Vocational Rehabilitation (VR)
Every state has a VR agency that helps people with disabilities get ready for, find, and keep a job. It is free. Here is how it works, what to do about a wait list, and how to appeal.
What VR can pay for
- Career counseling and job exploration
- Job training, technical school, or college
- Job coaching and supported employment
- Assistive technology, like a screen reader, a hearing device, or a special chair
- Help getting to work
- Tools, uniforms, or licenses for a job
- Help starting a business
- Help keeping a job you already have
What VR pays for depends on your plan and your state's rules.
Who can apply
Anyone with a physical or mental disability that makes it harder to get or keep a job can apply. If you get SSI or SSDI, VR must treat you as eligible as long as you want to work.
Many states have a separate VR agency for people who are blind or have low vision.
How it works, step by step
- Apply. Call or visit your state VR office, or apply online in many states. Bring any medical or school records you have.
- Eligibility. VR must decide if you are eligible within 60 days, unless you agree to more time.
- Your plan. You and your counselor write an Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE). It names your job goal and the services you will get. It should be done within 90 days of eligibility. You must agree to it and get a copy.
- Services. VR provides or pays for the services in your plan.
- A job. Your case usually closes after you have worked for at least 90 days and things are going well. You can come back to VR later if you need help again.
If your state has a wait list
When a state VR agency does not have enough money to serve everyone, it uses an order of selection. People with the most significant disabilities are served first. Others go on a wait list.
- Apply anyway. You need to be found eligible to get a place on the list.
- Ask which priority group you are in and how long the wait usually is.
- Ask about other help while you wait. VR must refer you to other programs, like American Job Centers.
- Students who started Pre-Employment Transition Services before going on the list can keep getting them.
If you disagree with VR
You have the right to appeal a VR decision, for example if you are found not eligible, your services are denied, or your case is closed.
- Client Assistance Program (CAP). Every state has one. It is free and separate from VR. CAP can explain your rights, help you talk to VR, and help you appeal. Find legal help for workers.
- Mediation. A neutral person helps you and VR reach an agreement.
- Impartial hearing. A hearing officer decides. Ask VR for its appeal steps in writing.
Find your state VR office
Pick your state to see its VR agency and offices.
Search runs on the Disability Atlas, our sister site, which holds every listing.
Last reviewed: October 2026. Laws, dollar amounts, and program rules change. Check with the agency named on this page before you make a decision. Report outdated or wrong information.