Ticket to Work Blog | Choose Work! - Ticket to Work

Social Security makes every effort to ensure that any information published is accurate and up to date, but some information on this webpage may be historical.

Ready to Work? These Employers are Hiring!

A pair of hands holding up a paper talk bubble into the air. The text inside the bubble reads "Job Fair". Job fairs are one of the most powerful — and often overlooked — ways to meet real employers, uncover new opportunities, and make a lasting impression beyond an online application. Whether you’re searching for your very first role or looking to make a bold career move, the right job fair can open doors you didn’t even realize were there. With several exciting events just around the corner, now is the perfect time to explore what’s ahead and start planning your next big step.

Social Security's Ticket to Work Program supports people ages 18 through 64 who receive SSDI or SSI at every stage of their path to work. Even if you find a job on your own, the Ticket Program can still help you build your skills and confidence. Service providers can offer resume reviews, interview practice, help with workplace accommodations, and guidance as you plan for your financial future. They’re also ready to help you make the most of new opportunities, including job fairs happening in your area.

Below is a sample of this month’s career fairs, both online and across the country. To get full details about any event and to register, use the links provided.

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

CareerEco

CareerEco is offering a variety of virtual career fairs this month, open to participants across the nation.

April 9: Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Defense Virtual Event
April 22: Connecting Veterans to Higher Ed Careers
April 29: Travel Healthcare Virtual Career Fair

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.

April 15: Virtual Hiring Fair: Healthcare
April 22: Virtual Hiring Fair: Security Clearance Jobs
April 28-29: Hampton Roads Amplify & Military Spouse Hiring Event

Job FairX

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

April 9: Laredo, TX Technology Virtual Job Fair
April 10: Buffalo, NY Entry-Level Virtual Job Fair
April 14: Philadelphia, PA Healthcare Virtual Job Fair
April 27: Wichita, KS Entry-Level Virtual Job Fair

RecruitMilitary

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

April 8: Job Fair at Fort Benning
April 16: Indianapolis, IN Veterans Job Fair
April 23: Job Fair at Naval Station Norfolk
April 28: Central 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. Some of the career fairs listed below are hosted by the federal government, while others are organized by external groups that include federal participation.

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.

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, which may be part of your Employment Team 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.

Looking for More Support?

If you’d like extra support as you prepare for these events, the Ticket to Work Program is ready to help. A service provider can offer guidance on what to expect, help you strengthen your materials, and provide ongoing support as you move forward in your job search. With the right resources, each event can become a valuable part of your path toward work.

Learn More

To learn more about how the Ticket to Work Program can support your journey, start by using the Find Help tool at choosework.ssa.gov/findhelp to connect with a service provider. You can also join a free online Work Incentives Seminar Event (WISE) webinar to explore how work and benefits can fit together. If you have questions, 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, or text TICKET to 1-571-489-5292 for updates.

Standard messaging rates may apply, and you can opt out at any time.

Closing the Resume Gap

An all-white jigsaw puzzle with the word "Career Gap," where a section of the puzzle is missing. Have you had a break in your career? Are you trying to decide how to account for a gap in your employment history in your resume? This is not unusual. Due to organizational changes resulting in layoffs, time away from a job to care for others, or personal health matters, many people have breaks in their work experience.

Employers know that people’s lives will not always fit neatly into traditional career timelines. However, because your resume is often the first opportunity an employer has to learn about you, it is important that a significant break in work experience is acknowledged. In this blog post, we provide some ideas for you to consider as you draft your “return-to-work” resume.

How to Address a Gap Caused by Disability

You may already know that when you craft your resume, it will be most effective if it is specific to the job you are applying for. This means if you want to return to the same type of job you had prior to your gap, it will be necessary to include that experience and acknowledge the gap.

If your gap was due to a disability, there is no need to provide private medical information. A straightforward explanation that you took medical leave or were recovering from a health issue or injury is sufficient. The reason you had a break from employment is much less important than what you did while you were unemployed.

What did you do to prepare to return to work? Perhaps you took some continuing education courses to learn a new skill. Maybe you earned a certification that is relevant to your industry. Did you stay active in your professional associations or take on some part-time consulting? Did you participate in any volunteer or mentoring activities? Any of these actions can demonstrate that you have taken the initiative to be ready for your next position.

Over the years, the chronological resume has been the standard format. In other words, you list all your jobs, starting with the most recent and your employment dates. This type of format will identify employment gaps.

Another way to write your resume is to focus less on employers and more on your accomplishments. For example, you can start with a career summary and then add your past positions, including your responsibilities and achievements that support your career summary. You can then finish your resume with the chronological list of employers. There you can address the gap with the simple explanation noted above. With this approach, called a functional resume, the reader is drawn to your qualifications first and your work history later.

