By Diane Winiarski
There are so many things to consider when looking for a new job. For individuals with disabilities, the search is further complicated by the stress of being without financial stability over time, a lengthy medical recovery, and limitations that may make it necessary to find a different job in a new field. It can make the job search feel like an uphill climb. Still, for Social Security disability beneficiaries there is free return-to-work assistance available through the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program.
More than 159 million U.S. workers are covered by SSDI—a federal insurance plan that U.S. workers pay into with their FICA taxes. The program provides monthly income if covered employees become too ill or injured to work. SSDI also includes significant protections to return to work when individuals are medically able to do so – in the form of Social Security’s Ticket to Work Program (TTW).
TTW offers beneficiaries a safe, gradual way to return to work. However, many are unaware of the program and need education from an Employment Network (EN) to get started. It is a common misconception that if an individual returns to work full time, they’ll likely lose their SSDI benefits. This is simply not the case, underscoring the need for more educational outreach.
Despite the fears, TTW allows Ticket holders (participants in the TTW program) to take the time to assess what they are capable of doing, match their interests and skills, and find an opportunity that works for them. Their case manager at the Social Security-authorized EN can play a significant role in assisting with their job search and can even help after they’ve been hired.
Brainstorming Job Ideas
Even before the job search can start, a Ticket holder needs to think about what they want to do next. It’s part of a case manager’s function to help job seekers with disabilities think out-of-the-box when considering returning to work. Case managers can help beneficiaries shape a clear career goal and think about what jobs interest them and why. Further, the case manager will ask them to consider what kinds of jobs they want to apply to. Do they meet the qualifications for these jobs with their current skillset, education and functional abilities? Do they have any strengths and experience that they can leverage? Are there any barriers keeping them from these opportunities?
General Career Guidance
Case managers can talk through the different barriers those with disabilities might face in a new position. Some beneficiaries may have had physically demanding jobs in the past, but after recovery are seeking something less rigorous. Beginning a new role is often a stressful experience. When this role is in a different line of work, it introduces additional uncertainty. Oftentimes, they are unsure about their future and may lack the confidence to try a new line of work. Case mangers provide guidance and encouragement. The key to a successful transition is identifying what will be the best fit for each individual, taking into account their education, interests, transferrable skills and necessary accommodations.
Help With Disclosure
Another critical piece of guidance case managers provide is helping beneficiaries know their rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), including if they are required to disclose their disability or not, and what to say if they do choose to disclose. Case managers can help them determine when to disclose and their rights on how to do so, and to whom. We help them understand their rights and answer any questions they have so they can make the best-informed choice.
Asking For An Accommodation
Once they’ve accepted the right job, most individuals are unaware of how to ask for an accommodation. They may be uncomfortable even talking about their disability with their employer. A case manager can help them understand the kind of accommodations they can ask for that will help them to be successful in their position.
Finding a job and returning to work after an extended absence is challenging, and returning after undergoing recovery from a severe illness or injury is even more difficult. The support, guidance and motivation provided by a case manager play a crucial role in assisting individuals with disabilities to re-enter the workforce. This not only benefits their new employer but also enhances their own financial stability and personal well-being.
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