Prior to determining an individual incapable of benefiting from vocational rehabilitation services in terms of an employment outcome due to the severity of the individual’s disability, his/her counselor or teacher/counselor must undertake an extensive assessment to support such a determination. A written plan must be developed outlining exactly how this determination will be made, either through a Trial Work Experience or Extended Evaluation. This plan must periodically assess the individual’s abilities, capabilities and capacity to perform in work experiences, which must be provided in the most integrated setting possible, consistent with the informed choice and rehabilitation needs of the individual. Preferably, a Trial Work Experience can be developed. This work experience should be in the least restricted environment and as integrated as possible, considering the informed choice of the client. This experience could consist of supported employment or on-the-job training. The activity should be of a duration and variety that will allow the counselor or counselor/teacher to make a decision about the individual’s ability to benefit from services in terms of an employment outcome. During this time, appropriate supports such as job coaching, assistive technology devices and personal assistance services must be provided.

If an individual cannot participate in a Trial Work Experience, then an Extended Evaluation should be completed. The agency should provide only those services necessary to make an eligibility decision regarding the individual’s ability to benefit from vocational rehabilitation services in terms of an employment outcome. These particular services will be terminated when the counselor or teacher/counselor is able to make a decision.