Ready to meet your next employer? Job fairs are one of the best ways to connect directly with employers, learn about open positions, and practice your interview skills. Whether you’re exploring your first job or aiming to take the next step in your career, attending a job fair can open doors you might not find online.

Social Security's Ticket to Work Program supports people who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSDI/SSI) at every stage of their workforce journey. Even if you find your own job, the Ticket Program can continue to provide guidance — from resume reviews and interview prep to workplace accommodations and financial goal planning. Ticket Program service providers are ready to help you make the most of every opportunity, including job fairs happening near you.

Below is a sample of some of this month’s career fairs, both online and across the country. For complete details on any event to learn more, and to register, follow the links provided.

CareerEco

Below are some virtual career fairs being hosted throughout the nation this month.

• February 19: Engineering & Science Virtual Fair
• February 25: Explore Careers in Higher ED – All Roles & Experience Levels

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.

• February 25: Virtual Career Expo: Entry Level Technology

Job FairX

Find your next job at one of these virtual job fairs hosted this month.

• February 9: Brooklyn, NY Entry-Level Virtual Job Fair
• February 10: Pensacola, FL Healthcare Virtual Job Fair
• February 13: Lincoln, NE Technology Virtual Job Fair
• February 27: Salem, OR Entry-Level Virtual Job Fair

RecruitMilitary

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

• February 10: Transitioning Service Member & Spouse Virtual Career Fair
• February 12: Phoenix Veterans Job Fair
• February 17: Transition Assistance Program (TAP) European Virtual Hiring Event
• February 24: Eastern Region Virtual Career Fair 

USAJOBS

USAJOBS is the federal government's official employment site. As part of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM), USAJOBS helps recruit and retain a world-class government workforce. USAJOBS connects job seekers with federal employment opportunities across the United States and around the world. USAJOBS is constantly adding events and employment opportunities throughout the month as federal, state and local opportunities arise. If you do not see an opportunity that fits you below, we recommend continuing to check USAJOBS throughout the month for new events.

• February 25: Child and Youth Hiring Event – Aurora, CO

State-Specific Hiring

State, county, and city job fairs happen locally year-round. From large private employers hosting events for a region, to state and city employment opportunities, local governments are a great place to connect with resources like a Workforce EN or your State VR agency that can connect you with resources local to you. The listings below are a sampling of state-specific events throughout the nation for the month. To find out about your state’s current employment events, visit USA.gov's State Government List and select your state or territory from the dropdown list provided.

• February 10: Vermont – United Ground Express Hiring Event
• February 11: New Mexico – Employer Connection Hiring Event – American Job Center – Albuquerque
• February 18: Hawaii - 2026 Thompson School of Social Work and Public Health Field Education & Career Fair

Looking for More Support?

Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program can help. The 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. Connect with one today to learn how the Ticket Program can help you on your path to financial independence.

Learn More

To learn more about the Ticket to Work Program, call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842. For callers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, call 1-866-833-2967 (TTY). Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.; or visit choosework.ssa.gov.

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.

Every February 2, we watch a small, furry meteorologist emerge from his burrow and predict the weather. It’s a quirky tradition, but the real charm of Groundhog Day isn’t the forecast. It’s the idea of repeating the same day until something finally changes.

If you’ve seen the movie “Groundhog Day,” you know the story. Phil Connors wakes up to the same morning again and again. At first, he feels stuck. Then he experiments. Eventually he grows. Finally, he moves forward.

That journey mirrors something many people experience when navigating disability benefits and employment. This is where the Ticket to Work Program becomes meaningful.

When Life Feels Like a Loop

For many people receiving Social Security disability benefits, the idea of returning to work can feel like Phil’s endless cycle. The same worries. The same routines. The same questions about the future: “What if my disability worsens and I can’t work after a while?” “What will happen to my disability benefits?”

Concerns about losing benefits or not knowing where to start can make every day feel like a repeat of the last. But being stuck does not mean staying stuck.

Ticket to Work Helps Change the Pattern

The Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program is similar to the moment in the movie when Phil realizes he can shape his day instead of reliving it passively.

The program offers:

• Access to an employment team that can support you on your path to financial independence.
• Career counseling, job search assistance, resume development, and other services.
• Benefits counseling to help you understand how earnings from work will affect your benefits.

For people who want to explore work, the Ticket Program offers the chance to move beyond the “I can’t work” storyline and build a new path with guidance, choice, and safety built in.

Progress Happens One Step at a Time

Phil doesn’t break the cycle all at once. He tries small things. He learns new skills. He asks for help. He takes manageable risks.

Ticket to Work works the same way. You can start slowly and build confidence. You can try part time work, explore training, or learn how employment affects your benefits. You’re supported at every step.

Each day becomes a chance to move forward instead of repeating the past.

The Sunrise Moment

One of the most powerful scenes in “Groundhog Day” is when Phil finally wakes up to a brand new day. The loop is gone. He’s ready for what comes next.

Many people describe a similar feeling after beginning to participate in Ticket to Work. They often say they feel more in control, more hopeful, and more excited about their future.

It isn’t magic. It’s support, information, and encouragement to take the next step.

This Groundhog Day…

Whether Punxsutawney Phil predicts more winter or an early spring, the real question is whether you’re ready for your own fresh start.

If you’ve felt stuck in a loop, the Ticket Program can help you move forward. You don’t have to change everything overnight. You just need the right tools and support to begin.

Ready to Break the Cycle? Here’s What’s Next

Here are four actions you can take right now to learn more about the Ticket Program:

• Call the Ticket to Work Help Line to get your questions about working while on benefits answered at 1-866-968-7842 or 1-866-833-2967 (TTY).
• Sign up for a free WISE Webinar to learn more about Ticket to Work and other Work Incentives.
• Subscribe to Ticket Program texts. Text the word "TICKET" to 1-571-489-5292. Standard messaging rates may apply. You can opt out at any time.
• Find a service provider using our Find Help tool.

Phil Connors finally escaped his endless loop by choosing growth, taking action, and stepping into a new version of himself. You can break your own cycle too! Ticket to Work offers a real path forward toward independence, purpose, and the next chapter you’ve been waiting for.

As the year begins and you plan for the months ahead, staying on track with your budget can help you focus on your financial goals. Managing your money while working and making progress toward your career goals takes some practice, but it’s absolutely possible! Whether you’re saving for something special, covering monthly expenses, or simply trying to make your paycheck go a little further, having a plan makes a big difference. Once you have that plan or budget, we have five tips to help you stay on track: from making a shopping list and keeping your budget close at hand, to finding free resources at your local library, and reminding yourself not to give up when it gets tough.

Make a List Before Shopping, Even Online

Before you head to the store or start adding items to your online cart, take a few minutes to make a list. Writing down what you need helps you stay focused, avoid impulse buys, and stick to your budget.

If you want to stretch your grocery dollars, check out the tools and resources at MyPlate.gov. You’ll find free tips, recipes, and shopping guides that can help you plan nutritious meals without overspending.

A little planning before you shop can save you time, money, and stress.

Keep Your Budget with You

Your budget is your blueprint for managing your money and reaching your financial goals, so keep it close and easy to access. Whether you prefer using a notebook, a phone app, or a simple spreadsheet, having your budget handy helps you make informed choices wherever you are.

If you are out shopping, checking your budget can remind you of what you’ve already spent and what is still available for the month. If you are online, having your budget nearby can help you pause and think before making a purchase.

The more often you check and follow your budget, the more likely you are to stay on track.

Be Flexible

A budget is a plan, and like any plan, you can alter it as your resources, needs, and goals change. If you find that certain expense categories are too tight, adjust them. Maybe groceries cost more one month, or your transportation costs go up. Can you spend less on something not as essential? Your budget should work for you, not the other way around.

As your situation changes, you may find you have room in your budget for saving. Even small amounts add up over time and can help you prepare for emergencies, new goals, or unexpected opportunities.

If you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), it’s important to understand the asset limits that may affect your benefits. In most cases, you can have up to $2,000 in resources as an individual or $3,000 as a couple without affecting your eligibility. Resources include things like cash or money in a bank account.

To save more without going over these limits, consider opening an ABLE account. ABLE accounts allow eligible people with disabilities to save money for qualified expenses, such as housing, education, transportation, and health care. Savings in an ABLE account do not generally count toward SSI resource limits (up to certain amounts).

You might also explore a Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS), which lets you set aside income or resources for a specific work goal, such as paying for education, training, or equipment. Money used in a PASS is not counted toward SSI income or resource limits, which can help you build toward long-term employment goals.

