As we observe Veterans Day and honor those who have served in our nation’s Armed Forces, National Disability Institute (NDI) reaffirms its commitment to ensure a better financial future for the millions of veterans with disabilities in the United States.
According to the ADA National Network, nearly one-third of our nation’s veterans (ages 21-64) report having a disability. This includes veterans with disabilities that may or may not have been acquired during military service (ACS) and veterans with a service-connected (SC) disability.
The employment rate of veterans with disabilities is much lower than it is for veterans without disabilities. Only about 30 percent of veterans with both an ACS and SC disability are employed, compared with over 75 percent of veterans without disabilities. Among veterans with SC disabilities, those with a higher disability rating were much less likely to be employed, with only 25 percent of veterans with an SC disability rating of 70 percent or higher reporting employment. Furthermore, a survey of veterans with both ACS and SC disabilities found that over half feared they would be discriminated against during the hiring process because of their disabilities.
It is vital that both veterans and employers understand the rights and legal protections offered to veterans with disabilities in the workforce. The American Association of People with Disabilities offers a large collection of resources that can help veterans and their families find help.
Veterans, service members and their families deserve assistance in identifying safe, reliable financial education and money management options to achieve their short- and long-term financial goals. NDI is committed to ensuring that our nation’s veterans and their families have equal access to free tax preparation and financial education opportunities. Over the past few years, NDI has partnered with the IRS and Department of Veterans Affairs to equip veterans with disabilities with the tools to improve their financial health. Learn more about NDI’s free tax preparation opportunities for veterans.
Today, and every day, we ask that you join with us to support our nation’s veterans and continue providing opportunities for them to be an active part of our workforce and improve their financial well-being.
