How to Apply
To begin the vocational rehabilitation process, you must complete and sign an application for services. The application asks for basic contact information. It also helps your counselor to gather information that he or she can use to determine your eligibility for services and to begin developing a plan for employment.
The application asks only for information that is needed for the vocational rehabilitation process, such as information about your eye condition, your work history, and your work interests. It may be necessary to obtain medical information. Your help is needed in gathering this information. Without it, your counselor will not be able to determine eligibility and provide services.
The Department obtains personal information under the authority of Public Law 93–112, as amended. All information obtained is treated as confidential. You must provide written consent before information can be released.
However, if information is important to your vocational rehabilitation, your information can be released to rehabilitation facilities, training institutions, physicians, and/or other persons and agencies without your written consent.
Eligibility
You are eligible for vocational rehabilitation services from the Iowa Department for the Blind if you:
- are blind or have a significant visual impairment
- want to work
- have major impediments in preparing for, obtaining or maintaining a job
- need vocational rehabilitation services in order to overcome these impediments
- are present in Iowa
Eligibility decisions are made as soon as possible. Sometimes, a delay in obtaining the necessary information occurs. If you and your counselor anticipate that it may take longer than 60 days to determine eligibility, your counselor will discuss this with you, and together you can determine a target date.