Ticket to Work

what is ticket to work ?

Ticket to Work is an employment resources program run by the Social Security Administration for people with disabilities. The Ticket to Work program provides SSI and SSDI recipients with the resources they need to successfully maintain employment. The employment resources available through Ticket to Work include benefits counseling, vocational rehabilitation services, and employment support networks.

The goal of the Ticket to Work program is to help people with disabilities move towards financial independence. Through employment, people with disabilities can decrease their dependence on Social Security resources and increase their self-sufficiency. The Ticket to Work program aims to show people with disabilities that they can return to work and make great contributions in the workforce.

How much does Ticket to Work cost?

The Ticket to Work program is a free, voluntary program for all eligible participants.

Am I eligible for Ticket to Work?

You must meet a few requirements to be eligible for Ticket to Work. Some of these requirements include receiving SSI or SSDI benefits, and being between the ages of 18 and 64. If you would like to find out if you are eligible for the Ticket to Work program, fill out this short survey: https://forms.gle/Gtb8SsRhaSMK78kV6. Soon, a SPINALpedia employment advocate will contact you with information on how to connect with your local Ticket to Work providers.

Can I work without losing my Medicaid coverage if I participate in the Ticket to Work program?

Yes! As long as you keep receiving SSI cash benefits, you will get to maintain your Medicaid coverage. Also, if you currently receive Medicaid, you might be eligible to continue to receive Medicaid even after you stop receiving SSI benefits due to employment. Your Medicaid coverage can be extended in two ways. First, you might be eligible to keep your Medicaid coverage through a Work Incentive created by Section 1619(b) of the Social Security Act. You need to meet certain other requirements to qualify for this Work Incentive. You can find more information regarding this program at www.ssa.gov/disabilityresearch/wi/1619b.htm.

Your state might also have a program called the Medicaid Buy-In Program, which allows you to keep your Medicaid coverage by paying a monthly premium, provided you meet the other eligibility requirements established by your state. To see whether your state has a Medicaid Buy-In Program and whether you might be eligible, contact your State Medicaid agency. Information on the Medicaid agency in your state can be found at www.nasmd.org/links/state_medicaid_links.asp.

Can I work without losing my Medicare eligibility if I participate in the Ticket to Work program?

Yes! As long as you keep receiving SSDI cash benefits, you will be able to maintain your Medicare coverage. There are a few 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.