(Revised 1/07)
(Revised 12/08, 09/09, 01/10, 03/11)
Table 2-1 shows fees for all types of Community Rehabilitation Programs (CRP).
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Personal-Social Adjustment Training | $17.50 per hour for up to 5 hours per calendar week |
| Job Placement | Tier I
Tier II
|
| Vocational Adjustment Training (VAT) | $685.25 for 20 to 40 hours of consumer participation |
| Work Adjustment Training | $6.75 per hour for up to 25 hours per calendar week |
| Job Coach | Negotiated up to $37.50 per hour, for a maximum of 200 hours, for either an individual or group |
| Comprehensive Vocational Evaluation | $1,880 for a minimum of 8 days of testing |
| Vocational Assessment (1-8 days) | $235 per day, with maximum of $1,880 |
| Supported Employment Services | Tier I
Tier II
|
| Supported Self-Employment Services |
Capital/Equity Self-Employment Premium—$950 |
Note: The Community Rehabilitation Program will not collect money from a DARS DRS consumer or the consumer's family for any service charge in excess of DARS DRS fees. If DARS DRS and another resource are paying for a service for a consumer, the total payment must not exceed the fee specified in the DARS DRS Standards for Providers.
Refer to Chapter 1: Basic Standards, 1.8 Service Provider Qualifications for information about staff qualifications and the use of the DARS3455, Community Rehabilitation Program Staff Information form.
The Vocational Evaluator (VE) must have the following qualifications:
The Vocational Evaluator Aide must have one year of actual work experience in vocational areas directly related to vocational evaluation. Postsecondary education in a related field may be substituted for actual work experience. The aide must be able to follow instructions, establish rapport with rehabilitation consumers, and work under supervision. Aides are not authorized to sign reports. The CRP Director must approve the DARS3455, Community Rehabilitation Program Staff Information form completed by the aide.
The PSA Trainer performs the following functions:
The PSA Trainer must have the following qualifications:
The Personal-Social Adjustment Aide must have one year of work experience in vocational areas directly related to Personal-Social Adjustment Training. Postsecondary education in a related field may be substituted for actual work experience. The aide must be able to follow instructions, establish rapport with rehabilitation consumers, and work under supervision. Aides are not authorized to sign reports. The CRP Director must approve the DARS3455, Community Rehabilitation Program Staff Information form completed by the aide.
The WA Trainer performs the following functions:
The Work Adjustment Trainer must possess the following:
The CRP Director must approve the DARS3455, Community Rehabilitation Program Staff Information form completed by the trainer.
The Work Adjustment Aide must have one year of work experience in vocational areas directly related to Work Adjustment Training. Postsecondary education in a related field may be substituted for actual work experience. The aide must be able to follow instructions, establish rapport with rehabilitation consumers, and work under supervision. Aides are not authorized to sign reports. The CRP Director must approve the DARS3455, Community Rehabilitation Program Staff Information form completed by the aide.
The VA Trainer must have the following:
The CRP Director must approve the DARS3455, Community Rehabilitation Program Staff Information form completed by the trainer.
(Added 03/11)
See Chapter 1: Basic Standards, 1.8 Staff for qualifications for directors of CRP services.
(Revised 12/08, 02/11, 03/11, 05/11, 09/11, 03/12)
As of December 1, 2011, DARS purchases job placement services only when they are provided by staff members who have Job Placement Specialist credentials from the University of North Texas (UNT). DARS may pay for the services of a noncredentialed Job Placement Specialist after December 1, 2011, only when
DARS will pay for services provided by a noncredentialed provider, under the above circumstances, for not more than 90 days after December 1, 2011.
Job Placement Specialists who provided services to DARS consumers before December 1, 2011, cannot be "grandfathered," although UNT does offer a "test-out" option.
For additional information about the UNT credentialing process, see UNT's Texas CRP Provider Training page.
The required qualifications for a Job Placement Specialist are
The CRP Director must approve the DARS3455, Community Rehabilitation Program Staff Information form completed by the Job Placement Specialist.
The CRP must ensure that any of its employees who transport consumers has the appropriate driver's license (class B or C), appropriate liability insurance, and a good driving record.
As of September 1, 2011, DARS purchases job coaching only when the coaching is provided by staff members who have Job Coach and Job Skills Trainer credentials from the University of North Texas (UNT). DARS may pay for the services of a noncredentialed Job Coach after September 1, 2011, only when
DARS will pay for services provided by a noncredentialed provider, under the above circumstances, for not more than 90 days after September 1, 2011.
Job Coaches who provided services to DARS consumers before September 1, 2011, cannot be "grandfathered," although UNT does offer a "test-out" option.
For additional information about the UNT credentialing process, see UNT's Texas CRP Provider Training page.
The Job Coach must have
The CRP Director must approve the DARS3455, Community Rehabilitation Program Staff Information form completed by the Job Coach.
The Driver Training Instructor must be licensed by the Texas Education Agency (based on the requirements of State Board of Education Rules and the Texas Driver and Traffic Safety Education Act).
The classroom Driver Education Instructor must have:
The behind-the-wheel Driver Education Instructor must have:
(Revised 01/12)
The vocational evaluation must be conducted by the Vocational Evaluator. The final report (see 2-0195) submitted to the referring counselor must contain the original signature of the vocational evaluator who conducted the evaluation.
DARS3480, Referral for Vocational Evaluation (or equivalent) indicates the reasons for referral and provides for specific questions concerning the consumer.
If a DARS DRS consumer is a "no show" for a scheduled appointment for a Vocational Evaluation or Vocational Assessment under DARS DRS sponsorship, the CRP may claim a service fee of 50% of the normal one-day fee (see Fee Schedule 2-0005). The CRP must notify the DARS DRS counselor within one working day of the consumer's failure to appear in order to claim the service fee. A "no show" is defined as an applicant or consumer who fails to appear for a scheduled appointment without giving prior notice of cancellation to the CRP.
After the first "no show", if the counselor, consumer, and provider all agree, a second appointment may be made. If the consumer does not show for the second appointment, payment may be made for the second "no show". No further payments for "no shows" may be made after the second.
The evaluation process must include techniques to determine consumer employment assets and liabilities, potential for training, and overall work adjustment. Appropriate measures and devices must be used to determine the following:
The CRP's staff-to-consumer ratio must not exceed 1 to 6. A competent aide (technician) under the supervision of the Vocational Evaluator may be used when consumers exceed 6 but not more than 12. The ratio of evaluator aides to the evaluator must not exceed 2 to 1.
The length of a comprehensive vocational evaluation must include a minimum of eight working days testing and work assignment.
All comprehensive evaluations require situational assessments. A situational assessment is a real job task that exists in industry (whether or not it is for pay). It should demonstrate the consumer's ability to do the task successfully. The situational assessment could be on a production line, on a job site outside the CRP, or within the CRP using job samples with carefully documented industrial norms. The amount of time for the situational assessment is determined by the vocational evaluator. Elements of the evaluation include the following:
The vocational assessment must be done in fewer than two weeks, depending on counselor and consumer needs, and can range from one day to eight days. The number of days is negotiated between the evaluator and the referring counselor. A standard daily fee is paid for this service (see Fee Schedule 2-0005).
Elements of the evaluation include the following:
The final written report, which is the cumulative findings of a vocational evaluation, must be submitted no later than 10 working days after the evaluation ends. It must contain specific information in behavioral terms and must stress vocational implications of relevant factors outlined below:
A formal follow-up procedure must be conducted to determine the effectiveness of the evaluation program.
(Revised 03/09)
Work Adjustment Training (WAT) must be flexible so activities can be modified to meet consumer needs.
The WAT must be conducted by the WA Trainer, who must sign or initial the training records and activity sheet.
An Individualized Adjustment Plan (IAP), identifying behavioral changes that will be addressed in the course of the Work Adjustment Training (WAT) must be developed jointly by the WA Trainer and the consumer within the first 10 days of training. Payment may be made for WAT during this initial period. The IAP must specify measurable goals and objectives, methods for changes, persons responsible, and target dates for completion of each goal and objective. (DARS3484, Community Rehabilitation Program Individualized Adjustment Plan, may be used or any other format that includes all the same information.)
