What would you do if you had a great opportunity for a dream job but thought that you would lose your Medicaid coverage if you went to work? Would you take the job or let it pass? We know this decision can be scary for many who rely on their Medicaid coverage, but we have good news.

As long as you receive a Social Security benefit (SSI/SSDI) in any amount, you'll keep your Medicare or Medicaid. Many people believe that they will automatically lose their Medicare or Medicaid as soon as they start working.

But working does not necessarily mean losing access to federal or state healthcare benefits because there are protections in place, called Work Incentives, that help people who work and receive disability benefits keep those important benefits.

Today's post explores a Work Incentive for people who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid While Working. With this Work Incentive, you can pursue your career goals with the Medicaid support you need.

What is Medicaid While Working?

After you start working, your Medicaid coverage can continue, even if your earnings (alone or in combination with your other income) become too high to receive SSI. Under the Continued Medicaid Eligibility Work Incentive (Section 1619(B)), you may qualify for continued Medicaid coverage when your SSI payments stop if you:

• Have been eligible for an SSI benefit for at least one month.
• Continue to be disabled (have not medically improved).
• Meet all other non-disability SSI requirements, including the resources test.
• Need Medicaid to work.
• Have gross earned income (earnings before taxes and other deductions) that are below your state's threshold of eligibility.

Threshold amounts

Social Security uses a state threshold amount to determine eligibility for Medicaid While Working. Each state has a different threshold amount, including different threshold amounts for people who are blind. The threshold amount is calculated based on the values of SSI cash benefits, Medicaid benefits and publicly funded personal or attendant care benefits. Social Security's Red Book can help you find your state's threshold amount.

Even if you earn more than your state's threshold amount, you can still be eligible for Medicaid While Working if you have:

• Impairment-Related Work Expenses
• Blind Work Expenses
• A Plan to Achieve Self-Support
• Publicly funded personal attendant expenses (These are expenses paid for by federal state or local funds other than Medicaid.)
• Medical expenses above your state's average amount

Are there any other ways to keep Medicaid coverage?

In some states, through the Medicaid Buy-In Program you may be able to apply to buy Medicaid from the state Medicaid agency if you are disabled and no longer entitled to free Medicaid because you work. You may qualify if you:

• Meet Social Security's definition of having a disability.
• Would be eligible for SSI if you earned less income.

To see if your state has a Medicaid Buy-In program and if you qualify, contact your State Medicaid Program.

Need Help on Your Career Path?

As you consider work, search for a job and transition to the workplace, Medicaid While Working and other Work Incentives, like Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program, can give you the support you need to find financial independence.

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

If you have questions about how work will affect your healthcare benefits, take a look at our fact sheet, Medicare and Medicaid Employment Supports, for more information. You can also contact 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.

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 for a list of service providers or find providers on your own using the Ticket Program Find Help tool.

You can also learn more by registering for a free, online Work Incentives Seminar Event webinar. Or text TICKET to 1-571-489-5292 to receive Ticket Program texts. Standard messaging rates may apply, and you can opt out at any time.

Adaptive sports are competitive or recreational activities that are inclusive of people with disabilities. Sports teams and community engagement provide numerous benefits for individuals with disabilities.

In addition to improving physical health, participating in these activities also fosters teamwork, builds confidence, and helps individuals develop transferable skills that can be

useful in the workplace. Joining sports teams or engaging in other forms of community activities can be life-changing for individuals with disabilities, as it fosters a sense of belonging, purpose and achievement. Participation in adaptive sports is also associated with a higher likelihood of employment.

1. Building Connections
   
   Participating in adaptive sports provides athletes with disabilities a unique platform to build meaningful connections with peers, coaches and mentors. The camaraderie and teamwork in sports create an environment where athletes learn to communicate effectively, collaborate with others and develop strong interpersonal skills. These connections extend beyond the field or court, often leading to lasting friendships and professional networks. The ability to form genuine relationships is a valuable skill in the workplace.
    
