Remote work has become more common in the wake of the pandemic and the Great Resignation, opening new doors for individuals with disabilities to participate in the workforce. This shift has contributed to a notable rise in employment among people with disabilities, with labor force participation increasing from 37.8% in September 2022 to 40.3% in September 2023, according to the U.S.
Department of Labor. Legal protections such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) continue to play a vital role in promoting workplace accessibility and equity. One key initiative advancing these efforts is the Ticket to Work program—a federal program designed to help individuals with disabilities gain financial independence while maintaining access to essential healthcare benefits. Here’s how the program works and why it matters.
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Key Takeaways
- The Ticket to Work Program supports individuals with disabilities in achieving financial independence and securing paid employment while maintaining access to essential healthcare benefits.
- Eligible participants can access services through approved providers, including Employment Networks (ENs) and State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agencies, which offer job placement, training, and ongoing support.
- Participation in the program is entirely free and voluntary.
- Beneficiaries use their “ticket” to work with authorized ENs or state VR agencies that align with their employment goals.
- These service providers receive payments from the Social Security Administration when participants reach specific milestones related to sustained employment and earnings.
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What Is the Ticket to Work Program?
The Ticket to Work program is a federal initiative designed to help people with disabilities explore employment opportunities without risking the loss of vital healthcare coverage. Established in 1999 through the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act and signed into law by President Bill Clinton, the program enables individuals receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) to transition into the workforce while maintaining their health benefits during the process.
Originally developed to expand limited employment options—once only available through state vocational rehabilitation (VR) agencies—the program now offers broader access through Employment Networks (ENs). A significant feature of the program is continued Medicare coverage for SSDI recipients, including premium-free Part A for hospital care, for at least 8.5 years after returning to work. Participants may also retain Part B coverage, though they must pay for it unless another source provides assistance.
How the Ticket to Work Program Works
The Ticket to Work program is a free and voluntary initiative that assists individuals with disabilities—ages 18 to 64—in preparing for, finding, and maintaining employment. Its primary goal is to support participants in achieving long-term financial independence while reducing their reliance on Social Security benefits.
Eligible individuals receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) are automatically qualified to participate. By contacting the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842 or 1-866-833-2967 (TTY), eligible individuals receive a “ticket” they can assign to an approved Employment Network (EN) or State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agency for personalized support and job placement services.
Participants work with providers to create a tailored career development plan, complete with goals and timelines. The Social Security Administration monitors progress to ensure participants are actively moving toward sustained employment. In 2023, the federal SSI monthly payments are up to $914 for individuals and $1,371 for couples; in 2024, these amounts increase to $943 and $1,415 respectively. SSDI payments vary based on individual work history and number of dependents.
Employment for Ticket to Work Participants
Ticket to Work participants can access employment support through two main types of service providers: Employment Networks (ENs) and State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agencies. While both help individuals with disabilities transition into the workforce, they serve different roles:
- Employment Networks (ENs) are comprised of employers, nonprofit organizations, government entities, or partnerships that offer services such as job training, career counseling, job placement, and ongoing workplace support.
- Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agencies operate at the state level and are designed to assist individuals who need more intensive support. They provide services like education, skills training, and rehabilitation to help participants become job-ready.
Program Incentives
A major incentive of the Ticket to Work program is the continued access to healthcare. One of the biggest fears among SSI and SSDI beneficiaries is losing health coverage. Under Ticket to Work, participants can keep their Medicare or Medicaid benefits for up to 93 months after their cash benefits stop, provided they continue paying premiums.
However, some individuals may find more affordable coverage options through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace. If a beneficiary opts out of Medicare in favor of an ACA plan after their benefits end, they may be unable to re-enroll in Medicare unless they qualify again through expedited reinstatement. In such cases, re-enrollment may require waiting for the general enrollment period and paying penalties for any gaps in Medicare coverage, unless the state pays their premiums through a buy-in program.
Other Work Incentives
The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers several additional work incentives to help individuals with disabilities begin or return to work. These include the Trial Work Period (TWP), Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE), and Expedited Reinstatements.
Note that both the Trial Work Period and Extended Period of Eligibility apply only to individuals receiving SSDI benefits, not SSI benefits. However, Expedited Reinstatements are available to both SSDI and SSI recipients. If you are receiving benefits and have worked before, it’s crucial to confirm whether you’ve used up your trial work period by contacting your local SSA field office.
Trial Work Period (TWP)
The Trial Work Period allows beneficiaries to test their ability to work without losing benefits. During this nine-month period, individuals receive their full Social Security check, regardless of their earnings. The months don’t have to be consecutive. A month counts as part of the TWP if:
- Earnings exceed $970 from W-2 employment, or
- Net earnings from self-employment exceed $970, or
- The beneficiary works more than 80 hours in self-employment.
Once the nine-month period ends, the beneficiary transitions into the Extended Period of Eligibility.
Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE)
The Extended Period of Eligibility lasts for 36 consecutive months. During this time, beneficiaries continue to receive their Social Security checks as long as their earnings fall below the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit. Benefits stop if earnings exceed the SGA limit.
In 2023, the SGA limits are:
- $1,470 per month for non-blind individuals
- $2,460 per month for blind individuals
These figures increase in 2024 to:
- $1,550 per month for non-blind individuals
- $2,590 per month for blind individuals
After the 36 months or if earnings exceed the SGA limit, benefits are discontinued. To regain benefits, individuals must go through the Expedited Reinstatement process.
Expedited Reinstatement
Although labeled as “expedited,” this process allows individuals whose benefits were stopped due to work to receive faster decisions on reinstating their benefits. While the process is designed to be quick, in practice, it can take several months for a decision, and provisional payments are not always processed immediately.
Given the potential delays in receiving benefits, it’s advisable for beneficiaries to maintain a strong emergency fund to manage any payment gaps or delays during the decision-making process.
How Long Can Ticket Holders Receive Health Benefits?
Once benefits end, workers in the Ticket to Work program can apply for continued Medicare coverage. This coverage extends for up to 93 months, even if they are no longer receiving cash payments. After this period, participants may qualify for Medicare Savings Programs, which offer coverage at a reduced rate. Depending on their income and the state they reside in, participants may also be eligible for Medicaid.
Can a Ticket Holder Work From Home?
Yes, the Ticket to Work program supports remote work opportunities. Several Employment Networks specialize in connecting participants with home-based job opportunities. This arrangement is particularly beneficial for individuals who are housebound, have mobility issues, or are immunocompromised.
Can a Ticket Holder Start a Business?
Absolutely. Some service providers within the Ticket to Work program offer specialized support for individuals with disabilities who are interested in starting their own businesses. These providers assist participants with essential steps such as setting business goals, defining target markets, creating financial projections, understanding record-keeping requirements, and developing business plans.
The Bottom Line
The Ticket to Work program empowers individuals with disabilities to transition back into the workforce and reduce their dependency on Social Security and Social Security Disability benefits. By joining the workforce, participants have the opportunity to earn more, build new relationships, and develop valuable skills.
Over time, they can replace cash benefits with a steady paycheck, achieving financial independence. Importantly, the program ensures that participants retain access to Medicaid or Medicare health benefits, providing critical support until they are firmly established in their careers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ticket to Work program?
The Ticket to Work program helps individuals with disabilities return to work and achieve financial independence without losing access to critical healthcare benefits like Medicare or Medicaid. The program is free and voluntary, providing support for job placement, training, and career development.
Who is eligible for the Ticket to Work program?
Individuals receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are eligible for the Ticket to Work program. Participants must be between the ages of 18 and 64.
How long can I keep my Medicare or Medicaid benefits through the program?
Once your cash benefits stop, you can continue receiving Medicare coverage for up to 93 months. After this period, you may qualify for Medicare Savings Programs or Medicaid, depending on your income level and state.
Can I work from home through the Ticket to Work program?
Yes, the program supports remote work opportunities. Many employment networks specialize in connecting individuals with disabilities to work-from-home jobs, which is ideal for those with mobility issues or health concerns.
Can I start my own business with help from the Ticket to Work program?
Yes, some service providers within the program assist participants in starting their own businesses. These providers help with business planning, goal setting, market research, financial projections, and more.
Is the Ticket to Work program free?
Yes, participation in the Ticket to Work program is completely free. It is a voluntary program aimed at helping individuals with disabilities achieve employment and financial independence.
Conclusion
The Ticket to Work program is a valuable resource for individuals with disabilities looking to transition back into the workforce and achieve financial independence. By providing access to job training, employment services, and continued healthcare benefits, the program supports participants in their journey toward self-sufficiency.