Are you ready to begin your career or get back into the workforce? Did you know the federal government has positions open nationwide? You can learn more about open positions during this month's career fairs. Career fairs are an excellent way to start or advance your job search. Whether they're in person or online, job fairs let you engage with potential employers and learn about job openings.

This month, we're highlighting two job fairs: Careers That Move America: Department of Transportation (DOT) Virtual Career Fair and the Government and Non-Profit Jobs Hiring Event.

Careers That Move America: DOT Virtual Hiring Event

Date: July 14, 2022
Time: 1 – 5 p.m. Eastern
Registration

Meet recruiters from DOT during this free virtual job fair. Some of the organizations attending include the Federal Aviation Administration, the Federal Railroad Administration and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Government and Non-Profit Jobs Hiring Event

Date: July 27, 2022
Time: 11 – 3 p.m. Eastern
Registration

Jobseekers can register via CareerEco for this event that showcases federal agency and non-profit job opportunities. More than 18 organizations will have virtual booths at the event, including places like the Centers for Disease Control, City Year and the U.S. Department of State.

Can't attend?

USAJOBS.GOV is the official website for searching for and applying to jobs within the federal government. There are many other career fairs this month. Take a look at Now Hiring: July Career Fairs for more details.

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 (SSDI/SSI) and want to work. Through this free and voluntary program, eligible participants can work with service providers to receive the supports and services they need to find and maintain employment as they move toward financial independence through work. Ticket to Work service providers can help you if you want to explore federal employment.

Schedule A

Schedule A gives the federal government permission to hire people with significant disabilities for jobs within the federal government, without requiring them to compete against non-disabled job seekers for those positions. Federal agencies hire Schedule A employees on a probationary basis. This means that Schedule A employees work on a trial basis. If they have earned positive reviews for their job performance at the end of the trial period, they may be eligible for conversion to a career-conditional appointment within competitive service.

Receive Ticket Program Texts

If you're interested in receiving text messages from the Ticket Program, please text TICKET to 1-571-489-5292. Standard messaging rates may apply. We'll send updates from our blog, identify steps on the path to employment and more. We hope you'll find this way to stay in touch helpful. You can opt out at any time.

If you're aware of an upcoming job fair that our readers would find helpful, please email us at socialmedia@choosework.ssa.gov with the event name, dates and official website.

If you are in the middle of a job search, you probably see the term "hybrid" for positions everywhere. You might even see it in the search options on job board sites when you narrow down thousands of results.

But what exactly is a hybrid role?

A hybrid role is a mix of working at the actual location of your job and working remotely. It may consist of working from home a few days a week and going to the job site the other days. There are many schedules and situations possible with hybrid work, so it's important to understand the details. You'll need to decide if the job type is right for your lifestyle, ask the right questions of a possible employer and look for hybrid positions in reputable places.

Is hybrid right for you?

Working a few days from home each week can sound ideal. However, does this match with your home life? It is important to make sure you have a comfortable and quiet place to work from home, uninterrupted. Make sure you have an atmosphere where you can concentrate on your work and be productive.

Also, consider your own personality. Are you the type of person who needs a great deal of in-person interaction each day? If so, being at home, isolated from co-workers a few days a week may have a negative effect on your mental health.

Think about the few days a week you will need to report to work. Are these days worrisome for you due to a long commute? Are you easily distracted working in a busy office setting? It's a good idea to think clearly about your own needs.

You may find you need a fully remote job, and not a hybrid. You may even find you need to be on location each day to be most productive. Take time to think about your employment and personal needs.

Questions to ask employers

Keep in mind that each company has a different definition of a hybrid job. If you ask questions beforehand, you may find that the job is not a good fit from the beginning and save yourself time. Here are a few possible questions to consider asking the contact person if the answers are not included in the job description:

• "Is the hybrid option permanent or temporary?"
• "How many days per week would I be required to work on location?"
• "How much notice would I have if I were required to come to the office on a scheduled remote day?"
• "What would the internet and home office requirements be if I worked from home?"
• "Would my work hours be the same if I were on location, as if I worked from home?"

