Many people with disabilities are able to continue to work and support themselves. Often, simple accommodations in the workplace are all that is needed. You may require a flexible work schedule or special equipment to help you perform your job. Talk to your employer about specific problems, or seek advice from an occupational therapist. If you are unable to continue in your present job, a vocational rehabilitation counselor may be able to help arrange training and other services to help you prepare for an alternative line of work. Each state has a vocational rehabilitation agency (and some states have separate agencies for persons who are blind) to provide these services. These agencies typically have a number of local offices in each state. Contact the Employment Supports section of the President’s Committee on Employment of Persons with Disabilities at www.dol.gov/odep. This is not a placement service but a toll-free consulting service that provides information about job accommodations and the employability of people with disabilities.

Disability Income Insurance
Sometimes a disability prevents a person from working at all. If you are fortunate enough to have disability income insurance, it can help to make up for lost wages. Some employers provide disability income insurance as a benefit, or you can purchase a private policy. Disability income insurance is designed to replace a portion of your income when an illness or injury prevents you from working. Talk to your benefits representative at work or your insurance representative about specific disability coverages.
 
If your disability is due to illness or injury resulting from your job, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation. Again, talk to your benefits representative.
 
If you’re under age 65 and your earnings are lost or reduced because of certain disabilities, you may be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSI generally makes monthly payments to people who are aged, disabled or blind and who have limited income and resources. You may be eligible for SSI even if you have never worked. To determine your eligibility, contact your local Social Security office or the Security Administration www.ssa.gov.