How to Apply for DVR Services in Wisconsin

What DVR is

The Wisconsin Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) is a state program inside the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development. If a disability makes it hard for you to get a job, stay in a job, or move up in your career, DVR can assign you a counselor and fund the supports you need to reach an employment goal you choose.

DVR does not place you into a job itself. It authorizes community providers — like ACO — to do the job development, placement, and coaching. You get to pick which provider you work with, and you can ask for ACO by name.

Who qualifies

DVR serves Wisconsin residents whose disability makes it hard to find, keep, or advance in work. You should consider applying if:

• You have a physical, intellectual, developmental, sensory, or mental health disability.
• Your disability makes it difficult to do the kind of work you want.
• You live in Wisconsin and want to work.
• You need services such as job placement, coaching, training, or accommodations to reach that goal.

The four steps to get started

The DVR process is straightforward, but it helps to know what to expect before you start.

• Apply with DVR — Complete the online referral form at dwd.wisconsin.gov/dvr/referral, or call your local DVR office.
• Meet your DVR counselor — Your counselor reviews your work history, disability documentation, and goals to determine eligibility, usually within 60 days of applying.
• Write your employment plan — Together you write an Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE) that names your job goal and the services DVR will pay for to get you there.
• Choose ACO as your provider — Tell your counselor you want Accessible Career Options. DVR authorizes our services and we begin job development, placement, and coaching at no cost to you.

What DVR can pay for

DVR funds a wide range of services that remove barriers to employment. Common supports include:

• Career and vocational counseling
• Job development and placement through providers like ACO
• Job coaching and on-the-job supports
• Resume, application, and interview preparation
• Assistive technology and workplace accommodations
• Training, certifications, and work-based learning
• Transportation assistance tied to your employment plan
• Benefits counseling so you understand how work affects SSI or SSDI

Contact Wisconsin DVR

You can reach DVR through the statewide line or either Milwaukee office. Office details come from the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development; confirm hours and location at dwd.wisconsin.gov/dvr before visiting.

• DVR Milwaukee (Central) — 819 N 6th Street, Room 175, Milwaukee, WI 53203 — 414-227-4126
• DVR Milwaukee (Northwest) — 6055 N 91st Street, Milwaukee, WI 53225 — 414-465-3800
• Wisconsin DVR statewide line — 800-442-3477

What if you are not working with DVR?

You can still work with ACO through private pay or the Ticket to Work program if you receive SSI or SSDI. Call 414-239-6465 and we will help you figure out the best path.