Your Questions Answered! Nov. 19 Facebook Questions & Answers (Q&A) Transcript

If you're a young adult who's ready to graduate from high school, you may be thinking about going to college. If you're not sure where you'd like to apply, a college fair may help you set goals and make decisions.

Similar to a career fair, a college fair offers you the opportunity to learn about many different colleges and universities and ask questions about campus life, academics and accessibility. Admissions representatives are there to talk with you one-on-one, answer your questions, and offer you an idea of what you can expect from the college where they work.

Today, we're sharing some advice on how to make the most of a college fair. 

Where to find college fairs

College fairs are held throughout the year, but many take place in the spring and fall. To find and attend one near you, check out:

• National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC): In addition to offering tips and guidance for preparing for college applications and how to select a college, the NACAC also holds free college fairs throughout the U.S. Many of their spring events are taking place throughout March and April.
• Colleges That Change Lives: This organization encourages a student-centered college search process and offers advice on how to find the school that's right for you. Their college fairs and information sessions are free and offer you the opportunity to talk with representatives from 40 different colleges.
• Your high school: Check in with your guidance counselor or a teacher at your school. They may know about local events that would help you learn about schools that you may be interested in.

Tips for attending college fairs

There are a few ways to make the most of your time at a college fair:

Be selective: You don't have to visit every school's booth. Research which schools will be at the fair, and pinpoint a few that you want to learn more about or you have a particular interest in attending. You'll feel more engaged and excited if you focus your attention on schools that spark your interest.

Think about your interests and activities: Many college representatives will want to learn more about you, including what you want to study or clubs you'd like to join. Knowing your interests helps college representatives share what makes their schools a good choice for you.

Prepare questions: This is your chance to learn more about different schools, including campus accessibility and programs. Some questions you may consider:

• What do students like most about the college?
• Do all buildings on campus have ramps and elevators?
• Are there accessible student residence halls and apartments?
• Where can I find information about student disability resources and requesting accommodations?
• Are tutoring and other academic assistance programs, like writing centers, available for all students?

Transitioning to college or work

As you leave high school and enter adulthood, a Work Incentives Planning and Assistance (WIPA) project may help you consider your options for attending college or starting work. WIPA projects serve several populations, including young adults ages 14 through 25.

If you're considering working after high school and you receive Social Security disability benefits, Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) program may be able to help. The Ticket program offers free career development supports to people ages 18 through 64 who receive SSI or SSDI benefits.

Through the Ticket program, you can work with a service provider who can help you set work goals, identify support services and achieve your goals.

To find your local WIPA project and other Ticket program service providers, you can call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 866-968-7842 or 866-833-2967 (TTY) Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET. A representative can help you learn more about the Ticket program and send you a list of service providers. Or find providers on your own with the Ticket program Find Help tool.

Throughout 2017, we shared stories about people finding their paths to work and financial independence.

Today we're taking a look at how they found the support they needed through the Ticket to Work (Ticket) program and how their Employment Networks (EN) and State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agencies helped them find the training, job search assistance, and benefits counseling they needed to succeed.

Shileta

Shileta missed having role models she admired and could go to for advice. So when she attended a Disability Mentoring Day, she found the motivation to start on the path to work and be a role model for others. In her success story, learn how Shileta found the support she needed on the path to financial independence and how her work helps other young adults with disabilities.

Jesus

Volunteering helped Jesus gain valuable work experience, make connections and develop strong work skills. So when he found support services through the Ticket program, he was able to translate his community service into valuable assets on his resume and during interviews.

David

David had always been a hard worker who set high goals for himself. But when he was hit by a car and needed to have both legs amputated, he started receiving SSDI so he could focus on healing. When he was ready to return to work, David found support through the Ticket program. He learned that he could test his ability to work again thanks to the Trial Work Period (TWP) and other Work Incentives.

Amy

In school, Amy found it difficult to focus as she dealt with sensory information overload and other aspects of her developmental disability. But when she graduated and found the Ticket to Work program, she worked with the Maryland VR agency to find support and training that helped her find work. And thanks to an agreement called Partnership Plus, Amy was able to continue receiving support through an EN after her VR case closed.

Peter

Peter was always a reliable employee. Even when he was diagnosed with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), he worked with his employer to arrange his schedule to accommodate his medical treatments. But when his health became a priority, Peter began receiving SSDI. A successful kidney transplant helped Peter regain his health and his determination to find work again. Not sure of how to return to work, Peter found help through an American Job Center. Peter learned that a Work Incentive could help him keep his healthcare coverage as he transitioned back to work and worked on his resume and interview skills with his EN.

