Summer jobs are not only a great way to try working but also to learn what employers expect of employees in any employment position. A summer job may be temporary, but the lessons and skills learned can last forever. In this blog post, we explore five ways to make the most of your summer job.

1. Treat it Like a Permanent Job

One way to make the most of a summer job is to treat it like a full-time or permanent job. This means showing up to work on time (or even early) every day. Showing up promptly and consistently tells your manager and coworkers you are reliable. If you’re sick or have an emergency, be sure to contact your manager.

Remember to act professionally and respect your employer and any customers. Take your summer job seriously and look at it as an opportunity to earn some money and gain experience that can help you in the future.

2. Look for Ways to Help

Once you complete all your assigned tasks, it’s not time to wait around. Looking for other ways to help shows that you are a reliable team member who cares about helping others. It also demonstrates that you are willing to go above and beyond to help the organization.

3. Make Connections

As with any job, it is important to network and interact with your coworkers and managers. It makes work more enjoyable, and it will also help in the future when you may need references or are looking for other job opportunities. Former coworkers can become friends who lead to connections with even more people.

4. Do Your Best

In addition to showing up on time and completing your tasks, make sure you put your best effort forward. Some tasks can be completed easily or quickly, but it takes effort to get them done correctly and efficiently. If you have difficulty understanding a task, remember to ask questions. Your coworker or manager will likely be happy to help.

5. Have a Positive Attitude

In any situation, things can go wrong. Someone may not have shown up to work, a machine may be broken, or an order may be late. No matter what happens, keep a positive attitude. Your ability to handle change and adapt quickly are assets that employers respect. Your attitude can be contagious and help the people around you work with you to find solutions.

How Can Ticket to Work Help

Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSDI/SSI) and want to work. Through this free and voluntary program, eligible participants can work with service providers to receive the services and supports they need to find and maintain employment as they move toward financial independence through work.

The Ticket Program can support you with different forms of employment, including part time, seasonal and full time. Through the Ticket Program, a service provider such as an Employment Network (EN) can help you understand available Social Security Work Incentives, like the Student Earned Income Exclusion, and give you tips for getting the most out of your summer work experience.

Learn More

To learn more about the Ticket to Work Program, call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842. For callers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, call 1-866-833-2967 (TTY). Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.- 8 p.m.; or visit https://choosework.ssa.gov/

This year, June 20 is the first day of summer. For some people, summer means beaches, no school, BBQs or vacation trips. For others, it means starting a summer job. Whatever your summer plans may be, because the first day of summer has the most daylight hours of the entire year, it is a good time to remember how to take care of yourself in the sunshine and heat. Today, we’re refreshing our tips on how to beat the sun if you’re going to be outside, especially if you’re thinking about or already working in a non-office job.

1. Stay hydrated: It’s important to stay hydrated on especially hot days. This means drinking plenty of water or other fluids that contain electrolytes, such as sports drinks, even before you start your outside work, as well as during the day.
    
2. Stay protected: Just like drinking water before starting your work, it’s important to apply sunscreen at least an hour before you go out so that it has time to take effect. Keep applying sunscreen throughout the day if you are able. Also, look for shaded areas. If you cannot work in a shaded area, find one or an air-conditioned area for your breaks. Less exposure to the sun gives your body time to recuperate from the heat.
    
3. Use your accommodations: Extra time in the sun and heat can wear your body down. If you are able, ask for extra breaks to make sure you are rested, well hydrated, and that you have enough sunscreen.
   If you need help asking for accommodations, a Ticket to Work service provider, such as an Employment Network (EN), can help you with the resources you need to talk to your employer.
    
4. Listen to your body: Pay attention to how you feel. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke can include several symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, slurred speech, thirst, rapid heart rate, nausea and vomiting. Make sure to monitor your symptoms while you are working to determine when you need breaks. And NEVER skip a break.

Ticket to Work

Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSDI/SSI) and want to work. Through this free and voluntary program, eligible participants can work with service providers to receive the service and supports they need to find and maintain employment as they move toward financial independence through work.

Outdoor jobs can be rewarding and educational, but during the summer months they can also be draining if you’re not prepared. If you’re interested in an outdoor job, your Ticket Program service provider can help answer questions about working outdoors, accommodations you may consider and provide tips for how to stay safe and productive at work.

Learn More

To learn more about the Ticket Program, visit choosework.ssa.gov or call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842 or 1-866-833-2967 (TTY), Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET. You can also learn more by registering for a free, online Work Incentives Seminar Event webinar.

Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program has a great opportunity for you if you’re interested in joining the workforce — opt-in to receive text messages and unlock a world of support and guidance!

The Ticket Program is designed for individuals ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSDI/SSI) and aspire to join the workforce. This program empowers individuals with disabilities to take control of their careers, providing them with the tools and resources to thrive in the professional world.

Opt in to receive information about the Ticket Program via text. Text the word "TICKET" to 1-571-489-5292. Standard messaging rates may apply. You can opt out at any time.

By opting in to receive text messages from the Ticket Program, you're opening the door to valuable insights and information. Here's what you can expect:

1. Expert Advice and Encouragement: Need practical tips for navigating the job market? Our text messages lead you to resources that are packed with advice, encouragement, and success stories from individuals who have joined the workforce with help from the Ticket Program.
    
2. Stay Informed, Stay Ahead: With text updates from the Ticket Program, you'll be the first to know about Choose Work! Blog posts, upcoming events, and important milestones on your journey to employment. Stay informed and stay ahead of the curve!
    
3. Pathways to Employment: Embarking on the path to employment can feel daunting, but you don't have to go it alone. Our text messages will guide you towards the right resources.

Ready to get started? Opting in is as easy as sending a quick text! Simply text TICKET to 1-571-489-5292, and you're all set. Standard messaging rates may apply.

If at any time you decide that text updates aren't for you, no worries! You can opt out with just a simple text message.

Don't let this opportunity pass you by. Join the thousands of individuals who are unlocking their potential with Social Security's Ticket to Work Program. Text TICKET to 1-571-489-5292.

Learn More

To learn more about the Ticket Program, visit choosework.ssa.gov or call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842 or 1-866-833-2967 (TTY), Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET. You can also learn more by registering for a free, online Work Incentives Seminar Event webinar.

Did you know that you can volunteer with federal government agencies? You can get experience in a variety of occupational fields, such as natural resource management and conservation, heritage and cultural preservation, recreation management and visitor services. Through these volunteer opportunities, you can lend your time and talents to important national priorities while learning about potential new careers.

Why Volunteer for a Federal Agency?

Volunteering with a federal agency allows you to directly participate in helping to meet national needs like maintaining national parks and providing disaster relief. It’s also an opportunity to learn about a variety of government services. Additionally, if you have an interest in working for the federal government, volunteering provides a way to get experience, network and potentially meet hiring managers. Not all federal agencies offer volunteer programs, but here are some resources to help you find opportunities.

Resources for Federal Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteer.gov - Volunteer.gov is a volunteer recruitment and management portal for people who want to support causes managed by federal agencies. You can use Volunteer.gov to find and apply for volunteer opportunities and track your volunteer hours. When you search on the website, you can narrow the search by federal agency, volunteer activity, and physical activity level.

Americorps.gov - AmeriCorps brings people together to work on the country’s challenges through national service. AmeriCorps volunteers serve with nonprofit organizations dedicated to improving communities. AmeriCorps offers long-term voluntary projects, as well as one-day opportunities like September 11 Day of Service and Remembrance and Earth Day. There are opportunities for various time commitment levels and skills.

National Park Service - Volunteers support the National Park Service in its mission to preserve and protect our national parks. You can volunteer for a day or year-round, on your own or with a group. Volunteer opportunities are available nationwide including in U.S. Territories. You can volunteer to maintain trails, conduct research on wildlife, support libraries or produce art. There are many more volunteer roles available, and the National Park Service can help you find the right fit.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service - This federal agency is responsible for the conservation and management of fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service offers a variety of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Through their work to conserve natural resources, they provide communities with healthier environments, clean water, flood control and a strong economy. There are volunteer opportunities with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for all ages, interests and abilities. Volunteers may lead tours, conduct plant and animal surveys, or help staff a refuge nature store.

As a volunteer with the federal government, you can contribute to meaningful causes and learn valuable skills. It’s rewarding work that can lead to other experiences that can help you on your path to work and financial independence.

Ticket to Work

Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSDI/SSI) and want to work. Through this free and voluntary program, eligible participants can work with service providers to receive the service and supports they need to find and maintain employment as they move toward financial independence through work.

Through the Ticket Program, a service provider such as an Employment Network (EN) can help identify volunteer opportunities to build skills on your current job, or turn volunteer work into a paid position.

Learn More

To learn more about the Ticket to Work Program, call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842. For callers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, call 1-866-833-2967 (TTY). Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.- 8 p.m.; or visit https://choosework.ssa.gov.

