In this guest blog post by Able Data, learn about assistive technology (AT) that may help you succeed in the work place as a person with a disability. Find AT options that can be used in office and non-office settings that could help boost your productivity.
By Guest Blogger Sadie Hagberg, AbleData
From computers, phones and copiers, to machinery, hand tools and vehicles — most of us use some form of technology at work to help us complete tasks more easily and efficiently. But, if you have a disability, assistive technology (AT) can help you perform job tasks that you might not otherwise be able to do.
AT can help people with disabilities adapt and transition to different workplace settings and needs. If you'd like to learn more, search the AbleData database by "workplace" to find products that fit your needs. Below are some examples of AT in office and non-office environments.
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), employers are required to provide reasonable accommodations, including AT, for employees with disabilities, but you will need to make requests for accommodations. For guidance and help making requests and negotiating reasonable accommodations, the Job Accommodation Network (JAN) can help. Check out their post on writing an accommodation request letter for tips.
Sadie Hagberg performs programmatic tasks related to AbleData call center operations, AT product database maintenance, and website and marketing activities. She is primarily responsible for ensuring the quality of all AbleData products and services.
The Ticket to Work program can also help you learn more about and request reasonable accommodations like AT.
Social Security's Ticket program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSI or SSDI) and want to work. The Ticket program is free and voluntary. It helps people with disabilities move toward financial independence and connects them with the services and support they need to succeed in the workforce.
A Ticket program service provider, like an Employment Network, can help you through the process of requesting accommodations as you apply for jobs, go on interviews, and transition to a workplace.
To learn more about the Ticket program, visit www.ssa.gov/work. You can also call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 866-968-7842 or 866-833-2967 (TTY) Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET. Ask a representative to send you a list of service providers or find providers on your own with the Ticket program Find Help tool.
Contact the Ticket to Work Help Line
Call 1-866-968-7842
1-866-833-2967 (TTY)
M-F 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. ET
Contact the Ticket to Work Help Line
Call 1-866-968-7842
1-866-833-2967 (TTY)
M-F 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. ET
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