Get started on your journey

Are you ready to start your journey to success? Check out the full success stories to find out how Social Security's Ticket program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSI or SSDI). This free and voluntary program may help you achieve financial independence through work by connecting you with services and support to help you succeed in your job search and your transition to the work force.

Once you learn more, take the first step by finding a service provider to help you on your path to work. You can use the Finding an EN and Assigning Your Ticket worksheet to help you select the service provider that you think best fits your goals. Then use the Ticket program Find Help tool to search by type of provider, location or services provided.

You can also call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 866-968-7842 or 866-833-2967 (TTY) Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET. Ask a representative to send you a list of service providers.

During the November Work Incentives Seminar Event (WISE) webinar, we shared information on self-employment resources and Work Incentives. Colleen Moynihan from New England Business Associates (NEBA) joined us to talk about NEBA's Business Development Center and the resources it offers. We also discussed Social Security Work Incentives that may be available if you want to explore self-employment.

More than 350 people attended the webinar, and we received some great questions about pursuing self-employment. Today we're answering 3 of the most popular questions we received!

You can also check out the full webinar in our WISE archives to learn more about Work Incentives such as Property Essential to Self-Support and Unincurred Business Expenses that may help you as you pursue your self-employment goals.

What is NEBA? Can I work with NEBA no matter where I live?

NEBA is an Employment Network (EN) affiliated with Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) program. It serves people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSDI or SSI) in 40 states. The NEBA Business Development Center will work with you to determine your goals and talents and help you match them with self-employment opportunities and resources that may help you on the path to financial independence. Services include training in developing business concepts, writing business plans, and marketing your business. 

In addition to NEBA, other Ticket program service providers may be able to help you find similar services and supports. To find a service provider, you can use the Ticket to Work Find Help tool and filter your search results to include ENs who offer self-employment supports, like:

• Business mentoring programs
• Finding the right self-employment goal
• Business start-up plans

You can also call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842 or 1-866-833-2967 (TTY) Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET. Ask a representative to send you a list of service providers to find one that's right for you. Or search for service providers on your own using the Find Help tool.

May I work with NEBA if I'm already working with my State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agency?

If you're already working with your State VR agency – congratulations on taking the first step toward your work goals!

You may not assign your ticket with NEBA or another EN until your State VR agency closes your case. However, through an agreement called Partnership Plus, your State VR agency may help you connect with an EN to help you continue receiving supports as you pursue your work goals.

Partnership Plus programs vary from state to state, so talking with your State VR counselor may help you learn more and connect with the support services you're looking for.

How do I find a mentor for my self-employment goals?

To find a mentor, look for someone in your chosen industry, whom you respect and who not only enjoys sharing knowledge and connections, but also encourages and supports you in your journey. One place to look is SCORE, the nation's largest network of expert business mentors who have helped more than 10 million entrepreneurs through mentoring, workshops, and educational resources since 1964.

Working with a mentor may prove to be an advantage as you pursue self-employment. Read Want to start a business? Find a mentor! by Shelia Newman, the president of New Editions Consulting and a mentor for entrepreneurs. In her blog post, Shelia shares tips on starting a business and what she's learned about self-employment as an entrepreneur and mentor.

Ticket to Work and self-employment

Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSI or SSDI) and want to work.

The Ticket program is free and voluntary. It helps people with disabilities move toward financial independence and connects them with the services and support they need to succeed in the workforce. Self-employment is an option for people who would like to participate in the Ticket program.

Learn More

You can call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 866-968-7842 or 866-833-2967 (TTY) Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET. Ask a representative to send you a list of service providers or find providers on your own with the Ticket to Work Find Help tool.

With the new year comes new information for people who receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and/or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Today's post provides information on some of the changes coming in 2018.

Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) information

You may have received a Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) notice from Social Security. In 2018, Social Security disability benefits will increase by 2.0%. If you have questions about the upcoming change to your benefit payments, please contact Social Security directly at 800-772-1213 or visit their website at www.ssa.gov/cola.

Red Book updates

Social Security's Red Book provides information on employment-related rules for Social Security disability benefits and the policies in place to help you reach your work goals. The book is a guide to Work Incentives, and other disability-related policies and programs like Ticket to Work.

Some of the changes in 2018 include:

• The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) amount will increase from $1,170 to $1,180 for non-blind individuals and from $1,950 to $1,970 for blind individuals.
• The monthly earnings amount that Social Security uses to determine if a month counts for the Trial Work Period month will increase from $840 to $850 per month in 2018.