How a Ticket Program Service Provider Can Support You

If you are returning to work after receiving disability benefits (SSDI/SSI), Social Security’s Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program offers support to help you make that transition. Your employment team can guide you through the job search and help you discuss your work gap in a simple and positive way.

Your provider can help you choose the best resume format, highlight your strengths, and prepare for interviews. They can help you practice how to explain your work gap without oversharing and how to focus on your readiness to work now.

If you want to build new skills or refresh old ones, your provider can help you identify training programs and courses that make your resume stronger. And once you find a job, they continue to support you as you adjust to your new role and work toward long term success.

Most importantly, you have someone on your side who understands your experience and helps you build confidence as you progress toward work.

Want to Learn More?

If you are interested in exploring the Ticket Program, here are several ways to get information and support.

Connect with a Ticket Program service provider. Service providers can explain how the program works, help you understand your choices, and offer guidance with resumes, training, and job planning.
Call the Ticket to Work Help Line. The Help Line can answer questions about eligibility, services, and what the program offers. This is a simple way to get clear information from someone who understands the process.
Contact 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 send us an email.
Read more about the program. If you prefer to learn on your own, you can find more details about Ticket to Work, the types of support available, and how the program assists people returning to work after a disability related break.
Explore your options at your own pace. There’s no pressure to decide right away. You can take in the information, think about what feels right for you, and reach out whenever you are ready.

Your Gap Is a Part of Your Story, Not a Barrier

A break in your work history because of a disability is only one part of your story. It reflects a time when you focused on your health and did what you needed to do. With the right support, you can share that experience in a simple, confident way and show employers that you are ready for new opportunities. The Ticket Program is here to help you explore what’s possible and connect you with people who can guide you as you consider your options.

Do You Qualify for this Tax Credit?

A stack of wooden blocks that say from top to bottom, "Earned. Income. Tax. Credit." It's tax season! If you earned income in 2025, it is important to file your taxes to avoid tax penalties from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). This blog post discusses a tax credit that may apply to you and free services available through the IRS.

Earned Income Tax Credit

The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is a benefit for working people with low to moderate income. To qualify, you must meet certain requirements and file a tax return, even if you do not owe any taxes or are not required to file. The EITC reduces the amount of taxes you owe and may allow you to receive a refund.

Filing as a Dependent

Regardless of your age, if you are "permanently and totally disabled at any time during the year," you may be considered a qualifying child. This means that a family member that you live with may claim you as a dependent on their taxes. If this is the case, you are not eligible for the EITC.

Learn More:
Qualifying child
Who can claim?

Do I Qualify for the EITC?

To qualify for the EITC you must meet some basic requirements such as:

Having worked and earned income under a certain amount that is dependent on marital status and number of dependents. Please refer to the IRS’s guidance
Having investment income less than $11,950 in tax year 2025
Having a valid Social Security number by the due date of your return

You can determine your eligibility and file and claim your EITC for free:

Use the IRS’s EITC Assistant to help determine if you are eligible.
According to the IRS website, if you made $89,000 or less in 2025, you can use software products through IRS's Free File and electronically file your return to claim your EITC. Visit IRS.gov to access the software.

Will a Tax Refund Affect my SSDI or SSI?

You may be concerned that a tax refund will affect your eligibility for Social Security disability benefits, Medicare and public benefits, including Medicaid and food stamps (SNAP). The law, according to Social Security, is clear that, in most cases, tax refunds, including refunds from tax credits such as the EITC, are not counted as income for purposes of determining eligibility for benefits or payments. This applies to any federal program and any state or local program financed with federal funds.

For SSI recipients, income tax refunds are not counted as income and all federal tax refunds received on, or after January 2010, are not counted toward your SSI resource limit for 12 months (current allowable resource amount, according to Social Security, is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple). For more information, contact Social Security toll-free at 1-800-772-1213 (1-800-325-0778 TTY).

Who Can Help?

The IRS works with national partners, community-based coalitions, and thousands of local partners and governments. These partnerships, also known as the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, provide free EITC tax return preparation and tax help and tax education.

VITA offers free basic tax-return preparation to people who:

Generally, make $67,000 or less
Have a disability
Are limited-English-speaking taxpayers

IRS-certified volunteers provide free basic income tax return preparation with electronic filing to qualified individuals. To find your local VITA site, call 1-800-906-9887, or use the VITA Locator Tool.

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, a service provider such as an Employment Network (EN) can help you understand available Social Security Work Incentives.

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.

Discover Who’s Hiring Now

Two people talking to each other across a table at a job fair. 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.

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.

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.

