What Is Social Security’s Ticket to Work Program?

The Ticket to Work program helps people pursue career development while receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. It provides employment services and support for disability benefits recipients and their family members or caretakers.

The program is free if you receive disability benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA). It can help you find a job, prepare to begin one or just receive extra support to be successful at work.

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How the Ticket to Work program works

To qualify for Ticket to Work, you must be:

• 18 to 64 years old.

• Currently receiving SSDI or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits.

• A family member or caretaker of someone receiving benefits.

How to sign up for Ticket to Work

• Check your eligibility.

  Call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 866-968-7842 or 866-833-2967 (TTY) so a representative can walk you through the eligibility requirements and answer any questions.

• Choose a service provider.

  Depending on your needs, you may choose to assign your “ticket” to either a vocational rehabilitation (VR) agency or an employment network (EN). You can also use the SSA’s Find Help tool to get a customized list of service providers or request a list of providers in the mail. The SSA also has a worksheet with questions you can ask potential providers.

• Develop your Individual Work Plan (IWP).

  Once you’ve matched with a service provider, you’ll create a plan outlining your employment goals. The overall goal of Ticket to Work is to become financially independent from SSDI benefits. According to the SSA, you should work toward earning at a Trial Work Period level ($1,050 or more per month) within 10 months, and toward substantial gainful activity after a year.

How to leave the program

If you feel confident getting back to work or wish to leave the program for any reason, communicate this with your service provider, especially if you’re in the middle of your IWP.

You’ll submit a written request to the SSA to place your ticket in "inactive status." Once this request is received, your ticket will be placed in “inactive status” on the first day of the following month. You may qualify for expedited reinstatement and earn provisional benefits while SSA reviews your case.

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Pros and cons of Ticket to Work

Tips for navigating the Ticket to Work program

• Take advantage of free benefits counseling

  available to help you navigate the program. Your counselor might also refer you to additional programs you’re eligible for.

• Take advantage of other work incentives

  fromthe SSA that complement Ticket to Work. These include extended Medicare and Medicaid coverage and reimbursable work expenses.

• Stay on track.

  The SSA will review your progress in your work plan regularly to ensure you’re reaching your employment goals within the timeframe you’ve established with your service provider.

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