A Series of Seven Education Workshops
Ticket to Work: Increasing Public Awareness about the
Ticket to Work program and
Social Security Work Incentives
Sponsored by the Georgia Ticket to Work Taskforce and the
Centers for Independent Living
SSA has reviewed the following publication for technical accuracy only; this should not be considered an official SSA document.
Just The Ticket
Desktop Guide to the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives
Improvement Act of 1999
Fact Sheets
• Benefits Planning, Assistance, and Outreach Program
• Ticket to Work
Frequently Asked Questions by Transition Professionals
Employment Networks in Georgia
Glossary of Social Security Terms
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Desktop Guide to Social Security and SSI Work Incentives
2003
Supplemental Security Disability Income (SSDI)
Social Security Work Incentives
• SSI Work Incentives
• SSDI Work Incentives
Qualified Disabled and Working Individuals
Questions and Answers on Extended Medicare Coverage for
Working People with Disabilities
Links and Learning Opportunities
Just the Ticket
Introduction
The Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999 was signed into law in December 1999 and represents new public policy of significant importance to persons with disability. The Act creates new options for individuals with disabilities that receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and/or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and who desire to go to work for the first time or return to work after the onset of disability.
The Act seeks to address the barriers faced by individuals with disabilities
who receive income from Social Security and yet want to work. This is an important
issue – nearly 75% of Americans with significant disabilities remain unemployed.
According to the Social Security Administration (SSA) the number of working
age persons, 18-64, on SSDI and SSI has been steadily increasing and now totals
more than 7.5 million. Less than 1% of the beneficiaries leave the rolls each
year by starting or returning to work.
Options and Opportunities
The goal of the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act (TWIIA) is
to create options and incentives for persons with disabilities to enter or reenter
the workforce. Choice is a key element in the "Ticket" portion of
this program. Each individual beneficiary will receive a "ticket".
This "ticket" can then be deposited with any certified Employment
Network chosen by the individual. Employment Network services can include case
management, benefits counseling, supported employment, job training, placement,
and follow-up services.
A major disincentive for beneficiaries who desire to go to work is the loss
of health care benefits, especially Medicaid. So, another key element of the
Act is the provision of new options for health care. States may opt to allow
beneficiaries the opportunity to "buy-in" to the state’s Medicaid
program and beneficiaries receiving Medicare will be able to have their coverage
extended for four years, in addition to the four years already provided, for
a total of eight years -- if they are employed and meet the SSA guidelines for
coverage.
In brief, the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act:
• Provides a "ticket" which can be redeemed
for employment related services.
• Creates a new service delivery system of Employment Networks
for employment related services featuring new payment options. Both options
are outcome based - payment can be made for milestone achievements or employment
retention over a 60-month period.
• Expands health coverage for individuals with disabilities
receiving Social Security benefits.
• Improves Social Security’s work incentives.
• Creates a new work incentive service structure.
• Creates a national Work Incentives Advisory Panel of
consumers and other experts to provide guidance to Social Security and other
agencies on implementation issues, particularly in the area of work incentives.
• Gives SSA the authority to conduct demonstration projects
and directs them to evaluate the effects of withholding $1.00 of SSDI benefits
for every $2.00 of earnings over a level to be determined by the Commissioner.
The Ticket to Work
The Ticket to Work component of the Act is designed to give consumers choices
in the selection of their rehabilitation service provider. Each person receiving
SSDI or SSI will be issued a Ticket. The individual can then take the Ticket
to any Employment Network (EN) provider. The state vocational rehabilitation
program can elect to be an Employment Network or can be a "Ticket-Taker"
for an Employment Network, if they have an agreement with that network. They
may also choose to continue to participate with SSA under the traditional reimbursement
services cooperative program.
The Ticket, once deposited by the beneficiary, creates a contractual relationship
between the Employment Network and the Social Security Administration.
Nationally, Maximus has been selected as the Program Manager working under contract
with SSA. The Program Manager will work to establish Employment Networks throughout
the country. The networks will identify providers to work with them in local
areas. The providers will actually deliver the services needed by the Ticket
user. The services could include case management, benefits counseling, supported
employment, training, placement and follow-up services.
The Employment Network (EN) may choose to be paid under either an outcome payment
system or an outcome-milestone system. Each Employment Network may elect the
payment system under which it will be paid.
• Under the outcome payment system, an Employment Network is paid a percentage,
not to exceed 40 percent, of the national average SSDI and SSI monthly payment
for each month that the Ticket user does not receive a benefit payment due to
work activity, for a period not to exceed 60 months.
• The outcome-milestone payment system combines outcome payments with
payments for achieving one or more milestones directed toward assisting the
beneficiary in achieving permanent employment. However, the total amount of
outcome-milestone payments must be less than the total amount of payments, if
the Employment Network were to be paid under the outcome payment system.
(Note: This information is available in the Social Security
Legislative Bulletin 106-15)
Employment Networks may be:
• One-stop delivery system established under the Workforce Investment
Act
• Single individual, one-stop partner, or a group of providers
• State Agencies, i.e. Vocational Rehabilitation, Developmental Services,
Mental Health, etc.
• For-Profit Service Providers
• Employers
• Others
The Network will:
• Assume responsibility for the coordination and delivery of services
to an individual Ticket user.
• Provide direct services to the Ticket user or arrange for the services
to be provided through agreement with other providers.
• Insure that the Ticket user gets the services identified in their plan.
• Work with the Ticket user to develop a plan that clearly outlines:
1. Ticket user’s vocational plan
2. Services and Supports necessary to accomplish the goal
3. Terms and Conditions
4. Rights and Remedies
5. Right to Modify the Plan as needed
The "Ticket" feature of the TWIIA will be phased in nationally over a three-year period with the first Tickets issued early in 2001.
Georgia has been selected as one of the second set of states to "rollout"
the Ticket program. The first Tickets were distributed in November 2002 and
will conclude in September 2003. The program is voluntary. However, if you choose
to work with an employment network and sign a work plan, then your Ticket will
be assigned to that network.
The Work Incentives Improvement
Expanded Availability of Health Care Coverage
Expanded coverage elements of TWWIIA will be effective October 1, 2000. Those
elements that are state options would be effective at a date determined by the
state.
Medicaid Buy-In
States will have the option to provide Medicaid coverage to more individuals
who are between 16-64. A state may also permit working individuals with income
above 250 percent of the federal poverty level to "buy-in" to Medicaid.
The Act also creates a new Medicaid buy-in demonstration project to provide
medical assistance to workers with impairments who are not yet too disabled
to work.
A state may:
• Eliminate, or set its own income, asset, and resource limits for workers
with disabilities and who meet the SSA definition of disability.
• Require individuals to pay premiums or participate in other means of
cost sharing based on a sliding scale for income. The premium or cost sharing
may not exceed 7 1/2% of the individual’s income.
• Requires GAO to report on these options within three years
Medicare Extension
Extends premium-free Medicare, Part-A coverage for an additional 4 1/2 years
for people with disabilities who return to work. This is in addition to the
four years of coverage previously provided for SSDI beneficiaries.
Election to Suspend Medigap Insurance
Allows workers with disabilities who have Medicare coverage and a Medigap policy
to suspend the premiums and benefits of the Medigap policy if they have employer-sponsored
coverage.
Continuing Disability Reviews
• SSA cannot initiate a Continuing Disability Review (CDR) during the
period a Ticket user is using the "Ticket". If earnings are substantial,
cash benefits may be terminated.
• Effective January 1, 2001
• Work activity by a Social Security disability beneficiary who has received
Social Security disability benefits for at least 24 months cannot be used as
a basis for conducting a disability review. Individuals may be subject to regularly
scheduled medical reviews.
• Effective: January 1, 2002
Expedited Reinstatement of Benefits
• If an individual goes back to work and then becomes disabled within
60 months of losing SSDI or SSI benefits, the individual may become entitled
to benefits in the month in which the reinstatement request is filed.
• While Social Security is making a new determination, the individual
may receive up to six months of provisional benefits, including Medicare and
Medicaid, as appropriate.
• If Social Security determines the individual is not prevented from working
by their medical condition, the provisional benefits would not be considered
an overpayment that would have to be repaid.
• Effective: January 2001
Work Incentive Planning and Assistance Program
• Social Security is required to establish a "community-based"
work incentives planning and assistance program for the purpose of provided
accurate information related to work incentives. Social Security will establish
a program of grants, cooperative agreements or contracts to provide benefits
planning and assistance and outreach.
In Georgia, three organizations were funded under this initiative. The projects
are known as Benefits Planning Assistance and Outreach programs and are designed
to reach out to disabled Social Security beneficiaries and encourage them to
participate, voluntarily, in a work incentives program; help them plan their
benefits and work so that self-sufficiency can be attained; and, provide on-going
information and guidance as they continue to work towards self-sufficiency.
Protection and Advocacy
• SSA will provide funding to protections and advocacy systems in each
state. The advocacy and protection systems will be required to provide information,
advice, advocacy and other services to disability beneficiaries who are participating
in the Ticket program and are seeking to become employed or return to work.
• $7 million per year is available for this service for five years FY2000-2004.
Demonstration Projects and Studies
• SSA’s authority to establish demonstration projects has been extended
for five years. SSA is required to conduct demonstration projects to test the
impact of reducing Social Security Demonstration Insurance benefits by $1 for
every $2 that a beneficiary earns over an amount to be determined by the Commissioner.
• Details regarding the dates and locations for these demonstration projects
will be announced later by SSA.
Resources used in developing this overview include:
• Social Security Legislative Bulletin 106-15
• Social Security Fact Sheet/Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement
Act of 1999
• Medicaid Buy-In Primer by the SSI Coalition for a Responsible Safety
Net
• An Advocate’s Guide to The Ticket to Work and Work Incentives
Improvement Act by the World Institute on Disability
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A Desktop Guide To The Ticket
To Work and
Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999
The Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999 substantially expands work opportunities for people with disabilities. The provisions of the act become effective at different times in different parts of the country. Following are the provisions of the law and the status of the various programs. The provisions below apply to both Social Security and SSI.
