How to apply for Vocational Rehabilitation services

If you think VR is a good fit for you, how do you apply?

The application process for VR services is different depending on whether you are applying to MCB or MassAbility (which calls its VR services “Career Services”). 

MassAbility

MassAbility provides one starting point for all their services, including VR: MassAbility Connect. This means you don't have to work out which MassAbility services you want and apply separately for each one - it is just one application.

Here are the steps:

1. Prepare: Explore MassAbility Connect to understand:
   • What MassAbility services you are interested in, and 
   • What details you need for the application, such as social security numbers
2. Apply: 
   • Fill out their application online, or 
   • If you need assistance, call [phone] and MassAbility Connect representatives will help you fill out the application by phone 
3. Documents: After filling out the application, you will upload the required documents
4. Application review: MassAbility will contact you within 7 business days to review your application and discuss next steps
5. Decision: MassAbility will decide whether you are eligible (within 60 days of your application)

If you are eligible, MassAbility will meet with you to get a full picture of your situation and what programs and services you are applying for. If appropriate, they will then assign you to a VR counselor. 

Denials and reapplying

If your MassAbility application is denied, you can contact CAP for assistance.

You have the right to reapply if your situation has changed since your MassAbility application was denied. 

For example, if your application was denied based on MassAbility’s determination that your disability-related limitations did not substantially impede employment, then you might consider reapplying if your disability-related limitations have increased over time.

Massachusetts Commission for the Blind (MCB)

To apply for VR services from Massachusetts Commission for the Blind (MCB), you first need to be registered as legally blind by your eye doctor. As well as VR, MCB offers a range of services and supports for people who are legally blind, including Social Rehabilitation services (SR).

Steps:

• When your eye doctor finds that you are legally blind, they must send a report to MCB within 30 days.
• If MCB approves the doctor's report, they register you in the Blindness Registry so you can get services from MCB.
• Your local MCB office contacts you within two weeks to schedule a meeting.
• They will help you request a Certificate of Blindness and MCB Identification Card. They will also talk about which MCB services you may be eligible for, and which would be the most helpful in your life. 
• If appropriate, you are then assigned to a VR counselor.