Utah: Help For Disabled People

Utah is a state committed to supporting individuals with disabilities through a wide range of services and programs designed to promote inclusion, independence, and quality of life. With its diverse geography and population, Utah faces unique challenges and opportunities in ensuring that people with disabilities have access to the resources they need. Disability services in Utah encompass a broad spectrum of support, including healthcare, education, employment, and community living, all aimed at helping individuals lead fulfilling lives within their communities.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, in 2025, 611,965 adults in Utah have a disability. This is equal to 27% or over 1 in 4 adults in Utah. These statistics highlight the importance of robust and accessible services that cater to the diverse needs of the state’s population.

The state of Utah has made strides in creating an inclusive environment for all its residents, ensuring that those with disabilities have the opportunity to participate fully in all aspects of life. From early intervention programs for children to vocational training and employment support for adults, Utah’s approach to disability services is comprehensive and evolving.

Disability agencies and service organizations play a crucial role in this ecosystem, providing essential support and advocacy for individuals and families. These organizations work in collaboration with state and local governments, healthcare providers, and community groups to deliver services that meet the needs of people with disabilities across the state.


Utah Disability Employment Services

Utah State Office of Rehabilitation – Vocational Rehabilitation (VR): VR provides support to individuals with disabilities to help them achieve meaningful employment. Services include job training, career counseling, and assistive technology to help individuals overcome barriers to employment.

Division of Services for People with Disabilities (DSPD) – Employment and Community Inclusion: DSPD offers programs focused on integrating individuals with disabilities into the workforce. Their services include job coaching, skills training, and support for both employees and employers to foster successful employment outcomes.

EnableUtah: A nonprofit organization based in Ogden, EnableUtah assists individuals with disabilities in finding meaningful employment within the community. They provide job training, education, and support tailored to each individual’s needs, promoting independence and inclusion.

TURN Community Services: TURN offers supported employment services that help individuals with disabilities find jobs that match their skills and aspirations. They provide ongoing support to ensure long-term success in the workplace, alongside a variety of other disability services.

Employment-Related Personal Assistant Services (EPAS): Managed by the Utah Department of Health and Human Services, EPAS provides personal assistance services to individuals with disabilities who are employed. This program supports participants in maintaining their jobs by addressing their unique needs.

These organizations are integral in helping individuals with disabilities in Utah achieve employment and maintain independence.


Utah Independent Living Services

Utah Independent Living Center (UILC): Established as the first independent living center in Utah, UILC provides services to enhance the independence of people with disabilities, including skills training, advocacy, peer support, and housing assistance. They serve Salt Lake, Summit, and Tooele counties.

Ability 1st Utah: Based in Provo, this organization assists individuals with disabilities in achieving independent living through various programs. They offer life skills training, peer support, and housing resources, helping individuals live independently in their communities.

Options for Independence: Serving Northern Utah, this center offers a wide range of services aimed at empowering people with disabilities to live independently. They provide support in areas such as assistive technology, community integration, and housing assistance.

Roads to Independence: Located in Ogden, this center provides independent living services to people with disabilities in the Northern Utah region. Their programs include skills training, advocacy, and assistance in finding accessible housing.

Red Rock Center for Independence: Serving Southern Utah, this center focuses on helping individuals with disabilities achieve greater independence through services like skills training, peer support, and housing assistance.

Disability Law Center: Although primarily focused on legal advocacy, the Disability Law Center also provides resources and referrals for housing assistance and independent living support across Utah.

These organizations play a critical role in supporting the independence and housing needs of individuals with disabilities in Utah, offering a variety of programs and services tailored to meet their unique needs.


Utah Rehabilitation Services

Utah State Office of Rehabilitation (USOR): USOR offers comprehensive rehabilitation services aimed at helping individuals with disabilities achieve greater independence. Their programs include vocational rehabilitation, assistive technology, and employment services.

Utah Center for Assistive Technology (UCAT): UCAT provides statewide assistive technology services, including evaluations, customized device fabrication, and training to help individuals with disabilities achieve independence in daily activities and employment.

