Top 10 Questions About BRS

Thinking about the Bureau of Rehabilitation Services but not sure where to start? You're not alone. Many people have questions about what BRS does and how it can help. We've gathered the most common questions we hear and answered them all in one place.

1. What exactly is the Bureau of Rehabilitation Services?

The Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS) is part of Connecticut's Aging and Disability Services. We help people with disabilities prepare for work, find jobs, keep their jobs, and grow in their careers. We also partner with employers to connect them with qualified workers. Think of BRS as your partner in reaching work goals and building a better future.

2. Who can get help from BRS?

You or your loved one might be a good fit if you have a physical or mental disability that makes it hard to get or keep a job. BRS serves adults with disabilities and students ages 16-22 who receive special education services.
If you're legally blind, you can get help and services through our sister agency the Bureau of Education and Services for the Blind.

3. Does BRS ONLY help people find jobs? What kind of support does BRS provide?

No! This is one of the biggest myths about BRS. While employment is the ultimate goal, our support goes far beyond job placement. We help people:

Prepare for work — including training and education

Succeed once hired — through on-the-job support

Advance in their career — long-term growth and development

BRS offers many different services based on your individual needs. These can include:

help with workplace accommodations
career counseling
help acquiring equipment and/or Assistive Technology devices or adaptive equipment
guidance on career advancement

Your counselor will work with you to figure out which services make the most sense for your situation.

Ready to learn more? Connect with a counselor today at the office nearest you.

4. What is the Level Up program?

Level Up is a special program for students ages 16-22 with disabilities. It helps young people prepare for competitive employment while they're still in school. Students learn job skills, explore careers, get real work experience, and build confidence.

To get started, students or parents can reach out by talking to their special education teacher or contacting their local BRS office. Parents play an important role in the process and are encouraged to be involved every step of the way.

5. How much does BRS cost?

BRS services are provided at no cost to you. This includes evaluations, training, job coaching, and other support services you might need. If BRS needs to do medical or other evaluations to understand how to help you best, BRS can help as well.

6. What is an Individualized Plan for Employment?

When you work with BRS, you and your counselor create an Individualized Plan for Employment, or IPE. This is your personal roadmap to job success. The plan lists what services BRS will provide and how you'll work together to reach your career goals. The best part? You can update this plan as your needs change and your career grows.

7. How long does it take to get started with BRS?

After you apply for services, you will meet with a counselor to review your application and determine if you're eligible. Once you're eligible, you'll work with your counselor to create your plan and start receiving services. The sooner you reach out, the sooner we can start helping you reach your goals. If you receive SSI or SSDI you are automatically eligible for BRS services.

8. Can I come back to BRS after my case closes?

Yes! Your relationship with BRS doesn't end when your case closes. You can re-engage with BRS whenever you need new support. For example, if your disability changes and you need new equipment, or if you want to advance in your career and need training, just contact your counselor. BRS is always ready to help.

9. How does BRS help employers?

BRS partners with businesses of all sizes to help them find qualified workers with disabilities. We offer free programs that save employers time and money, including no-cost work trials, wage reimbursement for training new employees, customized training programs, and help with tax credits. Employers work with workforce counselors who understand their business needs and provide support throughout the hiring process.

10.What makes BRS different from other job programs?

BRS focuses specifically on people with disabilities and creates personalized solutions. Unlike general job programs, BRS counselors understand the unique challenges people with disabilities face at work. We provide support tailored to you, including adaptive technology, job coaching, and help with workplace accommodations.

Ready to take the next step?

Whether you're looking for your first job, want to keep your current job, are ready to advance in your career, or are an employer looking for qualified workers, the Bureau of Rehabilitation Services is here to help. We provide support designed to help you achieve real job success at every stage.