March 11: Virtual Hiring Fair: Logistics, Skilled Trades, and Transportation
March 19: MCAS Cherry Point Career Summit

Job FairX

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

March 10: Springfield, MA Healthcare Virtual Job Fair
March 13: Oklahoma City, OK Entry-Level Virtual Job Fair
March 23: Fargo, ND Entry-Level Virtual Job Fair
March 26: Salem, OR Technology Virtual Job Fair

National Organization on Disability

The National Organization on Disability is a nonprofit that works to expand employment opportunities and improve economic participation for people with disabilities. It partners with employers, government agencies, and community leaders to reduce barriers in the workplace. Through research, training, and consulting, the organization helps create environments where people with disabilities can succeed.

March 24: Virtual Career Fair

RecruitMilitary

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

March 11: Job Fair at Fort Hood
March 17: National Virtual Career Fair
March 31: Onward to Opportunity/D'Aniello Institute of Veterans & Military Families Virtual Career Fair

USAJOBS

March 13: West Virginia Joint Recruitment Event – Federal Bureau of Prisons
March 16-19: APS Global Physics Summit | Career Fair in Denver, CO
March 24: Veteran's Strategic Hiring Event - Clovis, CA

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.

March 11: Chalmette, LA – Tri-Parish Works Career Fair & Expo
March 13: Juneau, AK – 2026 Youth Focused Job Fair
March 27: Indianapolis, IN – The Inaugural WorkOne Indy Veterans hiring Event
March 27: KANSASWORKS – 2026 Virtual Statewide Job 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

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.

Stay Safe: Slam the Scam

Scammers often target people who receive Social Security disability benefits. According to Social Security’s Office of the Inspector General (OIG), there has been a significant increase in scam emails pretending to be from the government and requesting or offering access to your Social Security information.

Here are some ways you can identify a scam and what you can do if you believe you may have been a victim.

Common Scam Warning Signs

Scammers often reach out by phone, text, email, or social media, pretending to be government employees. Social Security will never threaten people or demand immediate payment.

A few common warning signs include:

Messages claiming your Social Security statement is ready to download
Embedded links or attachments labeled as statements or documents
Pressure to act immediately or face consequences, including demanding payment
Sender addresses that do not end in .gov
Requests for personal information

What You Can Do to Stay Safe

Because scam emails often use formal language, logos, and colors, they can be mistaken as legitimate. If you are unsure about an email or message you receive:

Do not click links or open attachments in unsolicited messages.
Do not respond or provide personal information.
To access or set up your Social Security account, go directly to ssa.gov/myaccount. Type the link into your browser and do not tap a link provided in a message.
Report suspicious emails immediately.

If You Think You Have Been a Victim of a Scam

It is important to be vigilant when sending or receiving any form of communication, but mistakes do happen. If you think you may have been the victim of a scam (clicked a link, downloaded an attachment, or provided personal information), here is what you can do:

Stop all communication with the suspected scammer.
Contact your financial institutions to protect accounts.
Report the incident to the Social Security’s OIG at oig.ssa.gov/report.
File a complaint with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov.
Report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission at ftc.gov.
If financial loss occurs, contact local law enforcement.

Staying Organized with Your Ticket to Work Providers

If you are a Ticket to Work participant, your Employment Network (EN) or State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agency will likely reach out to you to maintain contact on your path to employment. Keep a list of the organizations you work with and the phone numbers they use. You can also automatically save their phone number as a contact in your phone. If something seems odd, ask the person to confirm their identity or send information in writing.

How to Get Started with Ticket to Work

If you are ready to explore your work 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.

Ready to Work? These Employers are Hiring!

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.

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

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?

Learn More

Breaking the Cycle: What “Groundhog Day” Can Teach Us About the Ticket to Work Program

A man wearing a top hat is holding Punxsutawney Phil, the groundhog, in front of a crowd of people at the Groundhog Day celebration. 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.

5 Tips on How to Stick to Your Budget

A mother and son looking over a list on a clipboard in a grocery store. 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.

Bonus tip: Try to shop when you feel comfortable and have eaten, whether that means before you leave home or after a meal or snack. Shopping while hungry or tired can make it harder to focus on your list or budget.

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.

Navigating a Career Change with Ticket to Work

A group of people dressed in clothes and uniforms representing a variety of different occupations. 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.

Exploring a New Career with Ticket to Work

We hosted a free webinar on January 28 to help you explore new career options with confidence. Participants learned

Practical tips for navigating a career change.
How the Ticket to Work Program supports your journey.
What to expect when getting started.

Watch the archive or register for our next webinar!

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

Discover Who’s Hiring Now

An open laptop with the words "Job Fair" on the screen. 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.

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.

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Additional Resources

Build Confidence with Ticket to Work

Exploring a New Career with Ticket to Work

The World of Work Has Changed

Why Career Change Is So Common

Why Career Change Is Possible, Especially with Ticket to Work

How to Start Your Own Career Journey

Your Next Chapter Is Possible

Learn More

CareerEco

Job FairX

RecruitMilitary

USAJOBS

Looking for More Support?

Learn More

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