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?

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.

Where can I get free benefits counseling?

In Massachusetts, there are two programs that provide free CWIC services: Work Without Limits Benefits Counseling and Project IMPACT (Individual Members Planning and Accessing Choices Together). Learn how to Contact a Community Work Incentives Coordinator (CWIC).

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

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.