Eligibility

A determination of Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) program eligibility is based on the following:

• The person has a physical, mental or sensory impairment that results in a substantial barrier to employment;
• VR services are required to prepare for, secure, retain or regain employment consistent with the person's strengths, abilities, capabilities, interests and informed choice; and
• The person can benefit from VR services in terms of an employment outcome.

Your VR counselor must make a determination of your eligibility for services within 60 days from the date that you sign the Application for VR Services. If there are delays in making a determination of your eligibility that are beyond the control of your VR Counselor, you will be notified of the reason for the delay and will be asked to extend the time period to determine your eligibility.

Individuals who receive SSI (Supplemental Security Income) or SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) benefits based on their own disability or blindness are presumed to be eligible for VR services if they intend to go to work. If you receive SSI or SSDI, please inform your VR Counselor and provide documentation from Social Security if possible.

If you are determined eligible, your VR Counselor will complete an assessment to determine your priority for services. Your priority for services is based on the functional limitations created by your disability and the nature and scope of services that you need to accomplish your employment goal. TN VR has four priority categories. Your VR counselor will inform you of your priority category and which priority categories are open for the provision of services.

If you would like to submit a referral for VR services (which help individuals with disabilities get, keep, or advance in a job) for either yourself or someone else, please click the link below.