as necessary to assist an individual who is uncertain how income earned through employment may impact any disability benefits and/or entitlements received. Additionally, benefits counseling services may assist an individual to understand the various benefits that may be available to support employment. Analysis of the individual’s current benefits and financial situation and the effect various earning levels will have on the individual’s future benefits and financial situation assists the individual in making informed employment decisions.

Assistance throughout the vocational rehabilitation process is often necessary for individuals receiving disability benefits, such as SSI or SSDI.

Physical and mental restoration services may be provided as necessary for the attainment of an appropriate employment outcome, and only to the extent they are not covered through comparable benefits.

Physical and mental restoration services are provided when DVR staff collaborates with the individual and appropriate providers to determine services beneficial to removing or adjusting barriers to an employment outcome. Medical or psychological conditions that do not or are not expected to adversely affect the attainment of the employment outcome shall not be addressed through the provision of physical or mental restoration services by DVR.

Restoration services provided by DVR shall, within a reasonable period of time, be expected to correct, stabilize, or significantly modify an impairment that constitutes a substantial impediment to employment. In estimating "a reasonable period of time," DVR staff shall ensure continuing progress toward achieving a functioning level that allows the individual to participate in vocational rehabilitation and employment activities.

Medical prescriptions from qualified providers are required for prosthetic devices, including eyeglasses, orthotic devices, wheelchairs, physical, occupational, speech, and other therapies, drugs, and medical supplies. Prosthetic and other medically prescribed items necessary to implement a physical restoration plan, other than wheelchairs, may be purchased without use of the state bid process.

Diagnosis and treatment of physical and mental disorders shall be provided by individuals qualified in accordance with Colorado licensure and certification laws or equivalent licensure and certification laws governing the provision of medical services in the state of purchase.

Dental restoration services are limited to situations in which a dental condition creates a substantial vocational impediment, or which, in connection with other conditions, has resulted or is likely to result in barriers to employment. Dental conditions that may warrant restoration services include: a serious facial deformity involving the mouth and/or teeth, serious dental infections affecting other body systems, decay that seriously affects the individual’s daily living, badly malformed or positioned teeth, or other similar conditions creating a significant barrier to employment.

Dental restoration services are limited to those which are necessary to mitigate or resolve the associated barrier to achieving the individual’s employment outcome. DVR shall provide clear referral information to the dentist evaluating and developing the individual’s treatment plan to support the identification of the appropriate scope of treatment and ensuring the least possible cost to DVR. The DVR Counselor shall consult with internal subject matter experts if extensive treatment, estimated to cost over $1,500, is recommended and may seek a second opinion based on this consultation.

DVR shall not assist with the cost of preventative dental services or treatment of acute dental conditions.

Health First Colorado (Medicaid) members of all ages have access to a range of dental benefits. For more information:

https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/hcpf/dental-benefits

Vocational and other training services, including personal and vocational adjustment training, and necessary books, tools, and training materials, shall be provided when necessary to an individual’s rehabilitation needs and employment outcome. The case file shall contain the rationale supporting the necessity of planned training for achieving the agreed-upon employment outcome. No training or training services in an institution of higher education (universities, colleges, community or junior colleges, vocational schools, technical institutes, or hospital schools of nursing) may be paid for with DVR funds unless maximum efforts have been made by DVR and the individual to secure grant assistance in whole or in part from other sources to pay for that training.

DVR requires and assists individuals to apply for financial aid grants, need-based scholarships, and all other alternative funding sources, including training assistance available through Colorado Workforce Centers. DVR shall not finalize the provisions for training services in an institution of higher education until the individual’s financial aid award status is determined and documented in accordance with the timelines governing financial aid award decisions at the chosen training facility. All financial awards shall be applied to the required training expenses prior to determination of the amount that DVR shall pay. Individuals shall apply for financial aid early enough so that the training institution has sufficient information to determine the award amount for each school term before it begins.

