The Ticket to Work and Self-Sufficiency Program (Ticket to Work Program) is a nationwide initiative designed to bring major positive changes to the lives of individuals with disabilities that are beneficiaries of Social Security.

The Ticket to Work and Work Improvement Act of 1999 contains a variety of modifications to the Social Security Administration’s benefit program and medical benefits.

The purpose of the Ticket to Work program is to expand the choices of service providers and employment networks available to beneficiaries with disabilities who are seeking employment services, vocational rehabilitation services, and other support services to assist them in obtaining, regaining, and maintaining self-supporting employment.

Under the Ticket to Work program, Social Security will issue tickets to Social Security disability beneficiaries and disabled and SSI beneficiaries. Each beneficiary will have the option of using his or her ticket to obtain services from a provider known as an Employment Network (EN). The beneficiary will choose an EN, and the EN will provide employment services, vocational rehabilitation services and other support services to assist the beneficiary in obtaining, regaining, and maintaining employment. Beneficiaries also have the option of taking their ticket to their state vocational rehabilitation agency for services. The use of this ticket is completely optional. A beneficiary may choose not to use their ticket at all.

The first wave of tickets will be sent to New Mexico beneficiaries at the end of November and will continue until all beneficiaries have received their tickets. If you receive a ticket and need more information please call Protection and Advocacy at 1-800-432-4682 statewide or in Albuquerque (505) 256-3100.