Contact: Angela Fujan
Created: 03/01/2024
Date Emailed to Staff: 06/06/2025
Effective Date:
Summary of Changes
CFR 361.42 Nebraska VR must presume that an applicant who (i) has an impairment, (ii) that impairment results in an impediment to employment, and that applicant (iii) requires VR services to prepare for, secure, retain, advance in, or regain employment can benefit in terms of an employment outcome and will be determined eligible for services.
Benefit from Services: On the assumption everyone can work, Nebraska VR has determined if an applicant has a verified impairment, impediment to employment, and requires VR Services; it is then presumed the applicant can benefit from services. Once an individual has completed the VR Application the assumption of benefit exists. Ineligibility determinations will only occur after the initial eligibility determination and an explore the individual's abilities, capabilities, and capacity to perform in realistic work situations.
Changed Case in two states to - State VR Offices: To avoid duplication of services, only one state VR Agency, to include Nebraska Commission of the Blind and Visually Impaired (NCBVI), should have an open case with an individual. Contact the Program Director for Counseling Services to discuss any situations you feel may warrant an exception to this rule prior to proceeding with a VR Application. See Application to Employment Program
Staff and community safety are a top priority. If a question of ability to benefit from services stems from safety concerns, immediately discuss with Office Director and refer to the Violet and Disruptive Behavior chapter.
SSI/SSDI Eligibility added chart and moved it to a separate process section.
Forms - New or Revised
NA
QE2 Update
NA
Team Communication
OD please review this policy change with your team
VRIS Posting
https://webforms.nebraska.gov/program_manual_chapters/1140
Monitoring Requirements
Case Reviews
Training Dates
May & June 2025