The IAP is signed by the WA Trainer, the consumer, and the DARS DRS Counselor. Signature by each of these individuals documents understanding of and agreement with the goals and objectives established in the IAP. If the DARS DRS Counselor is not available for personal signature when the IAP is developed, fax the IAP to the counselor and request the counselor's signature before initiating the services on the IAP.
IAP goals and objectives must be reviewed periodically by the trainer, the consumer, and the DARS DRS Counselor and amended as appropriate.
The CRP must provide a minimum of 25 hours per calendar week of work adjustment training. When the CRP offers more than 25 hours per week, DARS DRS sponsorship is limited to 25 hours per week. It is recommended that the program be increased to 40 hours per week during the last one-fourth of the training period for the following purposes:
Work Adjustment Training must be conducted a minimum of 25 hours per week utilizing "real" work — that is, work that produces revenue for the CRP and compensation for the consumer.
The CRP's staff-to-consumer ratio must not exceed 1 to 10 without an aide. An aide under the supervision of the Work Adjustment Trainer may be used when consumers exceed 10 but not more than 15. The ratio of aides to the Work Adjustment Trainer must not exceed 2 to 1.
Personal - Social Adjustment Training (PSAT) must be flexible so activities can be modified to meet the consumer's needs.
PSAT must be conducted by the PSA Trainer. The trainer must sign or initial the training record or activity sheet.
An Individualized Adjustment Plan (IAP), identifying behavioral changes that are addressed in the course of PSAT must be developed jointly by the PSA Trainer and the consumer within the first 10 days of training. Payment may be made for PSAT during this initial period. The IAP must specify measurable goals and objectives, methods for change, persons responsible, and target dates for completion of each goal and objective. (DARS3484, Individualized Adjustment Plan, may be used or any other format that includes all the same information.)
The IAP is signed by the PSA Trainer, the consumer, and the DARS DRS Counselor. Signature by each of these individuals documents understanding of and agreement with the goals and objectives established in the IAP. If the DARS DRS Counselor is not available for personal signature when the IAP is developed, fax the IAP to the counselor and request the counselor's signature before initiating the services on the IAP.
IAP goals and objectives must be reviewed periodically by the trainer, the consumer, and the DARS DRS Counselor and amended as appropriate.
A PSAT course outline and lesson plan(s) must be developed. The lesson plans must include a description of specific resources used, such as guest speakers, books, films, field trips, etc.
A minimum of five hours per calendar week of PSA training must be offered. If the CRP offers more than five hours per week, DARS DRS sponsorship is limited to five hours per week.
The instruction must assist the consumer in:
These five hours of training must be documented for each consumer receiving services.
The CRP's staff-to-consumer ratio must not exceed 1 to 10. An aide under the Personal-Social Adjustment Trainer may be used when consumers exceed 10 but not more than 15. The ratio of aides to the Personal-Social Adjustment Trainer must not exceed 2 to 1.
(Revised 12/08)
Effective December 1, 2008, the DARS Division for Rehabilitation Services no longer purchases Job Quest Training.
The Job Placement provider supplies the necessary assistance or training for the consumer to conduct the job search and/or be placed in competitive employment, and maintain the employment for 90 days. There are no minimum or maximum hours for this assistance, training, or support.
As a result of the services rendered by the provider, the consumer is adequately prepared to seek employment and is placed in a job that is consistent with his or her
There is a reasonable expectation that the job is permanent rather than temporary.
The DRS counselor and the consumer discuss and determine the consumer's support and assistance needs, identify a Job Placement Services Provider, and complete the DARS3430, Job Placement Services—Referral.
DARS3430, Job Placement Services—Referral identifies the type and amount of assistance the DRS counselor anticipates a consumer may need to gain and maintain employment. This may include
The DRS counselor sends a copy of the DARS3430, Job Placement Services—Referral, and other pertinent information, reports, and testing to the provider before the Job Placement Services planning meeting.
The Job Placement Services planning meeting with the consumer, counselor, and provider can be held in person or through phone conference, video relay, or any method that allows all parties to actively participate in the discussion. The purpose of the meeting is to
During the meeting, the DRS counselor completes the DARS3431, Job Placement Services—Plan, which will then serve as a "blueprint" of the requirements for the placement.
The DARS3431, Job Placement Services—Plan must be updated as needed based on follow-up meetings with the counselor, consumer, and provider, especially if the consumer identifies different or additional employment conditions or a new employment goal.
Each benchmark payment is made only once to a job placement services provider for the consumer, even if the consumer loses a job after the completion of a benchmark and continues to receive services with that same provider. If the consumer chooses a new job placement services provider, the new provider and the DARS counselor negotiate the benchmark at which the consumer begins.
See the Diagram of the Job Placement Services Benchmarks for Providers or read the text summary of the Diagram of the Job Placement Services Benchmarks for Providers.
DARS pays for job placement only if the consumer is placed in an organization or business that is not owned, operated, controlled, or governed by the Community Rehabilitation Program (CRP) providing the service.
Because it is more challenging to find employment and support for some consumers than others, there are two payment schedules, based on the amount of assistance that the consumer requires. Some consumers learn through time how to customize the job search, applications, résumés, and interviews to particular jobs. Others require repeated assistance throughout the job search and require some additional supports to maintain the job.
The payment schedules are based on a combination of factors and are determined by the VR Counselor. The following represent some of the factors used in determining the most appropriate tier.
Assistance, training, or supports provided may include
Activities related to obtaining a placement can be taught to the consumer, completed with the consumer, or done for the consumer based on the consumer's abilities.
The placement obtained must meet the employment conditions and employment goal outlined on DARS3431, Job Placement Services—Plan to the consumer's satisfaction.
The DRS counselor is authorized to pay the provider when the consumer
(See Fee Schedule 2-0005)
With the invoice, include the DARS3432A, Job Placement Services—Support Summary, Benchmark A; After First Day of Paid Employment, completing the employment information and summary of services sections for Benchmark A. This form must be signed by the provider and consumer or consumer's legally authorized representative.
Before payment is made, the counselor or designated DRS staff member verifies with the consumer or employer that the details in the form are correct.
Assistance, training, or supports may include
Providers should meet with the consumer on or off the worksite between initial placement and the 45-day benchmark to discuss and resolve any issues related to the job.
The DRS counselor is authorized to pay the provider when the consumer
(See Fee Schedule 2-0005)
Along with the invoice, include the DARS3432B, Job Placement Services—Support Summary, Benchmark B; After 45 Days of Paid Employment, completing the employment information and summary of services sections for Benchmark B. This form must be signed by the provider and consumer or consumer's legally authorized representative.
Before payment is made, the counselor or designated DRS staff member verifies with the consumer or employer that the details in the form are correct.
Note: Employment is considered "cumulative" so long as any gaps are not due to the consumer's disability. If a consumer loses a job before the 45 days benchmark and it is not due to the disability, the consumer's progression within the 45 days benchmark is "frozen" until he or she becomes employed again, at which time the progression towards completion of the benchmark begins again.
Any gap in employment greater than eight weeks results in a new employment period.
Assistance, training, or supports may include
Providers should meet with the consumer on or off the work site between the 45-day and 90-day benchmarks to discuss issues related to the job.
The DRS counselor is authorized to pay the provider when the consumer
(See Fee Schedule 2-0005)
With the invoice, include the DARS3432C, Job Placement Services—Support Summary, Benchmark C; After 90 Days of Paid Employment, completing the employment information and summary of services sections for Benchmark C.
Before payment is made, the counselor or designated DRS staff member verifies with the consumer or employer that the details in the form are correct.
Note: Employment is considered "cumulative" so long as any gaps are not due to the consumer's disability. If a consumer loses a job before the 90-day benchmark and it is not due to the disability, the consumer's progression within the 90-day benchmark is "frozen" until he or she becomes employed again, at which time the progression towards completion of the 90-day benchmark begins again.
Any gap in employment greater than eight weeks results in a new employment period.
A professional position is defined as a position that requires the completion of at least a bachelor's degree. This requirement must be stated in the employee's job description or job posting.
