Do I need to use Ticket to Work to return to work, can’t I just find a job on my own?
The Ticket to Work program is voluntary. No one is required to participate. So yes, you can choose to return to work without the Ticket to Work. But why would you want to?
In today's world, the value of work extends beyond mere financial stability. Employment offers a sense of purpose, personal growth, and social interaction. However, for individuals with disabilities, finding employment can be difficult due to various barriers and misconceptions. That's where the Ticket to Work Program steps in. Designed to empower individuals with disabilities.
Let’s explore the benefits and reasons why you should consider participating in the Ticket to Work Program.
1. Benefits Planning and Assistance Navigating SSA work rules:
SSA’s work rules are confusing! For all beneficiaries to be treated fairly, a lot of different factors must be considered. Since SSA staff are only human, they may not know all the factors that apply in your situation. If you don’t have someone in your corner helping navigate the rules, you could lose a lot of money.
Benefit planning helps you understand the impact of work on your benefits including: SSA disability, medical, housing, personal care services, and food benefits. A benefit specialist can help you explore work incentives, develop a plan to transition to work and help you maximize the financial benefits of returning to work.
2. Exemption for Medical Review
A lot of SSA disability beneficiaries don’t work out of fear that SSA will immediately stop their benefits if they try to work. That’s not accurate. Federal law requires SSA to periodically review your medical condition(s) to determine if your conditions(s) have improved or if you continue to have a disability. if SSA determines that you are no longer disabled your benefits will stop. These reviews will happen even if you never try working.
While you are participating in the Ticket Program and making timely progress towards your goals, you are exempt from SSA’s medical review process.
3. Customizable Employment Services:
The primary goal of the Ticket to Work Program is to assist individuals with disabilities to go to work. By participating in the program, you gain access to an extensive network of employment service providers, and other resources to help you find suitable job opportunities. You get personalized support with career counseling, and job placement assistance tailored to your abilities, skills, and interests. You can choose what services you want. If you don’t want interview coaching, that’s fine. You can decline that service with the option of adding it later if you like.
4. Workplace Support:
Employment Networks assist you in navigating workplace challenges, reasonable accommodations, and disability-related concerns, ensuring a smooth transition into the workforce. Unlike most employment programs, the Ticket to Work is a long-term program. Your Employment Network is available to help you over the course of several years, not just a few months.
5. It’s FREE!
All services are provided at no cost to the individual beneficiary. Employment Networks are expressly prohibited from asking you for payment for services provided.
Work is not just about earning a paycheck; it's about achieving financial independence. The Ticket to Work Program enables SSA disability beneficiaries to reduce their reliance on disability benefits and gradually transition into self-sufficiency. Through the work incentives, you can explore various employment options. This gradual transition empowers you to increase your income, improve your financial stability, and gain control over your economic well-being.