Many people who receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) think they are not allowed to work while getting benefits. But that’s not completely true.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) runs a special program called Ticket to Work. This program is designed to help people receiving SSDI or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) return to work without immediately losing their benefits. It’s a great way to explore job opportunities while still having financial support.
Let’s break it down in simple terms.
What Is the “Ticket to Work” Program?
The Ticket to Work program is a free and voluntary employment support program. It is meant for people between 18 and 64 years old who receive SSDI or SSI. If you are interested in working again or trying out new job options, you can use this program.
It provides services such as:
- Job training
- Resume and interview support
- Education or skill-building programs
- Help finding a job
- On-the-job support and adjustments
You get a “ticket” from SSA and assign it to a provider called an Employment Network (EN) or Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agency. These professionals help you prepare for work and support you throughout the process.
For more info, visit: https://choosework.ssa.gov/
Who Can Join the Program?
To be eligible for Ticket to Work:
- You must be aged 18–64
- You must be receiving SSDI or SSI benefits
- You must be interested in working or returning to work
- You are not marked by SSA as “medical improvement not expected.”
If you qualify, you can participate in the program. The best part is that it’s completely voluntary. If you try it and feel it’s not the right fit, you can stop anytime.
Can I Work Without Losing My SSDI?
Yes. This program helps you work and keep your benefits while you test your ability to earn. Here’s how it works for SSDI:
1. Trial Work Period (TWP)
If you are on SSDI, you get a 9-month trial period where you can work and earn money without losing your benefits. These 9 months can be spread out and don’t need to be continuous.
In 2025, if you earn more than $1,110 in a month, it counts as a trial work month.
2. Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE)
After your 9 trial months, you get 36 months of extended eligibility. If you earn less than the SGA (Substantial Gainful Activity) level—$1,550 in 2025, or $2,590 if blind—you still get your SSDI payment.
If your income goes above the SGA limit, your benefits pause. But the good thing is: if your income falls again within these 3 years, your SSDI can restart without a new application.
What About SSI?
For SSI recipients, the rules are different.
SSA won’t stop your benefits immediately. Instead, they reduce your SSI payment gradually based on how much you earn. Usually:
- The first $85 of your income is ignored
- After that, for every $2 you earn, SSA reduces your SSI by $1
So yes, you can work part-time and still receive some SSI.
Can I Keep My Medicare or Medicaid?
Many people fear losing their health coverage when they start working. But under Ticket to Work, you can usually keep your insurance for a long time.
- Medicare continues for at least 93 months (almost 8 years) after your trial work period ends.
- Medicaid continues for SSI recipients in many cases, even if your income goes up, depending on your state.
This ensures you don’t lose important medical coverage while trying to become financially independent.
How to Get Started?
Here’s how to begin:
- Visit https://choosework.ssa.gov/
- Call the helpline at 1-866-968-7842 (or TTY: 1-866-833-2967)
- Find a local Employment Network or VR agency
- Assign your ticket and make a work plan
The agency will guide you step-by-step and provide support based on your personal goals and health condition.
Don’t Forget to Report Your Income
It’s very important to report your monthly income to the SSA. If you don’t, it may lead to overpayments or sudden benefit stoppage later.
Also, if you’re making progress through the program, SSA may delay your medical review (called Continuing Disability Review or CDR), which gives you more time to work and adjust.
Final Thoughts
The Ticket to Work program is a helpful option for SSDI or SSI recipients who are ready to explore working again. You get free access to professional help, job support, and even healthcare continuation.
If you are unsure about getting back to work, this program gives you a safe way to try without losing your benefits right away. It’s flexible, free, and backed by the government.