The 2025 Market Reality: Stability for Some, Opportunity for Us

The Economy Stabilized. The Gap Didn't.

The post-pandemic dust has finally settled. As of late 2025, the national unemployment rate has cooled to 4.4%. The market is "stable." But at Advocations, we don't settle for "stable" when looking at the labor market through the lens of disability inclusion. We look at the data—and the data says the rising tide missed a few boats.

We work different. We don't just read the jobs reports; we change them. Here is the real state of the workforce as we close out 2025.

The Reality Check: 2025 By The Numbers

While the general population enjoys relative calm, the Disability Employment Gap remains our primary target.

• Participation is Up, But Not Enough: We hit a historic high in August 2025 with a 42.2% Labor Force Participation Rate for people with disabilities. That’s progress. But compared to the 77.9% rate for non-disabled peers, we are still leaving massive talent on the table.

• The "Double Burden": As a woman-owned business, we see the intersectionality clearly. Women with disabilities continue to face a "double burden"—battling biases on two fronts. We aren't just here to fill jobs; we're here to break those ceilings.

Candidates: Your Safety Net is Stronger Than You Think

To our future A-Team members: We know the system is scary. The letters "SSA" usually come with a side of anxiety. But 2025 has cemented tools that make returning to work safer than ever.

1. The Fear-Buster: Ticket to Work (TTW)

Stop worrying about the "benefits cliff." The Ticket to Work program isn't just government jargon; it is your safety net. It allows you to test the waters of employment without immediately losing your SSI/SSDI benefits. We administer this because we believe you shouldn't have to choose between a paycheck and your peace of mind.

2. The Great Equalizer: Remote Work

Remote work drove a "remarkable" 30% surge in our workforce since the pandemic began. It’s no longer a "perk"—it’s the new normal. The normalization of home-based roles has destroyed transportation barriers and office accessibility issues overnight. If you can do the job, where you sit shouldn't matter.

Ready to take control? We help you navigate the "oh-nos" and the paperwork so you can focus on the job.

Employers: Compliance is the Floor. Culture is the Ceiling.

To our Corporate Partners: If you are still hiring for "compliance," you are losing money. The most successful companies in 2025 know that disability inclusion is a competitive advantage.

• Universal Design ROI: When you build flexible schedules and accessible digital environments, productivity rises for everyone.

• Retention is King: We boast a 90%+ retention rate for our placements. Why? Because people with disabilities are problem solvers by nature. We bring resilience that you can't teach.

Stop looking in the same places and expecting different results. Let us connect you with the talent you're missing.

Local Spotlight: North Carolina is Evolving

If you are in our home state, pay attention. The landscape is shifting.

North Carolina's Vocational Rehabilitation Services has officially transitioned to the Division of Employment and Independence for People with Disabilities (EIPD).

This isn't just a rebrand; it's a mission statement. In their recent annual report, they confirmed serving over 30,000 residents. The state is investing in Independence, not just rehabilitation. We are proud partners in this ecosystem, ensuring that these initiatives actually result in paychecks for North Carolinians.

Ready to Work Different?

Consult with the A-Team!