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For many people with disabilities, getting a job means working with an employer to create workplace supports and adjustments when needed so you can stay as productive as possible. This episode of Ticket Talk shares how people with disabilities can go about obtaining these supports - known as job accommodations - for work. Common examples of job accommodations may include things like assistive technology, changes to work settings or adjusted work schedules.
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Transcript
Opening: You are listening to the Social Security Administration's Ticket to Work podcast series. Get answers to your questions, access information and resources, and receive expert advice on work incentives and the Ticket to Work program.
For many people with disabilities, getting a job means working with your employer to create workplace supports and adjustments when appropriate. These supports - known as job accommodations - allow people with disabilities like you to do their job duties, so you can stay as productive as possible. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protects people with disabilities who need a reasonable accommodation for the hiring process and on the job. Common examples of job accommodations may include things like assistive technology, changes to work settings or adjusted work schedules.
But how can a person with a disability go about obtaining job accommodations for work?
The Job Accommodation Network - or JAN - is a great place to start. JAN provides free, confidential technical assistance about job accommodations and the Americans with Disabilities Act. In this episode of Ticket Talk we'll discuss three JAN resources that can help you get the job accommodations you need to so that you can be successful on your path to work.
First, if you are just starting to consider job accommodations, JAN offers ways to explore ideas. One way to consider accommodations ideas is through JAN's A to Z list. You can search the list by accommodation or by disability. Go to AskJAN.org and click on "A-Z of Disabilities and Accommodations" in the upper right-hand corner to review the list and start thinking about what accommodations might work for you.
Another way to browse job accommodation options is through JAN's Searchable Online Accommodation Resource tool. The tool walks you through a few questions about your situation to provide you with the accommodations that best match your needs. To find job accommodations ideas through JAN's Searchable Online Accommodation Resource tool, go to AskJAN.org/soar.
Second, if you know the job accommodation you need and want to ask your employer about it, JAN suggests making your request in writing. Go to AskJAN.org for a sample accommodation request letter you can adapt for your situation.
Third, for more advice and insights about job accommodations and what makes sense for you, you can also speak with a JAN consultant directly. JAN staff are happy to discuss your specific accommodation needs confidentially. You can reach a JAN consultant 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET Monday through Friday at 800-526-7234 (V) and 877-781-9403 (TTY), through live chat at AskJAN.org or via email at jan@askjan.org.
Job-hunting as a Social Security disability beneficiary? The Ticket to Work program can connect you with free employment services to help you prepare for work, find a job or maintain success while you are working. For more help finding your path to work, visit: www.socialsecurity.gov/work, or call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842 for voice, or 1-866-833-2967 for TTY. Participants receive free services such as career counseling, vocational rehabilitation and job placement and training from authorized Ticket to Work service providers, such as Employment Networks or their state Vocational Rehabilitation agency.
Many resources are available on job accommodations and more. Call JAN and Ticket to Work today for support finding your path to work and financial independence.
