A Look at Benefits Planning Services for Vocational Rehabilitation Clients Who Get Public Benefits

Abstract

Background

Work Based Incentives Planning has shown itself to be beneficial.

Objective

This exploratory study tested a model where benefits planning services are provided, with an emphasis on state and local benefits, before a job offer to Colorado DVR consumers receiving federal, state, and/or local benefits.

Method

A total of 12,527 Colorado DVR records of persons who were active for DVR services and had reached eligibility between 7/1/2021 and 12/31/2023, were deemed eligible for the study and analyzed.

Results

We found that 80% of the Benefits Planning Group were in the Most Significant Disability DVR prioritization category vs 67% in the No Benefits Planning Group. While the Benefits Planning Group were significantly less likely to have a successful DVR closure (competitive integrated employment) than the No Benefits Planning Group, the Benefits Planning Group did have a significantly higher change in hourly wages and work hours from plan to close than the No Benefits Planning Group. Those in the Intensive Benefits Planning Group had a significantly higher rate of competitive integrated employment than those in the Not Intensive Benefits Planning Group.

Conclusion

The benefits planning approach tested is promising. The dose of benefits planning is also important.

Keywords

benefits planning benefits counseling work incentives planning employment SSA disability benefits work incentives benefits counseling

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