Washington State Department of Services for the Blind

Developing an Individual Plan For Employment

Toward Self-Employment

For participants that are interested in owning a business, the standard Individual Plan for Employment (IPE) is adjusted to address issues that are unique to the goal of self-employment. For instance, their IPEs must outline the procedure for business development so that the Department of Services for the Blind (DSB) can provide the necessary support and technical assistance.

An IPE directed toward self-employment contains:

1. A clear statement of the participant’s role and responsibilities as well as the nature and extent of DSB support and participation (including relevant timelines, dollar amounts, and specific goods and services provided).
2. Clear criteria for measuring progress, including a periodic schedule to review cash flow, marketing activities, etc. Continued DSB support of the business venture should be contingent upon these reviews.
3. Clear criteria for determining when the business is deemed to be successful employment (e.g. when the business has passed “break-even” and is producing an acceptable income).
4. Comparable benefits as applicable. The participant is expected to pursue comparable benefits and other resources to support business development.

This type of IPE should also detail the goods and services DSB agrees to provide which are specific to achieving and/or sustaining self-employment. Some examples are:

• A one-time purchase of initial stock and office supplies
• Self-employment-related tools and equipment
• Initial business licenses and fees
• Installation and fees for the first month billing of a business telephone service
• Start-up advertising, marketing or other promotional material necessary for the first three months of operation
• Start-up costs necessary for establishing an accounting system, including up to one month of accounting services
• Consulting services related to start-up support
• Assistive Technology and training necessary to operate the business
• Business development training
• Readers, drivers, and other accommodations necessary for the start-up of the business

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