Employment First
Equality and inclusiveness play a central role in the history of New York State, and New York State is continuing that legacy by standing up for the employment needs of people with disabilities. The Employment First framework is part of a national movement that centers around the employment of people with disabilities. NYESS is leading the way.
In 2020, the State established the New York Employment First Initiative to increase employment of New Yorkers with disabilities. At that time the employment rate for a New Yorker with a disability (aged 18-64) was 31.2% compared to 72% for a person without a disability, resulting in a gap of 40.8 percentage points. The poverty rate for New Yorkers with disabilities aged 18-64 living in the community was 28.6%. That was more than twice that of people in New York State without disabilities (12.3%). The Employment First Initiative set a tentative goal of a 5% increase in the employment rate and a 5% decrease in the poverty rate among this population.
In September 2024, Governor Hochul signed Executive Order 40, committing New York to be an Employment First State. This pledge will increase competitive, integrated employment for New Yorkers with disabilities. NYESS is an integral partner with the State of New York’s Chief Disability Office, and New York State Department of Labor to support successful employment outcomes for people with disabilities.
Work Incentives Navigator and Reports
The Work Incentives Navigator and Reports (WINR) application is a direct result of the New York State Employment First Commission Report. WINR sends automatic notifications to individuals with disabilities who are receiving employment supports, and to the organizations who serve them. Providers access these notifications through a secure portal in the New York Employment Services System (NYESS). NYESS has developed notifications for several critical benefits, including:
- Medicaid Buy-In for Working People with Disabilities,
- Section 1619(b) and Section 301 of the Social Security Act, and the
- Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).
For assistance pertaining to these notifications or related programs please e-mail [email protected] or call 518-473-6579.