If you’re receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits and are interested in returning to work, the Social Security Administration’s Ticket to Work program could be your path to greater financial independence.
This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about this free, voluntary program that helps disability beneficiaries achieve financial independence while protecting their benefits.
The Foundations of Social Security’s Ticket to Work Program
Congress established the Ticket to Work program in 1999 with a clear mission: helping disability beneficiaries between ages 18 and 64 successfully transition back into the workforce.
The program provides access to:
- Employment services
- Vocational rehabilitation services
- Training and education
- Job placement assistance
- Ongoing support services
Essential Benefits That Make Ticket to Work Valuable
The most significant advantage of participating in the Ticket to Work program is the protection of your existing benefits. During your trial work period, you’ll continue receiving your full SSDI benefits regardless of your earnings. This trial period extends for nine months within a 60-month timeframe, giving you ample opportunity to test your ability to work.
Medicare coverage remains another crucial benefit for SSDI recipients. Your Medicare protection can continue for up to 93 months after completing your trial work period, even if your earnings exceed the threshold for SSDI payments. This extended healthcare coverage provides essential security during your employment transition.
The program also includes a valuable safety net through expedited reinstatement. If your disability prevents you from continuing work, you may qualify to have your benefits reinstated quickly without filing a new application. This protection remains available for five years after your benefits end.
Starting Your Journey with Ticket to Work
Beginning your Ticket to Work journey is straightforward.
Step 1: Verify Your Eligibility
To participate in the Ticket to Work program, you must:
- Be between 18 and 64 years old
- Receive SSDI or SSI benefits
- Have a ticket available for assignment
- Not be receiving benefits under “medical improvement expected” status
Step 2: Choose a Service Provider
You’ll need to select from two types of approved service providers:
- Employment Networks (ENs): Private organizations that offer employment services
- State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agencies: State agencies that provide rehabilitation and employment services
Step 3: Develop Your Plan
Work with your chosen service provider to create an Individual Work Plan (IWP) that outlines:
- Your employment goals
- Services you’ll receive
- Timelines for achieving milestones
- Responsibilities of both you and your service provider
Taking the First Step Toward Employment
Starting your Ticket to Work journey begins with a simple phone call to 1-866-968-7842 or a visit to choosework.ssa.gov. The program’s Find Help tool makes it easy to connect with service providers in your area who can guide you through the process.
Work Incentives and Support
The program includes several work incentives designed to ease your transition to employment:
Continuing Disability Review Protection
While participating in the program and making timely progress, you won’t have to undergo medical continuing disability reviews that could stop your benefits.
Income Exclusions
The SSA allows you to deduct certain work-related expenses from your countable income, including:
- Impairment-related work expenses
- Blind work expenses (if applicable)
- Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS) expenses
Legal Considerations
While the Ticket to Work program offers significant protections, it’s important to understand your rights and responsibilities. Consider consulting with a disability attorney to:
- Review your participation agreement
- Understand how work activity affects your benefits
- Ensure protection of your rights under the program
- Navigate any complications that arise
For more information about your rights and options under the Ticket to Work program, contact Lemoine Law Firm. Our experienced attorneys can help you understand the program’s benefits and protect your interests throughout your journey to employment.
Attorney, Former Social Security Judge
Prior to entering private practice as a social security disability attorney in 1997, Peter J. Lemoine served as a Social Security Administrative Judge for seven years. His practice is devoted entirely to social security disability law, and he has helped thousands secure social security disability benefits.
