ACCES-VR

ACCES-VR provides:

Assistance with college programs, job training programs, and supported employment programs
Funds for accommodations and job related assistive technology based on financial need
Pre-employment training, e.g. career exploration or work readiness coaching
Supported employment opportunities

Eligibility

In order to receive services, an applicant must work with a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC) to determine eligibility based on the following criteria:

Have a disability that interferes with an ability to obtain, maintain, or advance in a job
Be able to benefit from VR services
Require vocational rehabilitation to prepare for and secure employment
Be at least 14 years old to apply
Currently live in New York State and be able to work in the United States

Presumed Eligibility: If an applicant provides proof that they receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) because of their disability, ACCES-VR will assume they are eligible for vocational rehabilitation services.

Services

If an applicant meets the eligibility requirements, they will work with a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC) to develop an Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE). The IPE will outline their work goal, steps involved, and services needed to achieve that goal. Based on financial need, ACCES-VR can pay for certain services. These may include:

A physical and/or psychological examination to determine how the disability affects employment potential
Career counseling, guidance, and planning
Assistance with the job search process, such as:
- Application forms
- Support creating a resume
- Interview preparation
On-the-job training
Services and supports that will help with training or assessment, such as:
- Specialized transportation
- Attendants, note-takers, and interpreters
- Books, tools, and equipment
- Rehabilitative and assistive technology
Assistance with service costs related to employment, such as:
- Worksite modification
- Home, van, or other vehicle modification
Support with job placement and retention
Need based supplemental support in college, such as book vouchers, assistive technology, and other resources
Support with medical care for acute conditions that come about during the program

Note: While many of the services that ACCES-VR offers are free, some are based on a family’s financial need. For more information, contact your borough’s ACCES-VR office.

Application Process

Young people should start the application process two years before leaving high school. Every school should have an ACCES-VR liaison.
Persistence and self-advocacy are key. Young people must acknowledge that they have a disability.
If applying independently, first complete application for service form, which is available in six languages. ACCESS-VR will only process completed applications.
- Be sure to complete sections for name, address, date of birth, gender, disability, and to sign and date the application. If the applicant is under 18 years old, a parent or legal guardian will need to sign the application as well.
- Send completed applications to accesvrapplications@nysed.gov or by mail to the address of applicant’s Local District Office. See below for a list of borough offices.
- If sending by email:
  - Scan or take pictures of the ACCES-VR application and supporting documents.
  - In the subject line, write applicant’s full name, followed by “ACCES-VR Application.”
  - Be sure the application has the applicant’s preferred phone number and email address