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Vocational Rehabilitation

What is the Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Program?

The VR program offers services to people with disabilities with the goal to:

  • Prepare for work
  • Get a job
  • Keep a job

Am I eligible for the VR Program?

You may qualify for VR services if you meet all of these conditions:

  • You have a physical or mental disability.
  • Your disability makes it hard for you to get or keep a job.
  • You need VR services to prepare for, find, keep, or return to work.
  • VR services can help you reach a job goal.

How do I apply for the VR Program?

You can apply for the Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) program in one of two ways:

Option 1: Apply in Person or by Phone

Call or visit a VR office near you to ask about services or schedule an appointment.

A VR staff member will:

  • Collect your personal information
  • Complete an RSA Referral form for you

Option 2: Complete and Email a Referral Form

Download and complete one of the following referral forms and submit it to RSA via email.

If you want general information about RSA programs or need help with a referral, call:

1-800-563-1221 (Toll-Free)

What to Expect After You Apply

After we receive your referral:

  • It will be sent to a local VR office.
  • A VR staff member will contact you.
  • They will help you schedule an appointment.

Appeals Notice

If you disagree with a decision about your Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) services, you have the right to appeal.

How to Start an Appeal

Send a written request within 20 calendar days of receiving the VR decision letter.

In your request, explain:

  • The decision you disagree with
  • How you would like to work with VR staff to fix the issue

Ways to Resolve the Issue

You may choose one or more of these options:

  • Informal Review
    • A supervisor or Program Manager reviews the decision.
    • Work together to try to find a solution.
  • Mediation (A process used to discuss disagreements)
    • A neutral person who does not work for VR helps you and VR staff talk through the issue.
    • The goal is to reach an agreement.
  • Fair Hearing
    • An Administrative Law Judge reviews the case.
    • The judge makes a decision based on the facts and the law.

Need Help?

You can ask VR staff for help, or contact:

  • AZRSA Ombudsman at [email protected]
  • Client Assistance Program
    • (602) 274-6287
    • (800) 927-2260 (toll-free)

This process helps make sure your concerns are heard and handled fairly.

File a Vocational Rehabilitation Appeal
 

Vocational Rehabilitation Informational Articles

WIOA Section 511- Limitations on the Use of Subminimum Wage Employment for Individuals with Disabilities

In 2014, the federal government passed a new law for job seekers known as the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). As part of this law, the Rehabilitation Services Administration, 14c Certificate Holders, schools, and persons with disabilities engaged in, or seeking subminimum wage employment have new responsibilities. These new responsibilities require youth with disabilities and those that serve them, to consider competitive and integrated employment as an option before considering employment that pays subminimum wage. The new responsibilities also require that any individual in subminimum wage employment be provided with career counseling and information/referral services to ensure knowledge of employment options and supports in their community. Please review the following documents for more information:

Additional Resources

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