EMPLOYERS INFORMATION

Incentives for Employers

Federal, state, and local governments have recognized the unique obstacles facing employers who want to hire applicants with disabilities. Incentive programs have been effective in opening doors for qualified applicants. Programs such as Career Opportunity Development (COD), On the Job Training (OJT), the Work Opportunity Tax Credit, and Job Coaching Services give employers more reasons to hire qualified applicants with disabilities. Employers get the right person for the job, while saving time and money with SCRS job placement services. New incentive programs continually arise, and existing programs evolve. For more information, please consult a job developer.

The following programs are currently available to qualified employers:

Career Opportunities Development (COD) Program

COD funds are available to private nonprofit groups, Native American tribes, public employers (federal, state, county, and city agencies), and "special" districts (utility companies, school districts, and fire departments). These employers are eligible to receive 100% of a trainee's salary for up to six months through COD.

The employer's only commitment is to provide training for the successful transition of the trainee to a permanent full-time position at the end of a successful training period. The administration is simple and does not require much time.

On the Job Training (OJT) Funds

OJT funds are available to any employer who hires a California Department of Rehabilitation consumer. A maximum of $1,500 is available for a new employee who is in training. Successful training should result in permanent full-time employment, although sometimes part-time positions are considered. Normally, the training period is limited to no more than three months per employee. One advantage of this program is that the paperwork is minimal.

Work Opportunity Tax Credit

When an employer hires a person with a disability, the federal government allows the employer to get tax credits. The federal government frequently changes the status on job tax credits. For the most current information, please consult a job developer.

Job Coaching Services

Job coaches will train the new employees for up to six months. This training benefits both the employee and the employer. Job coaching is free for employers.