Handbook

VESID, an office of the New York State Education Department, each year offers thousands of New Yorkers who have a disability an opportunity to become independent through education, training and employment. We provide vocational rehabilitation services to eligible individuals to prepare them for suitable jobs. These jobs might be in the competitive work force, in self-owned businesses, in supported employment on employer sites, or in sheltered workshops. We can also help people with disabilities who are having difficulty keeping their jobs. VESID can also help you live as independently as possible by referring you to a local Independent Living Center.

If I have a disability, can I automatically receive services?

No, VESID is not an entitlement program. In order to receive services, you must be determined eligible. This requires that you provide VESID with documentation about all of the following:

• that you have a medically diagnosed physical, developmental, or emotional disability;
• that your condition(s) creates significant impediments to your ability to work;
• that there is a reasonable expectation that VESID services will enable you to work; and
• VESID services are required to enable you to become employed.

Whether or not you receive benefits (SSI or SSDI), you may still be eligible to receive services.

NOTE: Individuals who are legally blind are served by a separate agency, the New York State Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired.

What happens when I contact VESID?

We're here to help you get a job.  Through either a group orientation process or another type of informational session you will learn:

• if you are eligible for services
• what VESID can do for you
• how to obtain an application and
• what are the next steps to apply for services

Contact the district office which serves your county or borough for this information.

What services can I receive?

You and your counselor will plan your program together. Depending on what you need to meet your vocational goal, you may receive one or more of the following services, some of which require a review of your financial resources:

• A vocational assessment to help identify:
  • your skills, abilities, and interests
  • possible job goals
  • services you will need to get a job and live independently
• A physical and/or psychological examination to help understand how your disability affects your ability to work.
• Guidance, counseling, and referral to help you with problems you may have.
• Vocational counseling and career planning.
• Short-term medical intervention to improve your ability to work (if not covered by other insurance.)
• Training to learn the skills you will need for the job you want to do. This may include:
  • On-the-job programs
  • Job Coach services
  • College and university programs
  • Trade and business school programs
  • Personal adjustment programs
  • Work adjustment programs
• Transition services.
• Driver evaluation and training.
• Services that may assist you during assessment or training, such as:
  • Special transportation
  • Attendants, note takers, and interpreters
  • Reader's Aid for matriculated college students
• Books, tools, and equipment you may need for training or employment.
• Rehabilitation technology.
• Telecommunication aids and adaptive devices you may need for rehabilitation.
• Assistance with some costs of modifications needed for employment:
  • Work site modifications
  • Van or other vehicle modifications
  • Home modifications
• Training in job-seeking skills to learn how to:
  • Fill out a job application or develop a resume
  • Handle job interviews successfully
  • Develop other job-related skills
• Occupational licenses, tools, initial stock, and supplies for a small business.
• Job placement services to help you find suitable work.
• Follow-up services to make sure you like your job and are not having any problems doing your work.
• Referral to independent living services for:
  • Peer counseling
  • Advice on other benefits
  • Housing assistance
  • Training in independent living skills
• Assistance in working with agencies such as the:
  • Social Security Administration
  • Department of Social Services
  • Office of Mental Health
  • Veteran's Administration

How much will VESID services cost me?

There is no cost for meeting with a VESID counselor or for anything that is needed to see if VESID can help you (this would include medical examinations, vocational testing, and other assessments). There is also no cost for job placement services.  Other services may be based upon your income and/or family resources.

What is available for students? 

Questions and Answers for Students

Questions and Answers for Parents

x