The Social Security Administration's Ticket to Work program allows Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) beneficiaries ages 18 through 64 to explore employment opportunities while keeping their benefits. Though the prospect of getting your first job or returning to work feels exciting, you're unsure which employment network will best support your individual needs and career goals.
Employment Networks (EN) are public or private organizations that Social Security authorizes to provide a variety of free employment services to Ticket to Work participants. These organizations understand the unique challenges disability recipients face when entering or reentering the workforce and offer personalized support for your employment journey.
The employment network you select will play a crucial role in your path to financial independence. Disability Services of America can help you understand what to look for, which questions to ask, and how to evaluate different providers to find one that aligns with your career aspirations and support needs. Our trusted, SSA-approved EN serves Ticket participants nationwide. We also offer Social Security disability application assistance.
Understanding the Role Employment Networks Play in the Ticket to Work Process
Employment Networks offer free services to help you prepare for, find, and maintain meaningful work. At a minimum, ENs must provide career planning and job placement assistance. Career planning encompasses goal setting, job coaching, job development, and training opportunities. Some networks, like Disability Services of America, also offer benefits counseling to help you understand how working affects your Social Security payments. Job placement assistance includes active job search support, help with applications and resumes, and interview skill development.
Your EN will also discuss your work experience, skills, and career goals to help you create an Individual Work Plan (IWP)—a road map that outlines your specific goals and identifies the supports and services you'll receive. This personalized approach ensures your path to employment matches your capabilities and interests.
Many networks also offer vocational training, education assistance, workplace accommodations guidance, and other additional services. Understanding what each EN provides helps you identify which offers the most comprehensive support.
Exploring Different Types of Employment Networks and Service Models
Understanding various employment network types and service models can help you make an informed choice.
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Traditional employment networks. These ENs focus primarily on job placement and career development services, working with you to identify strengths, address skill gaps, and connect you with employers who appreciate your abilities.
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Workforce employment networks. Part of a state's public workforce system, workforce ENs provide wide-ranging employment support services, including training programs and special programs for youth and veterans.
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Geographic employment networks. Local ENs often have strong relationships with area employers and understand the job market in your community. National networks, like Disability Services of America, offer virtual services and broader career opportunities.
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Specialized employment networks. ENs focusing on certain disabilities or industries understand clients' unique challenges, develop targeted strategies for success, and may have connections with employers actively seeking workers with disabilities.
Asking Potential Employment Networks the Right Questions
When interviewing ENs, ask about the services each network provides. Do they offer benefits counseling to help you understand work incentives? Can they provide or arrange for vocational training? What job placement support do they offer, and how do they match participants with employers? Understanding their full range of services helps you evaluate what each network brings to your employment journey.
Inquire about their experience with your specific disability or career interests. Networks with relevant experience understand the accommodations you might need and the challenges you could face. They may also have established relationships with employers who welcome workers with similar backgrounds.
Ask about their success rates and typical timelines. How many participants find employment within six months? What percentage maintains employment after one year? While every situation is unique, these statistics provide insight into the network's effectiveness.
Find out about ongoing support after job placement. Will they help you address workplace challenges? Do they provide continued benefits counseling as your earnings change? Post-placement support often determines whether you maintain employment successfully.
The employment network you choose significantly impacts your success in the Ticket to Work program. Disability Services of America understands the challenges associated with returning to the workforce. We offer benefits counseling and wide-ranging employment services to support your journey to financial independence.