The decision to pursue a professional position is made at the time of the initial Job Placement Services planning meeting with the counselor, consumer, and provider and documented on the DARS3431, Job Placement Services—Plan for the provider to be eligible for the Professional Placement Premium.
The DRS counselor is authorized to pay the provider when the consumer is placed in a professional job that matches the employment goal, (one that requires at least a bachelor's degree) and has otherwise achieved the requirements for Benchmark C.
(See Fee Schedule 2-0005)
Along with the invoice for Benchmark C, complete the information required on the DARS3432C, Job Placement Services—Support Summary, Benchmark C; After 90 Days of Paid Employment, Professional Placement Premium Section. Include with the form a copy of the job posting or the job description documenting the educational requirement.
Vocational Adjustment Training (VAT) is designed to increase an individual's interpersonal skills related to basic worker traits and attitudes necessary to participate in job search activities.
VAT can be provided one-on-one or in a group setting, as determined by the trainer.
Through training offered by the provider, the consumer receives an opportunity to acquire the personal and social adjustment skills necessary to participate in job search activities. The consumer outcomes are described below.
The DARS DRS counselor is authorized to pay the provider (see Fee Schedule 2-0005) upon receipt of an invoice and a signed narrative statement that includes the following:
A DARS DRS staff member
For the VR program, a job coach provides on-site job training for consumers needing
Description of Services
The DARS DRS counselor negotiates a fee for job coaching. A job coach may work with multiple consumers at one negotiated group fee, as long as the quality of the service is not compromised (see Fee Schedule 2-0005).
A job coaching time log report signed by provider and consumer and an invoice must be submitted for payment. (DARS3458, Job Coach Service(s) Time Log is an example of a time log.)
The counselor or designated DARS DRS staff verifies with consumer the essential elements of the time log and documents in the DARS DRS case record. If, in the counselor's judgment, the consumer cannot reliably verify the provision of services, verification is made with the employer or another individual who can verify that services were provided.
The Driver Education curriculum used must be one of the following Texas Education Agency publications: "Driver Education Classroom and In-Car Instruction" or "Driver Education Simulation and In-Car Instruction."
The Driver Training program must have a vehicle with appropriate specialized equipment, such as hand controls, etc., to properly meet consumer training needs.
(Revised 1/07, 6/07, 10/08, 07/09, 03/11)
Supported Employment (SE) enables consumers with the most significant disabilities to enter competitive employment by providing
Supported Employment services are for consumers who have not been able to find or maintain employment through traditional vocational rehabilitation approaches and training programs.
Consumers in Supported Employment need assistance to
Often, these consumers have been
A Supported Employment Specialist seeks the best possible match between a consumer's skills, interests, abilities, and support needs and the employer's unmet business needs. The Supported Employment Specialist or Job Skills Trainer addresses any barriers to employment the consumer might have and may provide short-term support, while natural supports (such as peers or co-workers) are being arranged to meet the consumer's long-term needs. An employer who hires a consumer in Supported Employment should provide training for the consumer just as he or she would for other new employees, with help and support from the DARS counselor and the Supported Employment Specialist.
Supported Employment follows a "place then train" model, which is a two-part process:
Unlike the traditional vocational rehabilitation model, which provides job readiness and other training activities to prepare a consumer for employment, this model is more appropriate for consumers with the most significant disabilities. Because the focus is on finding the best job match and providing training for that particular job, problems in transferring knowledge from an artificial training environment to a real job are eliminated.
Consumers determined by a DARS counselor to be eligible for Supported Employment services are those
Benchmarks are specific employment outcomes for which payments are made to the provider during the course of the Supported Employment process.
These include
See the DARS Provider Diagram of Supported Employment for an illustration of the Supported Employment Outcome-Based System, or read a text summary of the DARS Provider Diagram of Supported Employment. For a diagram comparing Supported Employment and Supported Self-Employment, see the Diagram Comparing Supported Employment and Supported Self-Employment Benchmarks or read a text summary of the Diagram Comparing Supported Employment and Supported Self-Employment Benchmarks.
*Competitive employment is work in the competitive labor market
*Based on 34 CFR Section 363.6(c)(2)(i)
Information about the consumer is collected through interviews and observations of the consumer's abilities in multiple settings on multiple occasions during the discovery process. Research indicates that the discovery process may take as many as 20 to 30 hours per consumer (The Job Developer's Handbook, Griffin, Hammis, Geary).
After a consumer's VR case has been closed, extended services and supports may be necessary to maintain the employment outcome. Extended services and supports
Extended services and supports are identified on the DARS1613, Supported Employment Services Plan—Part 1 (SESP Part 1) and updated as needed throughout the VR case.
Extended services and supports begin no later than Benchmark 5: Job Stability, continue beyond Benchmark 6: Service Closure, and are provided as long as the consumer needs them.
Examples of extended services and supports in SE provided by natural supports or service providers not funded by DARS include
*An integrated work setting provides an environment where consumers with disabilities regularly interact with nondisabled employees and/or the general public.
*Based on 34 CFR Section 363.6(c)(2)(ii)
A consumer has a most significant disability if he or she
Natural supports are supports that exist naturally in the workplace and the community. Primary consumer supports should occur naturally, and professional supports (training or consultation) should be used only when the consumer needs additional support or accommodations.
The following are examples of using natural supports:
Generally, there are five types of natural supports:
Negotiable employment conditions are preferences for working conditions and the things that a consumer would like the Supported Employment Specialist to consider when looking for suitable employment.
Nonnegotiable conditions are those conditions that a consumer has indicated must or must not be present in an employment placement. The Supported Employment Specialist must always consider these conditions when looking for an employment placement for the consumer. Nonnegotiable conditions may include
In person-centered planning, the person (consumer) owns and controls the planning process and its products. Person-centered planning brings together all the people who are important to the person including family, friends, neighbors, support workers, and other professionals to create a comprehensive portrait of the person and what he or she wants to do with his or her life. This team identifies the skills and abilities that can help the person achieve his or her goals for competitive employment, independent living, continuing education, and full inclusion in the community. The team also identifies areas in which the person may need assistance and support and decides how the team can meet those needs.
Quality criteria are points of reference used by DARS counselors when reviewing provider documentation and services rendered to determine whether certain conditions or outcomes have been achieved by the consumer or the provider and effectively documented on the appropriate DARS reporting forms. Quality criteria must be met before the DARS counselor may authorize payment to the provider.
A significant disability is a severe physical or mental impairment that seriously limits one or more functional capacities such as mobility, communication, self-care, self-direction, interpersonal skills, work tolerance, or work skills as they relate to achieving and/or maintaining competitive employment.
Supported Employment is competitive employment in an integrated work setting, consistent with the consumer's
Supported Employment services are appropriate for consumers with the most significant disabilities who meet all the following criteria:
This definition includes transitional employment for people with the most significant disabilities caused by chronic mental illness.
Because the challenges in finding employment and support are unique to each consumer, there are two payment schedules, or tiers, based on the combination of factors collected from CCSA information and summarized in the SESP Part 1 (see Fee Schedule 2-0005).
Factors considered include the
The DARS counselor determines the consumer's tier with input from the SE provider.
*Transitional employment is a series of temporary job placements in competitive employment in integrated work settings for consumers needing support services on or off the worksite. In transitional employment, the Supported Employment services must include continuing job placements until a suitable employment outcome is achieved.*
*Based on 34 CFR Sections 363.6(c)(1)(ii) and 361.5(b)(56)
In order to ensure that CRP providers in Texas are fully equipped to provide the highest quality services to Texans with disabilities, DARS has partnered with the University of North Texas (UNT) to develop a training and credentialing process for staff members of CRPs who provide employment-related services to DARS consumers.
As of April 1, 2012, all CRP directors who supervise staff members who provide direct services to consumers in DARS Supported Employment Services must possess CRP Director Credentials from UNT. Directors supervising staff members providing services before that date cannot be "grandfathered," although UNT does offer a "test-out" option.
For additional information about the UNT credentialing process, see UNT's Texas CRP Provider Training page.
