For People with Disabilities: How to Get a Federal Job

Want a government job? It is now easier for those with disabilities to get a job with the federal government. Sounds too good to be true, but read on.

In 2010, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) of the U.S. Government retained Bender Consulting Services to recruit, screen and direct candidates with disabilities to federal agencies for positions in the areas of accounting, budget analysis, contact representative, contracts, finance, human resources, information technology, administrative support and miscellaneous clerical positions.

Successful candidates are placed on the OPM Shared List of People with Disabilities, a database of resumes accessed by more than 400 agency representatives and available to hiring managers and human resource personnel government-wide.

You don’t have to live in Washington, D.C. Opportunities are available throughout the United States.

Positions are available for those with disabilities who are early career through senior career levels, including college students with disabilities, graduate students and experienced career professionals.

To find out if you are eligible, visit the Schedule A hiring authority.

Applicants must be U.S. citizens and should email their resume to resume@benderconsult.com. Reference “Federal Career Opportunities” in the subject line. For more information, visit the Bender Consulting Services website at www.benderconsult.com.

You might also want to visit the USAJOBS website at www.usajobs.opm.gov as most federal vacancies are advertised there. It is the Federal government’s official site for job information and includes over 16,000 job postings.

Through this site, you can search for openings in a particular field, city, or agency or all three. You can also sign-up for e-mail alerts about job openings by type of job, agency and/or geographic area.

If you cannot access the Internet or need more assistance, call 202-606-2525. There is also an automated telephone system that can be reached at 703-724-1850 (voice) or 978-461-8404 (TTY).

It is important to check specific agency websites for additional information about employment opportunities. A listing of agency sites can be found at www.usa.gov.

This entry was posted in Consumer Information and tagged , . Bookmark the permalink.

5-Star Safety Ratings Effective on 2011 Vehicles

To find out more about the mobility equipment, wheelchair vans and other solutions offered by United Access, visit http://www.UnitedAccess.com.  

With the new 5-Star Safety Ratings System of 2011 and 2012, it is safer for seniors and those with disabilities to drive. High-tech safety features can help drivers avoid accidents altogether.

Starting with 2011 models, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) introduced tougher tests and rigorous new 5-Star Safety Ratings that provide more information about vehicle safety and crash avoidance technologies. (Because of the more stringent tests, ratings for 2011 and newer vehicles should not be compared to ratings for 1990-2010 models. Overall vehicle score and frontal crash ratings should ONLY be compared to other vehicles of similar size and weight.)

The ratings measure the crash worthiness and rollover safety of vehicles. Five stars is the highest rating, one is the lowest.

New criteria for the ratings system offers a single Overall Vehicle Score per vehicle, and highlights new crash avoidance technologies.

While not part of the 5-Star Ratings System, NHTSA identifies vehicles that are also equipped with the following advanced technology features:

  • Electronic stability control maintains vehicle control.
  • Advanced head restraints reduce potential head/neck injuries in crashes.
  • Advanced frontal air bags protect in frontal crashes, shielding the driver’s and front passenger’s head, neck and chest.
  • Lane departure warning monitors lane markings on the road and cautions driver of unintentional drift.
  • Side air bags and curtains protect in side crashes, shielding a passenger’s head, neck, chest and pelvis.
  • Safety belt load limiter and safety belt pretensioner absorbs crash energy and tightens belts to restrain occupants.
  • Forward collision warning detects vehicles ahead, cautioning drivers of impending collisions.

1990-2010 5-Star Safety Ratings provide front crash, side crash and rollover resistance ratings, while 2011 ratings include an additional overall rating score to make it easy to compare vehicles. 5-Star Safety Ratings can be found on http://www.safercar.gov/ .

About United Access: United Access has been providing the latest in adapted vehicles, driving systems and services for over 30 years. They are a member of the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association and a nationally accredited Quality Assurance Program (QAP) dealer with nine locations across the Midwest and Mid-South. They are committed to giving back to the communities they serve through volunteer time, event sponsorships and donations.

This entry was posted in Consumer Information and tagged , , . Bookmark the permalink.

Buyer Beware: Tips on Purchasing Used Products

Buying used wheelchair parts or van parts may seem like a no-brainer. Just browse eBay or Craigslist. But if the part collapses or fails, you may end up as damaged as the vehicle.