Job Boards with hybrid job choices

Be careful when you search for hybrid jobs online. Since it's a very popular choice, you may find websites that claim verified hybrid job listings that are part of or lead to a scam. Here are some reputable job boards that include hybrid and fully remote job options. (Some helpful keywords to find remote and hybrid positions on job boards include "hybrid," "partially remote," "remote," "blended," "telework" and "work from home.")

• abilityJOBS - Job site for people with disabilities with many hybrid and fully remote options.
• CareerOneStop.org - Job search board, career exploration and training with many work from home and hybrid jobs.
• Indeed.com - Large job board that includes many remote and hybrid choices.
• RecruitMilitary.com - Website that has large job board with many remote and hybrid options for veterans and military spouses.
• disABLEDperson.com - Works with employers who have a strong desire to hire qualified applicants with disabilities. Includes remote and hybrid positions in many industries.
• LinkedIn Jobs - Job site with many hybrid options. You can see immediately if any of your LinkedIn connections work at the company you're interested in.
• USAJobs.gov - Resource to find Federal positions in various industries, with remote and hybrid search options.

A hybrid position could be a good option for you to explore in your job search, especially since more and more companies offer some form of it these days. It could help you with work-life balance. Make sure to research the company and ask any questions you have to ensure the position fits your needs.

Learn More

Are you just starting your job search? Would you like help as you explore hybrid jobs, work-from-home jobs, or on-site jobs? Social Security's Ticket to Work Program can help! To learn more about the Ticket Program, 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 or find providers on your own with the Ticket Program Find Help tool.

Receive Ticket Program Texts

If you're interested in receiving text messages from the Ticket Program, please text TICKET to 1-571-489-5292. Standard messaging rates may apply. We'll send updates from our blog, identify steps on the path to employment and more. We hope you'll find this way to stay in touch helpful. You can opt out at any time.

June is National Cancer Survivor Month! The American Cancer Society uses the term "cancer survivor" to refer to anyone who has ever been diagnosed with cancer no matter where they are in the course of their disease. It's a time to celebrate cancer survivors and support those currently battling the disease. According to the most recent statistics from Cancer.gov, as of January 2019, there were an estimated 16.9 million cancer survivors in the United States. The number of cancer survivors is projected to increase to 22.2 million by 2030. This projected positive trend is another reason to celebrate this month.

As a survivor newly entering, or getting back into the workforce, you may need a skills refresh, or job accommodations for the first time. Here are some resources especially designed to help survivors pursue employment.

Cancer and Careers

This website seeks to educate people with cancer about how to thrive in the workplace by providing advice about job searching, networking and updating your resume. There is a section on managing your online reputation, which can sometimes be a factor in your job search. There are also articles and webinars on how to communicate with employers after a cancer diagnosis, and to learn about accommodations in the workplace.

American Cancer Society

The American Cancer Society has a wide selection of information for survivors, including an article regarding Going to Work During Cancer Treatment. It offers tips from experts to help balance your time, work, and feelings. Another article to check out is Returning to Work After Cancer Treatment. It provides help with conversations on your health status, reasonable accommodations and legal protections.

CancerCare.org

CancerCare.org is a national organization that provides free professional services and information to help manage the challenges of cancer. There is a factsheet about Cancer and the Workplace that discusses your legal rights as an employee during and after cancer treatment. Topics like Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) are explained to help with covered time off and more. There are also suggested points to discuss with your doctor to prepare a plan to make work more comfortable during treatment.

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

The Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center features many resources and articles on research, education and more. Specifically, there are are a couple of articles on employment.

• Living Beyond Cancer: Employment | Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
• Living Beyond Cancer: Work, Education & Financial Resources | Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

TriageCancer.org

Find a full section of resources for cancer survivors about navigating the workplace during and after treatment. For example, there is a quick guide to explain what is sometimes called "Chemo Brain." ("Chemo Brain" refers to cognitive challenges that may occur after you receive chemotherapy). The quick guide also discusses job accommodations you may need to help you perform better.

Let's take today, and every day to support cancer survivors in every way we can. Also, take a moment to read Laura's story. She is a Ticket to Work participant and cancer survivor. Laura's path to success included receiving help from her Ticket to Work service provider and other supportive members of her community.

Learn More

If you are working while you receive Social Security Benefits, (SSDI/SSI), be sure to explore the Ticket Program. 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 or find providers on your own with the Ticket Program Find Help tool.

Receive Ticket Program Texts

If you're interested in receiving text messages from the Ticket Program, please text TICKET to 1-571-489-5292. Standard messaging rates may apply. We'll send updates from our blog, identify steps on the path to employment and more. We hope you'll find this way to stay in touch helpful. You can opt out at any time.

Job opportunities are open in 2022! Take part in this live virtual event on June 24th with the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL).

About The Event

Join DOL for a live virtual career fair showcasing 17 federal government agencies under its umbrella. Keynote speakers from various agencies will provide insight into their organizations and a variety of occupations. This event will also feature pro tips from Human Resource professionals on the federal application process, special hiring authorities and information on federal benefits.

Register today!

Please note the deadline to request an American Sign Language interpreter and live captioning for this event has passed.

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 (SSDI/SSI) and want to work. Through this free and voluntary program, eligible participants can work with service providers to receive the supports and services they need to find and maintain employment as they move toward financial independence through work. Ticket to Work service providers can help you explore federal employment.

Schedule A

Schedule A gives the federal government permission to hire people with significant disabilities for jobs within the federal government, including within DOL, without requiring them to compete against non-disabled job seekers for those positions. Federal agencies hire Schedule A employees on a probationary basis. This means that Schedule A employees work on a trial basis. If they have earned positive reviews for their job performance at the end of the trial period, they may be eligible for conversion to a career-conditional appointment within competitive service

Receive Ticket Program Texts

If you'd like to receive text messages from the Ticket Program, please text TICKET to 1-571-489-5292. Standard messaging rates may apply. We'll send updates from our blog, identify steps on the path to employment and more. We hope you'll find this way to stay in touch helpful. You can opt out at any time.

We know many of you have called Social Security's Ticket to Work Help Line recently and experienced long hold times. We apologize for this inconvenience and are working hard to shorten your wait. Today's blog post answers some of the most frequently asked questions.

1. Can I work while receiving Social Security Disability Benefits?

The short answer to this question is yes. Social Security wants to help you get started in the workforce without having to worry about your benefit status. Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program and other Work Incentives are in place to help you see if working is right for you. Connect with a Ticket Program service provider to get started.

2. What is 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 (SSDI/SSI) and want to work. Through this free and voluntary program, eligible participants can work with service providers to receive the supports and services they need to find and maintain employment as they move toward financial independence through work.

This Fact Sheet provides more detailed information.

3. Am I eligible for the Ticket Program?

Individuals ages 18 through 64 who receive SSDI and/or SSI are eligible to participate in the Ticket Program.

4. How can I enroll in the Ticket to Work Program?

You can enroll in the Ticket Program by following these three steps:

1. Determine your eligibility for the program. (See above)
2. If you are eligible, find a service provider that offers the services you need by using the Find Help tool.
3. Contact the service provider to determine next steps to create a work plan.

Once you connect with a service provider, they will contact Social Security to share that you are working together. Now, your Ticket is assigned to that provider, and you're enrolled!

5. What is the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) amount for this year?

Social Security uses the term "substantial gainful activity" (SGA) to describe a level of work activity and earnings. If you receive SSDI, Social Security uses SGA to decide if your eligibility for benefits continues after you return to work and complete your TWP. Social Security generally compares your monthly earnings to set amounts, known as earnings thresholds, to evaluate if your work activity is SGA.

In 2023, the SGA monthly threshold is $1,470 per month. The Social Security Act specifies a higher SGA amount for statutorily blind individuals, so for people who are blind and receive SSDI, the SGA monthly amount in 2023 is $2,460.

Still have questions?

If you have questions about how work will affect your benefits, we encourage you to give the Ticket to Work Help Line a call. An agent will be able to connect you with resources that can help as you transition to employment. You can reach us at 1-866-968-7842 or 1-866-833-2967 (TTY), Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. ET. If you experience a long hold time, you can choose to request a call back while keeping your place in the system.

Thank you for your patience as we work hard to improve your experience with the Ticket to Work Help Line. Here are some other ways to receive timely updates from Ticket to Work!

Become a Fan on Facebook
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Receive Ticket Program Texts

If you're interested in receiving text messages from the Ticket Program, please text TICKET to 1-571-489-5292. Standard messaging rates may apply. We'll send updates from our blog, identify steps on the path to employment and more. We hope you'll find this way to stay in touch helpful. You can opt out at any time.

