Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ticket to work and self-sufficiency (ticket) program?

The Ticket to Work Program provides most people receiving Social Security disability benefits (beneficiaries) more choices for receiving employment services. Under this program, most beneficiaries become eligible for the Ticket to Work Program when they start to receive SSDI or SSI benefits based on disability. Beneficiaries may choose to assign their tickets to an Employment Network (EN) of their choice to obtain employment services, vocational rehabilitation services, or other support services necessary to achieve a vocational (work) goal. The EN, if they accept the ticket, will coordinate, and provide appropriate services to help the beneficiary find and maintain employment.

Do I need to have the paper ticket sent to me by social security in order to participate in the program?

No, you do not need to have the paper Ticket to start working with an approved provider of vocational services and supports called an Employment Network (EN). The EN you select can contact the Ticket Program Manager to verify your eligibility to participate in the program.

Do I need to pay anything to participate in the ticket program?

No. The Ticket Program is free (and voluntary) for people receiving Social Security disability benefits. The Ticket Program allows you to receive vocational services and supports at no cost to you to help you obtain employment and work towards greater independence and increased self-sufficiency. Social Security pays the Employment Network you chose to work with when you achieve certain milestones and outcomes associated with work and earnings.

Can I participate in the ticket program and get services from my state vocational rehabilitation (VR) agency?

Yes. State VR agencies provide a wide variety of services and supports to help people with disabilities return to work, enter a new line of work, or enter the workplace for the first time.

Will I lose my social security benefits when I participate in the ticket program to get vocational services and supports?

You will continue to receive your benefits until you begin earning wages or self-employment income above the applicable earnings limit for the Supplemental Security Income or Social Security Disability Insurance program. In addition, Social Security cannot perform a medical "Continuing Disability Review" to determine whether you continue to have a disability while you are participating in the Ticket Program, including receiving services from the State Vocational Rehabilitation agency, and progressing towards your employment goal.

How much you can earn before it will affect the amount of your monthly benefit will vary for each individual. This is due in part to the fact that you can subtract certain amounts from your gross earnings by taking advantage of Social Security Work Incentives. For more information on Social Security Work Incentives, check out the Social Security Red Book at www.ssa.gov/redbook.

What are work incentives?

Work Incentives are disability program rules that allow you to reduce your countable income so that you can continue to receive a cash benefit while you explore work or look for a job that is right for you. Examples of such Work Incentives include the extension of Medicare and Medicaid coverage while working, Impairment-Related Work Expenses, and Plans for Achieving Self-Support. In addition, if your work attempt is unsuccessful, Social Security has made it easy for you to get back on benefits when and if needed.

To learn more about these and other Social Security Work Incentives, check out the Social Security Red Book at www.ssa.gov/redbook.

Will I lose my medicare/medicaid eligibility if I participate in the ticket program?

No. As long as you continue to receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefit payments, you will continue to remain eligible for the same medical coverage. There are also Work Incentives that allow you to continue your medical coverage once you begin earning enough that you stop receiving SSDI payments. If you currently receive medical coverage through Medicare, you can continue to be eligible for coverage for at least 93 months after the last month of your Trial Work Period.

No. As long as you continue to receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, you will continue to remain eligible for the same medical coverage.

Is there someone who can help me with benefits counseling and understanding my options?

Yes! WIPA projects provide free benefits counseling to Social Security disability beneficiaries to help them make informed choices about work. Many VR agencies and Employment Networks also offer benefits counseling. To find a WIPA near you, visit our Find Help tool.

What is VR?

Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) is a federal-state program that helps people who have physical or mental disabilities get or keep a job. VR is committed to helping people with disabilities find meaningful careers.

How do I apply for VR services?

You should contact your local VR office to apply for services. A VR counselor will work with you to determine if you are eligible to receive vocational rehabilitation services.

I have a disability. Can VR help me get a job?

In order to receive VR services, you will need to apply at your local VR office. A counselor will work with you to determine if you are eligible to receive VR services. If you are eligible, your counselor will help you reach your employment goal.

Am I eligible for VR services?

You may be eligible for VR services if your goal is to become employed and:

• Your physical or mental disability interferes with your ability to become employed, and

• You need VR’s help to find or keep a job

If you receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for your disability, you are presumed eligible for VR services if you plan to become employed.

How long does it take for my eligibility to be determined?

VR must make an eligibility decision within 60 days following the submission of a completed application. If VR cannot make an eligibility determination within 60 days due to exceptional and/or unforeseen circumstances, the individual and counselor must agree to a specific extension of time.

What is financial participation, and will I have to pay for any of my services?

VR will look at the income of eligible individuals to determine if they will be required to share the cost of vocational rehabilitation services. Some individuals or services may be exempt, and you will not be required to pay for those services.

What is order of selection?

All eligible individuals are assigned to a category of service based upon their significance of disability. Under order of selection, all eligible individuals who are in a closed category are placed on a prioritized waiting list. Federal law requires that individuals with the most significant disabilities be served first.

What types of services can VR provide me?

A variety of services may be provided, depending on your needs, such as:

• Medical and Psychological Assessment

• Vocational Evaluation and Planning

• Career Counseling and Guidance

• Work Experience While in High School

• Training and Education After High School

• Job-Site Assessment and Accommodations

• Job Placement

• Job Coaching

• On-the-Job Training

• Supported Employment

• Assistive Technology and Devices

• Time-Limited Medical and/or Psychological Treatment