TRAILS Adaptive Program: Part of the University of Utah Health, TRAILS provides adaptive sports and recreational activities as part of a long-term rehabilitation plan for individuals with complex physical disabilities. The program includes year-round activities like skiing, cycling, and kayaking.

Utah Tech University Vocational Rehabilitation Services: This state agency offers vocational rehabilitation services to students with disabilities, helping them prepare for suitable employment through personalized counseling and support.

These organizations play a vital role in supporting the rehabilitation needs of individuals with disabilities across Utah, offering a range of services to enhance their independence and quality of life.


Utah Assistive Technology Services

Utah Assistive Technology Program (UATP): Managed by Utah State University, UATP provides assistive technology devices and services across Utah. They aim to promote independence through technology and offer training to individuals with disabilities, their families, and professionals.

Utah Assistive Technology Foundation (UATF): UATF, a non-profit under the UATP umbrella, helps Utahns with disabilities obtain low-interest loans and small grants to purchase assistive technology. Their goal is to make technology accessible to improve the quality of life for people with disabilities.

Utah Center for Assistive Technology (UCAT): UCAT offers specialized services such as custom device fabrication and modifications to assist people with disabilities in achieving greater independence at home and work. They also provide free consultations and evaluations.

Ability 1st Utah: This organization offers assistive technology services including evaluations, equipment loans, and training. Their goal is to help individuals with disabilities make informed choices about adaptive equipment that best suits their needs.

These organizations work collaboratively to ensure that individuals with disabilities in Utah have access to the assistive technology they need to lead independent and fulfilling lives.


Utah Disability Financial Assistance Services

The Social Security Administration offers comprehensive information on disability benefits, including how to apply, eligibility requirements, and the types of benefits available. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program that provides financial assistance to individuals who are aged, blind, or disabled and have limited income and resources. Use the Social Security Field Office locator to find a location near you or call toll-free: 1-800-772-1213 between 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. local time, Monday through Friday. If you’re deaf or hard of hearing and use TTY equipment, you can call their TTY number at 1-800-325-0778.

The Utah Disability Determination Services assists in determining eligibility for federal disability benefits. For inquiries, contact them at 1-800-662-9080.

Disability Financial Assistance Services provide essential support to individuals with disabilities by offering financial aid to help cover living expenses, medical costs, and other disability-related needs.

The Utah Labor Commission – Workers’ Compensation Division provides benefits to workers who have been injured on the job, including those with disabilities. Contact them at 1-801-530-6800 for more information.

Department of Workforce Services – Financial Help: Offers various financial assistance programs aimed at increasing family and individual income, including General Assistance and other disability-related support.

General Assistance Program: Provides cash assistance and case management to single adults and married couples without dependents who have a verified physical or mental health impairment preventing them from working.

ABLE Utah Program: Allows individuals with disabilities to save and invest money without losing eligibility for benefits like Medicaid or SSI, with funds used for a wide range of disability-related expenses.

Division of Services for People with Disabilities (DSPD): Offers various support programs, including financial assistance, to help individuals with disabilities live independently in their communities.

Utah Legal Services: Provides free legal assistance, including help with disability benefits applications and appeals, for low-income Utah residents.

Utah Department of Workforce Services – Refugee Cash Assistance: Provides financial assistance to eligible refugees, including those with disabilities, to help them achieve self-sufficiency.

Utah State Office of Rehabilitation – Disability Determination Services: Helps determine eligibility for federal disability benefits, including providing financial support during the determination process.

Utah Housing Assistance Program: Offers rental and housing assistance to individuals with disabilities who are unable to afford safe and accessible housing.

Utah Community Action: Provides financial assistance for basic needs, including emergency rent and utility assistance, to individuals with disabilities facing economic hardship.

Utah Assistive Technology Foundation: Offers financial assistance in the form of low-interest loans to help individuals with disabilities acquire assistive technology that enhances their independence.


Utah Disability Transportation Services

Disability Transportation Services in Utah offer essential mobility solutions to individuals with disabilities, ensuring access to medical appointments, community activities, and daily needs.

Utah Transit Authority (UTA) Paratransit Services provides curb-to-curb transportation for individuals whose disabilities prevent them from using regular fixed-route services, offering scheduled rides across the service area.

Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) through Utah Medicaid offers rides to medical appointments for eligible individuals, including services like ModivCare for those outside standard transit areas.

Cedar Area Transportation Services (CATS) Dial-A-Ride provides door-to-door transportation for individuals with disabilities in Cedar City, offering flexible scheduling to meet specific needs.

Utah Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Transportation Services offers various transportation options, including UTA passes and paratransit services, to help individuals access community services and activities as part of their broader support network.

ModivCare Transportation is a specialized service for individuals who require door-to-door transport due to medical conditions, offering service to those who are ineligible for other transportation options.

These services are crucial for ensuring that individuals with disabilities in Utah can maintain their independence and access essential services throughout the state.


Utah Disability Childcare Services

Disability Childcare Services in Utah provide specialized support and care for children with disabilities, ensuring they receive appropriate developmental assistance and inclusive educational opportunities.

Office of Children with Special Health Care Needs (CSHCN) offers a range of services, including care coordination and early intervention programs, for children with special health care needs to support their development and well-being.

Care About Childcare is a resource provided by the Utah Department of Workforce Services to help parents find childcare providers who can accommodate the unique needs of children with disabilities.

Utah Kids Foundation supports families with children with disabilities by providing resources, emotional support, and programs such as medical supply exchanges and inclusive events.

Utah Disability Services Resource Directory helps families connect with a variety of disability services, including childcare providers that cater to the needs of children with disabilities.

These organizations play a crucial role in helping families access quality childcare and support for children with disabilities throughout Utah.


Utah Disability Recreational Services

Disability Recreational Services in Utah offer various adaptive sports, outdoor activities, and inclusive programs designed to ensure that individuals with disabilities can participate fully in recreational activities.

TRAILS Adaptive Program, operated by the University of Utah Health, offers a comprehensive range of adaptive sports, wellness programs, and educational events for people with complex physical disabilities, including skiing, cycling, and water sports.

National Ability Center provides a wide array of adaptive recreation and adventure opportunities, including skiing, horseback riding, and cycling, aimed at empowering individuals of all abilities to explore the outdoors and engage in physical activities.

Salt Lake County Adaptive Recreation offers inclusive sports, social events, and fitness programs for individuals with physical, developmental, or intellectual disabilities, with activities such as adaptive baseball, swimming, and dance.

Disabled Outdoorsmen Utah is a non-profit organization that creates inclusive outdoor adventures, including hunting, fishing, and shooting, for people with disabilities, providing them with opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.

Utah Adaptive Sports is a resource hub for adaptive sports and recreational opportunities across the state, offering a calendar of events and information on various disability-friendly activities.

These services enable individuals with disabilities in Utah to engage in a broad range of recreational activities, promoting inclusion, physical fitness, and community participation.


Utah Disability Rights & Legal Services

Disability Rights & Legal Services in Utah offer critical support to individuals with disabilities, helping them navigate legal challenges and protect their rights.

Disability Law Center is Utah’s designated Protection and Advocacy agency, providing legal services, advocacy, and education to protect the rights and opportunities of people with disabilities across the state.

Utah Legal Services offers free legal assistance in civil cases to low-income individuals, including those with disabilities, addressing issues such as housing, family law, and public benefits.

Utah Disability Advocacy Network (UDAN) focuses on enhancing Utah’s disability system through legislative advocacy, aiming to improve access to services and foster collaboration for a more inclusive community.

And Justice for All provides free and low-cost legal services to Utah’s most vulnerable populations, including individuals with disabilities, ensuring access to justice in matters like discrimination and access to public services.

ACLU of Utah supports the civil liberties of all Utahns, including those with disabilities, through litigation and advocacy, particularly in areas like disability rights and discrimination.

These organizations are dedicated to upholding the legal rights of individuals with disabilities in Utah, offering resources, advocacy, and direct legal assistance to ensure they receive fair treatment and equal opportunities.


Utah Support Groups for People with Disabilities

Foundations for Independence (FFI) in Utah provides resources and information about services for people with disabilities, aiming to advance independence and full citizenship through education and community involvement.

Utah Parent Center offers various support groups for families of children with disabilities, providing peer support, education, and resources to help parents navigate the challenges associated with disabilities.

Utah Independent Living Center (UILC) provides peer support groups aimed at helping individuals with disabilities achieve greater independence through shared experiences and community-based activities.

EnableUtah supports individuals with disabilities through various programs, including support groups that promote independence and community inclusion.

Brain Injury Alliance of Utah provides support groups specifically for individuals with brain injuries and their families, focusing on recovery, education, and community reintegration.

NAMI Utah (National Alliance on Mental Illness) offers support groups for individuals with mental health conditions and their families, providing a safe space to share experiences and receive support from peers.

These organizations are instrumental in providing the support needed for individuals with disabilities and their families to thrive in Utah.


Utah Disability Housing Assistance

Utah Non-Profit Housing Corporation provides safe and affordable housing for low-income individuals and families, including those with disabilities, by offering various housing programs and services throughout the state.

Housing Stability Division – Salt Lake City offers a range of affordable housing resources, including rental assistance and housing retention services, specifically designed to support low-income households, including individuals with disabilities.

Housing Related Services and Supports (HRSS) Program, managed by Utah Medicaid, provides tenancy support, community transition services, and supportive living services for Medicaid beneficiaries experiencing housing instability or transitioning from institutional settings.

Housing Connect – Housing Opportunity for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) offers long-term tenant-based rental assistance to low-income individuals living with HIV/AIDS, ensuring they have stable and secure housing options in Salt Lake County.

Utah Housing Corporation provides mortgage assistance and loan programs to help low-income individuals and families, including those with disabilities, secure and maintain affordable housing across the state.

These programs are critical resources for individuals with disabilities in Utah, providing essential support for securing and maintaining stable housing.


Utah Disability Education Services

Utah Parent Center provides parents of children with disabilities with the training, information, and support they need to advocate for their child’s educational needs. The center offers resources on special education, individualized education programs (IEPs), and transition planning.

Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind (USDB) serves children from birth to age 21 who are deaf, blind, or deaf-blind. USDB provides direct educational services and support to ensure these students can access the general curriculum and reach their full potential.

Utah State Board of Education – Special Education Services offers leadership and resources to educators, parents, and students with disabilities across Utah’s public and charter schools, aiming to improve educational outcomes through specialized programs and services.

Learning Disabilities Association of Utah (LDAU) supports individuals with learning disabilities by providing resources, advocacy, and educational programs designed to enhance their quality of life and academic success.

Utah Developmental Disabilities Council (UDDC) works to improve educational opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities through advocacy, leadership training, and partnerships with educational institutions.

University of Utah Reading Clinic offers specialized reading assessment and intervention services for students struggling with literacy, particularly in early grades, to help them become successful readers.

Rite Care of Utah provides free language and learning disability services to children, offering one-on-one therapy sessions to help them achieve their full educational and social potential.

Autism Council of Utah (ACU) promotes collaboration and education among families, service providers, and agencies to improve resources and support for individuals with autism.

Utah State Instructional Materials Access Center (USIMAC) provides accessible instructional materials to students with print disabilities, ensuring they have equal access to the general curriculum.

Technical Assistance for Excellence in Special Education (TAESE) collaborates with local education agencies to improve outcomes for children with disabilities through training, technical assistance, and research-based practices.

These organizations are dedicated to supporting the educational needs of individuals with disabilities in Utah, providing a range of services and resources to help them succeed academically.


