If you are currently working, and make $1,090 US a month, you generally are not considered eligible for disability coverage by the US government. [4] X Trustworthy Source US Social Security Administration Independent U. S. government agency that administers Social Security and related information Go to source If you are not currently working, the hiring agency or employer will send your disability application the Disability Determination Services office. They will then ask doctors about your medical condition, how it limits your activities, and what treatment you are receiving. [5] X Trustworthy Source US Social Security Administration Independent U. S. government agency that administers Social Security and related information Go to source Your disability will then be confirmed by the government and you will have proof of your disability. [6] X Trustworthy Source US Social Security Administration Independent U. S. government agency that administers Social Security and related information Go to source
You should also think about how your condition affects your ability to complete manipulative and postural activities like reaching or handling large objects, using your fingers, stooping for objects, balancing objects in your hands, climbing stairs or ladders, and kneeling or crawling. For example, if you use a wheelchair, you may not be able to complete certain work-related activities, or you may need assistance when completing these activities. You may also have certain techniques to help you reach for objects or lift objects. If you have (or think you may have) a disability, contact your local Department of Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) office. VR can pay for a disability assessment; if you meet the criteria, they can also provide some vocational services and supports, such as uniforms, training, and transportation. [8] X Expert Source Amber Rosenberg, PCCPacific Life Coach Expert Interview. 8 March 2022.
You will also need to be able to respond appropriately to your supervisors, co-workers, and clients. There may also be changes or adjustments in your work setting during your time at a company or organization. Consider how you cope with change, and shifts in your environment. [10] X Trustworthy Source US Social Security Administration Independent U. S. government agency that administers Social Security and related information Go to source If you have a condition that limits your ability to see, hear, or speak, note this so you are prepared to respond to questions about your mental abilities in an interview with an employer.
For example, you may have respiratory issues that are aggravated by humidity in the air or dust and fumes. Or you may have hearing issues that are irritated by noise or vibrations from moving machinery. You may also have a discomfort working at heights or with certain odors. Identifying your comfort level with these factors will ensure you only pursue work positions that will suit your condition and not harm you in any way.
GettingHired. com: An online resource for people with disabilities seeking employment that connects disabled individuals with employers committed to hiring people with disabilities, career services departments and disability advocacy groups. [12] X Research source Hire Disability Solutions: Provides career services for people with disabilities, veterans, their family members, and others who face challenges in their lives. [13] X Research source ABILITY Jobs: This site has an extensive database of employers for job seekers with disabilities, and a resume bank where employers can seek talented people with disabilities looking for work. Your local VR office can refer you to specific providers of supported employment and other vocational services in your area. If the closest VR office is in another city, VR may provide outreach to your area. [14] X Expert Source Amber Rosenberg, PCCPacific Life Coach Expert Interview. 8 March 2022. If you have an intellectual or developmental disability (IDD), contact your local IDD agency. These agencies may provide some form of customized employment or supported employment. Contact the Federal Development Disabilities Administration if you aren’t sure where your local agency is—local service agencies have different names and are often combined with other providers. Your state agency oversees these local programs and can give you specific contacts in your areas. [15] X Expert Source Amber Rosenberg, PCCPacific Life Coach Expert Interview. 8 March 2022.
Manpower[16] X Research source Kelly Services[17] X Research source
USAJOBS. com is a great resource for individuals with disabilities looking for employment through the government. [19] X Trustworthy Source USA Jobs Official website for finding job opportunities within the U. S. federal government Go to source The US government also runs a program called Selective Placement that give federal agencies incentives to hire individuals with disabilities. Qualified applicants can be placed in federal agency jobs without going through the competitive placement process. [20] X Research source The Workforce Recruitment Program,[21] X Trustworthy Source US Department of Labor Federal department responsible for promoting the wellbeing of workers Go to source co-sponsored by the Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy and the Department of Defense, connects postsecondary students and recent graduates with disabilities with positions in the federal government. The Pathways Program[22] X Research source provides employment opportunities and internships for students and recent graduates, including those with disabilities, in the federal government.
Positions like online tech support, quality control, and over the phone customer support are all potential at home careers. Be wary of online scams advertising high paying work from home opportunities. Look for an employment network (EN) in your area to start searching for legitimate jobs for people with disabilities. [23] X Research source There are several programs and non-profits that look for telecommuting positions for individuals with disabilities.
You can also complete a self-employment assessment to determine if you have the skills necessary to start your own business. [25] X Research source
The letter does not need to detail your medical history or your need for an accommodation in the workplace.
You will need to meet the same education and experience requirements as the other applicants, unless the requirements are discriminatory. For example, they may specify no applicants with disabilities or less hours or pay for individuals with a disability.
Don’t worry if you may not be able to do nonessential functions, for example, if you are applying to be an office receptionist, you will rarely need to lift 25-pound boxes of paper. As long as you can perform the essential functions, you are protected from discrimination.
You can also search for a salary estimate on salary. com. [28] X Research source This site takes the job, location, and cost of living for a region to provide a report on salary expectations. Once you have an expected salary estimate, compare this amount with your yearly budget. Confirm the position will fulfill your financial needs.
The only appropriate time to disclose your disability on an application is if the employer is actively recruiting employees with disabilities. You can note this by the Affirmative Action statements on the application form. During your interview, an interviewer cannot ask you questions about your disability that are not relevant to the job responsibilities. The interviewer should only ask you questions about your qualifications and how you can perform the essential functions of the job. There are risks to disclosing your disability to a potential employer at any point of the hiring process. But most disability specialist recommend that applicants disclose their disability after the job offer. This gives you time to learn about the job and to prove yourself to your new employer.
Assistance during an interview or any training sessions Modifications of positions responsibilities or the work environment Opportunities to telework or telecommute Other adjustments to allow you to enjoy the benefits of employment To receive accommodations at work or during the application process, you need to disclose your disability and share it with the employer. They should then take the necessary steps to meet these accommodations once you are employed.