Regularly reviewing and updating your budget, as necessary, helps you stay realistic, prepared, and confident as you move toward financial independence.

Visit Your Local Library

Your local library is a great place to save money and build skills that support your career goals. Libraries offer much more than books, and most of their resources are completely free.

You can borrow audiobooks, movies, and magazines instead of buying them, and most libraries provide free access to computers, Wi-Fi, and printers. Many also host resume workshops, interview practice sessions, and career coaching. Check whether your library offers free online classes in technology, budgeting, or professional development.

Exploring what your library has to offer can help you stretch your budget, grow your skills, and move closer to your employment goals.

Stay the Course

Sticking to a budget means developing a routine. Making that list before you shop, reviewing your progress, adjusting when needed, and seeking low or no cost resources all take time and patience. There may be months when it feels difficult or when unexpected expenses throw things off. That’s normal. What matters most is that you keep going.

Each time you check your spending, make adjustments, or reach a small goal, you build stronger financial habits and more confidence in yourself. Over time, those small efforts add up to big results and greater independence.

Remember, budgeting isn’t about perfection. It is about progress and finding what helps you stay in control of your money and your future. Keep going. You’re investing in yourself, and it is worth it.

Additional Resources

These free and trusted resources can help you learn more about budgeting, saving, and managing your benefits while you work toward your goals:

• MyMoney.gov is the federal government’s official financial education website. Learn about creating a budget, setting goals, saving, and making informed financial decisions.
• AmericaSaves.org offers free tools, tips, and encouragement to help you set savings goals, track your progress, and stay motivated.
• FDIC Money Smart: Explore free online financial education lessons designed to help you build skills for saving, spending, and planning for the future.

Build Confidence with 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, you can work with service providers to help you understand how work will affect your benefits and identify other Work Incentives that make it easier to work while maintaining your financial stability.

If you’re ready to explore your options, call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842. For callers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, call 1-866-833-2967 (TTY). Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.; or visit choosework.ssa.gov.

Taking control of your budget and your career is possible with the right tools and support. Ticket to Work can help you get started.

Changing careers is something many people think about at some point in their lives. Interests change, industries change, and life changes. Seeking a new start or a job that fits your needs better is completely natural. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median number of years that employees stay with their current employers is 3.9 years.

If you receive SSDI or SSI and are thinking about exploring new work opportunities, Social Security's Ticket to Work Program can be a powerful support system to help you.

The World of Work Has Changed

Today, people are no longer expected to stay in the same job for their entire working lives. Many people switch jobs or change fields because they want more balance, more meaning, or a job that fits their abilities and goals.

Advances in technology have created new types of jobs. Roles in customer service, tech support, online education, and other fields are growing. Many of these jobs don’t require extensive experience to obtain employment.

Why Career Change Is So Common

Life changes, your needs, education, and priorities may change too. It makes sense to look for work that fits where you are now.

For some people, a disability or a change in their health means they can no longer do the job they once had. When that happens, exploring a new career can be a positive and practical step for obtaining employment.

Remote and flexible hybrid jobs are also more common, allowing you to work from home or choose schedules that work better for you.

People also want work that feels meaningful. It’s natural to want a job that matches your strengths and values.

Why Career Change Is Possible, Especially with Ticket to Work

You may already have skills that can help you move into a new job. Skills like communication, problem-solving, organization, and customer service are useful in a wide variety of fields.

Training is also easier to access through online classes and certifications that let you learn new skills remotely and at your own pace.

The Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program can support you through the whole job change process. It’s a free and voluntary program for people who receive SSDI and/or SSI, are ages 18 through 64, and who want to work.

The Ticket Program offers career counseling to help you explore new fields, understand your strengths, and set goals. It also can connect you with training programs to build new skills.

When you’re ready to look for work, your employment team can help with resumes, interview practice, and finding employers. The program can support you after you start working by helping you understand accommodations and workplace expectations.

Many people worry about how working might affect their benefits. Ticket Program service providers will help you understand Work Incentives that let you try working without immediately losing benefits.

How to Start Your Own Career Journey

Start by thinking about your strengths and interests. What do you enjoy? What kind of work fits your life now? What new skills have you learned?

Next, explore new fields that interest you. Look into online classes or training programs that can help you learn new skills.

Connecting with an Employment Network or State Vocational Rehabilitation agency can give you personalized help to guide you through each step.

