Work Incentives Planning and Assistance FAQ

If you are receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and/or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you probably have wondered the following when thinking about work:
What are Social Security’s disability programs?

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and/or Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

How can I verify my benefits?

There are several ways to formally verify Social Security, state and public health insurance benefits. See our resource: Verification of Social Security & Other Public Benefits/MA

How can work impact my cash benefits and how can work incentives help me?

SSI Benefits and Related Work Incentives
SSDI Benefits and Related Work Incentives

Can I work and keep my health insurance?

For SSI: Read MassHealth Plans for People with Disabilities.

For SSDI: Read Medicare, Social Security Disability Insurance & Work.

Can I get my benefits back if my case closes?

Read Expedited Reinstatement (EXR) for Former SSI Beneficiaries.

How can work impact my other public benefits?

Read Frequently Asked Questions: Work & Benefits.

What must I do when I work?

Report work activity and wages. Read Social Security Reporting Requirements.

What is a Community Work Incentives Coordinator (CWIC)?

CWICs are certified benefits counselors who can assist individuals receiving SSI and/or SSDI, and who are either working or actively seeking employment. Their purpose is to provide timely and accurate information about work incentives, as well as benefits analysis and guidance. CWICs provide beneficiaries with the necessary information to feel comfortable in taking the next step on their career path and towards financial well-being.

Learn more about Community Work Incentives Coordinators (CWIC).

Where can I get free benefits counseling?

For more information on WIPA services in Massachusetts and New York visit the WIPA Service Area page. For all other service areas visit the Ticket to Work website.

For more information, visit the Public Benefits Resources page for:

Fact Sheets on:

  • General Information
  • SSI
  • SSDI
  • Public Health Insurance
  • Career Goals
  • Other Public Benefits
  • Special Populations

The Community Resource Guide provides a brief description and links for each organization and program’s website, which includes:

  • Public Benefit Programs
  • Benefits Counseling
  • Employment Support Programs
  • Benefits & Legal Advocacy

Meet the Work Without Limits Team.

This web page was developed at U.S. taxpayer expense and is funded through a Social Security cooperative agreement. Although Social Security reviewed this document for accuracy, it does not constitute an official Social Security communication.