For a person who has been suddenly stricken with a disability, a great number of unexpected and previously assured parts of life can quickly be called into question. In addition to worry over household income, applying for and possibly appealing for Social Security Disability benefits, and the road to a medical recovery, those with a disabling disease or injury often must be forced to reevaluate completely change their occupational situation and sometimes even reenter the job market.
While the prospect of applying for jobs while disabled is one that likely worries many, both across the nation and more locally in Georgia, businesses are largely stepping up to the plate and becoming more accommodating of disabled applicants and employees.
A major victory came late last month when the U.S. Office of Personnel Management determined that people with intellectual, psychiatric, and severe physical disabilities won’t need to provide certification that they are able to work whilst applying for federal jobs.
Previously, applicants were asked to provide a letter from a medical professional, vocational rehabilitation specialist or disability benefit agency assessing their ability to perform the job.
Officials at the office noted that past requirements that demanded applicants prove their ability to work before even being offered a position were an “unnecessary burden,” noting that many who may be disabled still carry very valuable educational and professional experience and can become valuable employees.
While this change in federal governmental policy is undoubtedly a shift in a more progressive, equitable direction, obstacles to a disabled person’s financial health still persist in many aspects of American life. However, a successful Social Security disability claim can help to assuage some of this hardship, and those in need of assistance throughout the process should contact an experienced attorney as quickly as possible.
Source: Disability Scoop, “Hiring Requirements Eased For Those With Disabilities,” Michelle Diament, Feb. 25, 2013