If an individual is in default on a federal school loan, federal regulations require that maximum efforts be made to clear their default status before DVR can fund training. Maximum efforts include loan repayment, repayment plan arrangements, or obtaining an approved deferral. Individuals should work with their schools or the appropriate funding agency to see if their loan(s) can be forgiven due to disability-related reasons. This forgiveness may make the student eligible for Pell and/or other grants. Bankruptcy does not cancel student loans; therefore, the student must still make the maximum repayment effort.

DVR does not require an individual to apply for or accept loans for training. Merit-based scholarships and awards or Social Security PASS plans (Plan to Achieve Self-Support) are not considered to be comparable benefits.

When more than one available training program fully meets the vocational rehabilitation needs of the individual, all associated costs for each training program shall be considered in determining which shall be the least possible cost to DVR. Required supportive services, accommodations, and the duration of the training shall be included in this consideration.

DVR shall pay tuition and required fees for courses that are necessary to obtain the required degree, certification, or occupational skills upgrade to achieve the employment outcome. Payment for elective courses shall be limited to those with no special fees attached whenever there are elective courses available to meet a particular degree or certification requirement.

DVR shall pay necessary tuition and required fees at in-state tuition rates established by Colorado public institutions offering academic programs that meet the individual’s identified employment goal. If the individual chooses to attend an out-of-state institution when there is a comparable in-state program available, DVR shall only pay the equivalent of the public in-state tuition rate and shall not be responsible for any costs in excess of available in-state training, including transportation.

DVR shall purchase only required books and supplies as outlined in the applicable course syllabus and shall purchase used books for academic and vocational training programs when available and adequate to meet the individual’s training and employment needs. DVR shall rent or lease equipment needed for academic and vocational training programs when rental or leasing is adequate to meet the individual’s training needs unless the total rental/lease costs exceed purchase costs.

DVR may pay for tuition and required fees to public Colorado colleges and universities at out-of-state rates for an individual who is not yet a Colorado resident for tuition purposes only; until the individual, or their parents or guardians, can establish Colorado residency. DVR shall not pay out-of-state tuition rates longer than the earliest date when the individual can meet Colorado’s residency requirements. The IPE and/or amended IPE shall include statements of the individual’s responsibilities for establishing Colorado residency and the expected timeframe.

The individual shall submit grade reports for each reporting period in a training program. An individual enrolled in any training program shall maintain a minimum of a 2.0 grade point average or meet the requirements of their r specific training program for each individual reporting period. If a grade point system is not used, the individual shall maintain a satisfactory performance level for each individual reporting period. If satisfactory performance is not achieved in any single reporting period, the DVR Counselor may approve continuation of the training program for only one additional reporting period to provide the individual the opportunity to fulfill their grade point average or equivalent to meet satisfactory performance level required for continuation. If the individual is still not able to maintain the required grade point average or meet the training program requirements, DVR shall inform the individual in writing that training support shall be discontinued. DVR and the individual shall work together to redevelop an appropriate vocational goal as necessary and if possible.

If DVR has financially supported an individual in a course and they receive a failing grade and/or withdraws after the add/drop date, the individual shall be responsible for payment of the course and the costs of any required books and supplies associated with retaking the course. Individuals shall make every effort to appeal a failing grade and seek guidance from their specific training institution.

If an individual receives an incomplete in a course, they are responsible for finishing the coursework in a timely manner, as determined by the guidelines of the educational institution. If the coursework is not completed in a timely manner and results in a failing grade, it shall be the responsibility of the individual to cover the costs of the repeated course, as above.

Exceptions may be considered for individuals who fail to complete a course, withdraw after add/drop deadlines, or who attain a failing grade due to special circumstances or a disability-related reason.

It is the responsibility of the DVR Counselor and the individual receiving services to look for and utilize comparable benefits available in the community to pay for remedial courses. If none are available, and in keeping with the DVR fee schedule, DVR may provide financial support when determined appropriate by the DVR Counselor.

In some instances, advanced degrees may be required to achieve an employment goal. DVR supports the provision of graduate level training (leading to a Master’s or Doctoral degree), including advanced training to support employment in science, technology, engineering, and math fields, when the agreed upon and approved vocational goal necessitates this level of training. Sufficient written justification shall demonstrate the individual has attempted and is unable to reach the selected employment goal without graduate education and/or that an advanced degree is the commonly recognized standard. If the vocational goal can be attained with a lesser degree, the advanced degree will not be financed by DVR.

