How do I answer disability questions on an application?

It depends, some agencies want to screen in applicants with disabilities or who are veterans in order to fill mandated quotas.  Some of the agencies that want to know are City, County, State and Federal employers.  Do not hesitate to disclose on these applications because it may give you a better chance for an interview.  However, in general, employers are not allowed to ask disability questions on an application. Therefore, if they ask an inappropriate question, put that NA or not applicable.  Later, if they ask why you put it, tell them it has no bearing on your ability to do the job.  If the question is Yes or No, consider the source of the application.  If it is one of the above or a public agency, do not worry.  If otherwise, you can call and ask why they have it on the application.  No matter what, you cannot lie on an application.

For more information, you can call the Northwest ADA and Information Technology Center at 800.949.4232 or the Job Accommodations Network at 800.526.7234.

Updated July 10, 2006 by Sheila Johnson, Disability Program Navigator.