DVR Social Security Menu

Understanding Ticket to Work

What is the “Ticket to Work” Program?

Ticket to Work is a voluntary employment program for people ages 18 through 64 who are receiving disability benefits under Social Security’s Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program and/or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program. The goal of the program is to assist beneficiaries in obtaining employment and working towards becoming self-sufficient. If you're ready to work, the Ticket program can help you get started!

What are the benefits of participating in the Ticket to Work program?

• You can receive services and supports to help you get and keep a job. Such services might include, but are not limited to:
• Help finding a job,
• Training,
• Benefits planning,
• Assistance with transportation expenses.
• You can continue receiving your disability benefits until your earning exceed the amount that Social Security considers to be substantial. How much you can earn before it will affect your monthly disability check depends on whether you are receiving SSI or SSDI.
• Social Security will not conduct a medical Continuing Disability Review (CDR) while you are using your Ticket and progressing towards greater self-sufficiency. Social Security conducts periodic medical reviews to determine your continued eligibility for disability benefits.

How do I get services under the Ticket to Work program?

You can use your Ticket to obtain employment services from the Wisconsin Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) or you can assign your Ticket to a SSA-approved service provider called an Employment Network (EN).

Can I receive services from both DVR and an EN at the same time?

Your Ticket cannot be assigned to an EN and In-Use with DVR at the same time.

If you are working with an EN when you come to DVR or when you are activated from DVR’s waitlist, your DVR counselor will discuss your options with you.

Your counselor will also discuss options for assigning your Ticket to an EN after your case is closed with DVR. Your DVR case must be closed before you can assign your Ticket to an EN.

Where can I get more information on the Ticket to Work program?

• The Social Security Administration’s Work Site
• The Choose Work website: You can call the Ticket Call Center toll free at 1-866-968-7842 (TTY 1-866-833-2967) to learn more about how you can use your Ticket.
• You can check out the SSA Publication, “Your Ticket To Work: What You Need to Know to Keep it Working For You”
• You can find a full list of ENs serving the state by visiting the Choose Work website and entering your zip code, city or state. You may want to contact more than one EN to explore which is the right one to support you while you are working.
• Cómo entender el Programa Boleto Para Trabajar - Spanish translation of "Understanding Ticket to Work"
• Nkag Siab txog Daim Pib Mus Ua Haujlwm Kev Pab Cuam - Hmong translation of "Understanding Ticket to Work"