Returning to Work: Understanding the Ticket to Work Program

Social Security helps millions of Americans by providing steady income and financial stability. This is especially important for people who can’t work due to injury or illness, and for those who have retired after many years of work. But did you know there are extra benefits for the 8.7 million disabled workers and their families who receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)?

One of these benefits is the Ticket to Work program. This program helps SSDI recipients return to work when they’re ready, without losing their benefits right away. Let’s explore what Ticket to Work is and, how this program works and answer some common questions about returning to work while on SSDI.

What is the Ticket to Work Program?

The Ticket to Work program was created in 1999 to help people on SSDI transition back into the workforce. It understands that everyone’s path back to work is different and provides support along the way. The goal is to help people become financially independent, but at their own pace.

Can I Work and Still Receive My Social Security Benefits?

Yes, you can! The Social Security Administration has set up a Trial Work Period to help you test your ability to work without losing your benefits. Here’s how it works:

• You get a 9-month period where you can work and earn any amount without affecting your SSDI benefits.
• These 9 months don’t have to be in a row. They can be spread out over 60 months (5 years).
• In 2025, a month counts as a trial work month if you earn more than $1,160.

After your Trial Work Period, you enter a 3-year Extended Period of Eligibility. During this time:

• You can still receive benefits in months when you earn less than the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) level.
• In 2025, the SGA level is $1,620 per month.
• If you earn more than the SGA level, your benefits will be suspended, but you’ll get a 3-month grace period where you still receive checks.

Will My Healthcare Coverage Continue If I Return to Work?

This is a big concern for many people, but don’t worry! Your healthcare coverage can continue even after you return to work from disability. Here’s what you need to know:

• If your SSDI benefits end because you’re working, but you still have a disability, your Medicare coverage can continue for at least 7.5 more years.
• You keep your Medicare coverage throughout your Trial Work Period and for at least 93 months after.
• This means you can keep your Medicare for at least 102 months (8.5 years) after you start working!

What If I Start Working But Have to Stop?

The Ticket to Work program understands that returning to work isn’t always a smooth process. If you have to stop working within 3 years after your benefits end due to work, you don’t have to start a whole new application. Instead:

• You can file a request to restart your benefits quickly.
• This is called Expedited Reinstatement.
• You might even get up to 6 months of temporary benefits while your request is being processed.

Is the Ticket to Work Program Right for Me?

Returning to work after being on disability can be a big step. The Ticket to Work program offers many benefits that can make this transition easier:

• You can keep your cash benefits while testing your ability to work.
• Your healthcare coverage continues, even after you start working.
• You get support services to help you succeed, like career advice and job search help.
• If you need to stop working, you can quickly restart your benefits.

Remember, the Ticket to Work program is free and voluntary. It’s designed to help you move towards financial independence at your own pace.

If you’re thinking about returning to work, the Ticket to Work program could be a great next step. It provides the support and security you need to test the waters of employment without risking your benefits all at once.

Returning to work can improve your quality of life and help you become more financially independent. With the Ticket to Work program, you have the opportunity to try working again with a safety net in place. Why not explore your options and see if returning to work might be right for you?