As of April 1, 2012, Supported Employment Specialists (formally referred to as Employment Specialists) providing direct service to a DARS consumer must possess Supported Employment Specialist credentials from UNT, and DARS must purchase Supported Employment services only when such services are provided by staff members who have met this requirement. DARS may pay for the services of a noncredentialed Supported Employment Specialist after April 1, 2012, only when
DARS will pay for services provided by a noncredentialed provider, under the above circumstances, for not more than 90 days after April 1 2012. The CRP Director must submit the DARS3490, Temporary Waiver of CRP Credentials to the DARS counselor to initiate the DARS approval process.
For additional information about the UNT credentialing process, see UNT's Texas CRP Provider Training page.
Supported Employment Specialists who provided services to DARS consumers before April 1, 2012, cannot be "grandfathered," although UNT does offer a "test-out" option.
A Supported Employment Specialist must meet the education and experience qualifications in one of the following three options.
Option 1
The Supported Employment Specialist has
Option 2
The Supported Employment Specialist has
Option 3
The Supported Employment Specialist has
As of April 1, 2012, DARS purchases Supported Employment Services only from CRPs whose Job Skills Trainers providing direct service to the DARS consumer possess Job Coach and Job Skills Trainer credentials from UNT. DARS may pay for the services of a noncredentialed Job Skills Trainer after April 1, 2012, only when
DARS will pay for services provided by a noncredentialed provider, under the above circumstances, for not more than 90 days after April 1, 2012. The CRP Director must submit the DARS3490, Temporary Waiver of CRP Credentials to the DARS counselor to initiate the DARS approval process.
For additional information about the UNT credentialing process, see UNT's Texas CRP Provider Training page.
Job Skills Trainers who provided services to DARS consumers before April 1, 2012, cannot be "grandfathered," although UNT does offer a "test-out" option.
A Job Skills Trainer must have
All provider staff members must
DARS staff members are responsible for overseeing services provided to DARS consumers. If service standards are not being met, the DRS CRP regional specialist or the DBS regional program support specialist reviews staff concerns and may require that the provider develop an action plan to address them. Continued failure to meet standards could result in adverse action against the provider.
(Revised 02/10)
The following general rules apply to the Supported Employment process:
Discovery. If a consumer has an SE goal, discovery is conducted by the Supported Employment Specialist. If a supported self-employment (SSE) goal is identified during discovery, the consumer must be assigned to a Supported Self-Employment Specialist (SSES) before the completion of the Supported Self-Employment Services Plan, and will work with the SSES as long as there is an SSE goal. Benchmark 1A can be completed by a Supported Employment Specialist if the goal of SSE is not the goal directly related to the purchase order.
While there is no set standard for how much time a provider spends with a consumer during discovery, research suggests that the process may take as many as 20 to 30 hours and should include observing the consumer's abilities, challenges, and resources, as well as collecting information from professional and nonprofessional supports in the consumer's life. Discovery includes exploring
Discovery activities include
Career and Community Support Analysis (CCSA). The discovery process enables the provider to gather the information necessary to answer all the questions on the DARS1612, Career and Community Support Analysis (CCSA). The CCSA narrative report must describe the consumer so that someone reading the report has a "clear picture" of who the consumer is and what the consumer's employment goals are. DARS recommends that the person-centered planning process be used when collecting information for the CCSA.
The CCSA must focus on the consumer's
The CCSA must be submitted to the DARS counselor at least one week before the CCSA review meeting. The DARS counselor reviews the CCSA in accordance with the quality criteria. If the quality criteria are not achieved, the CCSA is returned to the provider so the needed information can be added before the CCSA review meeting.
CCSA information and recommendations are used to develop the DARS1613, Supported Employment Services Plan—Part 1 or the DARS1800, Supported Self-Employment Services Plan (SSESP).
The CCSA review meeting, which includes the DARS counselor, consumer, and Supported Employment Specialist or Supported Self-Supported Employment Specialist, follows the completion of the discovery process and CCSA. This meeting may happen in conjunction with Benchmark 1B. The purpose of the meeting is to determine whether the best employment outcome for the consumer can be achieved through Supported Employment, or Supported Self-Employment—or if no employment outcome will be pursued—and to identify the next steps that must take place. The meeting also helps determine whether the DARS1614, Supported Employment Services Plan—Part 1 or DARS1800, Supported Self-Employment Services Plan must be completed.
Required Documentation. The CCSA (DARS1612, Career and Community Support Analysis) is required documentation and must
See the quality criteria for the CCSA.
Outcome. Benchmark 1A is complete when the DARS1612, Career and Community Support Analysis has been completed by the Supported Employment Specialist or SSES and approved by the DARS counselor, and the CCSA Review meeting has been held and documented by the DARS counselor in the case management system noting the outcome of the meeting.
Payment. Payment for Benchmark 1A (see Fee Schedule 2-0005) is made when the DARS counselor receives and approves
The CCSA review meeting must have been completed before payment of invoice.
The SESP Part 1 (DARS1613, Supported Employment Services Plan—Part 1) is completed after the CCSA and the CCSA review meeting. The DARS1613 must be completed during an SESP Part 1 meeting and signed by all parties at the conclusion of the meeting. SESP meetings are planning meetings with the consumer, counselor, provider, and other team members, if any. They should be held in person to allow all parties to actively participate in the discussion. The provider should not bring a completed DARS1613 to the meeting or complete the DARS1613 after the meeting.
The SESP Part 1 (DARS1613) is a tool that identifies interests, preferences, and skills that will help determine the long-term placement goal. It is team-developed with the consumer leading or assisted by team members, and both the DARS counselor and Supported Employment Specialist ensure that group discussions during the SESP Part 1 meeting include recommendations and strategies outlined in the CCSA. The SESP Part 1 meeting typically lasts one to two hours and is facilitated by the Supported Employment Specialist.
The SESP Part 1 identifies
Team Members
Members of the consumer's SESP team must include the
The team may include other significant people the consumer wants to invite and who may support the consumer's successful employment or provide long-term extended services for the consumer. Members may include
The team maintains ongoing communication throughout the process to ensure that Supported Employment outcomes are achieved.
Team members can help
Preferences and Interests. Preferences and interests are specific types of work or activities the person would like to pursue and should be consistent with the CCSA.
Examples of preferences include
Preferences and interests can also be stated in negative terms (for example, "no fast food restaurant employment"). Not all preferences and interests are required to be in the final job placement; however, they should be prioritized during the SESP Part 1 meeting.
Assets and Abilities. Assets and abilities are the skills and traits the consumer offers a potential employer, which may include
Assets and abilities information on the SESP must be consistent with the CCSA.
Employment Conditions. Employment conditions are characteristics of any job that are important to the consumer and relevant to support needs. Employment conditions include
Employment conditions on the SESP must be consistent with information provided in the CCSA.
In the SESP Part 1, the consumer and the team members identify which employment conditions are negotiable and nonnegotiable. Employment conditions should be written in measureable terms so that each team member has a clear understanding of each employment condition to be addressed. The placement must meet all nonnegotiable employment conditions and the majority (50 percent or more) of the negotiable employment conditions.
Potential Extended Services and Support Needs of the Consumer. Extended services and supports (sometimes referred to as long-term supports or services) may involve either on-site or off-site monitoring or delivery of services necessary for the consumer to maintain employment after DARS case closure. The extended services and supports are provided for as long as the consumer needs them and as long as the consumer or legal representative requests them.
Extended services and supports identified must be consistent with the CCSA and are updated throughout the consumer's employment.
Some examples of extended services and supports include
Frequency of extended services and supports can be daily, weekly, monthly, or as identified.
Extended services and supports are rendered and funded by sources other than DARS. These sources may include Social Security Employment Networks; Social Security PASS, property essential to self-support (PESS), or IRWE; Medicaid Waiver; parents; family; friends; churches; and nonprofits.
Possible resources for extended services and supports must be identified as part of the SESP Part 1 and updated throughout the process. When all other resources to pay for extended services and supports have been exhausted, a provider may offer to provide the supports on a fee-for-service basis. Such supports may be funded through a PASS or IRWE or may be paid by the consumer or family. The cost of these supports must be disclosed to the consumer, and the consumer must agree to the cost as part of the SESP Part 1 process and be added to the consumer's IPE. The CRP provider must not attempt to collect any fees from the consumer or his or her family for services provided before DARS case closure.
