Your legal rights

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a law that protects the rights of people with disabilities.

Here are some important things to know:

  • An employer cannot discriminate against a person with a disability if that person can do what the job requires.

  • An employer cannot ask if you have a disability when you apply.

  • If you need equipment or special devices in order to do your work, get around, or communicate, you have a right to ask for accommodations.  These are changes in the work environment that help you do your job despite your disability.  We'll tell you more about this on the next screen.

  • An employer has to provide accommodations for your interview and work needs, unless it would cause them "undue hardship".  (For example, installing an elevator would be too expensive for a company to do just for one person.)

What to do if you've been mistreated or your rights not upheld?

  • Call the Greater Boston Legal Services at 617-371-1234

  • Call the Disability Law Center at 617-723-8455

  • Contact a local Vocational Program and ask for advice.

    • Use our Resource Directory to find a program near you. Find it in Tools at the top of your screen.

 

Source: U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission