SSA Improves Employment Program for Disabled Beneficiaries

May 20, 2008

WASHINGTON - The Social Security Administration (SSA) will soon begin implementation of the improved Ticket to Work Program designed to help disabled beneficiaries who want to work. SSA Commissioner Michael J. Astrue said the agency is set to issue the final rules for the program, which is expected to give beneficiaries greater flexibility and expanded options in services.

In preparation for the enhanced program, the SSA also plans to undertake a major recruitment effort to increase the number of organizations that will act as employment networks (ENs), thereby promoting the program to more beneficiaries and encourage their participation. In addition, the agency is also presenting the program at national and state conferences throughout the country.

The new program rules will include changes in the following areas of services:

• More beneficiaries - The new rules hope to increase population of individuals eligible for a Ticket


• Increase incentive payments for ENs - The new rules will modify the EN payment systems to create greater financial incentives for service providers and encourage them to participate, which will improve beneficiary access to services and expand the pool of quality providers available to serve beneficiaries.


• Synergize efforts--The new rules promote better alignment of the Ticket to Work Program, the Work Incentives Planning and Assistance Program, the Protection and Advocacy for Beneficiaries of Social Security Program, and other Social Security work incentive initiatives.


• Increase value of the Ticket--The rules for ticket assignment are changed to enable disabled beneficiaries to take advantage of a more effective combination of services from both state vocational rehabilitation agencies and ENs.

The Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999 established the Ticket to Work and Self-Sufficiency Program, which purpose is to expand the universe of service providers available to beneficiaries with disabilities who are seeking vocational rehabilitation, employment and related support services. These service providers are available to assist beneficiaries in obtaining, regaining and maintaining self-supporting employment.

The program is available in all 50 states, including the US territories, and is an important component in a coordinated series of work incentives and initiatives that are designed to help overcome barriers to employment often experienced by people with disabilities.