Targeted job tasks identified by the team are tasks the consumer can currently or potentially perform. Job task Information on the SESP must be consistent with the
Job tasks are not the same as job titles. Job titles are names given to a group of duties (for example, administrative assistant), and job tasks describe specific activities (for example, filing, greeting customers, and stocking shelves). A vague description such as "kitchen helper" is not specific enough for a job task.
Potential Employers. Potential employers are specific employers or industries in the consumer's preferred or desired geographical boundaries where the identified job tasks might be performed. The list should be prioritized. If a member of the SESP Part 1 team has a potential job lead or contact, include this information.
Required Documentation. The DARS1613, Supported Employment Services Plan—Part 1 (SESP Part 1) is required and must include
See Quality Criteria for SESP Part 1.
The consumer's support needs tier is determined by the DARS counselor and documented.
Outcome. Benchmark 1B is complete when the DARS1613, Supported Employment Services Plan—Part 1 (SESP Part1) has been completed by the Supported Employment Specialist, signed by the appropriate parties, and approved by the DARS counselor.
Payment. Payment for Benchmark 1B is made upon receipt of
Job placement is complete when the consumer has begun work and completed at least one workday in a job consistent with job matches identified in the SESP Part 1.
The job does not have to be an exact match from the employer list or job task list. However, the job match must meet identified nonnegotiable conditions to be considered an acceptable job.
Activities related to obtaining job placement may include
The SESP Part 2 (DARS1614, Supported Employment Services Plan—Part 2) is a written report that acts as a "blueprint" of the placement and short- and long-term training and/or supports needs of the consumer. It includes the following job details:
The SESP Part 2 (DARS1614, Supported Employment Services Plan—Part 2) is required. Details in the report should describe the consumer so that someone reading the report has a "clear picture" of the job duties the consumer will be performing, the work culture and any short- or long-term accommodation and supports the consumer will need related to employment. The form must include the signatures of the consumer (or legally authorized representative) and the Supported Employment Specialist.
For more information, see Quality Criteria for SESP Part 2.
Benchmark 2 is complete when the following has been completed by the provider and approved by the DARS counselor:
Payment for Benchmark 2 (see Fee Schedule 2-0005) is made when the DARS counselor receives and approves
Intensive on- and off-job-site supports are provided to help the consumer adjust to the demands of the integrated work environment.
Activities may include
The DARS1615, Supported Employment Support Summary is required and should be written in positive, clear, descriptive English. Details in the report should describe the consumer so that someone reading the report has a "clear picture" of the consumer's support needs, abilities, and challenges related to the placement.
To be considered complete, the DARS1615, Supported Employment Support Summary must
The form must include signatures of the consumer (or consumer‘s legally authorized representative) and the Supported Employment Specialist. For more information, see Quality Criteria for Four-Week Job Maintenance.
Benchmark 3 is complete when the consumer has
If transitional employment for consumers with chronic mental illness is specified in the SESP Part 1, the benchmark is four weeks (28 days) cumulatively of employment, but not necessarily at the same job. Additionally the Supported Employment Specialist responds to any support-need changes identified by the consumer or the employer.
Payment for Benchmark 3 (see Fee Schedule 2-0005) is made on receipt and approval of
On- and off-job-site supports are provided to help the consumer adjust to integrated work environment demands. Job support services may include
The DARS1615, Supported Employment Support Summary is required and should be written in positive, clear, descriptive English. Details in the report should describe the consumer so that someone reading the report has a "clear picture" of the consumer's support needs, abilities, and challenges related to the placement.
To be considered complete, the DARS1615, Supported Employment Support Summary must
The form must include signatures of the consumer, the consumer's representative (if any), and the Supported Employment Specialist. For more information, see Quality Criteria for Eight-Week Job Maintenance.
Benchmark 4 is complete when the consumer has
If transitional employment for consumers with chronic mental illness is specified in the SESP Part 1, the benchmark is eight weeks (56 days) cumulatively of employment, but not necessarily at the same job. Additionally the Supported Employment Specialist responds to any support-need changes identified by the consumer or the employer.
Payment for Benchmark 4 (see Fee Schedule 2-0005) is made when the DARS counselor receives and approves
The Supported Employment Specialist monitors the supports set up during Benchmarks 3 and 4 as outlined in the SESP Part 2 to ensure that the consumer can maintain successful long-term employment. The Supported Employment Specialist or Job Skills Trainer should have a minimum of two contacts per month with the consumer, employer, or person providing natural supports. The Supported Employment Specialist and Job Skills Trainer should not be providing any direct service to the consumer during the 60-day period between job stability and service closure. If at any time, the Supported Employment Specialist or Job Skills Trainer must provide direct services to the consumer, stability has not been achieved, and the 60-day period starts over.
Note: If the consumer changes jobs between Benchmarks 4 and 5, a minimum of 30 cumulative calendar days of employment in the new job is required before job stability can be established..
The DARS1616, Job Stability or Service Closure Justification Summary, is required. Details should describe the consumer so that someone reading the report has a “clear picture” of the consumer's support needs, abilities, and challenges related to the placement.
To be considered complete, the DARS1616, Job Stability or Service Closure Justification Summary must verify that
The form must be signed by the consumer (or legally authorized representative) and the Supported Employment Specialist. For more information, see Quality Criteria for Job Stability.
Benchmark 5 is complete when
During the 60-day transition period between job stability and service closure, the DARS counselor may purchase only VR services that
Examples of services that could be purchased include
Payment for Benchmark 5 (see Fee Schedule 2-0005) is made when the DARS counselor receives and approves
The Supported Employment Specialist has successfully placed the consumer in a job consistent with jobs and employment conditions identified in the SESP Part 1, and the consumer has worked at least 90 days. Supports have been established as outlined in the SESP Part 2 to ensure successful placement, and monitoring of supports is the only service that the Supported Employment Specialist has performed for at least 60 days.
The DARS1616, Job Stability or Service Closure Justification Summary is required. Details in the report should describe the consumer so that someone reading the report has a "clear picture" of the consumer's support needs, abilities, and challenges related to the placement.
The DARS1616 must verify that the
The form must include signatures of the consumer (or legally authorized representative) and the Supported Employment Services Specialist. For more information, see Quality Criteria for Service Closure.
Benchmark 6 is complete when
Payment for Benchmark 6 (see Fee Schedule 2-0005) is made when the DARS counselor receives and approves
Self-employment
Self-employment allows for
Supported self-employment (SSE) is competitive employment in which the consumer solely owns, manages, and operates a business and is not considered an employee of another person, business, or organization, and the supported self-employment business is consistent with the consumer's strengths, resources, priorities, concerns, abilities, capabilities, interests, and informed choice.
SSE is similar to self-employment but incorporates many of the concepts of the Supported Employment Program, including the provision of ongoing supports throughout the VR case and transitioning to extended services and supports, not funded by DARS, after case closure. Supports may include long-term job coaching supports, ongoing case management, peer supports, natural supports, family supports, or ongoing paid professional services for the business.
SSE businesses are typically small and require a team approach to planning and support. A business team assists in exploration, feasibility determination, development of the business plan, and business launch and addresses the person's long-term support needs.
The SSE process combines person-centered planning strategies with the development of a business plan. The goal of the planning process is to develop an individualized, profitable, and sustainable microenterprise. This process focuses on the talents, interests, and assets of the consumer. For many consumers with disabilities, including consumers who need ongoing supports throughout their careers, SSE can be a viable option to meet their employment needs.
SSE services are provided by the supported self-employment specialist (SSES), who helps the consumer (the potential business owner) develop a plan by coordinating planning activities and facilitating the team planning process. The SSES also takes the lead in developing business ideas, conducting feasibility studies, and writing the business plan with the consumer.
DRS purchases SSE services only from Community Rehabilitation Programs (CRPs) that have staff members who have been certified as Certified Business Technical Assistance Consultants (CBTAC) by The Center for Social Capital.
Consumers determined by a DARS counselor to be appropriate for Supported Self-Employment Services are consumers
(Revised 03/11)
Note: The definitions for titles followed by an asterisk (*) are from "Making Self-Employment Work for People with Disabilities," Cary Griffin and David Hammis, 2006.
