Benefit-cost analysis of supported employment in Illinois: a statewide evaluation.

A benefit-cost analysis of supported employment in Illinois during Fiscal Year 1987 was presented. Benefits and costs were identified and valued from three perspectives. Society received a $.75 return for every $1.00 invested during this initial year, whereas taxpayers received a return of $.66. Supported employees earned an average of 37% more in supported employment than in alternative programs during this same time period. We recommended continuation of this financial analysis longitudinally, as it is critical to the development of supported employment as an efficient delivery system.