Work is more than a paycheck. It’s the pride of buying something with money you earned. It’s learning new skills and feeling proud when they finally click. It’s the friendships that grow when you’re part of a team. 

Yet for many people with disabilities, the path to work is filled with barriers. Applications feel impossible, interviews can be discouraging, and starting a new job without the right support often leads to setbacks. 

Employment supports exist to change that. They provide personalized guidance, coaching, and encouragement to help people find and keep meaningful work. Still, misconceptions stand in the way of understanding how impactful these supports can be. 

Here are some of the most common myths, and the facts that tell the real story. 

Myth 1: People with disabilities aren’t part of the workforce. 

Fact: People with disabilities are an increasingly visible part of the U.S. workforce. 

In 2024, the employment–population ratio for people with disabilities reached 22.7%, compared with 65.5% for those without disabilities—the highest disability employment rate on record since tracking began in 2008 (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2025). 

This growth reflects real progress, but it also highlights how access, opportunity, and inclusive workplaces still shape outcomes. Employment supports help close that gap by breaking down barriers to hiring, onboarding, and long-term success. 

Myth 2: People with disabilities can only work entry-level jobs. 

Fact: With the right supports, people with disabilities thrive in all types of roles, from retail to technology to leadership. 

Companies that lead in disability inclusion see 28% higher revenue and 30% higher profit margins than their peers (Accenture, 2018 “Getting to Equal” Report). 

Employment supports help make that success possible by focusing on strengths, building confidence, and providing individualized coaching that helps people grow. 

Myth 3: Hiring someone with a disability is expensive. 

Fact: Most workplace accommodations cost little or nothing, and the benefits far outweigh the cost. 

According to the Job Accommodation Network (2024), 56% of accommodations cost absolutely nothing, while the remaining accommodations typically require a one-time cost of about $300. Employers who make these small investments often see improved productivity, retention, and morale across their workforce. 

Myth 4: Employment supports are only for people with intellectual or developmental disabilities. 

Fact: People of all abilities can benefit from tailored employment supports. 

While Aspire often partners with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, employment supports also help those with mental health conditions or physical disabilities prepare for, secure, and thrive in meaningful work. 

Supported employment has been shown to be effective across a range of populations, helping people achieve competitive, integrated employment that fits their strengths and goals. 

Myth 5: People with disabilities cannot work full time. 

Fact: Many people with disabilities work full time but face systemic barriers that limit opportunities. 

In 2024, about 69% of employed adults with disabilities usually worked full time, compared with 82% of those without disabilities (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2024). Factors like benefit restrictions, limited accessibility, and lack of workplace flexibility often shape hours worked, not ability or motivation. 

Employment supports help people navigate those barriers and build sustainable, fulfilling careers that match their goals. 

Why Employment Supports Matter 

The gap in employment is real. Fewer than one in four people with disabilities is employed in the U.S. today. That difference is not about ability; it is about access. Employment supports bridge that gap. They help people get hired, stay employed, and grow in their careers. 

From career exploration to job development, on-the-job coaching, and ongoing services, the team at Aspire Living & Learning works alongside people to create opportunities that last. If you want to learn more about the employment supports offered by Aspire, click here.