Federal Programs

Here’s a curated list of key U.S. federal programs serving individuals with special needs, along with their mission focus and contact details. Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Agency: U.S. Department of Education via OSEP Purpose: Guarantees FAPE (Free Appropriate Public Education) from birth–age 21 www.ed.gov

Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS)

  • Agency: U.S. Department of Education

  • Purpose: Oversees special education (IDEA) and vocational rehab

  • Contact:

    • Address: 400 Maryland Ave. SW, Washington, DC 20202‑7100

    • For specific staff: See OSEP Directory on ED website

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

  • Key Contacts:

    • Department of Justice (ADA Information Line): 1‑800‑514‑0301 (Voice); 1‑833‑610‑1264 (TTY) justice.gov+1adata.org+1

    • EEOC (for employment-related ADA questions): Contact via EEOC site

    • Access Board (design/tech standards): 1‑800‑872‑2253 (Voice); 1‑800‑993‑2822 (TTY)

 

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) & Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

  • Agency: Social Security Administration

  • Purpose: Financial support for people with disabilities. SSDI is for those with work history; SSI is need-based.

  • Contact:

. Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP)