Getting Back to Work with the Ticket to Work Program

Many people find that returning to work, or working for the first time, can change their lives in a positive way. They find that they can earn more money, gain greater financial independence, meet new people and learn new skills. Most of all, work provides a sense of pride and allows us all to pursue the American dream.

But many people who think they might want to try working are not sure where to start.

The good news? There's a way to a better future: Social Security's Ticket to Work program!

It's Free and We Can Help You

Ticket to Work is a free and voluntary program offered by Social Security that can help people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits and who are interested in returning to work or working for the first time. The Ticket program and other Work Incentives allow participants to:

• Receive employment support throughout their journey to financial independence.
• Access disability benefits (SSI and SSDI) and Medicare and Medicaid healthcare coverage as they transition to full-time work.
• Return to benefits if they are no longer able to work due to their disability.

How it Works

After an individual has thought about their work goals and what help they might need to achieve them, it is time to select a service provider that can help them achieve these goals. The Ticket program offers a choice of service providers: Employment Networks (EN) and State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agencies. Both offer a range of services such as career counseling, job placement, and more, to help individuals prepare for and find work.