Utah Disability Healthcare Services

Utah Disability Advocacy Network (UDAN) works to enhance access to healthcare services for individuals with disabilities by advocating for improved healthcare policies and collaborating with various stakeholders to ensure inclusive healthcare systems.

Utah Association of Community Services (UACS) supports individuals with disabilities by providing a range of healthcare services, including residential care and day programs, through a network of private provider agencies across the state.

Ability 1st Utah offers healthcare support services that include wellness programs, independent living skills training, and assistance with navigating healthcare systems to help individuals with disabilities maintain their health and independence.

TURN Community Services provides a variety of healthcare-related services, such as residential care, respite care, and day programs, all tailored to meet the needs of individuals with disabilities in Utah.

Utah Department of Health and Human Services – Disabilities Ombuds serves as a resource for individuals with disabilities to address healthcare access issues, resolve disputes, and ensure that their healthcare rights are protected.

These organizations are dedicated to providing comprehensive healthcare services and support for individuals with disabilities in Utah, helping them access the care they need to live healthy, independent lives.


Utah Vocational Training for People with Disabilities

Utah Vocational Rehabilitation offers a wide range of services, including vocational counseling, job placement, and assistive technology, to help individuals with disabilities prepare for, obtain, and maintain employment.

CETC (Cache Employment and Training Center) provides day supports, supported employment, and other training services to enhance job readiness and help individuals with disabilities integrate into the workforce.

Spectrum Academy VocRehab partners with Vocational Rehabilitation to support students with disabilities in achieving their employment goals through individualized vocational training and counseling.

Disability Law Center – Utah Vocational Rehabilitation assists individuals with disabilities by advocating for their rights in the workplace and ensuring they receive the vocational training and support necessary to succeed.

Utah Parent Center – Vocational Rehabilitation Services works with families and individuals to navigate vocational training opportunities, helping them access the tools and resources needed for successful employment.

These organizations are dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities by providing them with the vocational training and support needed to achieve their career goals in Utah.


Utah Mental Health Services for People with Disabilities

University of Utah Neurobehavior HOME Program provides a coordinated healthcare model designed to meet the medical and mental health needs of individuals with developmental disabilities, offering services like behavioral management, crisis management, and psychiatric evaluations.

Utah Department of Human Services – Division of Services for People with Disabilities (DSPD) offers a range of mental health services, including behavior supports and crisis intervention, to help individuals with disabilities live self-determined lives.

Utah State Hospital is a state-run psychiatric facility offering specialized mental health treatment for individuals with severe mental illness, including those with developmental disabilities, in a safe and healing environment.

Mental Health America of Utah provides resources and support for people with mental health conditions, including individuals with disabilities, offering tools for recovery and connections to mental health services across the state.

Utah Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health (DSAMH) oversees public mental health services in Utah, providing resources and support for individuals with mental health conditions, including those with disabilities, through a network of local providers.

These organizations are dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health services tailored to the needs of individuals with disabilities, ensuring they receive the care and support necessary for mental well-being.


Utah Vision Services for People with Disabilities

Utah Council of the Blind offers a variety of services including adaptive technology grants, braille instruction, and skills development programs to help individuals with vision impairments live more independently.

Division of Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired (DSBVI) provides comprehensive services such as vocational training, orientation and mobility training, and assistive technology support to enhance the independence of individuals who are blind or visually impaired.

Utah Independent Living Center (UILC) supports individuals with vision impairments by offering assistive technology, peer support, and independent living skills training to help them integrate more fully into their communities.

Disability Law Center – Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired advocates for the rights of individuals with disabilities, including those who are blind or visually impaired, ensuring they receive the necessary accommodations and services to lead independent lives.

These organizations provide essential resources and support to individuals with vision impairments in Utah, helping them achieve greater independence and improve their quality of life.


Utah Hearing Services for People with Disabilities

Division of Services for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DSDHH) offers a comprehensive range of services including case management, communication assessments, and access to ASL interpreters, specifically designed for individuals who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, or Deaf-Blind in Utah.

