Ticket to Work

Photo of a woman sitting on a couch smiling at her phone

Ticket to Work: Explore a Career Without  Immediate Loss of Cash Benefits

Choosing to work is a life-changing step, but it shouldn't mean losing your peace of mind.

Guide

Program Details, Benefits & Safety Nets

If you receive Social Security disability benefits, the Ticket to Work program is a free, voluntary federal initiative designed to help you explore employment, gain skills, and move toward financial independence—all while protecting the vital benefits you rely on.

The Ticket to Work program provides powerful "Work Incentives"—rules designed to ease your  transition back into the workforce.

  • Keep Your Health Insurance: Your Medicare or Medicaid coverage remains securely in place while you test your ability to work.
  • An Automatic Safety Net (Expedited Reinstatement): If you find that you cannot continue working due to your medical condition within 5 years of your benefits stopping, Social Security can restart your monthly cash benefits immediately without requiring you to submit a brand-new application.

Free Services Available through NRWIB
We don't just point you toward open jobs; we help you build a sustainable career strategy. Our completely free services include:

  • OMIT Benefits Counseling
  • ADD Job Training Opportunities
  • Career Exploration
  • Job Search & Placement Support
  • Job Accommodations Guidance
  • Long-Term Follow-Along

Watch "Carla's Story" - Carla Cooper didn't let disability stand in the way of success. She used the state's Ticket to Work program to help, graduating from the Merriman Culinary School at the St. Vincent DePaul Mission of Waterbury. Carla now has a job she loves, working with young people in city schools. Video by Jay Dunn. 

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must be:
  • between 18 and 64 years old.
  • Currently receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and/or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
  • Have a personal desire and a goal to earn income from working.

How to Apply

Ready to take the next step or just want to ask a few questions? Our dedicated Ticket to Work coordinator is here to assist you with zero pressure and complete confidentiality.

Already enrolled in the state Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS) program? Once you complete your BRS services, you can easily assign your "Ticket" to NRWIB for continuous, long-term employment support.

Meet the Team

Photo of Manager of Workforce Programs, Jim Amis
Name

James C. Amis, M.Div.

Title

PROGRAM SUPPORT SPECIALIST

Phone
203-673-3103
[email protected]

Additional Resources

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