FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
As employers begin to give consideration to hiring people with disabilities and a diversified workforce, they will undoubtedly come across questions. Below are links to resources that will provide information about the disability statistics, people with disabilities working, Americans with Disabilities Act, how to find qualified employees, incentives, communication tips, and myths and facts about hiring people with disabilities from other employers.
How many people with disabilities are there in the United States?
According to the U. S.
Census Bureau, about 49.7 million Americans have a disability, which includes people of all ages. About two-thirds of these individuals have a severe disability. Statistical information about persons with disabilities can be obtained from the U.S. Census Bureau web site, or by phone at 301-457-3242. Additional sources of disability statistics can be found online at DisabilityInfo.gov.
How many people are Working?
The statistics vary depending on the source data and the definition of disability. The numbers also vary according to the type and severity of the disabilities included. Census Bureau data show that only about 30% of working age adults with severe disabilities are working. The Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) is working with the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) at the Department of Labor to develop tools for collecting current and more detailed employment data about people with disabilities. A 2004 National Organization on Disability-Harris Survey found that only 35% of working-age people with disabilities are in fact working, compared to 78% of those without disabilities. Two-thirds of the unemployed, disabled respondents said they would like to work but could not find jobs.
Are there tax incentives for hiring people with disabilities, and how can I find out more?
Tax incentives are available to eligible small businesses to hire individuals with disabilities and removing architectural barriers. Visit the following sites to learn how to qualify for and receive tax credits.
- Tax Incentives for Business - Department of Labor
- Work Opportunity Tax Credit Program - Department of Labor
- Fact Sheet: Disability Related Tax Provisions
- Instructions for Employers completing IRS Form 8850: Pre-screening Notice and Certification Request for the Work Opportunity and Welfare-to-Work Credits
If I need to make workplace accommodations, where can I get information?
Job accommodations are usually not expensive. The actual costs for 68% of workers with disabilities is $0-$500. For more about free job accommodations specific to your worker and workplace needs, call the Job Accommodations Network (JAN) at: (800) 526-7234 or visit the Job Accommodations Network web site.
I'm afraid my costs will go up if I hire a person with a disability. Where can I get the facts?
In general, employer costs do not go up when hiring an individual with a disability. Job accommodations can reduce workers' compensation and other insurance costs. For information, call the Job Accommodations Network at: (800) 526-7234 or visit the Job Accommodations Network web site.
Is there a general number to call for Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) information?
Yes, you can get free ADA Business Technical Assistance, call the Wisconsin ADA Partnership 608-244-5310, or visit their website at ADA Wisconsin Partnership. Assistance Center web site. Other resources are indicated below:
- Great Lakes ADA and Accessible IT Center
- National Toll-Free A D A Information Line: Call to obtain answers to general and technical questions about the ADA and to order technical assistance materials: 800-514-0301 (voice) 800-514-0383 (TDD) or visit their website http://www.ada.gov/
Where can I go to get help with hiring, training and supervising people with disabilities?
You can get assistance hiring, training and supervising employees with disabilities from the following locations.
- To locate the CRP agency in your area, go to one of the links below:
- Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD), Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) http://www.dwd.state.wi.us/dvr/ or call 800-442-3477 (Toll Free), 608-266-1133 (FAX), or 888-877-5939 (TTY).
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