Career fairs are an excellent way to start or advance your job search. Whether they're in person or online, job fairs let you engage with potential employers and learn about job openings. If you're aware of an upcoming job fair that our readers would find helpful, please email us at socialmedia@choosework.ssa.gov with the event name, dates and official website.

CareerEco Virtual Career Fair

Many organizations list their events on CareerEco. Check out their full calendar for a list of virtual or in-person events.

• June 7: NAVSEA Warfare Centers National Virtual Career Fair
• June 22: Federal Highway Administration Construction Virtual Career Fair
• June 23: The University of Tennessee Alumni Association Virtual Career Fair
• June 23: The National Association of Black Compliance and Risk Management Professionals Diversity Career Fair & Recruitment Event

City Career Fairs

Diversity Employment Day Career Fairs provide recruiters access to the United States' largest pool of diverse, multi-cultural and qualified professionals. To see the full schedule of in-person and virtual career fairs, view their full calendar.

• June 8: Sacramento Career Fair – In Person
• June 10: Sacramento Career Fair – Virtual Video
• June 15: Silicon Valley / San Jose Career Fair – In Person
• June 24: Silicon Valley / San Jose Career Fair – Virtual Video
• June 22: West Hollywood Career Fair – In Person
• June 24: West Hollywood Career Fair – Virtual Video

Diversity Career Group

Diversity Career Group focuses their career and job fairs on connecting employers and job seekers through sit-down conversations and even first-round job interviews. Check out the full calendar.

• June 16: Seattle Career Fairs
• June 23: Dallas Career Fairs

DiversityX

DiversityX connects Black Americans, Latinx, Asian Americans, Native Americans, women, people with disabilities, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community with top companies. For a listing of DiversityX virtual events near you, visit their calendar.

• June 21: Baton Rouge, LA Virtual Job Fair
• June 23: Salt Lake City, UT Virtual Job Fair

Equal Opportunity Publications

Equal Opportunity Publications (EOP) offers a variety of diverse recruitment resources, including national online career magazines, virtual job board and career fairs for minority groups and people with disabilities. Check out EOP's career expos page for a list of events.

• June 15: STEM Diversity Virtual Career Fair

Professional Diversity Network

Professional Diversity Network works to connect job seekers with employers that value an inclusive and diverse work environment. Visit their full calendar of events.

• June 22: We Work Remote Virtual Career Fair

RecruitMilitary

RecruitMilitary seeks to tap into the extensive talent pool that veterans represent for employers. For a listing of all RecruitMilitary virtual events, visit their calendar.

• June 7: Eastern Region Virtual Career Fair for Veterans
• June 16: Job Fair at Fort Bragg
• June 21: Central Region Virtual Career Fair for Veterans
• June 28: National Logistics Virtual Career Fair for Veterans

Chronically Capable

Chronically Capable offers a range of opportunities for people with chronic illnesses and disabilities. Their June job fair features Dentsu, a marketing solutions company.

• June 15: Chronically Capable + Dentsu's Job Fair for Professionals with Chronic Illness or Disability

Preparing for Job Fairs

Before you attend a job or career fair, be sure to prepare. We have a variety of resources to help, including:

• Preparing for and Attending a Virtual Career Fair
• 9 Tips to Help You Succeed at a Career Fair

CareerOneStop also has lots of tips that can help you prepare for and succeed at a job fair and in your overall job search.

Receive Ticket Program Texts

If you're interested in receiving text messages from the Ticket Program, please text TICKET to 1-571-489-5292. Standard messaging rates may apply. We'll send updates from our blog, identify steps on the path to employment and more. We hope you'll find this new way to stay in touch helpful. You can opt out at any time.

The internet is an important tool – both for your job search and once you're on the job. The Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) benefit program helps ensure that households can afford the broadband they need for work, school, healthcare and more.

The benefit provides a discount of up to $30 per month toward internet service for eligible households and up to $75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal lands. Eligible households can also receive a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating providers if they contribute more than $10 and less than $50 toward the purchase price. The ACP is limited to one monthly service discount and one device discount per household.

Who is eligible for the Affordable Connectivity Program?