DVR will pay tuition and required fees for courses that are necessary to obtain the required degree or certification to achieve the employment outcome. When more than one available training program fully meets the vocational rehabilitation needs of the individual, all associated costs for each training program shall be considered in determining which shall be the least possible cost to DVR. Required supportive services, accommodations, and the duration of the training shall be included in this consideration.

DVR will purchase only required books and supplies as outlined in the applicable course syllabus and will purchase used books for advanced training programs when available and adequate to meet the individual’s training and employment needs. DVR will rent or lease equipment needed for academic and vocational training programs when rental or leasing is adequate to meet the individual’s training needs unless the total rental/lease costs exceed purchase costs.

Timelines for completing postsecondary training or a college program are typically established by the training/educational institution. While it is the expectation that students should maintain a full academic load as outlined by the training entity’s timelines, students and counselors shall develop a timeline for completion suitable to meet their specific needs. Some programs (courses on block system, open exit/entry programs, etc.) do require a continuum of attendance, which may include summer semester. In addition, summer semester courses, with appropriate documentation (i.e., graduation plan, degree audit, medical documentation, etc.) can be approved if:

• The course(s) is not available during the fall or spring semesters or other standard grading periods.

• The course(s) enables the individual to retake a course not completed due to a disability/health-related reason to meet the completion target date on the IPE.

• The course(s) shall reduce the time needed for the student to successfully complete their training program (graduate early).

It is the expectation that individuals receiving services shall maintain full-time status in order to achieve the employment goal in a timely manner. Full-time status will be defined by the educational institution. Part-time enrollment may be considered if related to the limitations of the disability or special circumstances. Documentation related to the need for part-time attendance shall be clearly documented in the case file.

The timeframe for the duration of the training program shall be documented in the IPE per DVR’s established fee schedule and satisfactory progress toward the completion of the training program shall be monitored each grading period. The IPE shall contain evaluation criteria that address maintenance of a specific grade point average, full or part-time status, and clear identification of how sufficient progress shall be monitored.

All types of interpretation services shall be provided when necessary to ensure an individual has access to communication and materials in their preferred language and/or through appropriate modes of communication. Interpreter services, including sign language and oral interpreter services, shall be available for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing and tactile interpreting services for individuals who are deaf-blind.

Rehabilitation teaching services, orientation and mobility services, and reader services shall be available for individuals who are blind or visually impaired.

Job-related services, including job-seeking skills training and placement assistance, job retention services, and follow-up services, are to be available and provided as necessary to meet the needs of each individual.

Assistance may be provided to help an individual obtain competitive integrated employment, which is suitable, stable, and satisfactory, and which is consistent with the individual’s strengths, resources, priorities, concerns, abilities, capabilities, interests, and informed choice.

Job placement services include job development services, assistance in completing work applications and arranging for interviews, on-site job analyses, on-site consultation with the employer, recommendations for work-site job modifications, and/or orientation to the workplace, as appropriate to the individual’s specific needs. DVR prioritizes the delivery of staff-provided services whenever sufficient to meet the job seeker’s placement needs.

Supported employment services are a set of ongoing support and other appropriate services needed to support and maintain an individual with a most significant disability, once an individual is placed in employment.

Supported employment services include customized employment services to support and maintain an individual or youth with a most significant disability. Customized employment services include individualized assessment (i.e., Discovery), flexible job placement strategies, and Systematic Instruction, designed to assist individuals with significant disabilities to achieve competitive integrated employment by matching the individual’s unique skills and interests with the unmet business needs of an employer.

Occupational goods and services shall be provided as necessary relative to an employment outcome. Occupational equipment refers to non-adaptive equipment normally required for job performance by all workers. Adaptive equipment necessary to accommodate limitations imposed by the impairment(s) for the performance of job tasks is rehabilitation technology. Tools, equipment, and initial inventory for self-employment shall be procured in compliance with DVR purchasing procedures for equipment and other goods.