The Ticket To Work And Self-Sufficiency Program – Established
by the new law, the Ticket Program provides a ticket to disabled beneficiaries
to take to a certified provider of their choice for rehabilitation and employment
services. The program is being phased in nationally over a three-year period,
starting in 13 states in 2001. The 13 states are Arizona, Colorado, Delaware,
Florida Illinois, Iowa, Massachusetts, New York, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Carolina,
Vermont and Wisconsin. For more information, call the ticket Program Manager,
Maximus, Inc., at its toll-free number, 1-866-968-1842 (TTY 1-866-833-2967),
visit our website www.ssa.gov/work or call our toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213.
Ask for the fact sheet, Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of
1999 (Publication No. 05-10060), or the booklet, The Ticket to Work and Self-Sufficiency
Program (Publication No. 05-10061).
Expedited Benefits - As of January 1, 2001, if a beneficiary’s
benefits have ended because of earnings from work and he/she becomes unable
to work again because of his/her medical condition within 60 months, benefits
may begin again without a new application.
Expansion of Medicare - The law expands Medicare hospital insurance
coverage to at least 93 months after the trial work period for most disability
beneficiaries who work.
Expansion of Medicaid - States now have the option to expand
Medicaid coverage to working individuals with disabilities using income and
resource limits set by the states.
Disability Reviews Postponed - Effective January 1, 2001, an
individual using a "ticket" will not need to undergo the regularly
scheduled disability reviews. A review may be triggered by earnings, however.
The following year, January 1, 2002, Social Security disability beneficiaries
who have been receiving benefits for at least 24 months will not be asked to
go through a disability review because of the work they are doing. However,
regularly scheduled medical reviews could still be performed and benefits could
be terminated if earnings were above the limits.
Employment Support Representatives - The law calls for the Social Security
Administration (SSA) to establish a corps of work incentives specialists in
field offices. SSA has established a pre-implementation pilot in 54 service
areas and plans to expand to other areas in 2001.
Benefit Planning and Assistance - The law directs Social Security
to establish a community based work incentives planning and assistance program
to disseminate accurate information about work incentives. SSA plans to enter
into cooperative agreement with organizations in all states during FY 2001.
Protection And Advocacy - The law authorizes Social Security
to make payments to protection and advocacy systems in each state to provide
legal advice and services to disability beneficiaries.
Demonstration Projects and Studies - Social Security will conduct
a demonstration project to test reducing Social Security disability insurance
benefits by $1 for each $2 that a beneficiary earns over a certain amount.
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Benefits Planning, Assistance, and Outreach Program
The Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999 authorizes the
Social Security Administration (SSA) to award one or more cooperative agreements
in every State and US Territory, in order to provide all SSA disability beneficiaries
(including transition-to-work aged youth) with access to benefits planning and
assistance services. The goal of the Benefits Planning, Assistance, and Outreach
(BPAO) Program is to better enable SSA beneficiaries with disabilities to make
informed choices about work.
BPAO Program awardees will select Benefits Specialists, who will:
• Provide work incentives planning and assistance to SSA beneficiaries
with disabilities;
• Conduct outreach efforts to those beneficiaries (and their families),
who are potentially eligible to participate in Federal or State work incentives
programs, and
• Work in cooperation with Federal, State, and private agencies and nonprofit
organizations that serve beneficiaries with disabilities.
SSA has contracted with Cornell University, Virginia Commonwealth University,
and the University of Missouri-Columbia, to develop and provide technical assistance
and training to all BPAO Benefits Specialists on SSA's disability programs and
work incentives, the Medicare and Medicaid programs, and on other Federal work
incentives programs. BPAO Program awardees must provide training and technical
assistance to their Benefits Specialists about their own State and local programs
and their effects on other programs' eligibility and benefits.
BPAO Programs in Georgia:
Georgia Rehabilitation OUtreach Program (GROUP)
Georgia Department of Labor/Vocational Rehabilitation Program
1700 Century Circle, Suite 300
Atlanta, GA 30345
1-866-489-0001
Counties served: Appling, Atkinson, Bacon, Baker, Banks, Bartow, Ben Hill, Berrien, Brantley, Brooks, Bryan, Bulloch, Calhoun, Camden, Candler, Catoosa, Charlton, Chatham, Chattahoochee, Chattooga, Clay, Clinch, Coffee, Colquitt, Cook, Coweta, Dade, Dawson, Decatur, Early, Echols, Effingham, Emanuel, Evans, Fannin, Floyd, Franklin, Gilmer, Glynn, Gordon, Grady, Habersham, haralson, Harris, hart, Heard, Irwin, Jeff Davis, Johnson, Lamar, Lanier, Liberty, Long, Lowndes, Lumpkin, Marion, McIntosh, meriwether, Miller, Mitchell, Montgomery, Murray, Muscogee, Pickens, Pierce, Pike, Polk, Quitman, Rabun, Randolph, Schley, Seminole, Saplding, Stephens, Stewart, Sumter, Talbot, Tattnall, Taylor, Telfair, Terrell, Thomas, Tift, Toombs, Towne, Troup, Truetlen, Turner, Union, Upson, Walker, Ware, Wayne, Webster, Wheeler, White, Whitfield, Wilcox, and Worth.
Benefits Navigator
Shepherd Center, Inc.
2020 Peachtree Street NW
Atlanta, GA 30309
404-350-7589, 1-866-772-2726
Counties served: Baldwin, Barrow, Bibb, Bleckley, Butts, Carroll, Cherokee, Clarke, Clayton, Cobb, Crawford, Crisp, DeKalb, Dodge, Dooly, Dougherty, Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Hall, Hancock, Henry, Houston, Jasper, Jones, Laurens, Lee, Macon, Monroe, Morgan, Newton, Oconee, Paulding, Peach, Pulaski, Putnam, Rockdale, Twiggs, Walton, Washington, and Wilkinson.
Project 20/20
Walton Options for Independent Living
948 Walton Way, P.O. Box 519
Augusta, GA 30903
706-724-626, 1-877-821-8400
Counties served: Burke, Columbia, Elbert, Glascock, Greene, Jackson, Jefferson, Jenkins, Lincoln, Madison, McDuffie, Oglethorpe, Richmond, Screven, Taliaferro, Warren, and Wilkes.
Ticket To Work
Youth In Transition and the Ticket to Work Program
• Today there are almost one million youth under the age of 18 that are
receiving SSI. Approximately 70% of those youth will receive Tickets from the
Ticket to Work and Self-Sufficiency Program when they turn 18.
• The Ticket to Work Program serves beneficiaries receiving SSI or SSDI
who are age 18 or older and have not reached age 65.
• The Ticket to Work Program is completely voluntary. Each eligible youth
will automatically receive a ticket in the mail upon reaching age 18 and remaining
on SSI or SSDI after their first CDR under adult criteria.
• As long as the beneficiary is using an assigned Ticket, that beneficiary
will not have to go through a Medical Continuing Disability Review.
• The Ticket To Work and Self Sufficiency Program is the first completely
outcome-based employment and support services payment system in which the schools
can participate.
• A school that provides services to those beneficiaries that are 18 years
of age or older, can apply to become an Employment Network (EN).
• Schools that already collaborate with community agencies in order to
provide services to beneficiaries may also collaborate as a partner with an
EN and split the EN payments.
• The Ticket Payments can help to offset expenses utilized to provide
transition services to beneficiaries receiving SSI or SSDI.
• The assignment of the Ticket requires that the beneficiary be actively
involved in the plan. This encourages best practices in transition planning
as the EN will have to meet these outcomes in order to qualify for the Outcome
or Milestone payments.
• The beneficiary that receives the Ticket does not have to assign the
Ticket immediately but can wait until he/she leaves the school system at age
21.
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Frequently Asked Questions by Transition Professionals
• If a beneficiary receives a Ticket and is currently participating
in a work program through the school, does that recipient have to assign the
Ticket to the work program/provider that he/she is currently involved with?
No. The ticket holder can assign the Ticket to any provider who is an approved
EN. This does not have to be the provider that is currently providing services.
In fact, the Ticket may only be assigned to approved EN’s. Once assigned
there are timely progress requirements such as during months 1-24 of assignment
the beneficiary must actively participate in a plan. Between months 25-36 the
beneficiary must work a minimum of three months over Substantial Gainful Activity
(SGA). If the entity that the beneficiary is currently working with desires
to become an EN so the Ticket can be assigned, then the Program Manager, MAXIMUS,
can help to make that happen.
• Can a school qualify to be an Employment Network (EN)?
Yes. Any program, service provider, and/or employer that has provided services
for or are currently providing services for persons with disabilities can apply
to become an approved EN.
• If the beneficiary is to remain in school until age 21, can
he/she wait until age 21 to use/assign the ticket? Yes. The Ticket
holder does not have to assign the Ticket immediately. The one advantage to
having the Ticket assigned and used is protection for the beneficiary from Medical
Continuing Disability Review (CDR’s).
• If the beneficiary assigns the Ticket to an EN, can he/she still
utilize the work incentives such as Student Earned Income Exclusion (SEIE),
Impairment Related Work Expenses (IRWE), and Plan for Achieving Self Support
(PASS)? Yes. The Ticket holder can utilize all work incentives that
apply. The Ticket Program overlaps all other work incentives and does not replace
any of them.
• If the beneficiary goes on to a post-secondary educational program
after high school, can that post-secondary institution be assigned the Ticket?
Yes, if that post-secondary institution is an approved EN.
• Can the beneficiary assign the Ticket to an EN is a state that
he/she does not reside in? Yes, the Ticket holder does not have to
reside in the same state as the approved EN in order to assign the Ticket to
that EN. The approved EN however, may have a policy of serving only residents
of a certain region or area. The EN must have indicated that beneficiary’s
state of residence is one of the areas they cover.
• If a beneficiary is being trained to work in a family business
(i.e., farm, retail business); can the beneficiary assign the Ticket to the
family business? Yes, if this business/employer has met all the criteria
to be an approved EN.
• If the beneficiary is working while in school, and decides to
stay with that employer even after school, can the employer be assigned the
Ticket? Yes, if that employer has met all the criteria to be an approved
EN.
