What is an Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE)?

An Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE) is a written document that plays a crucial role in the vocational rehabilitation process. It is tailored to the specific needs, strengths, and goals of an individual with a disability, outlining a clear path toward achieving vocational objectives. The IPE includes detailed goals for employment and specifies the types of services and supports needed to reach those goals, such as training, counseling, job placement assistance, and follow-up services. This personalized approach ensures that the individual receives the resources and guidance necessary to successfully enter and sustain employment in the competitive workforce.

In contrast, job application forms do not provide the individualized support context that the IPE offers. Similarly, while a checklist of skills may be useful in determining qualifications for different jobs, it does not encompass the comprehensive planning required for addressing the unique challenges or barriers faced by individuals with disabilities in their pursuit of employment. Lastly, while government-mandated policies may guide employment training, they do not take into consideration the individualized approach central to the IPE that focuses on the specific needs and goals of each person.