If you're an individual with a disability, you can apply and compete for any job for which you are eligible and meet the qualifications, but you also may be eligible for a special hiring authority.
The federal government hires each person using a hiring authority (the term comes from the federal regulation that describes it). Federal agencies can use the Schedule A Hiring Authority to hire an individual with a disability.
Schedule A refers to a special hiring authority that gives federal agencies an optional, and potentially quicker, way to hire individuals with disabilities. Applying under Schedule A offers an exception to the traditional competitive hiring process. You can apply for jobs using Schedule A, if you are a person with an intellectual disability, a severe physical disability or a psychiatric disability. To be eligible for Schedule A, you must provide a proof of a disability letter stating that you have an intellectual disability, severe physical disability or psychiatric disability. You can get this letter from your doctor, a licensed medical professional, a licensed vocational rehabilitation specialist or any federal, state or local agency that issues or provides disability benefits. Applying using Schedule A can be a great way to get a federal job, but it is one of many options that may be available and you still have to compete with other eligible applicants. Federal agencies hire people using many options, so applying under Schedule A does not guarantee you a job.
In the job announcement look for the This job is open to section. When a job is open to Individuals with a disability you’ll see this icon: There may be other groups listed that can also apply.
You can also select the Individuals with disabilities filter in search. Your results will display all jobs open to individuals with disabilities.
Selective placement program coordinators (SPPC) help agencies recruit, hire and accommodate people with disabilities. The SPPC can guide you through the application process and answer questions. Most federal agencies, but not all, have an SPPC or equivalent role, such as a special emphasis program manager.
If you are a person with a disability and interested in a job opportunity, contact the agency SPPC using the selective placement program coordinator directory External link. Opens in a new window.
Federal agencies are required by law to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified applicants and employees with disabilities, unless doing so will result in undue hardship to the agency. The accommodations make it easier for an employee with a disability to successfully perform the duties of the position. For example, an agency may offer:
You can request reasonable accommodations any time during the hiring process or at any time while on the job. Requests are considered on a case-by-case basis.
To request a reasonable accommodation:
A disability letter from you doctor or a licensed medical professional that proves your eligibility for Schedule A appointment
You can upload and save documents to your USAJOBS account. Once uploaded, you can submit these forms with your job application as needed. Sign into USAJOBS or learn how to upload documents.
Individuals with disabilities
Look for these options under the Hiring Path filter when searching.