• If the beneficiary assigns the Ticket to a provider/EN while
in school, but after leaving school wants to embark on a different type of training/employment,
can the beneficiary un-assign the Ticket anytime and reassign the Ticket to
another EN? Yes, the beneficiary can un-assign the Ticket anytime and
reassign the Ticket to another EN. Since both EN’s may want and be entitled
to split the EN payments, the beneficiary should be aware that some EN’s
may be reticent to accept a Ticket that may put them in a situation of splitting
payment.
• If the beneficiary is receiving services from more than one
provider, (i.e., job coaching from one provider and training from another),
which provider should be assigned the Ticket? The beneficiary may want
to assign the Ticket to the provider delivering the most services. The beneficiary
should speak with each provider and also find out if there is a cooperative
agreement between the providers. If there is a partnership agreement involved
then the providers might be helpful in making that decision.
• If the beneficiary needs transportation to an EN, who provides
that transportation? The beneficiary should check to see if the approved
EN provides transportation before he/she assigns the Ticket. If the chosen EN
does not provide transportation, then alternatively the beneficiary may wish
to look for a transportation provider that is an approved EN. The transportation
provider and the other approved EN may want to serve this beneficiary under
a partnership agreement.
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Employment Networks in Georgia
AAATAKECHARGE TO COLLECT 75% OF YOUR TICKET $
Toll Free: (800)896-5573
Web Site: www.aaatakecharge.com
Languages: English
Disabilities Served: Blind/Visually Impaired, Deaf and/or loss
of voice, Developmental Disabilities, Non-traumatic Neurological Conditions,
Psychiatric Disorders (including eating disorders), Traumatic Brain Injury/Stroke
ABILITIES DISCOVERED, INC.
211 Corder Road
Warner Robins, GA 31088
Contact: Billy G. Mcfadden
Phone: (478)923-7727
Toll Free: (800)265-1556
Main Phone: (478)923-7727
Email: melinda@abilitiesdiscoveredinc.org
Languages: English, Spanish
Provider Services: Career Strategies (skills assess & develop,
job coaching), Case management, Habilitation Services (Independent Living Training,
Assist in support of work), Job Placement/Employment Services (Job Search, Placement
Assist), Job Training, Post-Employment Support (Job/Emplymt Retention Services),
Referral to Services/Support from Local MH or DD Providers
Disabilities Served: Developmental Disabilities, Non-traumatic
Neurological Conditions, Psychiatric Disorders (including eating disorders),
Traumatic Brain Injury/Stroke
ANITA JOHNSON, MS, LCPC, CRC
31 Tamar Lane
Portland, ME 04109
Contact: Anita Johnson
Phone: (207)780-9714
Toll Free: (800)329-1514 18
Main Phone: (207)780-9714
Languages: English
Provider Services: Career Consulting (portfolio prep, resume
writing, interview skills),
Career Strategies (skills assessment and development, job coaching), Case Management,
Job Accommodations, Job Placement/Employment Services (Job Search, Placement
Assistance), Post-Employment Support (Job/Employment Retention Services),
Psychosocial Rehabilitation, Referral to Services/Support from Local MH or DD
Providers, School to Work Transition Services, Self-Employment/Business Start-up,
Situational Assessment, Work incentives Counseling
Disabilities Served: Blind/Visually Impaired, Cancer (non-lymphoma
or leukemia), Deaf and/or loss of voice, Developmental Disabilities, Digestive
Disorders, Endocrine System and Obesity, Genito-Urinary, Heart Disease/Cardiovascular,
Immune System (incl. AIDs/HIV), Musculoskeletal Injuries, Non-traumatic Neurological
Conditions, Psychiatric Disorders (including eating disorders), Respiratory,
Skin Conditions, Traumatic Brain Injury/Stroke
ARG
658 South Gammon Road, Suite 206
Madison, WI 53719
Contact: Leslie Olson
Phone: (608)271-4747
Toll Free: (800)782-3354
Main Phone: (608)271-4747
Web Site: a-r-g.com
Languages: English, Hmong (Asian), Spanish
Provider Services: Business/Employer Mentoring Programs/Internships,
Career Consulting (portfolio prep, resume writing, interview skills), Career
Strategies (skills assess & develop, job coaching), Case Management, Job
Placement/Employment Services (Job Search, Placement Assist), Job Training,
Other services, Peer Mentoring Services, Post-Employment Support (Job/Emplymt
Retention Services), School to Work Transition Services, Self-Employment/Business
Start-up
Disabilities Served: Birth Defects/Growth Impairments, Blind/Visually
Impaired, Blood and Lymphatic, Cancer (non-lymphoma or leukemia), Deaf and/or
loss of voice, Developmental Disabilities, Digestive Disorders, Endocrine System
and Obesity, Genito-Urinary, Heart Disease/Cardiovascular, Immune System (incl.
AIDs/HIV), Musculoskeletal Injuries, Non-traumatic Neurological Conditions,
Organ Transplant Candidates & Recipients, Other, Psychiatric Disorders (incl.
eating disorders), Respiratory, Skin Conditions, Traumatic Brain Injury/Stroke
BRIGGS & ASSOCIATES, INC.
2300 Holcomb Bridge Road
Suite 103, P.O. Box #366
Roswell, GA 30076
Contact: Nona Huff
Phone: (770)993-4559
Main Phone: (770)993-4559
Web Site:www.briggsassociates.org
Languages: English
Provider Services: Job Placement/Employment Services (Job Search,
Placement Assist), Post-Employment Support (Job/Employment Retention Services),
School to Work Transition Services, Transitional Employment Program
Disabilities Served: Birth Defects/Growth Impairments, Developmental
Disabilities, Psychiatric Disorders (including eating disorders), Traumatic
Brain Injury/Stroke
BURNT MOUNTAIN CENTER
P.O. Box 337
Jasper, GA 30143
Contact: Michael Wofford
Phone: (706)692-6016
Main Phone: (706)692-6016
Languages: ASL (American Sign Language), English
Provider Services: Job Placement/Employment Services (Job Search,
Placement Assistance), Post-Employment Support (Job/Employment Retention Services),
School to Work Transition Services
Disabilities Served: Birth Defects/Growth Impairments, Blind/Visually
Impaired, Blood and Lymphatic, Cancer (non-lymphoma or leukemia), Deaf and/or
loss of voice, Developmental Disabilities, Digestive Disorders, Endocrine System
and Obesity, Genito-Urinary, Heart Disease/Cardiovascular, Immune System (incl.
AIDs/HIV), Non-traumatic Neurological Conditions, Psychiatric Disorders (incl.
eating disorders), Respiratory, Skin Conditions
CDSSI/GT Consultants & Associates
3111 S. Valley View Blvd., Suite B120
Las Vegas, NV 89102
Contact: Leola Doll
Phone: (702)362-2599
Main Phone: (702)362-2599
Languages: English
Provider Services: Business/Employer Mentoring Programs/Internships,
Career Consulting (portfolio prep, resume writing, interview skills), Career
Strategies (skills assessment & development, job coaching), Case management,
Habilitation Services (Independent. Living Training, Assist in support of work),
Job Accomodations, Job Placement/Employment Services (Job Search, Placement
Assistance), Job Service Vouchers, Job Training, Peer Mentoring Services, Personal
Attendant Support Services, Post-Employment Support (Job/Emplymt Retention Services),
Referral to Services/Support from Local MH or DD Providers, School to Work Transition
Services, Self-Employment/Business Start-up, Situational Assessment, Transitional
Employment Program, Work incentives Counseling
Disabilities Served: Blood and Lymphatic, Cancer (non-lymphoma
or leukemia), Deaf and/or loss of voice, Developmental Disabilities, Digestive
Disorders, Endocrine System and Obesity, Genito-Urinary, Heart Disease/Cardiovascular,
Immune System (incl. AIDs/HIV), Musculoskeletal Injuries, Non-traumatic Neurological
Conditions, Psychiatric Disorders (including eating disorders), Respiratory,
Skin Conditions, Other
EASTER SEALS MIDDLE GEORGIA, INC.
604 Kellam Road
Dublin, GA 31021
Contact: Kenneth Carswell
Phone: (478)272-0014
TDD: (478)272-0014
Main Phone: (478)272-0014
Languages: English
Provider Services: Job Placement/Employment Services (Job Search,
Placement Assistance), Job Training, Other services, Post-Employment Support
(Job/Emplymt Retention Services), School to Work Transition Services, Situational
Assessment, Transitional Employment Program
Disabilities Served: Birth Defects/Growth Impairments, Blind/Visually
Impaired, Blood and Lymphatic, Deaf and/or loss of voice, Developmental Disabilities,
Digestive Disorders, Endocrine System and Obesity, Genito-Urinary, Heart Disease/Cardiovascular,
Musculoskeletal Injuries, Non-traumatic Neurological Conditions, Psychiatric
Disorders (including eating disorders), Respiratory, Traumatic Brain Injury/Stroke
EXPEDITER CORPORATION
P.O. Box 6067
Pittsburgh, PA 15211
Contact: Renee R. Wallace
Phone: (412)829-1993
Main Phone: (412)829-1993
Languages: English
Provider Services: Career Strategies (skills assessment and
development, job coaching) Case management, Job Accomodations, Job Placement/Employment
Services (Job Search, Placement Assistance), Job Service Vouchers, Job Training,
Situational Assessment, Transitional Employment Program
Disabilities Served: Developmental Disabilities, Musculoskeletal
Injuries
GENEX SERVICES, INC.
440 E. Swedesford Road, Suite 1000
Wayne, PA 19087
Contact: Christine Tassoni
Phone: (610)964-5333
Toll Free: (866)275-9313
Languages: English
Provider Services: Career Consulting (portfolio prep, resume
writing, interview skills), Career Strategies (skills assessment and development,
job coaching), Case management, Job Accommodations, Job Placement/Employment
Services (Job Search, Placement Assistance), Other services, Referral to Services/Support
from Local MH or DD Providers, Services under a formal agreement with a WIB
and/or One-Stop, Situational Assessment
Disabilities Served: Birth Defects/Growth Impairments, Blind/Visually
Impaired, Blood and Lymphatic, Cancer (non-lymphoma or leukemia), Deaf and/or
loss of voice, Developmental Disabilities, Digestive Disorders, Endocrine System
and Obesity, Genito-Urinary, Heart Disease/Cardiovascular, Immune System (incl.
AIDs/HIV), Musculoskeletal Injuries, Non-traumatic Neurological Conditions,
Other, Psychiatric Disorders (including eating disorders), Respiratory, Skin
Conditions, Traumatic Brain Injury/Stroke
GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF LABOR VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION
1700 Century Circle
Atlanta, GA 30345
Contact: Customer Service Center
Phone: (404)486-6331
Toll Free: (866)489-0001
TDD: (866)373-7778
Main Phone: (404)486-6331
Web Site: www.vocrehabga.org
Languages: English, Most (Language Line), Spanish
Provider Services: Business/Employer Mentoring Programs/Internships,
Career Consulting (portfolio prep, resume writing, interview skills), Career
Strategies (skills assessment and development, job coaching), Case management,
Habilitation Services (Independent Living Training, Assist in support of work),
Job Accommodations, Job Placement/Employment Services (Job Search, Placement
Assistance), Job Service Vouchers, Job Training, Other services, Peer Mentoring
Services, Personal Attendant Support Services, Post-Employment Support (Job/Employment
Retention Services),
Psychosocial Rehabilitation, Referral to Services/Support from Local MH or DD
Providers, School to Work Transition Services, Self-Employment/Business Start-up,
Situational Assessment, Transitional Employment Program, Transportation assistance,
Work incentives Counseling
Disabilities Served: Birth Defects/Growth Impairments, Blind/Visually
Impaired, Blood and Lymphatic, Cancer (non-lymphoma or leukemia), Deaf and/or
loss of voice, Developmental Disabilities, Digestive Disorders, Endocrine System
and Obesity, Genito-Urinary, Heart Disease/Cardiovascular, Immune System (incl.
AIDs/HIV), Musculoskeletal Injuries, Non-traumatic Neurological Conditions,
Other, Psychiatric Disorders (incl. eating disorders), Respiratory, Skin Conditions,
Traumatic Brain Injury/Stroke
GEORGIA TRANSPLANT FOUNDATION
2970 Brandywine Road, Suite 138
Atlanta, GA 30341
Contact: Vivian J. Tomlinson
Phone: (770)457-3796
Toll Free: (866)428-9411
Main Phone: (770)457-3796
Web Site: www.gatransplant.org
Languages: English
Provider Services: Business/Employer Mentoring Programs/Internships,
Career Consulting (portfolio prep, resume writing, interview skills), Career
Strategies (skills assess & develop, job coaching), Case management, Job
Accommodations, Job Placement/Employment Services (Job Search, Placement Assistance),
Job Service Vouchers, Job Training, Post-Employment Support (Job/Employment
Retention Services)
Disabilities Served: Organ Transplant Candidates & Recipients
GLICK & GLICK CONSULTANTS, LLC.
6800 Heritage Parkway, Suite 201
Rowlett, TX 75030
Contact: Cathy Witt
Phone: (972)475-1400
Toll Free: (800)222-8582
Main Phone: (800)222-8582
Languages: English
Provider Services: Career Consulting (portfolio prep, resume
writing, interview skills),
Case management, Job Placement/Employment Services (Job Search, Placement Assistance),
Post-Employment Support (Job/Employment Retention Services), Referral to Services/Support
from Local MH or DD Providers, Situational Assessment
Disabilities Served: Birth Defects/Growth Impairments, Blind/Visually
Impaired, Blood and Lymphatic, Cancer (non-lymphoma or leukemia), Deaf and/or
loss of voice, Developmental Disabilities, Digestive Disorders, Endocrine System
and Obesity, Genito-Urinary, Heart Disease/Cardiovascular, Immune System (incl.
AIDs/HIV), Musculoskeletal Injuries, Non-traumatic Neurological Conditions,
Other, Psychiatric Disorders (including eating disorders), Respiratory, Skin
Conditions, Traumatic Brain Injury/Stroke
GOODWILL INDUSTRIES OF MIDDLE GEORGIA, INC.
5171 Eisenhower Parkway
Macon, GA 31206
Contact: Annette Perryman
Phone: (478) 475-9995
Main Phone: (478) 471-4845
Email: aperryman@goodwillworks.org
Languages: English
Provider Services: Business/Employer Mentoring Programs/Internships,
Career Consulting (portfolio prep, resume writing, interview skills), Career
Strategies (skills assessment and development, job coaching), Case management,
Habilitation Services (Independent Living Training, Assistance in support of
work), Job Accommodations, Job Placement/Employment Services (Job Search, Placement
Assist), Job Training, Other services, Peer Mentoring Services, Post-Employment
Support (Job/Employment Retention Services), Referral to Services/Support from
Local MH or DD Providers,
School to Work Transition Services, Services under a formal agreement with a
WIB and/or One-Stop, Situational Assessment, Transitional Employment Program,
Transportation assistance, Work incentives Counseling
Disabilities Served: Birth Defects/Growth Impairments, Blood
and Lymphatic, Cancer (non-lymphoma or leukemia), Deaf and/or loss of voice,
Developmental Disabilities, Digestive Disorders, Endocrine System and Obesity,
Genito-Urinary, Heart Disease/Cardiovascular, Immune System (incl. AIDs/HIV),
Musculoskeletal Injuries, Non-traumatic Neurological Conditions, Respiratory,
Skin Conditions, Traumatic Brain Injury/Stroke
GOODWILL INDUSTRIES OF THE CHATTAHOOCHEE VALLEY, INC.
1955 Northside Industrial Blvd.
Columbus, GA 31904
Contact: Cathy Phillips
Phone: (706)324-4366
Main Phone: (706)324-4366
Languages: English, Spanish
Provider Services: Career Consulting (portfolio prep, resume
writing, interview skills),
Career Strategies (skills assess & develop, job coaching), Case management,
Job Placement/Employment Services (Job Search, Placement Assist), Job Training,
Post-Employment Support (Job/Emplymt Retention Services)
Disabilities Served: Birth Defects/Growth Impairments, Deaf
and/or loss of voice, Developmental Disabilities, Musculoskeletal Injuries,
Non-traumatic Neurological Conditions, Psychiatric Disorders (including eating
disorders), Respiratory
GREEN OAKS CENTER
2443 Ga. Hwy, 133 S.
Moultrie, GA 31776
Contact: Sheryl Phillips
Phone: (229)891-7300
Main Phone: (229)891-7300
Languages: English
Provider Services: Career Consulting (portfolio prep, resume
writing, interview skills), Career Strategies (skills assessment and development,
job coaching), Case management, Habilitation Services (Independent Living Training,
Assist in support of work) Job Accommodations Job Placement/Employment Services
(Job Search, Placement Assistance), Job Training, Post-Employment Support (Job/Empolyment
Retention Services), Referral to Services/Support from Local MH or DD Providers,
School to Work Transition Services, Situational Assessment, Transportation assistance,Work
incentives Counseling
Disabilities Served: Developmental Disabilities
I-TECH PERSONNEL SERVICES, INC.
622 Cassat Avenue, Suite 9
Jacksonville, FL 32205
Contact: Marco H. Tran
Phone: (904)781-6655
Main Phone: (904)781-6655
Languages: English
Provider Services: Career Strategies (skills assess & develop,
job coaching), Job Accommodations, Job Placement/Employment Services (Job Search,
Placement Assist)
Job Service Vouchers, Job Training, Personal Attendant Support Services, Referral
to Services/Support from Local MH or DD Providers
Disabilities Served: Blind/Visually Impaired, Deaf and/or loss
of voice, Developmental Disabilities, Non-traumatic Neurological Conditions,
Psychiatric Disorders (including eating disorders), Traumatic Brain Injury/Stroke
INTEGRATED DISABILITY RESOURCES
PO Box 754
Windsor, CT 06095
Toll Free: (888)479-5017
Languages: English
Provider Services:Job management, Job Placement
Disabilities Served:Blind/Visually Impaired, Blood and Lymphatic,
Cancer (non-lymphoma or leukemia), Deaf and/or loss of voice, Developmental
Disabilities, Digestive Disorders, Endocrine System and Obesity, Genito-Urinary,
Heart Disease/Cardiovascular, Immune System (incl. AIDs/HIV), Musculoskeletal
Injuries, Non-traumatic Neurological Conditions, Other, Psychiatric Disorders
(incl. eating disorders), Respiratory, Skin Conditions
LIFT, INC.
PO Box 4264
Warren, NJ 07059
Contact: Adrienne Sherman
Phone: (908)707-9840
Main Phone: (908)707-9840
Web Site: www.lift-inc.org
Languages: English
Provider Services: Business/Employer Mentoring Programs/Internships,
Job Placement/Employment Services (Job Search, Placement Assistance), Job Training
Disabilities Served: Blind/Visually Impaired, Deaf and/or loss
of voice, Musculoskeletal Injuries, Non-traumatic Neurological Conditions
LYNNDALE, INC.
1490 Eisenhower Drive
Augusta, GA 30904
Contact: Elaine Hickerson
Phone: (706)738-3395
Main Phone: (706)738-3395
Languages: English
Provider Services: Career Consulting (portfolio prep, resume
writing, interview skills), Career Strategies (skills assess & develop,
job coaching), Habilitation Services (Independent Living Training, Assist in
support of work), Job Placement/Employment Services (Job Search, Placement Assistance),
Job Training, Post-Employment Support (Job/Empolyment Retention Services), School
to Work Transition Services
Disabilities Served: Cancer (non-lymphoma or leukemia), Developmental
Disabilities, Immune System (incl. AIDs/HIV), Psychiatric Disorders (including
eating disorders), Traumatic Brain Injury/Stroke
MCINTOSH TRAIL MH/MR/SA-CSB
1501-A Kalamazoo Drive, PO Box 1320
Griffin, GA 30224
Contact: Marie Brown
Phone: (770)775-5129
Main Phone: (770)775-5129
Languages: English
Provider Services: Career Consulting (portfolio prep, resume
writing, interview skills), Career Strategies (skills assessment and development,
job coaching), Case management, Habilitation Services (Independent Living Training,
Assist in support of work), Job Placement/Employment Services (Job Search, Placement
Assistance), Personal Attendant Support Services, Post-Employment Support (Job/Empolyment
Retention Services), Psychosocial Rehabilitation, Referral to Services/Support
from Local MH or DD Providers, School to Work Transition Services, Situational
Assessment, Transportation assistance, Work incentives Counseling
Disabilities Served: Developmental Disabilities, Other, Psychiatric
Disorders (including eating disorders)
MINDFINDERS INC.
