Employer Resources

Hiring people with disabilities offers a range of  benefits that can positively impact a company’s performance, and reputation. Here are the key benefits:

1. Access to a Talented, Untapped Labor Pool

• Many people with disabilities are highly skilled, educated, and motivated to work, yet underrepresented in the workforce. As of 2023, the employment-population ratio for people with disabilities was 22.5%, compared to 65.8% for people without disabilities.
  (Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – BLS)

• This means more than 3 in 4 working-age individuals with disabilities are not employed, despite many being willing and able to work.

• Expanding hiring efforts to include this group can help address labor shortages and bring in qualified candidates.

2. Strong Work Ethic and Job Retention

• Studies show employees with disabilities often have higher job retention rates, lower absenteeism, and are highly dependable.

• 90% of employees with disabilities perform as well or better than their peers.
  (Source: Job Accommodation Network – JAN)

• 86% of employers report that employees with disabilities are as productive or more productive than other employees.
  (Source: Institute for Corporate Productivity)

• Reduced turnover can lead to lower recruitment and training costs.

3. Positive Brand Reputation

• Inclusive companies are seen as ethical and socially responsible, which enhances their public image.

• This can increase customer loyalty, attract top talent, and improve investor confidence.

• 92% of consumers prefer to support companies that hire individuals with disabilities.
  (Source: National Survey on Consumer Attitudes)

4. Financial Incentives

• Companies that champion disability inclusion earn 28% higher revenue, 30% higher profit margins, and double the net income compared to peers.
  (Source: Accenture, “Getting to Equal: The Disability Inclusion Advantage,” 2018)

• Employers may qualify for tax credits and incentives, such as:
  • Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC)

  • Disabled Access Credit

  • Architectural Barrier Removal Tax Deduction
• These can help offset costs related to accommodations or facility upgrades.

5. Cost of Accommodations

• 56% of accommodations cost nothing, and most others average only around $500.
  (Source: Job Accommodation Network – JAN)

• These small investments often result in reduced turnover, higher productivity, and better workplace morale.

California Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) maintains a pool of hundreds of qualified job seekers with disabilities available for employment.

Path To Achievement can help connect you with candidates, coordinate interviews, and offer continued support and assistance to both employers and candidates as new hires acclimate to their roles in the workplace.