The purchase of a computer is not considered rehabilitation technology. Individuals receiving services use computers in the same situations or for the same reasons that others use it in the same environment. Computers are common in work and training environments. However, some individuals may need adaptations to the computer to promote, increase, or maintain a skill or ability related to the person’s functional limitations. Examples of adaptations that are considered rehabilitation technology include augmented speech (which would also be an auxiliary aid for effective communication), a device to operate an environmental system, or an adaptive device or software to operate the computer (such as screen readers or dictation software).

DVR shall not purchase any computer-related equipment if an individual’s needs can be effectively met through alternative means. A needs assessment for computer-related equipment shall be conducted before purchase if the individual or the counselor is unsure of the individual’s need. The assessment shall be conducted by a person knowledgeable about computers and computer equipment.

Individual financial participation applies to purchase of computers. A comparable benefits search is required unless such a search would cause the loss of an immediate placement. Computer rental should also be considered and explored if it results in cost savings and still meets the needs of the individual.

Generally, DVR shall purchase no more than one computer for an individual. If changes or upgrades are needed for disability-related reasons, or because of agreed upon changes to the IPE, a new computer can be purchased. Efforts should be made to trade in the original computer or have it returned to the agency for reassignment.

Rehabilitation technology means the systematic application of technologies, engineering methodologies, or scientific principles to meet the needs of, and address the barriers confronted by, individuals with disabilities in areas that include education, rehabilitation, employment, transportation, independent living, and recreation. The term includes rehabilitation engineering, assistive technology devices, and assistive technology services.

Rehabilitation technology goods and services include adaptive equipment and auxiliary aids for individuals with impaired sensory or written and/or oral communication skills, including hearing aids, but do not include prosthetic, orthotic, or other medical assistive devices. Rehabilitation technology also includes vehicle modification. Although vehicle modifications are not goods, they shall comply with DVR procurement procedures.

DVR will typically not make repeat purchases of rehabilitation technology due to loss or misuse of the item, therefore recipients of these services and goods accept responsibility to safeguard the technology received. DVR shall not be responsible for the cost of any repair, replacement, or upgrade of rehabilitation technology that has been modified or altered without prior authorization from DVR, or inappropriately used by the individual. DVR shall not be responsible for the cost of any troubleshooting or repair of rehabilitation technology that is not functioning properly if these services are arranged without prior written authorization from DVR. In the event rehabilitation technology is stolen, the individual shall provide substantiation of stolen property, such as a police report, before DVR will consider whether replacement is appropriate.

If the DVR Counselor determines it necessary and appropriate to purchase replacement technology, the rationale for this determination shall be clearly documented in the case record.

The use of the internet and access to reliable means of phone usage, including cell phones, is often crucial to complete many aspects of job seeking, job placement activities, and training or school requirements. If these items are currently unavailable to the individual, they may be provided if deemed necessary and appropriate to achieve the vocational goal.

The individual will be advised of the appropriate use of the service and/or equipment, including timeframes of possession, state ownership guidelines, and individual financial participation, if warranted, through the completion of Financial Need Analysis. In addition, the items shall be used for educational and vocational purposes only and this shall be explained to the individual. The individual and the counselor shall sign the Receipt of State Purchased Equipment form.

Phones and internet cards may be considered as there are no contract requirements and they can be purchased through state vendors at least possible cost. If an individual will be reimbursed for items, or circumstances exist that require contract service, the counselor shall follow DVR procedural guidelines and obtain appropriate approvals.

In cases where phones are purchased as adaptive equipment, the above policy also applies.

Referral and other services shall be provided as necessary to assist individuals in securing needed services from other agencies, including other components of the statewide workforce development system, and to advise individuals about the Client Assistance Program.

Vehicle modifications shall be necessary, appropriate, and procured at least possible cost to DVR. Thorough rationale shall be available in the service record, demonstrating why the modification(s) is necessary for the individual to achieve their employment outcome.

