CESP Funding Sources & Employment Service Systems (VR, Medicaid Waivers, WIOA)

Question 1

In the typical supported employment funding model, what happens after the state vocational rehabilitation (VR) agency's time-limited services end?

Accepted Answer

Long-term extended services are funded by another source, such as a Medicaid waiver or the state developmental disabilities agency

Answer

VR usually funds the time-limited part of supported employment: assessment, job development, placement, and initial training/stabilization. Ongoing extended support after stabilization is typically funded by a long-term source such as Medicaid HCBS waivers or the state DD/mental health agency. For that reason, the long-term funder is identified up front.

Question 2

Under WIOA, how long can VR usually fund time-limited supported employment services before the hand-off to extended services?

Accepted Answer

Up to 24 months, unless a longer period is necessary

Answer

WIOA extended the period for VR-funded supported employment services from 18 to 24 months. A longer period is allowed if the individual and the counselor agree it is necessary to reach the employment outcome.

Question 3

What is the name of the written plan a VR consumer develops with their VR counselor that lists the employment goal and the services to reach it?

Accepted Answer

Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE)

Answer

The IPE is required under Title I of the Rehabilitation Act. It records the person's chosen employment goal and the VR services, providers, and timelines needed to reach it. An IEP is a school document. A PASS is an SSI work incentive, not the VR service plan.

Question 4

Which Medicaid authority do most states use to fund long-term supported employment services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities?

Accepted Answer

Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers, such as 1915(c)

Answer

Medicaid HCBS waivers (most often 1915(c), and also 1915(i) state plan options) are the main source of long-term, ongoing supported employment funding for people with IDD in most states.

Question 5

WIOA requires state VR agencies to reserve at least what share of their federal allotment for Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) for students with disabilities?

Accepted Answer

15%

Answer

WIOA requires VR agencies to reserve at least 15% of their federal funds for Pre-ETS. The five required activities are job exploration counseling, work-based learning experiences, counseling on postsecondary education options, workplace readiness training, and instruction in self-advocacy.

(CESP) Certified Employment Support Professional Practice Test

(CESP) Certified Employment Support Professional Practice Test

CESP Funding Sources & Employment Service Systems (VR, Medicaid Waivers, WIOA)