Benchmarks are defined outcomes for which payments are made to the provider during the course of the SSE process. These include
See the DARS Provider Diagram of the Supported Self-Employment Benchmarks or read a text summary of the DARS Provider Diagram of the Supported Self-Employment Benchmarks.
For a diagram comparing Supported Employment and Supported Self-Employment, see the Diagram Comparing Supported Employment and Supported Self-Employment Benchmarks or read a text summary of the Diagram Comparing Supported Employment and Supported Self-Employment Benchmarks.
Note: Capital/Equity Self-Employment Premium is an outcome of payment that may be made to a provider after the achievement of Benchmark 7: Supported Self-Employment Service Completion if all criteria have been achieved.
A business feasibility study assesses the likelihood that a business will succeed through the use of research tools such as surveys or statistical analyses. A consumer in the Supported Self-Employment Services program must complete the DARS1801, Concept Development and Feasibility Study Worksheet to determine the feasibility of his or her proposed business.
A business plan is a formal and detailed written description of a proposed business. The business plan helps the business owner to consider all the details of the venture and to plan accordingly. It also provides information to funding sources about the type of proposed business, how much funding is needed, why this amount is needed, how funding might be used, how the business will be run and marketed, and other details. (See the planning resources page from the Small Business Administration). A consumer in the Supported Self-Employment Services program must develop a business plan using the DARS1803-1, Business Plan Support Summary Report and the DARS1803-2, Business Plan forms.
A business team is a working collection of friends, colleagues, and experienced business people assembled to help the consumer formulate an enterprise idea, launch the business, and support the venture's growth. Typically, the business team includes four to eight people. DARS requires that at least two business team members be current or past business owners, excluding the self-employment specialist. The DARS counselor must be invited to all business team meetings.
*Competitive employment as used in the definition of supported employment is work
*Based on 34 CFR Section 363.6(a)(2)(i)
Discovery is the process of collecting information about the consumer through interviews and observations of the consumer's abilities in multiple settings on multiple occasions. Research indicates that the discovery process may take as many as 20 to 30 hours per consumer (The Job Developer's Handbook, Griffin, Hammis, Geary).
(Revised 03/11)
Extended services and supports are ongoing support services necessary to support and maintain the employment outcome, including self-employment, following VR case closure that
Necessary extended services and supports are identified in the DARS1800, Supported Self-Employment Services Plan (SSESP) and updated as needed throughout the VR case.
Extended services and supports begin at Benchmark 6: SSE Business Stability, continue beyond Benchmark 7: SSE Service Completion, and are provided as long as the consumer needs them.
Examples of extended services and supports in SSE provided by natural supports or service providers not funded by DARS include
Impairment-Related Work Expense (IRWE) is an SSI and SSDI work incentive that allows the Social Security Administration to deduct the cost of certain impairment-related items and services that the consumer needs in order to work from the consumer's gross earnings when Social Security Administration is determining a consumer's "countable earnings."
An integrated work setting under federal law is an environment in which people with disabilities regularly interact with nondisabled people and/or the general public.
A consumer has a most significant disability if he or she
Natural supports are supports that exist naturally in the workplace and the community. Primary consumer supports should occur naturally, with professional supports (training or consultation) being used only when the consumer needs additional support or accommodations.
Examples of natural supports include
Negotiable employment conditions are conditions that a consumer would like the supported self-employment specialist to consider when helping the consumer establish a business. Negotiable conditions are preferences for working conditions.
Nonnegotiable employment conditions are conditions that a consumer has indicated must be, or not be, present in the work situation. The supported self-employment specialist must always consider these conditions when helping the consumer establish a business. Nonnegotiable conditions may include
In person-centered planning, the process and the products are owned and controlled by the person (consumer). The process creates a comprehensive portrait of who the person is and what the person wants to do with his or her life, and brings together all the people who are important to the person, including family, friends, neighbors, support workers, business professionals, and other professionals. This team then identifies the person's skills, preferences, and abilities that can help achieve the person's goals for supported self-employment, independent living, continuing education, and full inclusion in the community. The team also identifies areas in which the person may need assistance and support and decides how the team can meet those needs.
The Plan for Achieving Self-Support (PASS) is an SSI-only work incentive. A PASS allows a consumer to set aside income or resources other than SSI for a specified period so that the consumer may pursue a work goal. When the Social Security Administration calculates an SSI payment, it does not count the income set aside under a PASS. Money set aside under a PASS does not count toward the consumer's resource limit.
All provider staff members must meet the following general standards of service provision:
DARS staff members are responsible for overseeing services provided to DARS consumers. If the above general standards are not being met, the CRP specialist reviews staff concerns and may require that the CRP provider develop an action plan to address them. Continued failure to meet these general standards could result in adverse action against the provider.
(Revised 09/11)
A Supported Self-Employment Specialist (SSES) must meet the qualifications of a Supported Employment Specialist and, in addition, be certified by The Center for Social Capital as a Certified Business Technical Assistance Consultant (CBTAC).
(Revised 09/11)
A Job Skills Trainer must meet the qualifications outlined for a Job Skills Trainer under 2.11 Standards for Supported Employment Services/Staff Qualifications. It is a best practice for the Job Skills Trainer to work under the direction of the Supported Self-Employment Specialist.
(Revised 03/11)
The following general rules apply to the supported self-employment (SSE) process:
Service Description for Benchmark 1A
Discovery. If a consumer has an SSE goal, discovery is conducted by the Supported Self-Employment Specialist. If a supported employment (SE) goal is identified during discovery, the consumer may work with either a Supported Self-Employment Specialist (SSES) or a Supported Employment Specialist (SES). If a consumer has an SSE goal, the consumer must be assigned to an SSES, and work with the SSES as long as there is an SSE goal. While there is no set standard for how much time a provider spends with a consumer during discovery, research suggests that providers should spend as many as 20 to 30 hours on the discovery process, observing the consumer' abilities, challenges, and resources, as well as collecting information from professional and nonprofessional supports in the consumer's life. The process includes exploring options related to wages, employment outcomes, and self-employment outcomes; including interests, capabilities, preferences, ongoing support needs, and extended services and supports required at and away from the job site that will be necessary for employment success.
Discovery activities include
Career and Community Support Analysis (CCSA). The discovery process enables the provider to gather information necessary to answer all the questions on the DARS1612, Career and Community Support Analysis. Details in the CCSA narrative report must describe the consumer so that someone reading the report has a "clear picture" of who the consumer is and what the consumer's employment goals are. DARS recommends that the person-centered planning process be used when collecting information for the CCSA.
The CCSA must focus on the consumer's
The CCSA must be submitted to the DARS counselor at least one week before the CCSA review meeting. The DARS counselor reviews the CCSA in accordance with the quality criteria (under construction). If the quality criteria are not achieved, the CCSA is returned to the provider so the needed information can be added before the CCSA review meeting.
CCSA Review Meeting
The CCSA review meeting is a meeting with the DARS counselor, consumer, and SSES or Supported Employment Specialist following the completion of the discovery process and CCSA. The purpose is to determine whether the best plan of action for the consumer to gain employment is Supported Employment or Supported Self-Employment. The team members determine during the meeting whether the SESP Part 1 or the SSESP will be completed. If Supported Employment is the service chosen, see Benchmark 1B: Supported Employment Services Plan (SESP)—Part 1; otherwise, continue with the SSE Benchmark 1B.
CCSA information and recommendations are used to develop the DARS1613, Supported Employment Services Plan—Part 1 or the DARS1800, SSESP.
Required Documentation. The CCSA (DARS1612, Career and Community Support Analysis) is required documentation and must
See the quality criteria for the CCSA.
Outcome. Benchmark 1A is complete when the DARS1612, Career and Community Support Analysis has been completed by the SSES or Supported Employment Specialist and approved by the DARS counselor. The CCSA review meeting must be facilitated and documented by the counselor.
Payment. The provider is paid for Benchmark 1A (see Fee Schedule 2-0005) after the DARS counselor
Benchmark 1B: Supported Self-Employment Services Plan (SSESP)
The SSESP is completed after the CCSA is completed.
