If you are an employer looking to hire people with disabilities – we can help.
At the Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS), we’ll work closely with you to pair you with the right candidate(s) from our wide talent pool. We offer employee training programs and services to make your hiring process seamless. And there are also tax incentives and credits for employers that hire people with disabilities.
It’s easy to get started. Just contact us and our knowledgeable Workforce Counselors will be with you every step of the way.
Employee training programs
Trial Program
Are you interested in trying out a job candidate before you hire them? This program allows you to do so. It won’t cost you anything and you decide the schedule and job tasks.
How it works:
Your Business Services Contact will help you outline the agreement which includes:
- Job title
- Job description
- Training objectives
- Length of trial
- Responsibilities of each party
You won’t have to handle the payroll (including wages and workers compensation) during the length of the trial period either– we’ll take care of that for you. If the job candidate has performed well, you may hire them for the position at the end of the trial period.
Wage Reimbursement Program
This program is a great way to train new employees without paying anything out of pocket.
How it works:
- Your business completes a W-9 and the State of Connecticut Agency Vendor Form.
- An agreement is created with the training time frame, reimbursement amount, and start and end date.
- You are reimbursed 130% for the wages you pay to the new employee for the agreed upon training period.
- Typical reimbursement runs from 1-3 months, depending on the following factors:
- Job duties
- Training objectives
- Transferable skills of the trainee
- Onboarding process
On the Job Training Program
This program reimburses you for time spent with the trainee. It can be negotiated on these factors:
- Job duties
- Training objectives
- Transferable skills of the trainee
- Onboarding process
How it works:
Once you complete a W-9 and the State of Connecticut Agency Vendor Form, an agreement is created as a guideline for time spent on training, job title, and reimbursement amount.
Industry Specific Training and Placement Programs (ISTPP)
This program helps you with your recruitment and training needs.
How it works:
A customized plan is created using Universal Design, which means it is developed by identifying the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed for specific jobs. Training can take place in the classroom, on the job, or as a combination of the two.
Your Business Services Contact is available throughout the process to provide guidance and consultation.
Additional Training and Information
Disability Awareness and Training Support
To promote a culture of inclusivity in your company, our employee training materials can help. We offer customized disability awareness training on different topics to help you promote team building and communication. Speak to your Project Coordinator to learn more.
Tax Credit
If you hire an individual with a disability, you can earn tax credits and incentives.
- The Work Opportunity Tax Credit is a federal business credit available to employers who hire individuals from targeted groups including people with disabilities and consumers of Vocational Rehabilitation. Learn more about the Work Opportunity Tax Credit.
- The Disabled Access Credit provides a non-refundable credit of up to $5000 to small business who incur expenditures for the purpose of providing access to individuals with disabilities. Learn more about the Disabled Access Credit.
For more information on employer financial incentives, visit the Employer Assistance and Resource Network on Disability Inclusion.
Become a Business Partner
If you’re looking for qualified candidates, we can help. Contact Rehabilitation Services and one of our team members will be in touch soon!