To see a complete list of changes to the Red Book, visit https://www.ssa.gov/redbook/newfor2018.htm.

Stay up to date!

The Ticket program shares information about Work Incentives and employment resources for people with disabilities on a regular basis. Subscribing to our emails and following us on social media may help you stay up to date on the program and learn about resources and support designed to help you on the path to work.

• Subscribe to the Choose Work! Blog to learn more about the Ticket to Work program and find tips for your job search.
• Subscribe to our WISE webinars email updates to find out what topics we'll discuss in our monthly webinars.
• Follow us on Facebook and Twitter to find even more information that may help you on your path to financial independence!

Ticket to Work

The Ticket program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSI or SSDI) and want to work. This free and voluntary program helps people with disabilities move toward financial independence and connects them with services and support to succeed in the workforce.

Learn more

You can call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 866-968-7842 or 866-833-2967 (TTY) Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET. Ask a representative to send you a list of service providers or find providers on your own with the Ticket program Find Help tool.

Career fairs are an excellent way to start or advance your job search. They give you the chance to meet potential employers and learn about different job opportunities, including openings you can apply for. Check out one of the following career fairs being held this month. 

Choice Career Fairs (In person)

Choice Career Fairs is an organizer of job fair and career fair events throughout the United States.

• December 6: Charlotte, NC
• December 7: Columbus, OH
• December 7: Austin, TX
• December 14: Atlanta, GA

Coast to Coast Career Fairs (In Person)

Coast to Coast Career Fairs holds numerous in-person career fairs across the country each month.

• December 4: Arlington, VA
• December 4: Woodland Hills, CA
• December 5: Edison, NJ
• December 6: Dallas, TX
• December 11: Tampa, FL

RecruitMilitary (In person)

RecruitMilitary seeks to tap into the extensive talent pool that veterans represent for employers.

• December 7: Greater Seattle Veterans Job Fair
• December 7: Indianapolis Veterans Job Fair
• December 7: Las Vegas Veterans Job Fair
• December 7: Fort Hood Job Fair
• December 12: Fort Knox Job Fair

National Career Fairs (In Person)

National Career Fairs holds free career fairs in more than 130 cities. Often, employers are looking to hire for multiple positions and may offer you an interview that day.  

• December 7: Baltimore, MD
• December 12: Anaheim, CA
• December 12: Seattle, WA
• December 14: Las Vegas, NV
• December 19: Austin, TX

About Ticket to Work

Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSI or SSDI) and want to work. The Ticket program is free and voluntary. It helps people with disabilities move toward financial independence and connects them with the services and support they need to succeed in the workforce.

Learn More

You can call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 866-968-7842 or 866-833-2967 (TTY) Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET. Ask a representative to send you a list of service providers or find providers on your own with the Ticket program Find Help tool.

How often have you heard, "It's not what you know; it's who you know"? It turns out that statistics back that up. In fact, some sources note that as many as 85% of jobs are filled through networking. This huge statistic reflects the fact that many jobs are never advertised because they are filled by a person the employer already knows or by people who are referred by trusted contacts. This doesn't mean that you should never apply to jobs you see online; it just means that you need to incorporate networking in your job search.

When you network effectively, you will meet people who know of job openings, who can give you advice on your search or even connect you with other people. However, before you start networking, you'll want to prepare. To help you make your networking activities pay off in finding job opportunities, we've put together some practical tips:

Be clear about your goals. Being able to say what type of job you are looking for and why you are a good candidate is key. Make sure your resume and online profile are a match with that type of job. If you're not quite sure of your employment goals, you can talk with an Employment Network or other Ticket to Work (Ticket) program service provider. They may be able to help you consider your job options based on your interests, experience and skills.

Consider online and in-person options. Researching individuals and prospective employers online should be your first step. Visit Finding Work through LinkedIn for tips on how to identify people with whom you should meet. Make a list of your contacts. You will find that your network is bigger than you think. Remember, networking doesn't always happen in person. Using social media, like LinkedIn may be a good way to meet new people or contact people you haven't talked with in a while.

Reach out. Whether it's calling, writing an e-mail, or sending a message on social media, let your contacts know that you're looking for a job. Let them know whether you're looking for a reference, a job lead or more information about the industry. Make sure to provide an update on your qualifications and recent job experience. If you've disclosed your disability with this contact, he or she may be able to help you think about job accommodations that may help you in the workplace.

