How to Find Employment After Drawing Social Security Disability Benefits

For "Ticket to Work," you must have a permanent disability.

For many hard-working citizens, a permanent disability doesn't mark the end of working life. It may require a few adjustments to your work schedule or duties, or it may mean an entire career change. Whether you've been out of the workforce for years or just a few months, you can definitely find employment after receiving disability benefits through the "Ticket to Work" program --- and you may even continue receiving benefits, too.

Instructions

1. If you're qualified for the SSA's Ticket to Work program, you'll receive a ticket by mail. You must have been receiving Social Security Disability Insurance or Supplementary Security Income to qualify, and you must also be between 18 and 65.

2. Once you've received your Ticket, choose an Employment Network or State Vocational Rehabilitation agency to help you rehabilitate. Bring your ticket to that agency. The SSA will send a confirmation letter by mail after you've assigned your ticket to the EN or VR of your choice.

3. Begin working with the EN or VR you've chosen. Once you've found a job, you will be entered into a nine month trial work period in which the SSA will monitor your adjustment and income. During this time, your benefits won't change at all.

4. As of 2010, once the trial period is over, if you're making at least $1000 a month you will no longer receive Social Security Disability Insurance. You may, however, continue receiving Medicare or Medicaid, and you may continue receiving Supplementary Security Income --- though it may be reduced.

5. If you aren't receiving the minimum "substantial" amount of money required by the government at your new job, you will receive benefits to compensate for the difference. You will also receive benefits again if you don't work regularly or are transitioning between jobs.

6. If you're not qualified for Ticket to Work, contact your state's Department of Rehabilitative Services for help getting back into the workforce. A vocational rehabilitation program will assess your skills, education and disability and provide you with the training and assistance you need to find a job.

References

• Social Security Online: Are You Receiving Benefits and Interested in Working?
• Girls Health: Illness & Disability: Planning for the Future