New changes to the Department of Workforce Development's Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Existing Business policy will make it easier for self-employed individuals, such as farmers, with disabilities to access funds for assistive technology.
With input from the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, and statewide agricultural groups, the revised policy may allow more farmers and other agribusiness owners to benefit from DVR services. The policy also covers self-employed individuals in other business sectors.
Specifically, the changes expand opportunities for self-employed individuals with disabilities to become eligible to receive DVR services under the Existing Business Policy. This includes money for qualifying assistive technology and access to assistive technology experts.
"The policy revisions take effect at a crucial time when business owners continue to bounce back from the COVID-19 pandemic," said DVR Administrator Delora Newton. "These revisions will systematically support more people with disabilities in achieving their job goals and allow DVR to provide enhanced services to Wisconsin business owners to successfully continue their business operations."
The main revision to the policy allows for broader consideration of business wages that may allow business owners earning less than minimum wage to qualify for services using a debt to asset ratio calculation. In determining DVR eligibility, the new policy also allows outside income, if related to the business, and expenses that may be viewed as assets in subsequent financial periods to be considered.
Individuals who wish to apply for DVR services can fill out DVR's online referral form or contact the DVR administrative office at 608-261-0050.
Categories: Wisconsin, Business