1050 Connecticut Avenue, Suite 1000
Washington, DC 20036
Contact: Tim R. Booker
Phone: (202)772-1073
Main Phone: (202)772-1073
Web Site: www.themindfinders.com
Languages: English
Provider Services: Business/Employer Mentoring Programs/Internships,
Career Consulting (portfolio prep, resume writing, interview skills), Career
Strategies (skills assessment and development, job coaching), Case management,
Job Placement/ Employment Services (Job Search, Placement Assistance), Job Training,
Peer Mentoring Services, Post-Employment Support (Job/Employment Retention Services),
Self-Employment/Business Start-up, Transitional Employment Program
Disabilities Served: Birth Defects/Growth Impairments, Blind/Visually
Impaired, Blood and Lymphatic, Cancer (non-lymphoma or leukemia), Deaf and/or
loss of voice, Developmental Disabilities, Digestive Disorders, Endocrine System
and Obesity, Genito-Urinary, Heart Disease/Cardiovascular, Immune System (incl.
AIDs/HIV), Musculoskeletal Injuries, Non-traumatic Neurological Conditions,
Organ Transplant Candidates & Recipients, Other, Psychiatric Disorders (including
eating disorders), Respiratory, Skin Conditions, Traumatic Brain Injury/Stroke
MONACO'S T.O.W. SERVICE: THERAPY ON WHEELS, INC.
2914 Professional Parkway
Augusta, GA 30907
Contact: Karen Monaco
Phone: (706)650-5501
Main Phone: (706)650-5501
Web Site: www.therapyonwheels.com
Languages: English
Disabilities Served: Birth Defects/Growth Impairments, Deaf
and/or loss of voice, Developmental Disabilities, Musculoskeletal Injuries,
Non-traumatic Neurological Conditions, Other, Psychiatric Disorders (including
eating disorders), Traumatic Brain Injury/Stroke
NAMI-CENTRAL GEORGIA, INC.
209 Elberta Road
Warner Robins, GA 91093
Contact: Julie J. George
Phone: (478)929-9444
Main Phone: (478)929-9444
Web Site: www.nami.centralga.org
Languages: English
Provider Services: Career Consulting (portfolio prep, resume
writing, interview skills), Career Strategies (skills assessment and development,
job coaching), Habilitation Services (Independent Living Training, Assist in
support of work), Job Accommodations, Job Placement/Employment Services (Job
Search, Placement Assistance), Job Training, Other services, Post-Employment
Support (Job/Emplymt Retention Services), Referral to Services/Support from
Local MH or DD Providers, School to Work Transition Services, Transitional Employment
Program, Transportation assistance
Disabilities Served: Psychiatric Disorders (including eating
disorders)
NEW VENTURES, INC.
Address: 306 Fort Drive
LaGrange, GA 30240
Contact: Vicky Ellis
Phone: (706)882-7723
Main Phone: (706)882-7723
Web Site: www.newventures.org
Languages: English
Provider Services: Business/Employer Mentoring Programs/Internships,
Career Consulting (portfolio prep, resume writing, interview skills), Career
Strategies (skills assessment and development, job coaching), Case management,
Habilitation Services (Independent Living Training, Assist in support of work),
Job Accommodations, Job Placement/Employment Services (Job Search, Placement
Assist), Job Training, Post-Employment Support (Job/Emplymt Retention Services),
Referral to Services/Support from Local MH or DD Providers, School to Work Transition
Services, Situational Assessment, Transitional Employment Program, Transportation
assistance
Disabilities Served: Developmental Disabilities, Psychiatric
Disorders (including eating disorders), Traumatic Brain Injury/Stroke
PINELAND MH/MR/SA - CSB
Main Phone: (912)764-6906
Languages: English, Spanish
Provider Services: Career Strategies (skills assessment and
development, job coaching), Habilitation Services (Independent Living Training,
Assist in support of work), Job Accommodations, Job Placement/Employment Services
(Job Search, Placement Assistance), Job Service Vouchers, Job Training, Peer
Mentoring Services, Personal Attendant Support Services, Post-Employment Support
(Job/Employment Retention Services), Psychosocial Rehabilitation, School to
Work Transition Services, Self-Employment/Business Start-up, Situational Assessment,
Transitional Employment Program, Transportation assistance, Work incentives
Counseling
Disabilities Served: Developmental Disabilities
SISKIN HOSPITAL FOR PHYSICAL REHABILITATION
One Siskin Plaza
Chattanooga, TN 37403
Contact: Janice Cruden
Phone: (423)634-1534
TDD: (423)634-1201
Main Phone: (423)634-1534
Web Site: www.siskinrehab.org
Languages: English
Provider Services: Career Consulting (portfolio prep, resume
writing, interview skills), Career Strategies (skills assessment and development,
job coaching), Case management, Habilitation Services (Independent Living Training,
Assist in support of work), Job Accommodations, Job Placement/Employment Services
(Job Search, Placement Assistance), Job Training, Peer Mentoring Services, Post-Employment
Support (Job/Empolyment Retention Services), Psychosocial Rehabilitation, Referral
to Services/Support from Local MH or DD Providers, Situational Assessment, Transportation
assistance, Work incentives Counseling
Disabilities Served: Birth Defects/Growth Impairments, Blind/Visually
Impaired, Blood and Lymphatic, Cancer (non-lymphoma or leukemia), Deaf and/or
loss of voice, Developmental Disabilities, Digestive Disorders, Endocrine System
and Obesity, Heart Disease/Cardiovascular, Immune System (incl. AIDs/HIV), Musculoskeletal
Injuries, Non-traumatic Neurological Conditions, Psychiatric Disorders (including
eating disorders), Respiratory, Traumatic Brain Injury/Stroke
TRIANGLE CASE MANAGEMENT
1225 Edgewood Ct
Salisbury, NC 28147
Contact: Anne Stuart Welch
Phone: (704)633-1335
Main Phone: (704)633-1335
Languages: English
Provider Services: Business/Employer Mentoring Programs/Internships,
Career Consulting (portfolio prep, resume writing, interview skills), Career
Strategies (skills assessment and development, job coaching), Case management,
Habilitation Services (Independent Living Training, Assist in support of work),
Job Accommodations,
Job Placement/Employment Services (Job Search, Placement Assist), Job Training,
Other services, Post-Employment Support (Job/Employment Retention Services),
Referral to Services/Support from Local MH or DD Providers, Self-Employment/Business
Start-up, Situational Assessment, Transitional Employment Program, Transportation
assistance, Work incentives Counseling
Disabilities Served: Birth Defects/Growth Impairments, Developmental
Disabilities, Digestive Disorders, Endocrine System and Obesity, Heart Disease/Cardiovascular,
Musculoskeletal Injuries, Non-traumatic Neurological Conditions, Psychiatric
Disorders (including eating disorders), Respiratory, Traumatic Brain Injury/Stroke
UNITED CEREBRAL PALSY OF GEORGIA
3300 Northeast Expressway, Bldg. 39
Atlanta, GA 30341
Contact: Marla Law
Phone: (770)676-2000
Toll Free: (800)827-9455
Main Phone: (770)676-2000
Languages: English
Provider Services:
Career Consulting (portfolio prep, resume writing, interview skills), Career
Strategies (skills assessment and development, job coaching), Job Placement/Employment
Services (Job Search, Placement Assist), Post-Employment Support (Job/Employment
Retention Services), School to Work Transition Services
Disabilities Served: Blind/Visually Impaired, Deaf and/or loss
of voice, Developmental Disabilities, Non-traumatic Neurological Conditions,
Traumatic Brain Injury/Stroke
VISION IMPAIRED PERSONAL SERVICES, INC.
434 Gardner Road
Stockbridge, GA 30281
Contact: Helen Bartels
Phone: (770)474-3474
Main Phone: (770)474-3474
Languages: English
Provider Services: Business/Employer Mentoring Programs/Internships,
Career Consulting (portfolio prep, resume writing, interview skills), Career
Strategies (skills assessment and development, job coaching), Case management,
Habilitation Services (Independent Living Training, Assist in support of work),
Personal Attendant Support Services, Self-Employment/Business Start-up, Transportation
assistance
Disabilities Served: Blind/Visually Impaired
ZEITGEIST EXPRESSIONS
12173 Network
San Antonio, TX 78249
Contact: Patricia E. Adams
Phone: (210)479-0941
Toll Free: (866)344-5517
Main Phone: (210)479-0941
Web Site: www.zeitgeistexpressions.com
Languages: English
Provider Services: Business/Employer Mentoring Programs/Internships,
Career Consulting (portfolio prep, resume writing, interview skills), Career
Strategies (skills assessment and development, job coaching), Case management,
Referral to Services/Support from Local MH or DD Providers, Situational Assessment
Disabilities Served: Psychiatric Disorders (including eating
disorders)
[back to table of contents]
Terms used in the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) Programs.
A
Alternate Participants A public or private agency, except the
designated participating State VR agency or agency for the blind, that SSA determined
is qualified to provide VR services and with whom SSA have signed a contract
to provide such services to SSDI/SSI disability beneficiaries.
B
Blind Work Expenses (SSI) If you are blind, when we determine
your SSI eligibility and payment amount we do not count any earned income that
you use to meet expenses in earning the income.
Break-Even Point (SSI) The dollar amount of total income that
will (after applicable deductions are applied) reduce the SSI payment to zero
in a given set of case facts. Your break-even point depends on your earned and
unearned income, living arrangement, applicable income exclusions, and State
supplement, if any. While useful for discussion purposes, this term does not
appear in the SSI rules.
C
Continuing Disability Review (SSDI and SSI) Our process of
obtaining complete current information about your condition and any work activity
to decide if your SSDI and/or SSI benefits should continue.
Continuation of Medicare Coverage (SSDI) You can receive at
least 39 consecutive months of hospital and medical insurance after the trial
work period. This provision allows health insurance to continue when you go
to work and are engaging in SGA.
Countable Income (SSI) The amount of money left after we eliminate
all amounts that are not income and apply all appropriate exclusions to your
total income. We use this amount to determine your SSI eligibility and payment
amounts.