The DARS1800, Supported Self-Employment Services Plan (SSESP) is a tool that is team-developed and -implemented during a meeting with the consumer leading or assisted by team members. The plan identifies interests, preferences, and skills related to setting the long-term employment goal. Both the DARS counselor and SSES ensure that group discussions include recommendations and strategies outlined in the CCSA. The SSESP meeting typically is one to two hours long and is facilitated by the SSES. The SSESP meeting must be held face-to-face to allow all parties to actively participate in the discussion. The provider should not bring a completed SSESP form to the meeting or complete the form after the conclusion of the meeting. The completed SSESP should be developed during the meeting and signed by all parties at the conclusion of the meeting.
The SSESP identifies
SSESP Team Members. Members of the consumer's SSESP team must include, at a minimum
The team may include other significant people who are invited by the consumer and who may potentially help achieve a successful employment outcome or be a provider of extended services and supports for the consumer after VR case closure. Significant persons may include
The SSESP team maintains ongoing communication throughout the process to ensure that SSE outcomes are achieved. SSESP team members may become members of the business team for the consumer.
The SSESP team members can help
Preferences and Interests. Preferences and interests are specific types of work or activities in which the consumer would like to engage.
Preferences and interests may include
Preferences and interests can also be stated in negative terms (for example, "no fast food restaurant employment"). Information must be consistent with the CCSA. Although not all the listed preferences and interests are required to be present in the final self-employment venture, they should be prioritized during the meeting.
Assets and Abilities. Assets and abilities are the skills and traits the consumer offers to a self-employment venture.
Assets and abilities may include
Employment Conditions. Employment conditions are characteristics of a job, including self-employment, that are important to the consumer and relevant to support needs.
Employment conditions may include
SSESP information must be consistent with information in the CCSA.
The SSESP identifies which employment conditions are "negotiable" and "nonnegotiable" as identified by the consumer and others. Employment conditions should be written in measureable terms so that each person has a clear understanding of the employment conditions that need to be addressed. The self-employment venture must meet all nonnegotiable employment conditions and the majority (50 percent or more) of identified negotiable employment conditions listed in the SSESP.
Potential Extended Services and Supports Needs of the Consumer. Extended services and supports (sometimes referred to as long-term supports or services) may involve either on-site or off-site monitoring or delivery of services necessary for the consumer to maintain self-employment after DARS case closure. The extended services and supports are provided for as long as the consumer needs them and as long as the consumer or legal representative requests them.
Extended services and supports identified must be consistent with the CCSA and are updated throughout the consumer's employment.
Some examples of extended services and supports include
Frequency of extended services and supports can be daily, weekly, monthly, or as identified.
Extended services and supports are rendered and funded by sources other than DARS. Sources may include Social Security Employment Networks; Social Security PASS, property essential to self-support (PESS), or IRWE; Medicaid Waiver; parents; family; friends; churches; and nonprofits.
Possible resources for extended services and supports must be identified as part of the SSESP and updated throughout the process. When all other resources to pay for extended services and supports have been exhausted, a provider may offer to provide the supports on a fee-for-service basis. Such supports may be funded through a PASS or IRWE, or may be paid by the consumer or family. The cost of these supports must be disclosed to the consumer, and the consumer must agree to that fee as part of the SSESP process. The CRP provider will not attempt to collect any fees from the consumer or his or her family for services provided before DARS case closure.
Potential Products or Services. Products and services identified by the team must take into account the consumer's skills, capabilities, and resources for extended services and supports related to establishing and maintaining a small business. The products or services should be consistent with the
Potential Business Ideas. A business idea is a brief description of a business that sells the products or services that the consumer wants to offer. It is a global statement of "the who, what, when, and where of the business." The description should be clear enough that the consumer and SSES can identify the key business idea(s) to be explored when completing the DARS1801, Concept Development and Feasibility Study.
Business ideas identified by the team must take into account the consumer's skills, capabilities, preferences, interests, and resources for extended services and supports related to establishing and maintaining a small business, as well as unmet needs in the community.
DARS does not sponsor businesses involving stocks, shares, or partners.
Potential Business Team Members. List friends, colleagues, and experienced business people for the consumer and SSES to contact to request participation in the consumer-led process to formulate an enterprise or small business idea, to assist in launching the business, and to support the venture's growth.
The members of the business team will help the consumer identify these business people through their personal contacts, Small Business Administration (SBA), Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE), Chamber of Commerce, and networking.
Required Documentation. DARS1800, Supported Self-Employment Services Plan (SSESP) is required and must include
Outcome. Benchmark 1B is complete when the DARS1800, Supported Self-Employment Services Plan (SSESP) has been completed by the SSES, signed by the appropriate parties, and approved by the DARS counselor.
Payment. Payment for Benchmark 1B (see Fee Schedule 2-0005) is made upon receipt of
Service Description. During Benchmark 2: Business Concept Development and Feasibility Study, the SSES helps the consumer collect data necessary for the DARS1801, Concept Development and Feasibility Study Worksheet to be completed. The SSES takes the lead in establishing the business team. At least two business team members who are experienced business owners are required (not including the SSES). The SSES ensures that all team members understand the purpose and commit to helping the consumer research, establish, and maintain a business within his or her community. Team members must exhibit commitment, solidarity, and innovation to support the consumer in this venture.
At least two business team meetings must be held during the completion of this benchmark.
Business Feasibility Study*. An assessment, through the use of research tools such as surveys or statistical analyses, regarding the likelihood of a business succeeding.
Required Documentation. DARS1802, Planning Meeting Record must be completed every time the business team meets to advise and assist the consumer with his or her business.
DARS1801, Concept Development and Feasibility Study Worksheet must be completed meeting the established quality criteria.
Outcome. Benchmark 2: Business Concept Development and Feasibility Study is complete when the following documentation has been completed by the SSES, reviewed by the regional program specialist or Central Office program specialist assigned to self-employment, and approved by the DARS counselor; the DARS counselor may have to gain area manager approval:
Payment. Payment for Benchmark 2 (see Fee Schedule 2-0005) is made upon receipt of
Service Description. A business plan precisely defines the business, identifies its goals, and serves as the business's résumé. The business plan includes a Business Executive Summary, Business Description, Products and Services, Market Analysis, Marketing Plan, Operations and Legal Considerations, Extended Services and Supports, and Financials. The business plan helps the business owner allocate resources properly, handle unforeseen complications, and make good business decisions. As it provides specific and organized information about the company and how the business will repay borrowed money, a good business plan is a crucial part of any loan application. Additionally, it informs sales personnel, suppliers, and others about the business's operations and goals.
Note: The DARS1803-2, Business Plan is formatted to serve as both a business plan to be submitted to third parties and a report to the DARS counselor. For this reason, information about extended services and supports is also required.
At least two business team meetings must be held during the completion of this benchmark.
Assets*. What a business owns or is legally due, such as equipment and property, including all cash the business has currently.
Balance Sheet*. A key financial document in a business plan, it lists the current assets and liabilities of the business. The result of all assets minus all liabilities of the business should always equal zero.
Benefit Analysis. An analysis of a consumer's SSI and/or SSDI benefits that enables the consumer to understand the impact that a self-employment venture may have on his or her SSI and/or SSDI benefits; it also identifies any funding opportunities that may be available from SSA to support the consumer in a self-employment venture.
Break-Even Analysis*. A determination of how many sales must be made before the cost of the business is paid. The relationship can also be reported in terms of how long (in months) a business must operate before paying off its debts and thereby showing a profit.
Cash-Flow Analysis*. An analysis of cash needed for payroll, raw materials, and other business expenses compared with revenue received from customers.
Profit and Loss Statement and Projections*. Detailed monthly and yearly income projections for a business derived from
Stability and Closure Analysis. An analysis of the Profit and Loss Statement that determines when a consumer's business meets the "stability status" required for Benchmark 6: Supported Self-Employment Business Stability and the "Case Closure Status" to achieve Benchmark 7: Supported Self-Employment Service Completion.