To get started, you can use our Find Help tool. This tool lets you search for Employment Networks and other service providers in your area or online. You can filter by the type of support you want, such as job coaching, benefits counseling, and job placement assistance.

Your Next Chapter Is Possible

Career change is often just part of life. With the right support, it can be a positive and empowering experience. You deserve work that fits your life today.

The Ticket Program will help you explore your options, build new skills, and move toward the future you want.

Learn More

Learn more about how the Ticket Program can help you reach your goals! Call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842 For callers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, call 1-866-833-2967 (TTY). Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.; or visit choosework.ssa.gov. You may also email us at TicketToWork@ssa.gov

Ready to meet your next employer? Job fairs are one of the best ways to connect directly with employers, learn about open positions, and practice your interview skills. Whether you’re exploring your first job or aiming to take the next step in your career, attending a job fair can open doors you might not find online.

Social Security's Ticket to Work Program supports people who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSDI/SSI) at every stage of their workforce journey. Even if you find your own job, the Ticket Program can continue to provide guidance — from resume reviews and interview prep to workplace accommodations and financial goal planning. Ticket Program service providers are ready to help you make the most of every opportunity, including job fairs happening near you.

Below is a sample of some of this month’s career fairs, both online and across the country. For complete details on any event to learn more, and to register, follow the links provided.

CareerEco

Below are some virtual career fairs being hosted throughout the nation this month.

• January 6: Veterinary Professional Virtual Fair
• January 28: Neurodiversity Virtual Career Fair 

Job FairX

Find your next job at one of these virtual job fairs hosted this month.

• January 5: Kansas City, MO Entry-Level Virtual Job Fair
• January 9: Fargo, ND Technology Virtual Job Fair
• January 12: Orange County, CA Entry-Level Virtual Job Fair
• January 13: Springfield, IL Healthcare Virtual Job Fair
• January 21: Louisville, KY Healthcare Virtual Job Fair 

RecruitMilitary

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

• January 7: LinkedIn Master Class
• January 15: JB Langley – Eustis Area Veterans Job Fair
• January 15: San Antonio Veterans Jobs Fair
• January 22: Tampa Veterans Career Fair
• January 29: Job Fair at Fort Bliss 

USAJOBS

USAJOBS is the federal government's official employment site. As part of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM), USAJOBS helps recruit and retain a world-class government workforce. USAJOBS connects job seekers with federal employment opportunities across the United States and around the world. USAJOBS is constantly adding events and employment opportunities throughout the month as federal, state and local opportunities arise. If you do not see an opportunity that fits you below, we recommend continuing to check USAJOBS throughout the month for new events.

Please note, not all links below will go to a federal (.gov) website. USAJOBS is associated with but does not host all of these events.

• January 7: United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) Career Day
• January 14: Supreme Court Police – Virtual Recruitment Event
• January 21: Child and Youth Program Hiring Event
• January 28: Virtual Job Fair – Global Veterinary Medicine Practice (GVMP) – Veterinary Services - DoW

If you know about an upcoming job fair that our readers would find helpful, email us at TTWsocialmedia@ssa.gov with the event name, dates, and official website.

Looking for More Support?

Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program can help. The 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. Connect with one today to learn how the Ticket Program can help you on your path to financial independence.

Learn More

To learn more about the Ticket to Work Program, call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842. For callers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, call 1-866-833-2967 (TTY). Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.; or visit choosework.ssa.gov.

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.

Ready to meet your next employer? Job fairs are one of the best ways to connect directly with employers, learn about open positions, and practice your interview skills. Whether you’re exploring your first job or aiming to take the next step in your career, attending a job fair can open doors you might not find online.

Social Security's Ticket to Work Program supports people who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSDI/SSI) at every stage of their workforce journey. Even if you find your own job, the Ticket Program can continue to provide guidance — from resume reviews and interview prep to workplace accommodations and financial goal planning. Ticket Program service providers are ready to help you make the most of every opportunity, including job fairs happening near you.

Below is a sample of some of this month’s career fairs, both online and across the country. For complete details on any event to learn more, and to register, follow the links provided.

CareerEco

Below are some virtual career fairs being hosted throughout the nation this month.

• December 16: Healthcare Virtual Career and Grad School Fair
• December 18: Engineering & Science Virtual Fair

Job FairX

Find your next job at one of these virtual job fairs hosted this month.