D
Deeming (SSI) Our process of considering some of the income and resources
of your parent, or spouse, or sponsor (if you are an alien) to be your income
and resources when you are applying for or receiving SSI benefits.
Definition of Disability - Social Security Disability Insurance and
Supplemental Security Income Inability to engage in any substantial
gainful activity because of physical or mental impairment(s) which has lasted
or can be expected to last for at least 12 months or can be expected to result
in death.
E
Extended Period of Eligibility (SSDI) 36 consecutive months following
the trial work period when, if you qualify, we may reinstate your SSDI benefits
without a new application, disability determination, or waiting period.
I
Impairment-Related Work Expenses (SSDI and SSI) We deduct the cost
of items and services that you need to work because of your impairment (e.g.,
attendant care services, medical devices, etc.) when we decide if you are engaging
in SGA. It does not matter if you also need the items for normal daily activities.
We can usually deduct the cost of these same items from earned income to figure
your SSI payment.
Income (SSI) Earned income - money received from wages,
including from a sheltered workshop or work activity center, self-employment
earnings, and some royalties and honoraria; and Unearned income - money
received from all other sources, e.g., gifts, interest, Social Security, Veteran's
benefits, pensions. Unearned Income also includes "in-kind income"
(free food, clothing or shelter) and "deemed income" (some of the
income of a spouse, or parent, or sponsor of an alien).
M
Medicaid (SSI) Medical coverage provided to a person by the
State title XIX program.
Medical Improvement Expected (SSDI and SSI) When we decide
if you have a disabling impairment, we also decide that the disabling impairment(s)
may improve and we diary the case for a future review.
MINE Medical Improvement Not Expected.
Medicare (SSDI) Two-part health insurance program for eligible
disabled and people age 65 or older:
• Hospital Insurance under Medicare (HI, Part A); and
• Supplementary Medical Insurance under Medicare (SMI, Part B). In addition,
there is coverage for some people who are not disabled with end-stage renal
disease.
Medicare for People With Disabilities Who Work (SSDI) Some
people with disabilities who have returned to work can buy continued Medicare
coverage when their premium-free Medicare ends due to work activity. States
are required to help pay the hospital insurance premiums for some working individuals
with disabilities.
P
Plan for Achieving Self-Support (PASS)(SSI) Under an approved
PASS, you may set aside income and/or resources over a reasonable time which
will enable you to reach a work goal to become financially self-supporting.
You then can use the income and resources that you set aside to obtain occupational
training or education, purchase occupational equipment, establish a business,
etc. We do not count the income and resources that you set aside under a PASS
when we decide SSI eligibility and payment amount.
PASS Cadre Groups of PASS experts located across the country,
with at least 1 cadre in each of the 10 SSA regions.
Property Essential To Self-Support (SSI) We do not count some
or all of certain property necessary for self-support when we apply the SSI
resources test.
R
Resources (SSI) Resources are anything you own, such as a bank account,
stocks, business assets, real property, or personal property that you can use
for your support and maintenance. We may not count all your resources when we
determine your SSI eligibility.
S
SSDI Social Security Disability Insurance authorized under Title II
of the Social Security Act.
SSI Supplemental Security Income program authorized under Title
XVI of the Social Security Act.
SSI General Income Exclusion To determine SSI eligibility and
payment amount, SSA excludes the first $20 per month of your income.
SSI Work Incentives/Employment Support Rules that help beneficiaries
with disabilities go to work by continuing SSI payments and/or Medicaid.
State Vocational Rehabilitation Agency The organization in
each State, the District of Columbia or U.S. Territory, that is the designated
governmental entity responsible for providing vocational rehabilitation services
to persons with disabilities residing within its jurisdiction. In some States
a separate State Vocational Rehabilitation agency also exists to provide assistance
and services to individuals with a visual impairment.
Subsidies and Special Conditions (SSDI and SSI) Supports you
receive on the job that could result in more pay than the actual value of the
services you perform. We deduct the value of subsidies and special conditions
from your earnings when we determine SGA.
Substantial Gainful Activity (SSDI and SSI) We evaluate the
work activity of persons claiming or receiving disability benefits under SSDI,
and/or claiming benefits because of a disability (other than blindness) under
SSI. Under both programs, we use earnings guidelines to evaluate your work activity
to decide whether the work activity is substantial gainful activity and whether
we may consider you disabled under the law. While this is only one of the tests
used to decide if you are disabled, it is a critical threshold in disability
evaluation.
T
Trial Work Period (SSDI) The trial work period is an incentive for
the personal rehabilitation efforts of SSDI beneficiaries who work. The trial
work period lets you test your ability to work or run a business for at least
9 months and receive full SSDI benefits no matter how high your earnings are
if your impairment does not improve.
U
Unincurred Business Expenses Self-employment business support given
to you by someone else without cost. If you are self-employed, we deduct unincurred
business expenses from earnings when we determine SGA.
Unsuccessful Work Attempt An effort to do substantial work
(in employment or self-employment) which you stopped or reduced to below SGA
level after a short time (6 months or less). This change must have resulted
because of your impairment, or removal of special conditions related to your
impairment that are essential to the further performance of your work. We do
not count earnings during an unsuccessful work attempt when we make an SGA decision.
V
Vocational Rehabilitation Services Those services identified in Rehabilitation
Act of 1973, as amended, which are provided in an individualized plan for employment
necessary to assist an individual with a disability in preparing for, securing,
retaining, or regaining an employment outcome that is consistent with the strengths,
resources, priorities, concerns, abilities, capabilities, interests, and informed
choice of the individual.
W
Work Incentives/Employment Support SSA policies that help disability
beneficiaries go to work and receive benefits in an attempt to become more independent.
The source of this glossary is: www.ssa.gov/work
[back to table of contents]
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Working While Disabled
• Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA). A blind individual
is eligible for SSI payments even if engaging in SGA, provided the other requirements
for eligibility are met (income and resources). For all other disabilities,
SGA only applies when the initial disability decision is made. After the prerequisite
month is met, SSI recipients who are disabled may continue to receive payments
until their countable income exceeds the SSI limits.
• General Income exclusion. $20 per month of any income
is excluded.
• Earned Income exclusion. $65 per month of earned income
plus one-half of the remaining earned income in the month is excluded.
• Student child earned income exclusion. For an unmarried
blind or disabled child under age 22 who is a student regularly attending school,
up to $1,340 per month of earned income (but not more than $5,410 in a calendar
year) is excluded.
• Impairment related work expense. Certain expenses for
things a person with a disability needs because of his or her impairment in
order to work may be deducted when counting earnings to determine if a person
is eligible and to figure the payment amount.
• Blind work expenses. Represents any earned income of
a blind person which is used to meet any expenses reasonably attributable to
earning the income.
• Plan for Achieving Self-Support (PASS). A SSI recipient
who is blind or disabled may set aside income and resources toward an approved
Plan for Achieving Self-Support.
• Continuation of Medicaid Eligibility (1619B). Medicaid
may continue for SSI recipients who are blind or disabled and earn over the
SSI limits if they cannot afford similar medical care and depend on Medicaid
in order to work. There is a "Threshold test" and a "Medicaid
use test".
**Threshold test. Cannot have earnings sufficient to replace
SSI cash benefits, Medicaid benefits, and publicly-funded personal or attendant
care that would be lost due to his or her earnings. SSA has computed a threshold
amount for each State, however, if the individual is not eligible using the
charted threshold amount they may be eligible under an individualized threshold
calculation.
**Medicaid use test. An individual must depend on Medicaid
coverage to continue working. An individual depends on Medicaid if he or she:
used Medicaid coverage within the past 12 months; or expects to use Medicaid
coverage in the next 12 months; or would be unable to pay unexpected medical
bills in the next 12 months without Medicaid.
• Expedited Reinstatement of benefits. Within 60 months
from the month of termination of benefits due to work, if the individual is
unable to work because of the same medical condition, they can file a request
for reinstatement of benefits. While Social Security is making a new determination,
the individual may receive up to six months of provisional benefits, including
Medicare and Medicaid, as appropriate.
• Recovery During Vocational Rehabilitation. If a person recovers while participating in a vocational rehabilitation program that is likely to lead to becoming self-supporting, benefits may continue until the program ends (Section 301 benefits)
Summary of Social Security Disability (SSDI) and Supplemental
Security Income (SSI) Work Incentives prepared by the Atlanta Region PASS Cadre
(updated 02/2001)
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Desktop Guide To Social Security
and SSI Work Incentives 2003
Special rules make it possible for people with disabilities receiving Social
Security or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) to work and still receive monthly
payments and Medicare and Medicaid. Social Security calls these employment supports
"work incentives." Following are the rules that apply under each program.
For more copies or additional materials on work incentives, contact any Social
Security office or contact Shepherd Center’s Benefits Navigator Program
at 1-866-772-2726.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), TWP = $570, SGA = $800
Trial Work Period - A period of nine months (not necessarily
consecutive) during which the earnings of a Social Security beneficiary who
is blind or disabled will not affect his or her benefit. (The nine months of
work must occur within a 60-month period.)
Extended Period of Eligibility - For at least three years after
a successful trial work period, a Social Security beneficiary who is blind or
disabled may receive a disability benefit for any month that his/her earnings
are below the substantial gainful activity level (in 2003, $800 for people who
are disabled, $1,330 for people who are blind).
Continuation of Medicare - If Social Security disability payments
stop because a person has earnings at or above the substantial gainful activity
level, but the person is still disabled, Medicare can continue for at least
93 months after the trial work period. After that, the person can buy Medicare
coverage by paying a monthly premium.
Impairment-Related Work Expenses - Certain expenses for things
a person with a disability needs because of his/her impairment in order to work
may be deducted when counting earnings to determine if the person is performing
substantial gainful activity.
Recovery During Vocational Rehabilitation - If a person recovers
while participating in a vocational rehabilitation program that is likely to
lead to becoming self-supporting, benefits may continue until the program ends.