Attend a networking event. Choose a networking event that aligns with your goal. Pick an event where you can find the experts in your field or where you have a higher chance of meeting potential employers. Consider attending a job fair — either in-person or online. Making the Most of a Virtual Career Fair has some hints for participating online.

Set up an informational interview. Asking someone for an informational interview shows you're motivated to work, eager to learn about employment opportunities, and interested in exploring a particular workplace or field. Read Informational Interviews: Learn from others about a Job or Career for pointers on what to ask.

Maintain your network. Keep a list of people you consider key to your search and others you need to reconnect with and schedule time for a phone call or meeting. Check in periodically to see how they're doing or to say thank you. It doesn't always have to be about your job search. Just staying in touch will help you keep a network of people you can count on for ideas, advice, feedback, and support.

About Ticket to Work

Social Security's Ticket program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSI or SSDI) and want to work. The Ticket program is free and voluntary. It helps people with disabilities move toward financial independence and connects them with the services and support they need to succeed in the workforce.

In addition to helping you consider your employment goals, a Ticket program service provider may help you meet professional contacts or may help you consider if and how you'd like to disclose your disability when networking.

Learn More

You can call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 866-968-7842 or 866-833-2967 (TTY) Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET. Ask a representative to send you a list of service providers or find providers on your own with the Ticket program Find Help tool.

As the end of the year approaches, many people put their job searches on hold until after the holiday season thinking that businesses and hiring slow down. Nothing could be further from the truth. There are two very good reasons not to take a break from your job hunt:

1. While some businesses do close for a few days during the holidays, most will continue to operate. In other words, work still has to be done and hiring is part of that work. In addition to the press of regular business, some companies have budget factors that motivate them to fill positions before the end of the year. Others may feel pressure to make sure their teams are in place and ready to go once the new year starts.
2. You will have less competition! While other people take time off from their searches, your phone calls, messages and resume may get more attention and lead to an interview.

In 'Tis the Season to Try Seasonal Work, we discovered how seasonal jobs may help you on your path to full-time employment. Today, we're sharing advice on finding permanent, full-time employment during the holiday season.

Tips for your job search during the holidays

Network. Holiday and other end-of-year events are a great time to reconnect with your contacts and meet new people. Attending these events and talking about your job search may help you make the right connection and find job leads. When you attend events, consider taking a pen and notepad with you — or charge up your cell phone — so you can save new contacts' information and follow up with them about leads and ideas after the event.

Volunteer. At any time of year, volunteering can offer you the chance to build your work experience and expand your professional network. During the holidays, many people seek out community service activities. Lending your time to organizations at this time of year may offer you the chance to meet more people, many of whom may know of job opportunities you'd be perfect for.

Be flexible and patient. While employers may be highly motivated to hire new employees at this time of year, their schedules can get busy. Between end-of-year meetings, planning for the coming year, holiday and family events and shopping — hiring managers may struggle to get everything done before the year ends. Keep this in mind and try to be ready. Having resumes already printed and an interview outfit ready may help you feel comfortable accepting a last-minute interview offer. If you land an interview, it may take some extra time afterwards to hear back. Following up with a thank-you note after your interview will help you stand out.

Ticket to Work

No matter the time of year, Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) program may be able to help you along the path to work. The Ticket program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSI or SSDI) and want to work. This free and voluntary program helps people with disabilities move toward financial independence and connects them with services and support to succeed in the workforce.

If you're looking for permanent work during the holiday season, check in with your Employment Network (EN) — or assign your Ticket with an EN or other service provider — to find help searching for job openings, editing your resume and preparing for interviews.

Learn more

You can call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 866-968-7842 or 866-833-2967 (TTY) Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET. Ask a representative to send you a list of service providers or find providers on your own with the Ticket program Find Help tool.

If you couldn't attend the October Work Incentives Seminar Event (WISE) webinar on ABLE accounts, you can get caught up now!

Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Accounts are tax-advantaged savings accounts that are available to certain people with disabilities. By opening an ABLE Account, you may be able to save more money each year to help you pay for disability-related expenses.

More than 500 people attended the webinar, and we received some great questions from the audience. Today, we're answering the top 3 questions that were asked to help you learn more about ABLE accounts and find out if opening an ABLE account may help you on your path to financial independence.

How do I open an ABLE account?

The ABLE Act limits eligibility to people with disabilities who had an onset of disability before they turned 26. If you meet the eligibility criteria, you must choose the state in which you plan to open your account. More than half of the states in the country have launched ABLE programs, and you are not required to establish your account in the state where you live. To help you decide, use the state comparison tool and review tips for opening your ABLE account. Then, visit the program website of that state and complete the application.