Modifications are limited to those required for the individual to safely and independently enter, exit, or operate the vehicle. To determine the least possible cost options that will appropriately address the individual’s need, the DVR Counselor will consult with the Certified Driver Rehabilitation Specialist (CDRS), the vendor installing the modifications, and internal DVR subject matter experts as needed. Should the individual elect to modify a vehicle that differs from that recommended by the CDRS or adds extra features to the modification resulting in higher modification cost, DVR shall support the cost of the modification up to the least possible cost option only and the individual shall be responsible for the difference.

Prior to agreeing to support a vehicle modification, the following criteria shall be met:

1. There are no other means of transportation available. Vehicle modifications cannot be purchased if the individual can effectively use public transportation.

2. The vehicle modification is required to support the individual’s employment at the time that it is being authorized. Generally, vehicle modification is determined to be necessary only when the individual is prepared to enter or is currently employed in a job that requires them to independently operate a vehicle.

3. The title to the vehicle to be modified shall identify the individual or a member of their family as the owner. If there is a lien against the vehicle, the debt or obligation shall be in good standing. A vehicle acquired through a lease or subscription service is typically not eligible for modification assistance through DVR. Exceptions may be considered when the required equipment is easily and universally transferable, without requiring permanent modification to the vehicle. DVR is prohibited from assisting with the purchase of any vehicle licensed to operate on public thoroughfares.

4. The vehicle is in good working order and with proper maintenance reasonable service life remains in the vehicle. For used vehicles, mileage typically shall not exceed 65,000 and a “pre-purchase inspection” shall be completed by a certified mechanic (i.e., Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) or comparable certification) prior to DVR agreeing to a vehicle modification. Any necessary repairs identified during the inspection shall be made prior to DVR assisting with the vehicle modification. The cost of the “pre-purchase inspection” and any associated repairs shall be the responsibility of the individual.

● The “pre-purchase inspection” and mileage limitations do not apply when the modification is limited to hand controls, which are easily transferable and do not impact the drive system of the vehicle.

5. The individual has the means to maintain the vehicle and modification, including insurance on the modification, without additional support from DVR. The individual shall provide proof of insurance to DVR. When an extended warranty is available to cover modifications, DVR shall purchase the warranty to provide coverage for five years. The individual shall be responsible to complete all maintenance on both the vehicle and the modifications in accordance with the maintenance schedule(s) established by the manufacturer and vendor installing the modifications. The individual shall provide proof of maintenance performed to DVR upon request. DVR shall not assist with any repair or replacement when the individual fails to properly maintain the vehicle and modification.

Maintenance and repair to a modified vehicle, including the modifications, are generally the responsibility of the individual. When an individual is prepared to enter or is currently working in competitive integrated employment which requires the individual’s use of a vehicle and a component of the modification breaks, prohibiting the individual from safely and independently operating the vehicle, DVR may assist with necessary repairs that are essential to maintain the individual’s employment. The individual shall demonstrate routine maintenance has been completed in accordance with the maintenance schedules established by the manufacturer and vendor who installed the modifications. DVR shall not assist with repairs if damage or wear is due to negligence on the part of the individual, including failure to reasonably comply with established maintenance schedules. The warranty shall be utilized to cover all repairs to the extent the needed repairs are covered. If the damaged equipment is not covered, a “pre-purchase inspection” and an inspection of all modified equipment shall be completed to ensure reasonable service life remains in the vehicle, including modifications, and repairing the equipment is the least possible cost option.

DVR may assist with additional modifications on a previously modified vehicle when the need is due to changes in the individual’s disability. All criteria and requirements outlined in 12.2.15 apply to re-modification, including: the individual can provide proof of maintenance and proof of insurance on both the vehicle and the modified equipment, and they are prepared to enter or are currently working in competitive integrated employment which requires the individual’s use of a vehicle.

In the event DVR has previously funded a vehicle modification for the individual, no subsequent modification shall be considered until the individual has demonstrated five years of consistent employment since the time of final inspection and delivery of the prior modification. Exceptions may be considered when the subsequent modification is necessary due to a change in disability. Prior to approving a subsequent modification, the following shall apply:

1. The individual is currently working in competitive integrated employment and can demonstrate stable work history in the time since the prior vehicle modification (consideration will be given to extenuating circumstances, such as losing a job through no fault of the individual).