Utah Parent Center – Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services provides support, resources, and advocacy for families of children with hearing impairments, helping them navigate the educational system and connect with early intervention programs.

Relay Utah facilitates communication for individuals who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, or speech-disabled by providing access to hearing assistive equipment and telephone relay services, ensuring they can communicate effectively in various settings.

Sound Beginnings at Utah State University offers early education programs for children with hearing loss, focusing on developing listening and spoken language skills through home and center-based services.

EnableUtah provides resources and support for individuals with hearing impairments, including access to assistive technology and employment services, to promote independence and integration into the community.

These organizations are committed to providing vital hearing services to individuals with disabilities in Utah, helping them lead more independent and fulfilling lives.


Utah Speech & Language Services for People with Disabilities

University of Utah Speech-Language-Hearing Clinic offers a wide range of speech, language, and hearing services for both children and adults, including therapy for speech sound disorders, language delays, and stuttering. They also provide specialized services such as augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) evaluations and therapy.

RiteCare of Utah provides free speech and language therapy services to children with communication disorders. Their programs are designed to help children improve their speech and language skills, empowering them to reach their full educational and social potential.

Beautifully Said Speech Therapy in Riverton, Utah, offers personalized speech, language, and literacy services for children. They specialize in treating Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS), language delays, and dyslexia, using evidence-based methods to support each child’s communication development.

Utah Speech-Language-Hearing Association (USHA) is a professional organization that supports speech-language pathologists and audiologists in Utah. They offer resources and continuing education opportunities to improve services for individuals with communication disorders.

Learning Disabilities Association of Utah (LDAU) provides support and resources for individuals with learning disabilities, including speech and language therapy services to help improve communication skills in educational and social settings.

These organizations are dedicated to supporting individuals with speech and language disorders in Utah, offering a variety of services to help them achieve effective communication skills.


Utah Autism Services

Autism Council of Utah is a key resource for families and individuals affected by autism. They focus on fostering collaboration, communication, and education among families, providers, and policymakers to enhance autism awareness and services across the state.

Kids On The Move provides a variety of autism-specific services, including Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy, all aimed at helping children with autism develop essential skills.

Utah Autism Initiative (UAI) is a state-led program dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with autism through research, early diagnosis, and the development of support services. They offer resources and referral services to ensure families have access to the necessary care.

CTA Community Supports offers a wide range of services, including residential support, behavior analysis, and customized employment services for individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities.

Autism After 21 Utah Project is focused on creating sustainable, inclusive communities for adults with autism by developing housing solutions and increasing employment opportunities, ensuring that support extends beyond childhood into adulthood.

These organizations provide crucial services and support to individuals with autism in Utah, helping them achieve greater independence and integration into their communities.


Utah Early Intervention Services

Baby Watch Early Intervention Program is a statewide program that provides comprehensive early intervention services for infants and toddlers with developmental delays or disabilities. They work with families to create individualized service plans that include a wide range of developmental services such as occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech-language therapy.

Kids Who Count offers early intervention services in South Utah County, focusing on helping children under the age of three with developmental delays reach their full potential. They provide a variety of services including home visits, developmental assessments, and individualized therapies tailored to each child’s needs.

Root for Kids, located in Southern Utah, provides early intervention services through programs like Early Head Start and Parents as Teachers. They offer home-based services to support the development of children from birth to age five, helping them build a strong foundation for future learning.

Jordan Child Development Center serves families within the Jordan and Canyons School Districts, offering early intervention services for children with developmental delays or diagnosed conditions that affect development. Their services include comprehensive assessments, service coordination, and therapies provided in the child’s natural environment.

Davis Early Intervention is a family-centered program in Davis County that provides early intervention services to infants and toddlers with developmental delays. They focus on offering support directly in the home or childcare settings, ensuring that services are accessible and tailored to the family’s needs.

These programs are dedicated to providing crucial support during the early years of a child’s development, helping to ensure that children with developmental delays or disabilities receive the necessary interventions to thrive.


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