Categories of Disability
Law 104 defines four different categories of disability:
- Invalidity – With a disability percentage between 66% and 74%
- Severe Disability – With a disability percentage between 75% and 84%
- Profound Disability – With a disability percentage between 85% and 98%
- Very Profound Disability – With a disability percentage of 100%
Calculating the Percentage of Disability
The percentage of disability is determined through a medical assessment conducted by the National Health Service. The assessment evaluates various factors, including physical and mental impairments, to determine the overall degree of disability. Based on this evaluation, the corresponding percentage is assigned to an individual.
It’s important to note that the percentage of disability assigned by the medical assessment is not permanent. Disability levels can change over time due to various factors, such as medical advancements or improvements in an individual’s condition.
Benefits and Protections Provided by Law 104
Law 104 grants specific benefits and protections to individuals with disabilities according to their assigned percentage. These may include:
- Employment protection – Employers are required to reserve a certain percentage of their workforce for disabled workers, depending on the company size and the assigned disability percentage.
- Flexible working hours and part-time contracts – Disabled workers have the right to request flexible schedules or part-time contracts to accommodate their specific needs.
- Priority in public services and social assistance – Individuals with disabilities have priority access to public services, such as healthcare, and may be eligible for social assistance programs.
- Tax benefits – Disabled workers may benefit from tax breaks and deductions to alleviate the financial burden associated with their condition.
Law 104 plays a crucial role in protecting the rights and promoting the integration of individuals with disabilities in the Italian workforce. The assigned percentage of disability determines the specific category under which an individual falls, granting them access to various benefits and protections. Understanding the percentages and categories defined by Law 104 is essential for both disabled individuals and employers in order to ensure compliance with the law and provide equal opportunities for all.