If you have a disability that impairs your ability to work, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits. Even if you qualify for SSDI benefits, you may want to rejoin the workforce eventually. After all, you may be able to earn considerably more than your monthly benefits.
Before returning to work, of course, you must be certain you are healthy enough to perform your job duties. The Social Security Administration’s Ticket to Work program may put your mind at ease.
A support network
The purpose of the SSA’s Ticket to Work program is to reduce or even eliminate a person’s reliance on SSDI payments. Essentially, with the program, you sign up with an employment network or state vocational rehabilitation agency to help you take full advantage of employment resources. These resources may include the following:
- Job training
- Job placement
- Vocational rehabilitation
- Career counseling
Your SSDI benefits
If you participate in the Ticket to Work program, you do not automatically lose your SSDI benefits from returning to work. You also keep your SSDI-associated health care benefits. If you find working is not possible because of your disability, you have the option of stopping work and leaving the program.
Your participation
Participating in the Ticket to Work program is entirely voluntary. If you want to return to work, though, the program may give you the resources you need to rejoin the workforce, learn different skills or start a new career.
Ultimately, because the Ticket to Work program may eventually lead to the end of your SSDI benefits, you must fully understand the program and its consequences before enrolling.