Special Rules for Persons Who are Blind - Several special rules
apply to working beneficiaries who are blind. For example, in 2003, they can
earn up to $1,330 before their benefits are affected
Subsidies and Special Conditions - refer to support you receive
on the job that could result in your receiving more pay than the actual value
of the services you performed. We deduct the value of subsidies and special
conditions from your earnings when we decide whether you are working at the
SGA level.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI), FBR = $552 Single, $829 Couple
Continuation Of SSI - Working SSI recipients who are blind
or disabled may continue to receive payments until countable income exceeds
SSI limits.
Continuation Of Medicaid Eligibility - Medicaid may continue
for SSI recipients who are blind or disabled and earn over the SSI limits if
they cannot afford similar medical care and depend on Medicaid in order to work.
Plan For Achieving Self Support - An SSI recipient who is blind
or disabled may set aside income and resources toward an approved plan for achieving
self support (PASS).
Impairment-Related Work Expenses - Certain expenses for things
a person with a disability needs because of his/her impairment in order to work
may be deducted when counting earnings to determine if a person is eligible
and to figure the payment amount. For working persons who are blind, the work
expenses need not be related to the impairment.
Recovery During Vocational Rehabilitation - If a person recovers while
participating in a vocational rehabilitation program that is likely to lead
to becoming self-supporting, benefits may continue until the program ends.
Sheltered Workshop Payments - Pay received in a sheltered workshop
is treated as earned income, regardless of whether it is considered wages for
other purposes. This enables Social Security to exclude more of the sheltered
workshop employee’s earnings when computing his/her SSI payment.
Students with Disabilities - Tuition, books and other expenses
related to getting an education may not be counted as income for recipients
who go to school or are in a training program. Student may exclude up to $1,340
of earnings a month ($5,410 a year).
Blind Work Expenses - Earned income that a blind individual uses to
meet the expenses of working does not count when we determine SSI eligibility
and payment amount. The expenses do not need to be related to blindness and
include earned income used to pay income taxes, meals consumed during work hours,
transportation costs or guide dog expenses.
Work Incentive information provided courtesy of Social Security Administration,
1-800-772-1213, www.ssa.gov/work. Information
compiled courtesy of Shepherd Center’s Benefits Navigator Program, 1-866-772-2726,
www.bpaoga.com. Project Directors: Sally
Atwell, MS, CRC, LPC; Curtis L. Rodgers, MS, CRC, LPC
[back to table of contents]
Social Security Disability Insurance
(SSDI)
Working While Disabled
• Trial work period. A period of nine months (not necessarily consecutive) in a rolling 60 consecutive month period when earnings of a Social Security beneficiary who is blind or disabled will not affect his or her benefit. Effective 01/2003 months with earnings of more than $570.00 are counted as trial work months.
• Substantial gainful activity level (SGA). $800 a month
effective 01/2003 for people who are disabled, $1,330 a month for people who
are blind.
• Impairment related work expense (IRWE)/Subsidy and Special
Conditions. Things a person with a disability needs because of his/her
impairment in order to work are impairment related work expenses and may be
deducted when counting earnings to determine if the person is performing substantial
gainful activity. Subsidy and Special Conditions are also considered to determine
SGA and are supports received on the job such as job coaching, extra supervision,
and fewer or simpler tasks, these may be provided by the employer or a third
party.
• Extended period of Eligibility. For three years after
a trial work period, a Social Security beneficiary who is blind or disabled
may receive a disability check for any month that his/her earnings are below
the substantial gainful activity level.
• Continuation of Medicare. If Social Security disability
payments stop because of substantial gainful activity, but the person is still
disabled, Medicare can continue for at least 93 months after the trial work
period. Hospital Insurance (HI/Part A) is free, however a premium is required
for Supplemental Medical Insurance (SMI/Part B) unless the State is paying the
premium.
• Medicare for the working disabled. After the 93- month
period of continuation of Medicare, the individual loses free Hospital Insurance.
However, for as long as they continue to have a disabling impairment, a disabled
individual who loses premium-free HI solely because they are working may enroll
in hospital insurance only or hospital and medical insurance by paying monthly
premiums. They may qualify for a reduced hospital insurance premium and/or the
State may pay for their hospital insurance if they meet the criteria.
• Expedited Reinstatement of benefits. Within 60 months
from the month of termination of benefits due to work, if the individual is
unable to work because of the same medical condition, they can file a request
for reinstatement of benefits. While Social Security is making a new determination,
the individual may receive up to six months of provisional benefits, including
Medicare and Medicaid, as appropriate.
• Recovery During Vocational Rehabilitation. If a person recovers while participating in a vocational rehabilitation program that is likely to lead to becoming self-supporting, benefits may continue until the program ends (Section 301 benefits).
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Work Incentive: Earned Income Exclusion
Description: Allows most of a person’s earned income,
including pay received in a sheltered workshop or work activity center, to be
excluded when figuring the SSI payment amount. The first $65 of earnings in
a month, plus one-half of the remainder. This exclusion is applied in addition
to the $20 general income exclusion.
Used in Conjunction with: Student Earned Income Exclusion,
Impairment Related Work Expense (IRWE), Plan for Achieving Self Support (PASS),
Property Essential to Self Support (PESS)
Work Incentive:Student Earned Income Exclusion (SEIE) This
Work Incentive should be used before the others, except for PESP, which should
be considered simultaneously.
Description: A person who is under age 22 and regularly attending
school can exclude up to $1,340 of earned income per month. The maximum annual
exclusion is $5,410.
Used in Conjunction with: Earned Income Exclusion, Impairment
Related Work Expense (IRWE), Plan for Achieving Self Support (PASS), Property
Essential to Self Support (PESS)
Work Incentive: Blind Work Expenses (BWE)
Description: Any earned income which a person who is blind
uses to meet expenses needed to earn that income.
Used in Conjunction with: SSA uses a list of expense items
known as BWE instead of impairment-related work expenses. It is done this way
because it always results in a higher SSI payment amount for the individual.;
Earned Income Exclusion, Plan for Achieving Self Support (PASS), Property Essential
to Self Support (PESS)
Work Incentive: Plan for Achieving Self-Support (PASS) If
developed prior to employment, your countable earned income may be lower.
Description: Allows a person to set aside income (other than
SSI) and resources for a work goal. This may make the person eligible for SSI
or more SSI.
Used in Conjunction with: Property Essential to Self Support
(PESS), Student Earned Income Exclusion, Impairment Related Work Expense (IRWE),
Earned Income Exclusion
Work Incentive: Property Essential to Self-Support (PESS)
Description: Allows a person to exclude certain resources which
are essential to the person’s means of self-support.
Used in Conjunction with: Earned Income Exclusion, Plan for
Achieving Self Support (PASS), Student Earned Income Exclusion, Impairment Related
Work Expense(IRWE), Blind Work Expenses (BWE)
Work Incentive: Section 1619(a) If you are blind, this does
not apply to you because the SGA requirement never applied to you under SSI.
Description: Allows SSI recipients to receive SSI cash payments
even when their earned income exceeds the substantial gainful activity (SGA)
level. This provision is confusing & presents itself as a separate Work
Incentive. Basically, it allows continued SSI payment if the individual uses
Work Incentives to reduce earned income.
Used in Conjunction with: Depending on the individuals' specific
situation, the other Work Incentives could be used.
Work Incentive: Section 1619 (b)
Description: Allows continued Medicaid coverage when earnings
become too high to receive a SSI cash payment.
Used in Conjunction with: Impairment Related Work Expense (IRWE),
Blind Work Expenses (BWE), Plan for Achieving Self Support (PASS)
Work Incentive: SSI Special Benefits for People Eligible Under
Section 1619(a) or (b) Who Enter A Medical Treatment Facility
Description: If an individual is eligible under the Section
1619 requirements, he/she can receive his/her SSI for up to two months while
in a Medicaid facility, public medical or psychiatric facility.
Used in Conjunction with: This is not intended to be used with
other Work Incentives. It is a guaranteed income for beneficiaries under specific
circumstances.
Work Incentive: Reinstating Eligibility Without a New Application.
Beginning January 1, 2001 reinstatement requests can be made during a 60-month
period
Description: SSI cash payments and/or Medicaid coverage can
be maintained without a new application if an individual’s situation changes
which makes them eligible again within one year.
Used in Conjunction with: A stand-alone Work Incentive designed
as a "safety net" for beneficiaries who are able to enter or re-enter
the work force.
Work Incentive: Continued Payment Under a Vocational Rehabilitation
Program
Description: If someone is no longer considered disabled by
the SSA, he/she can continue to receive benefits until his/her rehabilitation
services are completed.
Used in Conjunction with: A stand-alone Work Incentive designed
to provide income to individuals who have or could potentially recover during
rehabilitation.
Work Incentive: Impairment Related Work Expenses (IRWE)
Description: Permits an individual to deduct the cost of certain
disability-related items and services that he/she needs to work.
Used in Conjunction with: Earned Income Exclusion, Plan for
Achieving Self Support (PASS), Property Essential to Self Support, Student Earned
Income Exclusion
SSDI Work Incentives
Work Incentive: Trial Work Period
Description: Allows a person to work for nine months, regardless
of their earnings and not lose their check.
Used in Conjunction with: Under the SSDI Program, individuals
use this Work Incentive first. At this point, the use of other Work Incentives
is not necessary.
Work Incentive: Impairment Related Work Incentive (IRWE)
Description: Allows a person to deduct from their gross earnings,
the costs of certain disability-related items and services that he/she needs
to work such as supported employment, transportation, attendant services, medical
devices and equipment, etc.
Used in Conjunction with: Plan for Achieving Self Support (PASS)
*Using a PASS and or a PASS and IRWE could help an individual qualify for SSI
and Medicaid.
Work Incentive: Working While Blind
Description: Allows an individual to continue receiving benefits
as long as their earnings are below the substantial gainful activity of $1,330.
Used in Conjunction with: This Work Incentive is directed to
individuals who are blind to inform them of the higher SGA level ($1,330), as
compared to non-blind disabled workers ($800, SGA)
Work Incentive: Subsidies and Special Conditions
Description: Only earnings that represent the real value of
the work performed are used to determine if work is at the SGA level.
Used in Conjunction with: Impairment Related Work Expenses
(IRWE), Plan for Achieving Self Support (PASS)
Work Incentive: Extended Period of Eligibility
Description: Provides a sequential 36-month period in which
SSDI cash benefits are restarted for any month in which the individual does
not work at the SGA level.
