Start Here: New to Disability Services
Many individuals and families find AtWork! before they are connected to Washington State’s disability service system. If you’re just beginning this journey, you’re not alone. This page will help guide you through the first steps and explain how to access the supports that can lead to employment and community opportunities.
Step 1: Apply for Services through DVR/DDCS
Most individuals who receive services through AtWork! are supported through public programs such as the Developmental Disabilities Community Services (DDCS) or the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR). Connecting with one of these agencies first is an important step because they determine eligibility for services and provide the funding that allows organizations like AtWork! to offer individualized employment and community support. While AtWork! works closely with these partners to help people succeed in the workplace, starting with DDCS or DVR ensures that individuals have access to the resources and long-term support needed to make services sustainable and accessible.
In Washington State, DVR and DDCS serve different roles, but they often work together to support individuals with disabilities, especially around employment.
Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR)
The Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) is a statewide resource that helps people with disabilities prepare for, find, and keep a job. It is typically the first step for adults seeking employment services. DVR services are usually short-term and employment-focused.
Examples of DVR support include:
Career exploration and goal setting
Job search assistance and job placement
Resume building and interview preparation
Job coaching during the initial employment period
Training or education related to employment
DVR typically provides funding up until a person is successfully employed and stable in their job.
Developmental Disabilities Community Services (DDCS)
Formally known as the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA). DDCS provides long-term services and supports for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. These services often continue throughout adulthood.
Examples of DDCS services include:
Supported employment services
Community inclusion programs
Residential and independent living supports
Personal care services
Case management and long-term planning
When someone is eligible for DDCS, the agency can fund ongoing employment support, such as long-term job coaching through providers like AtWork!.
Website: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/dda/
How They Work Together
In many cases, individuals start with DVR to help find a job. Once employment is secured, DDCS may fund ongoing support to help the individual maintain and grow in their role over time. This partnership allows individuals to both enter the workforce and sustain meaningful employment long-term.
Once Your Connected
Once an individual is connected with DDCS or DVR, they will work with a case manager or counselor to explore employment goals and identify the types of support that may be helpful. At that point, they will be introduced to a list of approved service providers who offer supported employment or community inclusion services. Individuals and families have the opportunity to learn about these providers, ask questions, and choose the organization that feels like the best fit for their goals and needs. If AtWork! is selected, our team will meet with the individual, review their goals and interests, and begin developing a personalized plan to support their path toward meaningful employment and community connection.
Step 2: Other Supports You May Be Eligible For
Some individuals receiving disability services may also qualify for federal benefits such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). These programs can provide financial support and access to additional resources. Eligibility and benefits are determined by the Social Security Administration.
While AtWork! does not administer these programs, families often explore SSI or SSDI as part of the broader support system available to individuals with disabilities.
Learn more by visiting the Social Security Administration website or speaking with a benefits specialist.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
SSI provides monthly payments to people with disabilities and older adults who have little or no income or resources.
Website: https://www.ssa.gov/ssi
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or “Disability” provides monthly payments to people who have a disability that stops or limits their ability to work.
Website: https://www.ssa.gov/disability
Step 3: Private Pay Options
AtWork! does offer private pay services in some cases. However, supported employment services can be costly without public funding, so most families pursue DVR/DDCS eligibility first.
If you feel that Private Pay is the best option for you, connect with us and we will draft a contract that outlines the services you wish to receive, how many hours per month AtWork! will provide those services, and what the cost per month will be to you.
Step 4: Contact Us
If you are unsure of where to start, please contact us and we’ll help point you in the right direction.
Additional Resources
Open Doors for Multicultural Families
Open Doors for Multicultural Families is the go-to resource for multicultural individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families—providing translation services and more that span the entire lifespan.
Website: https://opendoorswa.org/
Roots2Wings Family Group
Connecting and nurturing a community of families and partners to assist neurodiverse members in navigating the journey from high school to post-secondary education and beyond.
Website: https://roots2wingsfg.com/
The Arc
The Arc promotes and protects the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and actively supports their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes.
Website: https://thearc.org/
Find Your Chapter: https://thearc.org/find-a-chapter/
Northwest Access Fund (NWAF)
Northwest Access Fund offers financial products and services designed to meet the unique needs of people with disabilities and seniors in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho.
Website: https://www.nwaccessfund.org/
BenefitU
BenefitU is proud to be a service offered by Wise and funded by Washington Developmental Disabilities Community Services (DDCS). Benefit U’s mission is to provide our community and customers with information, tools, resources, and coaching that empowers them to navigate and make informed decisions about their life and benefits with confidence.
Website: https://www.benefitu.org/
Phone: 1-206-312-1099
Frequently Asked Questions:
Getting Started
How do I start services with AtWork!?
Most individuals begin by applying for services through the Developmental Disabilities Community Services (DDCS) or working with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR). These agencies determine eligibility and provide funding for employment services. Once connected, individuals can choose a provider like AtWork!.
Do I need to be connected to DDCS or DVR before contacting AtWork!?
Not necessarily. Many people contact us while they are still exploring services. However, most of our services are funded through DDCS or DVR, so connecting with one of those agencies is often the first step.
What if I’m not connected to DDCS or DVR yet?
You can still contact AtWork! for guidance. We are happy to help point you toward the right resources and explain the process of getting connected to services.
What is the difference between DVR and DDCS?
DVR = short-term funding source
DDCS = long-term funding source
Which agency should I contact first?
Many individuals begin with DVR if they are looking for employment. Those who qualify for DDCS may also receive long-term employment supports through county programs.
Employment Services
Do you help people find jobs?
Yes. AtWork! supports individuals in identifying career interests, connecting with employers, and building skills needed to succeed in the workplace.
How long does it take to find a job?
The timeline varies for each person. Job development is individualized and based on personal interests, skills, and employer opportunities.
What happens after someone gets a job?
AtWork! provides on-the-job coaching and ongoing support to help individuals learn their role, build confidence, and maintain long-term employment.
Other
What are SSI and SSDI?
SSI (Supplemental Security Income) and SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) are federal programs that provide financial support to individuals with disabilities who meet certain eligibility requirements. Many people who receive employment or community services may also qualify for these benefits. Eligibility is determined by the Social Security Administration.
Eligibility
Who qualifies for DDCS services?
DDCS supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities who meet eligibility criteria established by Washington State. Eligibility is determined through an application and assessment process.
How long does it take to qualify for DDCS services?
The process can take several weeks or months depending on documentation and eligibility review. Starting early is recommended.
Families & Students
My child is still in high school. When should we start planning for services?
Planning often begins during high school through transition services. Many students work with school transition teams and agencies like DVR to prepare for employment after graduation.
*Apply for DDCS Eligibility by age 18.
Can families be involved in the process?
Yes. Families and guardians are often important partners in helping individuals explore goals and navigate services.
Costs & Funding
Do I have to pay for services?
Most AtWork! services are funded through state or county programs such as DDCS or DVR. Private pay options may be available in some cases.
What is private pay and how does it work?
Private pay means individuals or families cover the cost of services directly when public funding is not available. Because employment services can be costly, many families choose to pursue public funding first.
Choosing a Provider
Do I have to choose AtWork!?
No. Individuals can review a list of approved providers and choose the organization that feels like the best fit for their goals and needs.
What makes AtWork! different from other providers?
AtWork! focuses on individualized, person-centered services and long-term employment success. We work closely with employers and provide ongoing coaching to support both the employee and the workplace.