• December 10: Richmond Entry-Level Virtual Job Fair
• December 18: Tucson Technology Virtual Job Fair
• December 18: Long Island Entry-Level Virtual Job Fair 

RecruitMilitary

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

• December 9: Central Region Virtual Career Fair for Veterans
• December 11: Orlando Veterans Job Fair
• December 11: Atlanta Veterans Job Fair 

USAJOBS

USAJOBS is the federal government's official employment site. As part of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM), USAJOBS helps recruit and retain a world-class government workforce. USAJOBS connects job seekers with federal employment opportunities across the United States and around the world. USAJOBS is constantly adding events and employment opportunities throughout the month as federal, state and local opportunities arise. If you do not see an opportunity that fits you below, we recommend continuing to check USAJOBS throughout the month for new events.

• December 17: Sheboygan Job Fair
• December 18-19: IRS Clerical and Administrative Positions - Ogden, UT

If you know about an upcoming job fair that our readers would find helpful, email us at TTWsocialmedia@ssa.gov with the event name, dates, and official website.

Looking for More Support?

Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program can help. The 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. Connect with one today to learn how the Ticket Program can help you on your path to financial independence.

Learn More

To learn more about the Ticket to Work Program, call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842. For callers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, call 1-866-833-2967 (TTY). Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.; or visit choosework.ssa.gov.

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.

Deciding when you’re ready to return to work or work for the first time is a deeply personal choice that depends on your goals, comfort level, and circumstances. Everyone’s path to employment looks different, and there’s no single “right” timeline.

If you’ve been thinking about taking that next step, the upcoming holiday season could be the perfect time to begin your journey toward financial independence. With seasonal opportunities, flexible schedules, and a surge in hiring, now might be your moment to start building the future you’ve been envisioning.

The Benefits of Seasonal Employment

In addition to being short term and a possible first step into the workforce, seasonal work has some other benefits that can help you on your employment journey:

Flexible Schedules. Many seasonal employment opportunities like retail, customer service, or warehouse work have flexible schedules outside the traditional 9-5 office job. This flexibility can give you time to adjust to working and time to meet other commitments you may have.

Filling Employment Gaps. If you had to leave the workforce due to your disability and are ready to try working again, future employers may ask about employment gaps on your resume. Seasonal employment can bridge those gaps, showing interviewers that you're ready to return to work again.

Developing New Skills. Seasonal work is a chance to try something new. If you think you're ready for a career change or want to apply your skills in a new way, seasonal work can let you try new things. New jobs let us brush up on skills we've already mastered, develop new skills we can apply to our existing careers, or be the start of an entirely new chapter in our work history.

Building Your Network. They say it's not what you know, but who you know. And seasonal work is a chance to meet new people in a professional environment. By growing your career network, you open the door to new opportunities. Former coworkers can become references and supportive members of your employment team.

Think Outside the Big Box Store

When people hear seasonal employment, they often think of retail employees for the holidays. That is one option you can explore as you look for work. However, if you think retail may not be for you, there are other industries hiring around the end of the year that may be a better fit. These include:

Warehouse and Delivery Employees: Online shopping and holiday deliveries go up near the end of the year. Many companies try to meet the demands of consumers by having more order processors, stock clerks, and delivery drivers around the holiday season.

Customer Service: Like retail and warehouse demands, customer service professionals are needed to support companies through their end-of-year sales — from public-facing customer service positions to more behind-the-scenes logistical support jobs.

Human Resources Administration: The end of the year means open enrollment season for many companies that provide health insurance benefits to their employees. Many HR professionals look for additional staff around the holidays to help with open enrollment, questions about benefits, and the upcoming tax season.

Seasonal Resort Employees and Tour Guides: If you live in or near a resort area, your local resort may be looking to hire for the upcoming season. While you may have missed hiring for the winter months, they may start looking for employees for the upcoming summer months. If you did miss winter hiring, don't give up; there may be last-minute openings as people decline job offers due to various circumstances.

Temporary Work Agencies: During the final months of the year, companies may experience more long-term absences from their full-time employees due to holiday leave or seasonal illnesses. They sometimes hire temporary employees to fill those gaps to keep things running smoothly. Temporary employment like this can allow you to connect with a company for future employment opportunities. Some agencies may even offer temporary to permanent employment positions.

Be Prepared

No matter the type of seasonal job you apply for, there are a few universal tips to help you make a great impression during your interview and possibly land the job. This job may be temporary, but being prepared for your interview, dressing professionally, and respecting the process are always important.