A household is eligible for the Affordable Connectivity Program if the household income is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or if a member of the household meets at least one of the criteria below:

• Participates in certain assistance programs, such as SNAP, Medicaid, Federal Public Housing Assistance, SSI, WIC, or Lifeline;
• Participates in Tribal specific programs, such as Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance, Tribal TANF, or Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations;
• Participates in the National School Lunch Program or the School Breakfast Program, including through the USDA Community Eligibility Provision;
• Received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year; or
• Meets the eligibility criteria for a participating provider's existing low-income internet program.

Learn more at fcc.gov/acp or call 1-877-384-2575.

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 (SSDI/SSI) and want to work. Through this free and voluntary program, eligible participants can work with service providers to receive the supports and services they need to find and maintain employment as they move toward financial independence through work.

As you think about returning to work and possibly changing careers or about working for the first time, you may have questions and need support. Working with a Ticket Program service provider can help you develop achievable goals and steps to find and maintain employment. Ticket Program service providers can even help you identify the type of career you might enjoy and any transferrable skills you may have.

Learn More

To learn more about the Ticket Program, 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 or find providers on your own with the Ticket Program Find Help tool.

Stay Informed by Subscribing to Texts from Ticket to Work!

If you're interested in receiving text messages from the Ticket Program, please text TICKET to 1-571-489-5292. Standard messaging rates may apply. We'll send updates from our blog, identify steps on the path to employment and more. We hope you'll find this new way to stay in touch helpful. You can opt out at any time.

Creating a budget is a great step toward financial independence. A budget helps you make sure there is money put aside for each of your expenses. However, how do you make sure you stick to your budget? Overspending in any area of your budget can create challenges if you're trying to stretch your dollars. Here are some tips to help you stick to your budget.

Make a list before shopping, even online

It is easy to be tempted by extra items that you didn't plan to buy. Always make a list of the things you need before you start shopping — in person and online. This will help you stay within the amount you plan to spend, and not go over. Even if you are going to the store for just a few items, make a list of them. There will be things in the store that jump out at you, and next they'll jump into your cart! If this happens to you regularly in the grocery store, check out these tools from MyPlate.gov that will help you shop for healthy meals on a budget.

Keep your budget with you

It is a good idea to keep a copy of your budget (paper or electronic) with you. You might not feel the need to bring it if you're not planning to buy anything. However, if you're in a store and see something you could really use, you can view your budget right away to see if the purchase fits. Depending on how you created your budget, you can even pull it up on your phone through a budgeting app or spreadsheet. Having a spending plan is great, but plan for surprises by knowing your budget and keeping it handy.

Be willing to change your budget

As you continue to use your budget, you may notice there are categories where you frequently spend more than you planned. For example, you plan to spend $100 per month for gas, and you go above that each time. In this case, you need to increase your amount, at least temporarily, for gas. This means choosing another category to spend less in, if possible. Remember, your budget is an ever-changing plan to help you achieve financial goals. You may need to adjust it to fit your needs and stay in line with changes in the economy.

After budgeting for a while, you may find that you have money available to simply save, or you may have purchased an asset like a car. If you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), it's important to pay close attention to how much money you are allowed to have saved. Remember, the limit for countable resources for people who receive SSI is $2000 or $3000 for a couple. There are also limits on the number and types of things you can own and receive SSI. If you want to save for certain expenses called qualified disability-related expenses, or QDEs, consider opening an ABLE account if you qualify. If you need to save for a specific job goal and receive SSI or can become eligible for it, Social Security may approve a PASS plan for you.

Save money with free resources at the library

Libraries are still a great place to borrow free books, music, magazines, academic articles and much more. You don't need to buy the latest book in your favorite series—just borrow it from the library. Save money on magazine subscriptions by borrowing a copy from the library as well. Many libraries offer free courses, seminars and fun clubs to join. It's also still a quiet and peaceful place to hang out and get caught up on reading and other tasks. Libraries offer great virtual options as well to download eBooks, stream movies and participate in free live events.

Don’t quit, budgeting is worth it

If you are new to budgeting and have problems sticking to it, don't be too hard on yourself. As much as we try to plan for everything and budget expenses, it's easy to lose track and overspend from time to time. You might overspend at dinner with friends or have an expense you forgot to budget. Don't worry, you'll get better as you keep the habit of tracking expenses and income. Mistakes can happen, and that's ok. Just correct them as quickly as possible and keep going!

