Social Security Administration’s Ticket to Work Program

If you are currently receiving disability benefits and would like to earn money by working, the Social Security Administration’s Ticket to Work program may assist you without you having to immediately give up benefits.

The Ticket to Work program is an option available to Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients and can provide many benefits like job training, vocational rehabilitation, employment referrals, career counseling, resume writing classes and more. It is a seven-year program with timely progress requirements for the first six years that vary depending on if you are a student or not.

Because this program is voluntary, failing to join this program will not hurt your benefits. Instead, it can help you earn extra income and work in some capacity while retaining your eligibility for disability benefits.

Ticket to Work Services

Employment networks (ENs) are made up of nonprofit organizations, vocational services and other groups that assist Ticket to Work participants by providing career services. While some ENs only provide services to people with certain disabilities, other ENs service all participants regardless of disability type.

Recipients of SSDI and SSI can enroll in services provided by an EN or their state’s department of rehabilitation. The services are provided at no charge. Even though ENs can choose to accept or reject you into their program, the state must accept you if you fulfill eligibility requirements.

Certain factors may eliminate Ticket to Work program eligibility for disability beneficiaries such as if you:

• Only receive state supplement SSI payments
• Are anticipated to medically improve but have not participated in a continuing disability review
• Are granted Section 301 payments while enrolled in a state rehabilitation program

Participating in a Ticket to Work program does not mean that disability payments will automatically end. Instead, you may continue to be eligible for the PASS protections of SSI and SSDI trial work protections while gaining independence, earning income and supporting your family.

Navigating the Social Security disability system can be complex and confusing. If your application has been denied or if you are filing for the first time, contact the experienced disability attorneys at Dayes Law Firm PC. Not only can we help you with your application or appeal, but we also understand your frustration and offer free consultations to determine if you may be eligible to receive disability benefits.

Learn more by calling 1-800-503-2000 or completing a Free Case Evaluation form.