2. Strengthening Confidence
   
   Adaptive sports empower athletes with disabilities by enhancing self-confidence and self-esteem. Overcoming challenges and achieving success in sports can be transformative, creating a sense of accomplishment and proving that limitations can be conquered. This newfound confidence is highly transferable to the professional world. Athletes who have navigated the demands of adaptive sports develop resilience, a positive self-image and the ability to face adversity head-on. In the workplace, this translates into the confidence to take on new tasks, handle pressure and persevere through setbacks.
    
3. Developing Transferable Skills
   
   Adaptive sports demand a wide array of skills that extend well beyond athletics. Athletes with disabilities develop discipline, time management, goal setting, and determination – skills that apply directly to the workplace. The rigorous training, strategic thinking and adaptability required in sports can be seamlessly transferred to a career. For instance, the dedication to practice and improve in sports can translate to a strong work ethic and a commitment to ongoing skill development on the job. 
    
4. Integrating Unique Perspectives in the Workplace
   
   Participating in adaptive sports equips athletes with disabilities with a unique perspective that can be valuable in the workplace. These athletes are accustomed to navigating a world designed for able-bodied individuals and have honed problem-solving abilities to overcome various obstacles. Their experiences foster creativity in finding innovative solutions, which is a sought-after skill in all workplaces. Additionally, their familiarity with adaptive technologies and accommodations promotes inclusivity and accessibility, contributing to a more welcoming work environment. 
    
5. Fostering Inclusion and Empowerment
   
   Adaptive sports foster a sense of inclusion and empowerment among athletes with disabilities. In the world of sports, people are defined by their talents and dedication, not their disability. This shift in perception can shift into their professional lives, where they approach challenges with the belief that they can contribute meaningfully. Employers increasingly recognize the value of various perspectives, and athletes with disabilities bring a unique viewpoint that enriches decision-making and problem-solving processes.

Let's take a look at "Sarah's" story, whose participation in adaptive sports and Social Security's Ticket to Work Program helped her get a job.

Sarah's Story

Sarah found solace and strength through adaptive sports. A longtime basketball fan, she took on wheelchair basketball. She developed valuable qualities like teamwork, adaptability and determination — skills that helped her on and off the court.

When she was ready, Sarah started thinking about work.

Through Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program, she connected with an Employment Network (EN) and worked with staff to build a resume, practice interview skills and find job opportunities. During her job search, her preparation impressed potential employers. Eventually, she secured a position as a disability advocate for a non-profit organization. Her journey from adaptive sports enthusiast to disability advocate not only transformed her life but serves as an example to countless others on a similar path.

As Sarah's story shows, the benefits of participating in adaptive sports extend well beyond physical fitness and recreational enjoyment. Athletes with disabilities gain valuable workplace skills that prepare them for success in their professional lives. From building connections and strengthening confidence, to developing transferable skills and fostering inclusivity, adaptive sports provide a holistic training ground that equips athletes to excel in the workplace and contribute meaningfully to their careers. 

About Ability360

Ability360 is a Center for Independent Living, otherwise known as a CIL. It is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization offering and promoting programs to empower people with all disabilities in Arizona so that they may achieve or continue independent lifestyles within the community. Ablility360 is an Employment Network offering services through Social Security's Ticket to Work Program.

With the release of the Ticket to Work Beneficiary Satisfaction Survey, we wanted to remind you how to spot a Social Security scam. Social Security imposter scams continue to be widespread across the United States. Scammers use targeted, sophisticated tactics to deceive you into providing sensitive information or money.

If you receive a suspicious phone call, email or text regarding the survey, do not respond. If you are chosen for the survey, you will receive an invitation letter in the mail. We are not making any phone calls related to the survey unless you request a call back from our Survey Help Desk toll-free number at1-855-205-3782.

We want you to know how to identify a scammer and avoid becoming a victim.
Social Security will NEVER:

• Text or email images of an employee's official government identification.
• Suspend your Social Security number.
• Threaten you with arrest or other legal action unless you immediately pay a fine or fee.
• Require payment by retail gift card, wire transfer, internet currency, or cash by mail.
• Promise a benefit increase or other assistance in exchange for payment.
• Mail or email "official" letters or reports containing your personal information.

