Disability Benefits Counseling

Benefits counseling can help you make confident decisions about working:

• Understand how work may affect your benefits
• Learn about how work incentives may help you keep some benefits while working
• Make informed choices about starting or returning to work

It is available to any consumer receiving Vocational Rehabilitation services and is provided by a counselor certified by the Social Security Administration.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

SSI may be provided to people with limited income and resources and little to no work history. SSI helps adults and children who are blind or have a disability, as well as adults age 65 or older, who meet financial limits. In most states, SSI provides access to Medicaid health coverage.
Work incentives can help you pursue employment goals, earn income, and continue to receive benefits. You may qualify for more than one work incentive program.

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

SSDI may be available to individuals who cannot work because of a serious disability. You must have worked in the past and the benefit is based on the amount of money you paid into Social Security through payroll deductions. After receiving SSDI for 24 months, you may qualify for Medicare health coverage.
Work incentives can allow you to work and earn income while continuing to receive cash benefits and Medicare.

The Next Step

Understand your benefits. Explore your options. Move forward with confidence.
Talk with your Vocational Rehabilitation counselor about receiving benefits counseling.