Though Social Security disability benefits provide essential financial support for those who are impaired, making the transition back into the work force can be fulfilling and rewarding. Fortunately, the Social Security Administration (SSA) provides support for those individuals receiving disability benefits who are able to eventually return to work.
One of the most important resources the SSA provides is a PASS, or Plan for Achieving Self-Support. PASSes are programs disability beneficiaries can develop that allow them to set aside income for job training or business start-up costs that will not be considered by the SSA when it makes its benefits determinations. Income and the ability to work are major factors in the SSA's decision whether or not to award benefits. Applicants must seek approval for their PASSes from the administration, but once granted, they will be able to set aside income to use towards work goals without experiencing a reduction or termination of Social Security disability benefits.
To be eligible for a PASS, applicants must first receive Social Security disability benefits for a physical or mental disability or for blindness. They must also possess a desire to return to work and have some income already set aside to help meet work goals. If these requirements are met, the SSA may grant the applicant a PASS to help them continue to build their work savings.
The SSA allows PASS money to be to be used for transportation to and from work, special work equipment, such as safety equipment for a factory or construction job, start-up supplies for a small business, child care and even tuition for job training classes.
The SSA also provides several work training resources for those looking to improve their skills prior to entering the work force. One popular program is the Ticket to Work program, which helps current beneficiaries aged 18 to 65 become viable employees. Ticket to Work provides vocational rehabilitation, training and referrals to those with a disability who are current Social Security disability recipients. The program also allows Ticket to Work participants to resume collecting benefits if they cease working during what the SSA calls a "trial work period," which lasts until the worker has completed 60 months of earning $720 per month. After that, benefits will stop for the months where a worker earns $1,000 or more.
Two other programs that help beneficiaries transition to work are WIPA and WISE. WIPA, or Work Incentives Planning and Assistance organizations, receive grants from the SSA to provide incentives, support and outreach to Social Security beneficiaries looking for work. WISE, or Work Incentives Seminar Events, are seminars run by the SSA that help beneficiaries find organizations that provide work incentives and support.
Making the transition from disability beneficiary to independent worker can be tough, but the SSA provides many resources for those looking to make the switch. To better understand the process of applying for the PASS program or other SSA work programs, please contact an experienced Social Security disability attorney.
