The Ticket to Work Program was established by Social Security in an effort to provide a path to work to people who receive disability benefits. The program is voluntary and there are special rules in place that protect a person’s disability benefits while they are engaging in the program. Below is better explanation of the program by Social Security.
Ticket to Work is an employment support program for people with disabilities who are interested in going to work or increasing their work. The program’s goal is to increase opportunities and choices for eligible Social Security disability beneficiaries to get vocational rehabilitation, employment, and other support services from public and private providers, employers, and other organizations. Participation in the Ticket to Work program begins when a beneficiary places their Ticket to Work with an employment network (EN) or state vocational rehabilitation (VR) agency.
What is an EN?
An EN is an entity that enters into an agreement with the Social Security Administration to either provide or coordinate the delivery of the necessary services to Social Security disability beneficiaries. The EN can be a single person, a partnership/alliance (public or private), or an association of providers. Does it cost anything to become an EN?
The application process to become an EN is free. For more information about becoming an EN or to apply, contact the Ticket Program Manager at enoperations@yourtickettowork.ssa.gov or visit yourtickettowork.ssa.gov.
How many ENs will Social Security approve?
The EN application process is open-ended. The number of ENs that Social Security can approve is unlimited.
Do ENs receive upfront funding?
The Ticket to Work program is an outcome-based program. ENs receive payments when the beneficiary achieves certain work and earnings milestones or outcomes.
Do beneficiaries have to participate in the Ticket program?
The Ticket to Work program is voluntary. A beneficiary can choose if, when, and where to participate in the program.
How do ENs and beneficiaries connect?
Social Security uses many strategies to connect beneficiaries with ENs, including webinars, social media, targeted automatic telephone calls, and language about the Ticket to Work program in various notices. Social Security encourages beneficiaries to contact the Ticket to Work Help Line toll-free at 1-866-968-7842. (TTY 1-866-833-2967). In addition, Social Security provides an online directory so that beneficiaries can identify the providers and services available in their areas. Interested beneficiaries can contact any EN they prefer.
