In addition to lifting you out of poverty and on the path to financial freedom, here are a few other reasons to explore employment:
- Nine months of Trial Work without losing any benefits
- The Plan to Achieve Self Support (PASS) allows you to set aside money to pay for education and employment expenses
- If you participate in the Ticket to Work Program and make “timely progress” following your individual work plan, Social Security will not conduct a review of your medical condition
- You can continue to receive your Medicaid benefits as long as you receive a benefits check of any amount and for up to 7 years after your cash payments stop
- If your job ends within 5 years (because of your same disability) you will not need to reapply for benefits
- The monthly amount of your Social Security retirement pension does not grow while you are receiving benefits, but if you return to work, you have a chance to increase your SSA retirement.
- Aids in initial and continued recovery from mental health challenges
Other Services
Job placement through the Great Minds @ Work Supported Employment (IPS) Program:
- Job search assistance that focuses on good, competitive jobs
- Career exploration and labor market information
- Resume development
- Information regarding work incentives and post-employment benefits
- SSA Benefits Planning assistance
- Coordination with Mental Health team
After job placement:
- Post-employment benefits
- Identification/advocacy for reasonable accommodations
- On-site job coaching if necessary
- On-going case management (provides encouragement and support)
- Reemployment assistance (if necessary for as long as necessary)