Social Security will only send text messages if you have opted in to receive texts from them and only in limited situations, including the following:

• When you have subscribed to receive updates and notifications by text.
• As part of their enhanced security when accessing your personal my Social Security account.

If you owe money to Social Security, they will mail you a letter with payment options and appeal rights.

We encourage you to report suspected Social Security imposter scams—and other Social Security fraud—to the Office of the Inspector General's website. You can find more information about scams on their webpage Protect Yourself from Scams. Please share this information with your friends, family, and colleagues to help spread awareness about Social Security imposter scams.

Healthy Choices

You might wonder why we're writing about nutrition in a blog about work. It's because food plays a big role in our life, including our success on the job. It not only affects our physical health but mental health as well. The foods we put in our body can affect our energy levels and mood throughout the day.

So what should you do to stay energized and feel ready for the day ahead? Start with a balanced diet that is filled with nutrients. Check out Eat Right at the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics for more information on nutrition. You may also want to talk with your doctor about which foods to add to your diet and which ones to avoid to create an eating plan that works for you. Below are a few tips:

• Increase energy:While caffeine may give you that extra boost of energy in the morning, excessive caffeine can lead to stress. It is important to rely on nutrients that you consume in your foods instead. Fresh fruits have natural sugar that gives your body an extra boost throughout the day. And asparagus contains plenty of B vitamins to turn carbohydrates into fuel. Try adding asparagus to a lunch salad to give you energy throughout the afternoon.
• Increase bone health:Calcium may be important for keeping bones healthy and strong. If your job is physically demanding and you are on your feet all day, it's important to maintain a healthy calcium level. Dairy, broccoli and almonds all pack a lot of calcium. Grab yogurt and a serving of almonds for a mid-morning or afternoon snack.
• Growing and restoring the body:Having protein daily can be important for fighting infections, carrying minerals, vitamins and oxygen throughout the body, and restoring the body. Good sources of protein include meat, poultry and eggs. If you prefer to have a different lifestyle when it comes to eating, other sources of protein can include beans, nuts, seeds and soy products. Keep in mind that with any food, the amount of protein needed is based on different factors such as age, sex and amount of physical activity.
• Reduce inflammation:Inflammation happens when your immune system attacks anything foreign to your body. Avoiding some foods, like soda and fried foods, can help prevent inflammation. Adding other foods, like nuts and salmon, can also help. And drink plenty of water! Drinking water throughout the day helps a lot of body functions and can calm inflammation.

Making Nutrition Work for You

If you're starting work or looking for work, it's a good idea to think about what you eat and how it affects your daily schedule. For example, some types of disabilities, such asdiabetes, renal or kidney disease, or an eating disorder, may require you to keep a specific food and/or medication schedule. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), employees with disabilities can request reasonable accommodations. Consider talking with your employer to see if these options can help you:

• A flexible lunch break
• Additional and/or frequent breaks throughout the day
• Access to a refrigerator or other food storage to bring food from home

If you know that you need to bring lunch each day to work meal prepping on the weekend is a great way to make sure you get the proper nutrition in your daily meals. It will also keep you from scrambling in the morning at the last minute for food to pack and take to work. If you are unsure how to cook a certain item of food or are just beginning on your cooking journey, ask a friend, family member or mentor to teach you the basics or for some recipes. We all have to start somewhere! There are also several resources available online and even sometimes in your local community.

It's important to remember that these tips are only to help you understand how the right foods can help you be your best self at work. You should always follow the advice of your healthcare provider.

Additional Resources

• Grocery shopping tips
• Commonly asked questions about nutrition
• Healthy Eating Cooking
• Live Cooking Classes – American Diabetes Association
• Sunflower Hill Cooking Classes

About Ticket to Work

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.

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. You can also learn more by registering for a free, online Work Incentives Seminar Event webinar. Or text TICKET to1-571-489-5292 to receive Ticket Program texts. Standard messaging rates may apply, and you can opt out at any time.

