Disclosing Your Disability in a Job Interview

April 08, 2026

Many people with disabilities feel unsure about disclosing their disability in a job interview. Talking about your disability involves thought and planning. It is up to you to decide when, where, and how much information you would like to share, if at all.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) limits what employers can ask people about disabilities prior to a job offer. You are not required to disclose your disability to an employer. However, if you have a visible disability, you may benefit by explaining how you’re able to do the job. Some people with no visible disability choose not to disclose their disability at all.

If your disability is visible, you could describe any accommodation you use and how it enhances your ability to perform the job requirements. You may choose to share examples from your educational training, previous volunteer or work experience, and talk about how you accomplished your goals in the past.

If you choose, you can let the employer know that you are willing to answer any questions about your disability and accommodations you may require. Remember, it is not your responsibility to disclose any additional information about your disability, if at all. Whatever you choose to tell the employer is up to you; the ADA prohibits discrimination based on your disability. Your decision whether or not to disclose information about your disability will not influence the chances of receiving a second interview or job offer.

Be sure to close the interview with a positive statement about how you have the skills needed to perform the job, and how you would be an asset to the employer’s team.

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This article is from the Oregon Careers magazine. Oregon Careers publications are aimed at the career planning needs of students. They contain information about how to select and prepare for a career. 

Oregon Careers 2026 is currently available in English and Spanish. Order print magazines for your classroom today.

An activity guide for using Oregon Careers 2026 in the classroom is also in the Careers box at www.QualityInfo.org/pubs.

Topics covered in Oregon Careers 2026 include career planning and preparation, education beyond high school, and job search and resume creation. It also includes a career guide and additional resources.