Schedule A Letters: Fast-Track Your Federal Job Search

Did You Know a Mental Health Condition Could Help You Qualify for Federal Hiring Preferences?

If you’re applying for a federal job and have a qualifying disability—including certain mental health conditions—you may be eligible for the Schedule A Hiring Authority. This special hiring process allows qualified individuals to bypass the competitive application pool, making it easier and faster to secure federal employment.

What is the Schedule A Hiring Authority?

The Schedule A Hiring Authority (5 CFR 213.3102(u)) is a federal government policy designed to help individuals with disabilities, including those with mental health conditions, get hired without competing against the general public. Instead of going through the standard, often lengthy hiring process, your application is reviewed directly by the hiring manager, increasing your chances of getting an interview.

Who Qualifies for Schedule A?

You may be eligible if you have a documented mental health condition that substantially limits one or more major life activities. Some qualifying diagnoses include:

✔ Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) – Persistent low mood, fatigue, loss of motivation

✔ Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) – Chronic worry and difficulty concentrating

✔ Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) – Flashbacks, hypervigilance, difficulty functioning

✔ Bipolar Disorder – Significant mood swings impacting daily life

✔ Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) – Time-consuming rituals and distressing thoughts

✔ Schizophrenia & Other Psychotic Disorders – Hallucinations, disorganized thinking

Benefits of Using Schedule A

✅ Faster Hiring Process – Your application gets priority consideration

✅ No Competitive Hiring Process – You avoid competing with thousands of applicants

✅ More Direct Access to Hiring Managers – Your resume goes straight to decision-makers

✅ Increased Employment Opportunities – Federal agencies actively seek Schedule A candidates

✅ Strong Career Growth – Once hired, you can transition into competitive service positions

How We Help You Obtain a Schedule A Letter

To apply under Schedule A, you need proof of eligibility from a licensed medical professional, vocational rehabilitation counselor, or another authorized provider. At True Blue Behavioral Health, we provide:

1️⃣ Personalized Consultation – We assess your condition and discuss how it affects your ability to work.

2️⃣ Professional Evaluation – We document your eligibility based on federal guidelines.

3️⃣ Official Schedule A Letter – We provide the required certification for your federal job applications if you qualify.

4️⃣ Guidance on Next Steps – We help you understand how to submit your application effectively.

Schedule A Evaluation Fees

Standard Evaluation

💰 Standard Evaluation – $600

(For individuals with an existing diagnosis and documentation)

This fee applies if you already have a diagnosed mental health condition or established disability with supporting documentation. It includes:

✅ A comprehensive evaluation/consultation

✅ Review of medical and mental health records

✅ Questionnaires and standardized assessments (if needed)

✅ Completion of workplace accommodation documentation (when clinically recommended)

Comprehensive Diagnostic Evaluation

💰 Comprehensive Diagnostic Evaluation – Starting at $1500

(For individuals who do not have a diagnosis or need confirmation of a condition)

If you have not been previously diagnosed but suspect you may have a condition such as Major Depressive Disorder, PTSD, or an anxiety disorder, a more in-depth evaluation is required. This includes:

✅ A thorough mental health assessment focused on identifying a diagnosis

✅ Detailed review of personal and medical history

✅ Psychological testing and screening measures

✅ Scoring, interpretation, and clinical diagnosis (if applicable)

✅ Brief diagnostic report

✅ Completion of workplace accommodation documentation (when clinically recommended)

What Documentation Can Help Support Your Request?

If you already have a documented disability, the following records may be helpful:

📁 Treatment records (e.g., therapy notes, medication history)

📁 Prior accommodations (e.g., workplace modifications, disability services)

📁 Educational records (e.g., IEPs, college disability office documentation)

📁 Veterans Disability Benefits Letter, Schedule A Letter, or similar documentation

Questions About This Evaluation & Consultation

❓ Will this guarantee I get the job I’m applying for? No. Our evaluation only confirms whether you meet the criteria for hiring under Schedule A. The final hiring decision is entirely up to the employer. However, having a Schedule A letter can improve your chances by ensuring your application is directly reviewed by a hiring official.

❓ How soon can I have my paperwork completed? We know how important it is to have your documentation ready as quickly as possible. Our goal is to support individuals with serious or chronic mental health conditions in accessing resources that improve their quality of life. In most cases, we can provide your evaluation results and completed paperwork within 48 business hours, but no later than one week after your evaluation.

📞 Still have questions? Contact us today to discuss your situation and how we can help!

Take the Next Step Toward Your Federal Career

If you have a qualifying mental health condition and want to take advantage of Schedule A, we’re here to help.

📅 Schedule Your Evaluation Today!

Contact Our Staff to Book an Appointment Today!