Are you a veteran looking for a job? Did you know that there are online job boards featuring companies that are specifically looking for the skills veterans bring to the workforce? Here, we highlight two sites: Hiring Our Heroes and RecruitMilitary. These veteran-focused sites offer job listings and other employment help.

Hiring Our Heroes

Hiring Our Heroes connects the military community—service members, military spouses, military caregivers and veterans—with American businesses to create economic opportunity and a strong workforce. Their team specializes in helping veterans find jobs that fit their needs. When asked how important it is for veterans to have focused job resources, Adam Rocke, Senior Director of Events and Programs, said, "When veterans have employment resources focused on their needs, it increases the likelihood that they will connect with meaningful careers aligned with their values and unique skill sets."

Three services featured on their site include:

• Job Board - Hiring Our Heroes offers an expansive job board that features job listings for full time, part time or contract roles. Enter your keywords, location, and click the "Veteran Hiring" tab on the top right corner to get search results specifically for veterans. Hiring Our Heroes also provides a free "Hot Jobs" email newsletter, a curated list of open positions sent to email subscribers.
• Career Forward With Google - Hiring Our Heroes offers "Career Forward," a free learner-to-earner program with support from Google.org. Military community members can earn a Google Career Certificate in data analytics, digital marketing & e-commerce, IT support, project management, cybersecurity, or user experience (UX) design through Career Forward. Once veterans earn the certificate, they have access to job search support and can connect with ready-to-hire employers.
• Career Connectors - The Career Connectors team provides one-on-one guidance to veterans, transitioning service members and military spouses to provide the right support at the right time. Connectors review resumes, provide job search resources and prepare job seekers for hiring events.

RecruitMilitary

RecruitMilitary connects military job seekers with services that include a job board and nationwide career fairs. RecruitMilitary was created specifically for the military community to help veterans through the civilian job search process and offer more employment services. RecruitMilitary helps address the additional challenges veterans have as they enter the civilian workforce. Chris Newsome, Senior Vice President at RecruitMilitary, stated, "Veterans often face unique challenges when transitioning from military service to the civilian workforce. A career website tailored to veterans can provide resources, guidance, and support specifically designed to address these challenges. It can help them navigate the complexities of the civilian job market, understand how to translate their military experience into civilian terms, and find employment opportunities that align with their skills and interests."

Three services featured on their site include:

• Job Board - In addition to full- and part-time job opportunities, the site lists internship and per diem (as needed by day) opportunities for veterans. You can browse jobs or create a free account to start applying for positions.
• Job Fairs - RecruitMilitary offers in-person and virtual job fairs. Job seekers with military experience can connect with recruiters from local and national companies. The events are free for U.S veterans, military spouses, transitioning military and members of the Guard and Reserve. The website offers resources to help prepare for the job fair.
• Live Resume Webinars - The live webinars feature resume writing professionals who offer guidance through tips and feedback. You can connect with a subject matter expert who will help enhance your resume and answer questions about resume writing best practices. They also offer webinars specifically for creating resumes to apply for federal jobs.

Additional Resources

Here are some other employment sites that are specifically for veterans and military spouses:

• Job Openings for Disabled Veterans (JOFDAV) - JOFDAV has a job board and blog posts with helpful career information.
• Hire Heroes - Hire Heroes USA provides free job search assistance to U.S. military members, veterans and their spouses.
• Getting Hired - Getting Hired has a dedicated career section for veterans. Job seekers can register and apply to jobs for free.

These resources can guide you in your job search. A representative from Paralyzed Veterans of America, an Employment Network (EN), said, "Many veterans return with physical disabilities or mental health challenges resulting from their service. Veteran-specific job sites can direct them to employers who are accommodating and supportive of their needs, creating a more inclusive and understanding work environment."

Employers need you and the skills and experience you bring. Explore the veteran employment sites listed to help you find a great new position!

How Can Ticket to Work Help?

Finding a job after military service can be challenging, but we're here to help. 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 service and supports they need to find and maintain employment as they move toward financial independence through work.

