What Is Social Security’s Ticket to Work Program?
Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money.
The investing information provided on this page is for educational purposes only. NerdWallet, Inc. does not offer advisory or brokerage services, nor does it recommend or advise investors to buy or sell particular stocks, securities or other investments.
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.
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. The substantial gainful activity limit for 2024 is $1,550 per month ($2,590 if blind).
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.
» Learn more: Three signs you’ll be approved for SSDI
Pros and cons of Ticket to Work
Advantages | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
You won’t automatically lose disability benefits if you participate. | There may not be a participating Employment Network or state vocational rehabilitation agency near you. |
You can continue to receive health care benefits. | You’re required to follow the plan your service provider sets and make “timely progress” toward employment goals. |
You’ll be protected from a Continuing Disability Review (CDR) that could cause you to lose your benefits. | The goal of the program is to eventually reduce or eliminate your dependence on SSDI benefits. It may not be a good fit if you want to work part-time long term. |
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.
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.
» Learn more: Keeping your benefits if you work part-time
Still deciding on the right carrier? Compare Medigap plans