Do you need help to reach income goals and want to explore working, or want to work more? Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSDI or SSI) and want to work. The Ticket Program is free and voluntary. It connects you with free employment services to help you decide if working is right for you, prepare for work, find a job, or maintain success while you are working.

Learn more

To learn more about the Ticket Program, visit choosework.ssa.gov or 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 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. Whether they're in person or online, job fairs let you engage with potential employers and learn about job openings. 

If you're aware of an upcoming job fair that our readers would find helpful, please email us at socialmedia@choosework.ssa.gov with the event name, dates and official website.

CareerEco Virtual Career Fairs

Many organizations list their events on CareerEco. Check out their full calendar for a list of virtual or in-person events.

• May 20: NAAAHR Virtual Diversity Career Fair
• May 26: Remote and Hybrid Jobs Virtual Hiring Event

Disability:IN Inclusion Works Program

Disability:IN is a leading nonprofit resource for disability inclusion. They work with a variety of companies to help employers create a more accessible and inclusive workplace for a diverse, skilled workforce.

• May 4: Disability:IN Virtual Disability Career Fair

City Career Fairs

Diversity Employment Day Career Fairs provide recruiters access to the United States' largest pool of diverse, multi-cultural and qualified professionals. To see the full schedule of in-person and virtual career fairs, view their full calendar.

• May 4: Boston Career Fair – In Person
• May 6: Boston Career Fair – Virtual Video
• May 13: New York Career Fair – Virtual Video
• May 18: Phoenix Career Fair – In Person
• May 20: Phoenix Career Fair – Virtual Video
• May 25: Denver Career Fair – In Person

Diversity Career Group

Diversity Career Group focuses their career and job fairs on connecting employers and job seekers through sit-down conversations and even first-round job interviews. Check out the full calendar.

• May 12: East Bay Career Fairs
• May 18: Los Angeles Career Fairs

Equal Opportunity Publications

Equal Opportunity Publications (EOP) offers a variety of diverse recruitment resources, including national online career magazines, virtual job board and career fairs for minority groups and people with disabilities. Check out EOP's career expos page for a list of events.

• May 18: Careers & The Disabled Virtual Career Fair

Professional Diversity Network

Professional Diversity Network works to connect job seekers with employers that value an inclusive and diverse work environment. Visit their full calendar of events.

• May 10: The Minneapolis Professional Diversity Virtual Career Fair

RecruitMilitary

RecruitMilitary seeks to tap into the extensive talent pool that veterans represent for employers. For a listing of all RecruitMilitary virtual events, visit their calendar.

• May 5: Military Spouse Virtual Career Fair
• May 12: Baltimore Veterans Job Fair
• May 19: Orlando Veterans Job Fair
• May 24: National Virtual Career Fair for Veterans

DiversityX

DiversityX connects Black Americans, Latinx, Asian Americans, Native Americans, women, people with disabilities, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community with top companies. For a listing of DiversityX virtual events near you, visit their calendar.

• May 3: Federal Way WA Virtual Job Fair
• May 5: Fargo ND Virtual Job Fair
• May 31: Honolulu HI Virtual Job Fair

Preparing for Job Fairs

Before you attend a job or career fair, be sure to prepare. We have a variety of resources to help, including:

• Preparing for and Attending a Virtual Career Fair
• 9 Tips to Help You Succeed at a Career Fair

CareerOneStop also has lots of tips that can help you prepare for and succeed at a job fair and in your overall job search.

Learn More

To learn more about the Ticket Program, 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 or find providers on your own with the Ticket Program Find Help tool.

Receive Ticket Program Texts

If you're interested in receiving text messages from the Ticket Program, please text TICKET to 1-571-489-5292. Standard messaging rates may apply. We'll send updates from our blog, identify steps on the path to employment and more. We hope you'll find this new way to stay in touch helpful. You can opt out at any time.

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.

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 where 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.

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 expense. 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.

If you have questions about how ABLE Accounts may affect your disability benefit, please use Choose Work's Find Help Tool to find a Benefits Counselor who can help answer your questions or contact the ABLE National Resource Center.