Many seasonal jobs conduct open interviews. This means that instead of scheduling a one-on-one time to meet with you, they have a set time slot to meet with everyone who is interested in applying for a seasonal job.

Open interviews can be done individually or in a group setting. If you're going to an open interview, bring a few extra copies of your resume and references. You may be meeting with more than one manager. Be prepared to wait; open interviews can sometimes take the hiring manager the entire time slot to meet with everyone. Finally, even though it is an open interview, make sure to get the interviewer's information so you can send them a thank you note once the interview is complete.

How Can Ticket to Work 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 services and supports they need to find and maintain employment as they move toward financial independence through work.

The Ticket Program can support you with different forms of employment, including part time, seasonal, and full time. Through the Ticket Program, your employment team can help you:

• Identify seasonal job opportunities that fit your skills and interests
• Update your resume and practice interview skills
• Understand how seasonal work will affect your Social Security disability benefits
• Explore whether a short-term job could become a longer-term opportunity.

With guidance from Ticket to Work service providers, you can take advantage of seasonal jobs to gain experience, build confidence, and move closer to financial independence while getting expert help every step of the way.

Learn More

If you’re ready to explore how work can fit into your life, the Ticket Program is here to help you take that next step. Whether you’re curious about seasonal jobs or looking to build a long-term career path, you don’t have to navigate the journey alone.

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 TTWsocialmedia@ssa.gov with the event name, dates, and official website.

The websites below provide listings of career fairs that are taking place in many different locations across the country. Many also include virtual career fairs. We’ve provided a sampling of specific events, but please be sure to visit the organizations’ websites for complete details.

Links to these job fairs are not affiliated with nor endorsed by Social Security and may not follow the same privacy, security, and accessibility policies. To learn more about accommodations available to job seekers wanting to attend a fair, please contact each organization directly for their accommodation request process and deadlines.

CareerEco

Below are some virtual career fairs being hosted throughout the nation this month.

• November 5: Health Professions Fair for Underserved & Underrepresented Students
• November 12: SEC & ACC Virtual Career Fair
• November 14: Marketing and Communications Virtual Fair
• November 19: AI & Automation Virtual Career and Grad Summit
• November 20: Government & Non-Profit Virtual Career & Internship Fair 

Job FairX

Find your next job at one of these virtual job fairs hosted this month.

• November 4: Chicago, IL Healthcare Virtual Job Fair
• November 6: Montgomery, AL Entry-Level Virtual Job Fair
• November 14: Sioux Falls, ND Technology Virtual Job Fair
• November 17: Queens, NY Entry-Level Virtual Job Fair
• November 24: Vancouver, WA Technology Virtual Job Fair 

RecruitMilitary

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

• November 5: Online Civilian Resume Webinar - See calendar for your time zone
• November 5: Job Fair at Fort Benning
• November 12: Job Fair at Fort Bragg
• November 18: Understanding and Utilizing USAJobs - Online Webinar 2-3 p.m. ET
• November 20: Dallas Veterans Job Fair
• November 25: National Virtual Career Fair for Veterans 

Need help on your career path?

Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program can help. The 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. Connect with one today to learn how the Ticket Program can help you on your path.

Learn More

To learn more about the Ticket to Work Program, call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842. For callers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, call 1-866-833-2967 (TTY). Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.; or visit choosework.ssa.gov.

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.

To help people 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 2026, Social Security benefits and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments will increase by 2.8%. This means that more than 75 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.

Starting in late November 2025, Social Security COLA notices will be available online to most beneficiaries in the message center of their my Social Security account. Remember, you will still receive your notice in the mail, but you can also choose to receive COLA notices online through your my Social Security account.

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 Social Security-approved 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 2026 COLA means for you, you may have questions about how work would affect your benefits. 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. Stay connected with us!

• 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 during our monthly webinars. Register for our next webinar.
• Follow us on Facebook and X to find even more information that can help you on your path to financial independence through work!
• Opt in to receive information via text by texting the word "TICKET" to 1-571-489-5292. Standard messaging rates may apply, and you can opt out at any time.

Learn More

To learn more about the Ticket to Work Program, call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842. For callers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, call 1-866-833-2967 (TTY). Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. ET; or visit choosework.ssa.gov. You may also email us at TicketToWork@ssa.gov