Used in Conjunction with: A stand-alone Work Incentive that
provides a "safety net" to individuals with disabilities that enter
or re-enter the work force.
Work Incentive: Continuation of Medicare Coverage
Description: Effective October 1, 2000 SSDI beneficiaries receive
Medicare Part A coverage premium-free for a total 93 months after the trial
work period (9 months) for a total of 102 months.
Used in Conjunction with: Trial Work Period *Assurance that
individuals with disabilities who enter or re-enter the work force are assured
some Medical Coverage.
*This provision allows health insurance to continue when you go to work and
are engaging in SGA. You pay no premium for hospital insurance.
Work Incentive: Medicare for People With Disabilities Who
Work
Description: If a worker loses his/her Medicare coverage, he/she
may be able to buy continued coverage after premium-free Medicare coverage ends
Used in Conjunction with: This is a "stand alone"
Work Incentive that assures individuals with disabilities who engage in substantial
gainful activity (SGA) that after 102 months of premium-free coverage, they
can access continued Medical Coverage.
Work Incentive: Continued Payment Under a Vocational Rehabilitation
Program
Description: If someone is no longer considered disabled by
the SSA, he/she can continue to receive benefits until his/her rehabilitation
services are completed.
Used in Conjunction with: A stand-alone Work Incentive designed
to provide income to individuals that have or could potentially recover during
rehabilitation.
Work Incentive: Unsuccessful Work Attempt
Description: An effort to do substantial work (in employment
or self-employment) which you stopped or reduced to below the SGA level after
a short time (6 months or less) because of: · Your impairment, or ·
Removal of special conditions related to your impairment and essential to the
further performance of your work.
Used in Conjunction with: This is a "stand alone"
Work Incentive designed to relieve responsibility of a failed work attempt by
an individual with a disability, due to uncontrolled reasons. *Earnings during
an unsuccessful work attempt are not counted when SSA makes an SGA decision
for initial eligibility (for SSDI or SSI); or, when SSA decides (for SSDI only)
if disability benefits continue or cease because of work. *SSI payment determination
excluded.
Work Incentive: Unincurred Business Expense (Self-employment
Only)
Description: "Unincurred business expenses" is SSA
name for self-employment business support that someone else gives to you without
cost. Examples: the State Vocational Rehabilitation agency gives you a computer
for your business; a friend works for your business as unpaid help.
Used in Conjunction with: Impairment Related Work Expenses
(IRWE), Plan for Achieving Self Support (PASS) *SSA generally follows the IRS
rules to figure your net earnings from self-employment. However, when SSA makes
an SGA decision they also deduct unincurred business expenses from your net
earnings to gain a more accurate measure of the value of your work.
[back to table of contents]
Qualified Disabled and Working
Individuals
Eligibility for Buy-In Program for Part A
Help with Medicare Part A Premiums
If you are under age 65, disabled, and no longer entitled to free Medicare Hospital
Insurance Part A because you successfully returned to work, you may be eligible
for a program that helps pay your Medicare Part A monthly premium.
To be eligible for this help, you must:
• Continue to have a disabling impairment.
• Sign up for Premium Hospital Insurance (Part A).
• Have limited income.
•Have resources worth no more than $2,000 for an individual and $3,000
for a couple, not counting the home where you live, usually one car, and certain
insurance.
• Not already be eligible for Medicaid.
To find out more about this program, call the Department of Children and Families’
Family Self-Sufficiency Program in your area.
[back to table of contents]
Extended Medicare Coverage for Working People with Disabilities
A new law extends premium-free Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance)
coverage for an additional 4 1/2 years beyond the current limit. This new law
is for people who receive Social Security disability benefits and who want to
go to work.
When does this change for Medicare occur? October 1, 2000.
How long is Medicare extended for? Medicare (Part A) coverage
is extended for 4 1/2 years.
General Rule:
You will get the extended Medicare coverage for the additional 4 and 1/2 years
if:
•You still have a disabling condition, and
• You are starting to work for the first time after your disability benefits
began; or
• You are in a trial work period TWP; or
• You are in your 36 month extended period of eligibility EPE which began
after June 1997; or
• Your Medicare coverage under the current law is not due to end until
after September 30, 2000.
Under the new law, how long will I get to keep Medicare if I return
to work? As long as your disabling condition still meets our rules,
you can keep your Medicare coverage for at least 8 1/2 years. (The 8 1/2 years
includes your nine-month trial work period.)
After my TWP, under this new law, how long will I have Medicare coverage?
You will get at least 7 years and 9 months of continued Medicare coverage,
as long as your disabling condition still meets our rules.
I completed my TWP. I am now in my 36 month EPE. Will the new law apply
to me? If you are in an EPE that began after June 1997, the new law
will apply to you. This means you will get the additional Medicare coverage
of 4 1/2 years. If your EPE began before July 1997, we must consider the following
factors listed below before we can decide if the new law applies to you:
• Are you still disabled?
• When did your trial work period end?
•Are you working at substantial gainful activity (SGA)?
• What was the first month you worked SGA after your TWP?
Note:Promptly report any changes in your work activity. This way you can be paid correctly, and we can tell you how long your Medicare coverage will continue after you return to work.
I have Medicare hospital Insurance (Part A) and medical insurance (Part
B) coverage. Will I get to keep both parts under this new law? Yes,
as long as your disabling condition still meets our rules. Your Medicare hospital
insurance (Part A) coverage is premium-free. Your Medicare medical insurance
(Part B) coverage will also continue. You or a third party (if applicable) will
continue to pay for Part B. If your Social Security Disability Insurance cash
benefits stop due to your work, you or a third party (if applicable) will be
billed every 3 months for your medical insurance premiums. If you are receiving
cash benefits, your medical insurance premiums will be deducted monthly from
your check.
I have Medicare (Part A) but I did not take Part B coverage when it
was first offered to me. Can I get Part B when the new law changes? Yes,
the law did not change the enrollment periods. However, you do not get a new
enrollment period. If you did not sign up for Part B when you first could, you
can only sign up for it during a general enrollment period (January 1st through
March 31st of each year) or a special enrollment period.
The special enrollment period is a period of time, which you may enroll:
a. If you did not enroll during your initial enrollment period because you are
covered under a group health plan based on your own current employment or the
current employment of any family member; or
b. If you enrolled (or were deemed to be enrolled) in your initial enrollment
period (and any subsequent special enrollment periods), and have been covered
under a group health plan based on your own current employment or the current
employment of any family member.
The special enrollment period may occur during any month you are covered under
a group health plan based on current employment, or during the 8-month period
that begins the first full month after employment or group health plan coverage
ends, whichever comes first.
When I return to work and get medical coverage through my employer,
does this change my Medicare? Do I need to notify anyone? • Medicare
is often the "secondary payer" when you have health care coverage
through your work. • Notify your Medicare contractor right away. •
Prompt reporting may prevent an error in payment for your health care services.
Under the new law will I still be able to purchase Medicare after my
premium -free Medicare (hospital insurance) ends? Yes, the new law
did not change this. The same rules apply. • As long as you still have
a disabling condition, you can purchase Medicare (hospital insurance, Part A).
• If you purchase Part A, you may purchase medical insurance (Part B).
• You cannot purchase Part B in this situation, unless you purchase Part
A.
Do I need to apply for this premium Medicare (hospital insurance, Part
A)? If so, when? Once your Medicare ends, you will get a notice that
will tell you when you can file an application to purchase Medicare coverage.
Note: There is a program that may help you with your Medicare
Part A premiums if you decide to purchase Part A after your extended coverage
terminates. To be eligible for this help, you must be: • Under age 65.
• Continue to have a disabling impairment. • Sign up for Premium
Hospital Insurance (Part A). • Have limited income. • Have resources
worth less than $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple, not counting
the home where you live, usually one car, and certain insurance. • Not
already be eligible for Medicaid.
To find out more about this program, contact your county, local or State Social
Services or medical assistance office. Ask about the Medicare buy-in program
for Qualified Disabled and Working Individuals.
[back to table of contents]
Links and Learning Opportunities
Websites and Other Resources about the "Ticket"
The Social Security Administration
Home Page - www.ssa.gov
Office of Disability - www.ssa.gov/odhome
Office of Employment Support - www.ssa.gov/work
Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Advisory Panel - www.ssa.gov/work/panel
Social Security Advisory Service - www.ssas.com
Social Security Red Book online - www.ssa.gov/work/ResourcesToolkit
U.S. Department of Labor
Home Page - www.dol.gov
Workforce Investment Act Information - www.usworkforce.org
America’s Job Bank - www.ajb.org
Presidential Task Force on Employment of Adults with Disabilities - www.dol.gov/dol/_sec/public/programs
Presidential Committee Job Accommodation Network - www.janweb.icdi.wvu.edu
Employment and Training Administration, Disability Employment and Initiatives
Unit - www.wdsc.org
U.S. Department of Justice
Americans with Disabilities Act Information on the Web - www.usdoj.gov
The Access Board- United States Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance
Board - www.access.board.gov
Other Government Links
President’s Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities - www.pcepd.gov
Increasing Opportunities for Americans with Disabilities White House Statement
- www.whitehouse.gov/WH/Accomplishments
The Health Care Financing Administration(HCFA) - www.hcfa.gov
OPM Federal Register Documents - www.opm.gov
U.S. Congress - www.thomas.loc.gove/home
U.S. Government Printing Office - www.access.gpo.su_docs
Other Links of Interest
Disability Data - www.infouse.com
disAbility - www.eskimo/~jlubin/disabilities
GLADNET/ Global Applied Disability Research Information Network - www.gladnet.org
The Capstone Consulting Group, Inc. - www.askcapstone.com
Cornell University/ Work Incentives Curriculum - www.ILR.Cornell.edu
Association of Persons in Supported Employment - www.apse.org
Consortium of Citizens with Disabilities - www.c-c-d.org
National Rehabilitation Information Center (NARIC) - www.naric.com
Georgia Ticket to Work Task Force
Georgia Rehabilitation Outreach Program (GROUP) - www.vocrehabga.org
Shepherd Benefits Navigator - www.bpaoga.com
[back to table of contents] [ GAO homepage ]