What is Social Security's Ticket to Work Program?
Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSDI/SSI) and want to work. If you qualify for this free and voluntary program, you will work with service providers to receive the supports ans services you need to find and maintain employment.
How does it work?
The Ticket Program is a good fit for people who want to improve their earning ptoential and are committed to preparing for long-term success in the workforce. The Ticket Program connects you with free employments services to help you decide if working is right for you, prepare for work, find a job and be successful at work. Authorized Ticket Program service providers, such as Employment Network (EN) or your State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agency, provide services such as career counseling, vocational rehabilitation, job placement assistance and training. The service provider you choose will serve as an important part of your "employment team" to help you on your journey to financial independence.
Here are the types of service providers that can assist you:
Employment Networks (EN) are private or public organizations that can help with career counseling and assistance with job placement, including helping you understand how working may affect your benefits. Many ENs serve the communities and states in which they are located. However, other provide services to people in multiple states. Working with an EN depends on the specific organization, but can be done in person, over the phone or even virtually. ENs can also provide long-term support to help you find, keep and advance in a job. If you decide to receive services from a particular EN and they agree to work with you, you will work with that provider to complete an Individual Work Plan (IWP). Then you sign the IWP and "assign" your Ticket to that EN for the time that you are receiving services from them.
Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agencies usually work with individuals who need more significant services to return to work or to work for the first time. In some states, this includes intensive training, education (sometimes including college courses), medical treatement and rehabiliation services, durable medical equipment or vehicle modification or repair. They may also provide career counseling on how working may affect benefits. If you want to receive services from your State VR agency, you work with the agency to complete an Individualize Plan for Employment (IPE). When you sign the IPE, this puts your Ticket "in use" with the VR.
Work Incentives Planning & Assistance (WIPA) projects are organizations familiar with programs in your community. These organizations are authorized by Social Security to provide free benefits counseling to eligible Social Security disability beneficiaries to help you make informed choices about work.
Protection and Advocacy Beneficiaries of Social Security (PABSS) organizations represent eligible beneficiaries to remove barriers to successful employment and will help you understand your rights regarding conditions of employment.
For more information, you can contact the Law Center (505) 566-5880. Monday - Thursday 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.