The National Center on Accessibility (www.ncaonline.org) recommends that you beware of “ADA approved” products and services: “There is no organization or governmental body that has the authority to give ADA approval for any product.” The company may meet ADA guidelines, or be in compliance with ADA standards, but ADA does not approve products. It is up to you to compare products against ADA accessibility guidelines and standards before you buy.

The Center also suggests that you look for products and services that promote person first terminology, i.e. a person with a disability: “Companies that use outdated terminology such as ‘handicapped’ or ‘physically challenged’ may not be developing products and services using the most up-to-date information.”

That said, you can get quality used products, but you may have to search, question, test and even haggle.

  • Don’t be lured by a friendly salesperson into buying the renovated equipment that’s a “real steal.”
  • When dealing with third-party sellers or used equipment, it’s up to you to determine the product that works best for your situation, so “interrogate” the seller (nicely) before purchasing.
  • Ask about any return policy or warranties.
  • Examine it thoroughly. Test it. Ask a medical equipment vendor to check it out. Ask the vendor if it will repair the equipment if needed in the future.
  • Another safe alternative is to contact your local NMEDA dealer  such as United Access for vehicle needs so you can be sure you are getting the right equipment customized for your needs.

You may want to use an online service such as www.escrow.com. It oversees Internet transactions. The buyer sends payment to Escrow. Buyer and seller agree on an inspection end date. Seller sends the part and the buyer inspects it. Escrow holds payment until either the buyer agrees the piece is in good working condition or inspection time has lapsed.

Happy hunting!

This entry was posted in Consumer Information and tagged , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

Have Disabilities and Work? IRWEs Make Huge Dent in Income Tax

At tax time, we want to squeeze out every deduction possible: medical, dental and that accessible van you bought. But did you know that expenses you paid to a caretaker to help you get ready for work are also deductible? If someone comes in to help bathe and dress you, cook for you or drive you to and from work – that’s deductible under a little known IRS area called Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWE).

If you are an employed person with a disability, you qualify for IRWE deductions. According to the IRS, the disability “must substantially limit one or more of your major life activities, such as performing manual tasks, walking, speaking, breathing, learning or working.”

Examples of IRS approved deductions:

  • The item(s) or service(s) enables you to work (home computer, accessible vehicle);
  • You need the item(s) or service(s) because of a physical or mental impairment (adaptive equipment, caretaker);
  • You paid the cost and are not reimbursed by another source such as Medicare, Medicaid or private insurance (mileage to and from work);

The cost must be “reasonable.” (It represents the standard charge for the item or service in your community, and you paid for the expense in a month you are or were working.)

IRWEs must be connected to your job, but not just at the office. If you must use a computer at home, it’s deductible. That software? Deductible!

Find a full list at Social Security Online – The Red Book at www.ssa.gov/redbook/eng/ssdi-and-ssi-employments-supports.htm#3.

IRWEs are not subject to the 7.5% limit of your adjusted gross income, as medical expenses are, so the IRWE is worth much more to the taxpayer. Also, IRWEs aren’t capped at 2% of adjusted gross income, like standard business expenses are.

More good news: You can always file amended returns up to three years after the payment of an IRWE.

Get IRS materials at www.irs.gov, IRS walk-in offices or call 800-829-3676.

This entry was posted in Consumer Information and tagged , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

Pros and Cons of Buying Used Adaptive and Accessible Equipment

For almost every piece of equipment we see new, you can find pre-owned and/or refurbished for a lower price. Sometimes it’s a better piece than we could have afforded new. But there are pros and cons.

Some items take more research than others: Buying a used lift for a wheelchair van may be a bigger decision than getting a ramp as the lift is a more complex piece of equipment. But the money saved may be worth the time.

Following are some points to consider when purchasing used equipment.

New: New equipment is easy to find. Visit NMEDA.com for a qualified assurance program dealer near you – some even specialize in used vehicles and equipment.

Used: It may take time to find the exact used equipment that fits your unique needs. Buyer beware is the motto when buying anything previously owned. If you are not dealing with a trusted professional, you want to make sure you get the best possible deal while comparing cost to quality and durability. If you are in a hurry, buying used may not be for you.

New: You know the life expectancy of the equipment.

Used: Buying online or from a classified ad can be risky. Even if the lift is only three years old, you don’t know how well it was maintained or if the vehicle was in an accident that may have damaged the lift. (Tip: Some authorized dealerships sell used equipment as well as new.)