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. You can also learn more by registering for a free, online Work Incentives Seminar Event webinar. Or text TICKET to 1-571-489-5292 to receive Ticket Program texts. Standard messaging rates may apply, and you can opt out at any time.

Social Security is conducting a Ticket to Work Beneficiary Satisfaction Survey. If you received a letter inviting you to participate, we encourage you to use the link or QR code provided in the letter to access the survey and to take time (only about 15 minutes!) to share your feedback.

The survey will provide valuable feedback about your experience, if any, with the Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program, including the services provided by Employment Networks (EN). Participation in this survey will help Social Security improve the Ticket Program and ensure that Social Security is aware of the kinds of services that beneficiaries indicate they need.

Participation in this survey is voluntary and will not affect your eligibility for benefits now or in the future. Social Security will safeguard the information provided and will use it for limited purposes, consistent with applicable Federal law, regulations and directives. Social Security will not include your name or other identifying information in any published reports or presentations about the survey.

Survey participants were chosen randomly and not everyone who receives Social Security disability benefits was invited to participate.

Still have questions?

With the release of the Ticket to Work Beneficiary Satisfaction Survey, we wanted to remind you how to spot a Social Security scam. Social Security imposter scams continue to be widespread across the United States. Scammers use targeted, sophisticated tactics to deceive you into providing sensitive information or money. Learn more: Social Security Scam Awareness.

If you have any questions about the letter you received, please call the Survey Help Desk toll-free number at 1-855-205-3782, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. ET. If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, use 7-1-1 to access Text Telephone (TTY) Telecommunications Access Services.

If you have questions about the Ticket Program, we encourage you to call the Ticket to Work Help Line. A specialist will be able to answer your questions and connect you with resources that can help as you transition to employment. You can reach the Help Line at 1-866-968-7842 or 1-866-833-2967 (TTY), Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. ET. Help Line specialists can also verify that the invitation you received is authentic and is not a scam.

Thank you for your cooperation. Here are some other ways to receive timely updates from Ticket to Work!

• Become a Fan on Facebook
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• Subscribe to text messages

To help people who receive benefits and payments keep up with the changing cost of living, Social Security beneficiaries often receive an annual cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). Each year, Social Security bases the COLA on changes in the Consumer Price Index.

For 2024, Social Security benefits and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments will increase by 3.2%. This means that more than 71 million Americans will see a change in their benefit payments.

Find Out Your New Benefit Amount

my Social Security accounts are secure ways to verify and manage your benefits. By creating a free, personal account, you can check your Social Security statement, change your address, report your wages and more.

If you don't have a my Social Security account, you can sign up for one today. Once you log in to your account, you can manage your notification preferences under "Message Center Preferences" to start receiving courtesy messages either in your email or as a text message. Social Security will send a message to the Message Center inbox in your account and, if you've signed up for courtesy notifications, you will receive an email and/or text message to let you know you have a message waiting in your account.

In December 2023, Social Security COLA notices will be available online to most beneficiaries in the message center of their my Social Security account. Remember, you'll still receive your notice in the mail, but you can also choose to receive COLA notices online through your my Social Security account. If you do not have an account yet, you must create one by November 24, 2023, to receive the 2024 COLA notice online.

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 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 what the 2024 COLA means for you, you may have questions. Working with a Ticket Program service provider, like an Employment Network or State Vocational Rehabilitation agency that has a Benefits Counselor on staff may help you find the answers and information you're looking for.

The Ticket Program shares information about Work Incentives and employment resources for people with disabilities on a regular basis. Subscribe to our emails, sign up for text messaging and follow us on social media to stay updated on the Program and discover resources designed to help you succeed on the path to work.

• Subscribe to the Choose Work! Blog to learn more about the Ticket 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 can help you on your path to financial independence!
• Opt in to receive information via text by texting the word "TICKET" to 1-571-489-5292. You can opt out at any time. Standard messaging rates may apply.

Learn More

To learn more about the Ticket Program, visit https://choosework.ssa.gov. 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 or find providers on your own with the Ticket program Find Help tool.