Returning to work after a disability can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to do it alone. The Ticket to Work Program is one of the fastest and effective ways to return to competitive employment. We hope you choose to contact us if you would like to return to competitive employment. Our team is ready to assist you! However if you would like to learn about State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) they may be an effective resource to return to work. At Disability Services of America, we help SSI & SSDI beneficiaries achieve financial independence through the Ticket to Work Program—especially when they need more intensive support before entering or reentering the job market. While Disability Services of America is not a State VR agency, we are registered as a vendor with some State VR agencies and have a Partnership Plus agreement some states. We may refer you to State VR agencies to ensure you receive the most comprehensive support possible.
What is State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR)?
State VR programs are publicly funded services provided by your state’s government, designed to help individuals with disabilities prepare for, secure, retain, or regain employment. These agencies are funded in part through the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) under the U.S. Department of Education & may receive funding from the Social Security Administration.
Their services include:
- Comprehensive vocational evaluations.
- Career counseling and guidance.
- One-on-one job coaching in the field.
- Assistive technology and accommodations.
- Education and career readiness training.
- Benefits counseling and planning through WIPAs.
- Other treatment and services through State VR and Medicaid Vendors.
These services are meant to help you achieve economic independence and reduce long-term reliance on public benefits.
What is Disability Services of America?
Disability Services of America (DSA) is an approved Employment Network (EN) under the Social Security Administration’s Ticket to Work program. We help individuals receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) transition into full-time employment while protecting their benefits during the process.
Our services are designed to promote long-term financial independence and include:
- Career counseling with a dedicated case manager.
- Job search and job development.
- Resume writing and interview preparation.
- Ongoing employment support and job retention coaching.
- Benefits planning and guidance on how work affects SSDI/SSI and healthcare coverage.
Our goal is to empower beneficiaries to pursue meaningful careers, increase their earnings, and support long-term financial growth.
What to Consider Before with Disability Services of America?
We focus on employment readiness and long-term career support through the Ticket to Work program. State VR agencies may be more appropriate if you believe you need more foundational rehabilitation—job accommodations and special conditions to maintain non-competitive employment; one-on-one extensive retraining, educational support, or adaptive services.
Once you've completed services with your VR Agency and your case is closed, you can continue receiving support from Disability Services of America assigning your ticket through the Partnership Plus program. This way, you can have a successful transition to full-time competitive employment with the professional services offered by DSA.
How Does DSA Work With VR Agencies?
We America can serve as your Employment Network (EN) through the Social Security Administration’s Ticket to Work program. We frequently collaborate with VR agencies and help individuals transition from state support to ongoing career coaching, job retention services, and benefits counseling.
By combining both services, you maximize the support available to help you return to full-time employment confidently and sustainably.
What Are the Benefits of Using Both VR and DSA Services?
- Maximized Support: You get both the intensive services from the VR agency once you have secured employment; and when the VR agency closes your case you can receive ongoing long-term assistance from us.
- Smooth Transition to Work: You won't lose momentum once your VR case closes. DSA continues to assist with job development and benefits counseling.
- Increased Independence: Both programs are aligned with helping you earn more income and gain greater financial freedom.
How Can I Get Started?
If you're receiving SSDI or SSI, you may already be eligible for the Ticket to Work program. DSA can help you:
- Decide whether to start with a VR agency or work directly with DSA.
- Understand your rights and options.
- Coordinate services with your local VR agency.
Whether you’re ready to return to work now or need additional support first, you have options—We are here to walk with you every step of the way.