2. The prior modification no longer allows for safe and independent operation of the current vehicle.

3. A “pre-purchase inspection” of the current vehicle has been completed by a certified mechanic (i.e., ASE or comparable certification) and an inspection of the current modification has been completed by a qualified provider (as described in 12.2.15(c)) and indicate repair/re-modification to the current vehicle/modification is either not possible or does not reflect the least possible cost option.

4. The individual has provided maintenance records demonstrating the established maintenance schedule(s) for the vehicle and modifications have been reasonably followed and the need for a subsequent modification is not due to negligence.

5. A new adaptive driving evaluation has been completed by a CDRS demonstrating the need for a subsequent modification.

6. All criteria described in 12.2.15 are met.

The individual shall receive training by the provider on the proper use and care of the equipment to ensure safe operation of the equipment. All providers of vehicle modifications shall be a member in good standing of the National Mobility Equipment Dealer Association (NMEDA) and certified as a NMEDA-QAP (Quality Assurance Program) dealer who is thereby qualified to meet minimum standards for vehicle modifications and adapted driving equipment installation, as established by NMEDA and other applicable requirements.

DVR may provide modifications or adaptations to an individual’s residence to enable access and independent function within the residence to the degree necessary for the individual to obtain their employment outcome.

Modifications are limited to the following adaptations within the primary living quarters:

• Widening of two exterior doorways to allow safe egress.

• Addition of a ramp to the exterior door.

• Widening of interior doors, not to exceed one bathroom, one bedroom, and one kitchen door.

• Retrofitting of one bathroom.

• Lowering of kitchen countertops.

• Installation of a stair lift to access primary living quarters.

• Environmental controls and utilities to the extent these modifications go beyond normal homeowner expenses.

• Other essential modifications required for the individual to participate in their IPE.

All modifications shall be essential for the individual to participate in their individualized plan for employment (IPE). The scope of work, including quality of finishes, is limited to that which is essential for the safe and independent function of the individual within the home. The DVR Counselor and/or internal subject matter experts shall be onsite and actively engaged with the individual and any contractors while establishing the scope of work. Any increased costs associated with any expansion to the scope of work or quality of finishes shall be the responsibility of the individual. The individual shall be responsible for all upkeep, maintenance, and insurance of residential modifications, as applicable.

Typically, residential modification is considered a one-time service; exceptions may be made when the need for additional modification is due to increased functional limitation as a result of a new or progressive disability. In the event substantial modifications make the home uninhabitable during construction, it shall be the individual’s responsibility to arrange for and fund alternative housing. Any modifications to the home’s structure or systems shall require the contractor to obtain appropriate permits from the city/county in which the home is located. DVR shall be provided copies of all permits, including final inspection documents.

DVR shall make modifications to rental property only when prior written permission from the landlord/owner has been obtained. Modifications to rental property shall be restricted to portable and/or removable items.

To determine the least possible cost options that will appropriately address the individual’s need, the DVR Counselor will consult with the individual’s physician/physical therapist/occupational therapist, contractor(s)/architect(s) bidding the project, and internal DVR subject matter experts as needed.

Self-employment, telecommuting, or establishing a small business operation as an employment outcome shall include necessary technical assistance and other consultation services to conduct market analyses, develop business plans, and otherwise provide resources to the extent those resources are authorized.

Other goods and services shall be provided as determined necessary for the individual with a disability to achieve an employment outcome. The purchase of warranties should be on a case-by-case basis with consideration to the IPE and home location as well as the length of warranty provided by the seller or manufacturer. The purchase of all goods shall comply with DVR procurement procedures.

Warranties may be considered when an individual’s situation or circumstance precludes them from either accessing repair or if the item is expected to require regular repair over an extended period of time. Examples of justification for extended warranties include if an individual lives in a remote area and is unable to transport their equipment for repair or if a plan is expected to take significant time and it would be a cost savings to purchase an extended warranty rather than pay for ongoing maintenance.