It was a new year and Rebecca was in remission from cancer. She says she felt like a walking miracle. As she recovered her strength, she looked forward to connecting with a wider circle of people and felt ready to return to the workforce. Formerly a teacher, she wanted to try out a new field of work.
At the same time, Rebecca was uncertain about whether she could sustain work and where to begin. Not knowing if or when the cancer would come back contributed to feelings of insecurity and a reluctance to jeopardize her Social Security Disability Insurance and Medicare benefits.
While exploring her options, Rebecca received information in the mail about Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program. This free and voluntary program supports career development for people with disabilities who are ready for employment. Adults ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSDI/SSI) qualify.
Through the Ticket Program, service providers known as Employment Networks (EN) and State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agencies offer a range of free support services to help people prepare for, find or maintain employment. Some service providers specialize in working with specific populations; others offer certain types of services, including benefits counseling, career planning and more. The program is set up to help people progress toward financial independence through work.
Together, Rebecca and her EN developed an Individual Work Plan (IWP), a detailed roadmap that identified her employment goals along with the activities that would help her achieve them. They worked together to update her resume, find and assess job leads, and sharpen her interview skills.
Rebecca accepted a new job at the American Kennel Club (AKC), inspecting kennels around the country to make sure each is compliant with AKC rules and regulations. She loves her job and appreciates the sense of stability it has restored.
You may not believe you can start in a new field, but for many, this is a great option. Beginning a new career allows you to meet more people, learn new skills and enhance those you already have. If you're thinking about a new career, we encourage you to read Thinking about a Career Change? Then, head over to our Find a Job page to get some ideas about the types of jobs that are out there, including Hot Jobs: 6 Jobs to Help You Think Outside the Office.
Navigating a new career path can be hard, but we're here to help. To learn more, 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.
You can also learn more by registering for a free, online Work Incentives Seminar Event webinar. Or, text TICKET to 474747 to receive Ticket Program texts. Standard messaging rates may apply, and you can opt out at any time.
Opt in to receive information about the Ticket Program via text. Text the word "TICKET" to 474747
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