Up to $14,000 per year in 2017 can be deposited into an ABLE account by a beneficiary, family, friends or an employer. This limit will increase to $15,000 in 2018.

What can ABLE account funds be used for?

ABLE account funds can be used for "qualified disability-related expenses" (QDE). A QDE is any expense the beneficiary incurs as a result of the disability. These may include expenses related to education, housing, transportation, employment training and support, assistive technology, personal support services, healthcare expense, financial management and administrative services, and other expenses that help improve health, independence and/or quality of life.

Although you do not need to submit receipts for the expenses, they should be kept along with other documentation of the expenditure. If you're unsure whether something is a QDE, you can check with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the only organization that can make that decision.

How do ABLE accounts affect my Social Security disability benefits?

If you receive SSDI, are working, and deposit part or all of your earnings into an ABLE Account, Social Security still considers this deposited money as "countable earnings" and applies Work Incentives to determine if you're engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA). However, deposits made into an ABLE account by others are not considered countable income for determining SGA.

However, if you receive SSI benefits, the ABLE Act sets further limitations. According to the LEAD Center, the first $100,000 in your ABLE Account would be exempted from the SSI $2,000 individual resource limit. If and when your ABLE Account exceeds $100,000, your SSI benefit payment would be suspended until the account falls below $100,000. It is important to note that while your eligibility for a benefit payment is suspended, this has no effect on your ability to receive or be eligible to receive medical assistance through Medicaid. 

About Ticket to Work

Social Security's Ticket program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSI or SSDI) and want to work. The Ticket program is free and voluntary. It helps people with disabilities move toward financial independence and connects them with the services and support they need to succeed in the workforce.

Learn More

You can call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 866-968-7842 or 866-833-2967 (TTY) Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET. Ask a representative to send you a list of service providers or find providers on your own with the Ticket program Find Help tool.

Are you self-employed or have you been considering working for yourself?  Do you receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits? If so, Social Security's Work Incentives and the Ticket to Work program may be able to help you on your path to success.

During today's Work Incentives Seminar Event (WISE) webinar, we'll talk about self-employment goals and what Social Security supports may be available to you. Before you attend the webinar, continue reading to learn about a Work Incentive that may help self-employed people achieve financial independence.

Unincurred business expenses

Unincurred business expenses are non-monetary contributions made by others to your self-employment efforts at no cost to you. Unincurred business expenses only apply to people who receive SSDI.

For example, you may be interested in opening a graphic arts business and talk to your State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agency about your idea. Your State VR agency may be able to provide you with a computer to use for your business. The computer was provided at no cost to you, but would be considered a business expense had you paid for it.

Your graphic design business may do really well and you might need to bring on some additional help. If a family member works for your business without pay, this would also be considered an unincurred business expense.

Still unsure about what qualifies as an unincurred business expense? For an item to qualify, it must be an item or service that the IRS would allow as a legitimate business expense if you paid for it; and someone other than you must have paid for it. Another example of an unincurred business expense is when someone (a friend, relative or another professional) performs business-related tasks without pay.

How does Social Security count unincurred business expenses in your earnings from self-employment?

Once you start to work, Social Security will determine if you are engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA), or earning enough income to affect your eligibility for disability benefits. Social Security will deduct the cost of the unincurred business expense, including unpaid help you receive, from your Net Earnings from Self-Employment (NESE) when they determine if you have worked at SGA levels. The formula for determining your NESE is gross receipts minus business expenses multiplied by .9235. Thus, only a portion of your net earnings are counted in determining your self-employment income.

Whether you receive SSI or SSDI, Social Security only counts NESE.

And, whether you receive SSDI or SSI, it is very important to report your earnings and hours of work every month when you are self-employed.

Ticket to Work and self-employment

Social Security's Ticket to Work program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSI or SSDI) and want to work.

The Ticket program is free and voluntary. It helps people with disabilities move toward financial independence and connects them with the services and support they need to succeed in the workforce. Self-employment is an option for people who would like to participate in the Ticket program.

To learn more about Work Incentives and other employment topics, subscribe to our blog and receive updates, including links to our monthly Work Incentives Wednesdays blog series.

Learn More

To learn more about the Ticket program, visit www.ssa.gov/work. You can also call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 866-968-7842 or 866-833-2967 (TTY) Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET. Ask a representative to send you a list of service providers or find providers on your own with the Ticket program Find Help tool.