New: Good warranty

Used: May not have a warranty or will have a shorter warranty than new. But even if you have to pay for repairs out of pocket, it may still be less expensive than buying new. (Tip: If buying from a Quality Assurance Program dealership, the equipment has been thoroughly inspected the vehicle, repairs made, and usually warranties and guarantees are available.)

With a lot of research, you can find hardly used, less-than-mint condition, gently-owned or discontinued ADA-Disability products for a fair, even surprisingly low, price.

This entry was posted in Consumer Information and tagged , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

Calling All Patriots

Local Mobility Dealer United Access  joined the effort to helped raise over $10,000 which purchased 1,000 FREE International Calling Cards for the troops.

This entry was posted in Local Events and tagged , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

St. Louis Wheelchair Rugby Rams

United Access is a proud supporter of many adaptive sports teams.  The St. Louis location is a proud sponsor of the St. Louis Rugby Rams wheelchair rugby team.  In fact one of the team members David Miles is also a United Access employee, pictured here.

The St. Louis Rugby Rams wheelchair rugby team and the St. Louis Wheelchair Athletic Association (SLWAA) are hosting the Heartland Sectionals Wheelchair Rugby Tournament, March 18, 19 & 20, 2011 at the Southern Illinois University Recreation Center in Carbondale, IL.  The St. Louis Rugby Rams submitted a bid to the United States Quad Rugby Association to host sectionals and were selected. This tournament will determine who competes at Nationals.

Wheelchair sports like quad rugby play an important role in the rehabilitation process of the person with a physical disability.  It provides the opportunity to improve physical, emotional, and social well-being through weekly practices, monthly tournaments, and setting goals for success.

This entry was posted in Local Events and tagged , , , , , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

Bikers for Babies

Wheelchair Accessible Motorcycle

This Sunday Bikers for Babies came to St. Louis, MO.  Although this is not the typical scene for United Access customers we thought it would be a great chance to spotlight the new wheelchair accessible Mobility Conquest Motorcycle.  The turn out was huge and we had a lot of comments on the new motorcycle, it was definitely one of the most unique vehicles at the show.  See pictures on our facebook page.

This entry was posted in Wheelchair Accessible Motorcycle and tagged , , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

Visit United Access to Find Your Best Wheelchair Van

Searching for your mobility van is an exciting experience. Wheelchair vans from United Access in St. Louis, Missouri can offer you an incredible amount of freedom. One of the best perks of having one is the power to no longer rely on someone else.

At United Access in St. Louis, MO you will be able to browse the different vehicles that are available and find something that matches with your aesthetic sensibilities and personal needs. With dozens of different van conversions and models available, you should be able to find a vehicle that is just right for you.

The first step you need to take is to contact a United Access certified mobility consultant to ensure that shopping is done with as little stress as possible. Mobility consultants can make sure you are aware of the different types of conversions and accessories that fit your specific requirements.

United Access in St. Louis, MO has some of the best certified mobility consultants out there. Don’t hesitate to give us a call or stop on in.

This entry was posted in Wheelchair Accessible Vans and tagged , , , . Bookmark the permalink.

Used Mobility Van From United Access in St. Louis: The Affordable Choice

Usually, a disabled person has to rely on family and friends to drive them to work or to any other location and while their loved ones gladly offer their help, it would be great for everyone if the disabled person has a wheelchair accessible van. A wheelchair accessible van from United Access in St. Louis, Missouri offers convenience in transporting a person on a wheelchair and there are types that can driven by a wheelchair user, giving the person a sense of independence.

Handicap vans allow a disabled person who is qualified to drive to become self-sufficient when it comes to transportation. The person can go to the mall, run errands for a family member, or even drive someone to work or to school or to any other place.

However, a wheelchair is expensive. Even converting a vehicle to accommodate a wheelchair can be costly. Fortunately, there are used wheelchair vans that make it possible for a disabled person to afford this vehicle.

To start searching for used wheelchair lift vans, you can check with car dealers in your area and surf the Internet. An ideal find would be a van that is available at a dealer near you. You may also want to look for used wheelchair vans with low mileage and built-in features such as wheelchair restraints and hand controls.

If it is a challenge to search for used wheelchair vans in your local area, look for dealers that offer delivery services. However, you need to make sure to make your purchase with a reputable vendor to ensure that they will indeed deliver your vehicle. If you are fortunate to find a used wheelchair van locally, ask a friend or a family member to test-drive the vehicle.

This entry was posted in Wheelchair Accessible Vans and tagged , , , . Bookmark the permalink.