Understanding the Social Security Ticket to Work Program
The Ticket to Work (TTW) program is a free, voluntary federal program that helps people receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) transition back into the workforce.
In 2026, the program allows higher earnings without losing your safety net. Its primary purpose is to remove the fear factor, letting beneficiaries explore employment opportunities without worrying that a paycheck will automatically trigger a loss of benefits or a medical review.
2026 Work Incentives: How Much Can You Earn?
The SSA uses specific checkpoints to determine if you are still eligible for your monthly benefit.
1. The Trial Work Period (TWP)
- You get 9 months (within a 60-month window) to earn income without losing SSDI.
- A month counts as a “Trial Work Month” only if you earn more than $1,210.
- Example: If you earn $1,000 in January 2026, you keep your full SSDI check and do not use up one of your 9 trial months.
- Important: You can earn substantial amounts (several thousand dollars per month) without affecting your SSDI during your trial months.
2. Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)
After your 9 trial months:
- 2026 SGA Limit (Non-Blind): $1,690 per month
- 2026 SGA Limit (Blind): $2,830 per month
- Rule: If you earn above this limit after your trial period, SSDI payments may stop.
Does Ticket to Work Affect SSI? (2026 Rules)
For SSI recipients, the rules differ slightly:
- 2026 Federal Benefit Rate (FBR): $994 per month
- Income Calculation: SSA ignores the first $85 of your monthly gross earnings. After that, your SSI check is reduced by $1 for every $2 you earn.
- Result: Most SSI recipients earn more total monthly income by working than by relying solely on their SSI check.
- Resource Limit Reminder: SSI participants must keep total countable resources under $2,000 to maintain eligibility.
Why Use the Ticket to Work Program?
Beyond job coaching and resume support, the biggest benefit is the Medical Review Waiver:
- As long as your Ticket is assigned to an Employment Network (EN) and you meet the Timely Progress requirements, the SSA will not conduct a scheduled medical Continuing Disability Review (CDR).
- This allows you to work with confidence, even if your disability sometimes flares up.
Other advantages include:
- Free Career Counseling and Vocational Support through ENs or State VR agencies
- Access to Assistive Technology and Workplace Accommodations
- Guidance on Financial Planning for transitioning to independence
Schedule a free consultation today.
You won’t be charged unless your claim is approved.
The Ticket to Work program is a bridge to independence, not a trap. With the SGA limit now at $1,690, you have more room to earn while keeping your safety net intact.
By understanding your Trial Work Period, SGA limits, and SSI rules, you can make informed decisions about employment, protect your healthcare coverage, and confidently pursue financial independence.
The Importance of an Experienced Social Security Disability Advocate
Whether you’re just beginning the process of applying for disability benefits or have been denied and are fighting for your benefits, we can help. Trajector Disability offers comprehensive support throughout the disability claim process.
Our team of experts can help you determine your eligibility, gather all necessary evidence, prepare and submit your application, and guide you through the appeals process if your claim is denied.