This training addresses common myths around work and Social Security disability benefits (Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)), while providing an overview of work incentives that offset the myths. Participants will review the major differences between SSI and SSDI, how work earnings affect cash benefits, public health insurance (Medicaid and Medicare), and other public benefits, i.e., Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and subsidized housing, and best practices on reporting earnings and other changes to state and federal agencies that administer the benefit programs.

This training is appropriate for case managers, vocational rehabilitation counselors, employment specialists and other staff that provide employment support services for SSI and SSDI recipients.

After attending this training, participants will be able to:

• Debunk the myths that are associated with SSI, SSDI, and work.
• Recognize the differences between SSI and SSDI including how earnings from work affect each one.
• Identify work incentive programs and associate them with SSI, SSDI, or both.
• Employ best practices to report earnings to public agencies.

Trainers

FY24-FY26 Training Evaluation Summary (pdf)

Training Feedback

"The information was presented in such an accessible and user-friendly way without using too much agency lingo. It was digestible information that I could understand and can now bring back to the families I work with."

"I appreciate how the math was shown during the training and the PowerPoint slides were accessible and informative."

"The presenters plain speak was very understandable and easy to digest. "