Returning to Work (Vocational Rehabilitation)

Does Going Back to Work Make Sense for You?

Are co-pays adding up? Does it seem like your check is shrinking or doesn’t go as far as it used to? Do you have to make difficult financial decisions on a regular basis? This is a reality for many who depend on Social Security Disability. Did you know there are programs and agencies that can assist you with returning to work (vocational rehabilitation services) and employment assistance? Did you know some of these programs allow you to work and continue to collect disability and your Medicare and Medicaid coverage? Information and resources are available below to help you learn more about these programs and services.

The Social Security Administration -Ticket to Work Program

The Ticket to Work Program provides most people receiving Social Security benefits (beneficiaries) more choices for receiving employment services. Under this program, the Social Security Administration (SSA) issues tickets to eligible beneficiaries who, in turn, may choose to assign those tickets to an Employment Network (EN) of their choice to obtain employment services, vocational rehabilitation services, or other support services necessary to achieve a vocational (work) goal. The EN, if they accept the ticket, will coordinate and provide appropriate services to help the beneficiary find and maintain employment.
Ticket to Work Website: chooseworkttw.net

Get WISE: What are Work Incentive Seminar Events (WISE)?

WISE are community events held by Work Incentive Planning and Assistance programs. These are held for beneficiaries with disabilities and their families to learn more about available work incentives through accessible, informal, learning opportunities. Employers, Vocational Rehabilitation, Protection and Advocacy Services, Employment Networks and other employment support providers are invited to these meetings to share information about available services and opportunities for beneficiaries in the community. Contact information for each state’s programs is below. Additionally, to see a listing of WISE seminars in your state, visit: www.chooseworkttw.net/wise/page/wise_default.action

State Vocational Rehabilitation Agencies

The mission of these organizations is to assist individuals with disabilities in their efforts to return to a more productive life. They assist through programs aimed at employment education. Contact information for the Arkansas, Louisiana and Oklahoma agencies is listed below.

Network 13 Vocational Rehabilitation Handout