Required Documentation. The following documentation is required:
Outcome. Benchmark 3: Business Plan and Supporting Documentation is complete when the following documentation has been completed by the SSES, reviewed by the regional program specialist or Central Office program specialist assigned to self-employment, and approved by the DARS counselor; the DARS counselor may have to gain area manager approval:
Payment. Payment for Benchmark 3 (see Fee Schedule 2-0005) is made upon receipt of
Service Description. The SSES provides necessary supports during the first two months (56 calendar days) from the day the business opens.
Intensive on- and off-job-site supports that lessen as the consumer's skills and extended services and supports resources are set up are provided to help the consumer adjust to the demands of running the business outlined in the business plan.
Activities may include, but are not limited to
At least two business team meetings must be held during the completion of this benchmark.
Required Documentation. The following documentation is required:
Note: To be considered complete, the DARS1806, Supported Self-Employment Support Summary, must
Outcome. Benchmark 4: Supported Self-Employment Business Start-Up is complete when
Payment. Payment for Benchmark 4 (see Fee Schedule 2-0005) is made upon receipt of
Service Description. The SSES provides necessary assistance and supports during the first four months (112 days) from the day the business opens.
On- and off-job-site supports are provided that help the consumer adjust to the demands of running the business. These supports are reduced as the consumer's skills and extended services and supports are established.
Activities may include, but are not limited to
At least two business team meetings must be held during the completion of this benchmark.
Required Documentation. The following documentation is required:
Note: To be considered complete, the DARS1806, Supported Self-Employment Support Summary must
Outcome. Benchmark 5: Supported Self-Employment Business Maintenance is complete when
Payment. Payment for Benchmark 5 (see Fee Schedule 2-0005) is made upon receipt of
Service Description. The SSES has assisted the consumer throughout at least the first eight weeks (168 days, cumulatively) of business operations from the day the business opened. Necessary on- and off-job-site supports have been established, and the SSES no longer needs to provide those supports directly. The consumer has acquired the necessary skills to operate the business with appropriate supports. Extended services and supports are set up, are working as outlined in the business plan without any assistance from the SSES, and are working to address consumer supports that will be necessary to sustain the business once DARS has closed the case.
For the business to be considered stable,
At least two business team meetings must be held during the completion of this benchmark.
Required Documentation. The following documentation is required:
To be considered complete, the DARS1806, Supported Self-Employment Support Summary must
Outcome. Benchmark 6: Supported Self-Employment Business Stability is complete when the consumer has
Payment. Payment for Benchmark 6 (see Fee Schedule 2-0005) is made upon receipt of
Service Description. The SSES has helped the consumer establish and implement the business as outlined in the business plan. The consumer's business has been operating at least 90 cumulative calendar days from the date Benchmark 6: Supported Self-Employment Business Stability was achieved without direct intervention by the SSES. All interventions and services to address supports that will be necessary to sustain the business once DARS has closed the case have been set up and are operating. The business must have ending cash equal to or greater than three months of operating expenses for the business for 3 months within a twelve-month period after stability, and the consumer's wage must calculate to be equal to or greater than minimum wage for three months within a twelve-month period after stability. The months of operating cost and months of consumer's wage calculated to be equal to or greater than minimum wage do not have to be consecutive or achieved simultaneously.
At least two business team meetings must be held during the completion of this benchmark.
Required Documentation. The following documentation is required:
To be considered complete, the DARS1806, Supported Self-Employment Support Summary must
Outcome. Benchmark 7: Supported Self-Employment Service Completion is complete when
Payment. Payment for Benchmark 7 (see Fee Schedule 2-0005) is made upon receipt of
Service Description. The Capital/Equity Self-Employment Premium requires the provider to work with the consumer or business owner, funders, family, and stakeholders to complete all necessary steps to establish one of the following to maintain business operations:
In order to qualify for the Capital/Equity Self-Employment Premium, the provider must document the intent to help the consumer gain the capital income in the
Documentation and Fees. The DRS counselor is authorized to pay the provider (see Fee Schedule 2-0005) when the consumer achieves Benchmark 7: Supported Self-Employment Service Completion and the SSES provides proof that an expected form of capital has been gained along with the DARS1806, Supported Self-Employment Support Summary.
*From "Making Self-Employment Work for People with Disabilities," Cary Griffin and David Hammis, 2006.
Under the Social Security Administration's Ticket to Work Partnership Plus Program, DARS and Employment Networks (ENs), as defined by the Social Security Administration (SSA), partner to provide a seamless system of service delivery that supports a consumer who receives either Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments in his or her efforts toward achieving and maintaining self-supporting employment. DARS provides vocational rehabilitation services, including job placement or supported employment, if appropriate, and, after VR case closure, an EN provides ongoing job supports and services to ensure that the consumer maintains and has opportunities to advance in employment.
In order for an EN to partner with DARS under the Ticket to Work Partnership Plus option, the consumer's Ticket cannot be assigned to an EN while VR services are being provided.
DARS offers incentive payments called EN Employment Advancement Payments to DARS Community Rehabilitation Program (CRP) providers under the following circumstances:
Note: DARS EN Employment Advancement Payments are not available to the CRP-EN when the consumer decides to assign his or her Ticket to an EN other than the CRP-EN. In keeping with informed choice, DARS will provide the consumer with a list of all available ENs at VR case closure.
If a CRP-EN is the holder of the consumer's Ticket assignment, the Ticket must be unassigned from CRP-EN and placed in use with DARS before the CRP-EN can partner with DARS and be eligible for EN Employment Advancement payments.
SGA is increased every January 1. Go to http://www.ssa.gov/OACT/COLA/sga.html to view the current amount.
DARS offers a total of two EN Employment Advancement Payments to CRP-ENs who provide ongoing support services or job retention services that advance employment or increase earnings after a consumer's VR case is closed. Services provided by the CRP-EN must help the consumer meet the following outcomes:
The CRP-EN provides services necessary for the consumer to retain and advance in employment to the point that the consumer can achieve one month of gross monthly pay that meets or exceeds SGA for the year in which the income was earned. This payment is available only during the first 12 months after VR case closure. For SE only, the CRP must be identified on the DARS1616, Job Stability or Service Closure Justification Summary as one of the primary providers helping the consumer achieve an identified long-term support need outlined in the DARS1616.
The CRP-EN must notify the VR counselor, in writing, at least 30 days before the CRP-EN anticipates that the consumer will achieve the required income level, so that appropriate purchase orders may be issued.
The DARS1050, Ticket to Work Partnership Plus, Employment Advancement Payment is required. The form must be signed by the Job Placement or Supported Employment provider. Written documentation (such as a Ticket Assignment confirmation letter from MAXIMUS or SSA Form 1365 State Agency Ticket Assignment Form completed and signed by the consumer and CRP-EN within 30 days of the invoice) must also be provided as proof that the consumer's Ticket is currently assigned to the CRP-EN.
One of the following must be attached to DARS1050, Ticket to Work Partnership Plus, Employment Advancement Payment to provide evidence of consumer gross earnings:
The first EN Employment Advancement outcome is achieved when
The first EN Employment Advancement Payment can be made no more than 12 months after VR case closure.
Payment (see Fee Schedule 2-0005) is made when the DARS counselor receives and approves
The CRP-EN provides services necessary for the consumer to retain and advance in employment to the point that the consumer can achieve 8 of 12 consecutive months of gross monthly pay that meets or exceeds 105 percent of SGA for the year in which the income was earned. This payment is available only during the first 18 months after the first EN Employment Advancement Payment.
The CRP-EN must notify the VR counselor, in writing, at least 30 days before the CRP-EN anticipates that the consumer will achieve the required income level, so that appropriate purchase orders may be issued.
The DARS1050, Ticket to Work Partnership Plus, Employment Advancement Payment is required. The form must be signed by the JP or SE provider. Written documentation (such as a Ticket Assignment confirmation letter from MAXIMUS) must also be provided as proof that the consumer's Ticket is currently assigned to the CRP-EN.
One of the following must be attached to the DARS1050, Ticket to Work Partnership Plus, Employment Advancement Payment to provide evidence of consumer gross earnings for 8 of 12 consecutive months:
The second EN Employment Advancement outcome is achieved when
The second EN Employment Advancement payment can be made no more than 18 months after the first payment.
Payment for the second EN Employment Advancement (see Fee Schedule 2-0005) is made when the DARS counselor receives and approves