Have you considered how volunteering can help your career? Volunteer activities can be just as helpful as work experience. They show that you’re willing to get experience in areas that interest you, despite not getting paid or being paid or “off the clock”. Volunteering can help you learn new skills that lead to career growth. Let’s take a look at some popular questions people have about the link between volunteering and career growth.

What Work Skills Can I Learn By Volunteering?

The possibilities are endless. Volunteer opportunities can help you learn skills such as budgeting, food service, working on a computer and more. You can also learn soft skills, or skills that can be transferred to many jobs such as leadership, networking and problem solving.

You can learn various skill sets depending on where you volunteer. For example, if you volunteer at a thrift store, you may learn customer service, organization, and cashier skills. You may also pick up communication and teamwork skills as you work with other people. More in-demand job skills you can learn by volunteering include:

• Public speaking
• Clerical tasks
• Fundraising
• Technology
• Time management
• Multitasking

Where Should I Volunteer?

If you want your volunteer work to directly enhance your career, it’s a good idea to find a placement where you can learn or improve specific job skills. For example, if you want to gain skills for a career in education, explore opportunities in schools, youth community centers or tutoring organizations. You may be able get experience while working closely with an educator and possibly find a mentor. Visit the U.S. Department of Education for volunteer opportunities in education. If you’re interested in a career in event planning, many nonprofit organizations and event venues need volunteers in all areas. National nonprofits such as the American Cancer Society and the Alzheimer’s Association host events year-round where volunteers are needed.

Can Volunteer Work Fill Employment Gaps on a Resume?

Yes. Volunteer work is a great activity to add to your resume during the times you were unemployed. It shows a potential employer that you kept busy and had a real desire to contribute. If you can show that you were productive and learned work skills, it gives an employer a broader view of what you may bring to their company or organization. Even if your volunteer work does not directly relate to your career, it still can help, not only on your resume, but in your community!

Can Volunteering Actually Get Me a Job?

It is possible, but not guaranteed. Volunteering can help you meet community members and neighbors who may have contacts in your career area. Share your career goals with people who have similar interests or are employed in your field. You can also share your career goals with the staff at your volunteer location, if it’s a place you’d like to work. The staff may keep you in mind for future job openings, paid internships, or even apprenticeships if available.

Volunteering can not only help you give back to your community, but it can have a positive impact on your career. Here are a few resources for virtual and on-site listings to get started!

• Volunteermatch
• Points of Light
• Idealist
• Volunteer.gov

How Can Ticket to Work Help?

Social Security’s Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSDI/SSI) and want to work. Through this free and voluntary program, eligible participants can work with service providers to receive the service and supports they need to find and maintain employment as they move toward financial independence through work.

Through the Ticket Program, a service provider such as an Employment Network (EN), can help determine where you may need additional skills and documented experiences. They can help you choose volunteer roles that can build your resume.

Learn More

To learn more about the Ticket Program, visit choosework.ssa.gov or call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842. For callers who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability, call our TTY at 1-866-833-2967 (TTY). Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET. You can also learn more by registering for a free, online Work Incentives Seminar Event webinar. Or text TICKET to 1-571-489-5292 to receive Ticket Program texts. Standard messaging rates may apply, and you can opt out at any time.

Social Security’s Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program service providers are committed to helping young adults access pathways to well-paying jobs in growing industries. The first nationwide Youth Apprenticeship Week (YAW) is May 5-11, 2024, and will be celebrated at over a thousand events across the country.

YAW is a celebration established by the U.S. Department of Labor where employers, industry associations, labor organizations, community-based organizations, workforce partners, education providers and government leaders host events to showcase and promote high-quality, inclusive, in-demand career pathway opportunities through a Registered Apprenticeship program. Additionally, YAW provides apprentices a platform to share their experience and how an apprenticeship has transformed their lives.

What is an Apprenticeship?

Let's start with the basics. Apprenticeships are work opportunities specifically designed to offer you hands-on, "learn-while-you-earn" experience in a job or industry that interests you. They combine on-the-job training as well as job-related education, sometimes in a traditional classroom or sometimes in an online setting, to give you an understanding of a job's duties and responsibilities. Apprenticeships typically last 1 to 6 years, during which you learn specific skills and, sometimes, acquire certifications. And while you start receiving a paycheck as soon as you start an apprenticeship, you're also eligible for wage increases as you learn and master new skills.

Why Should Young Adults Consider an Apprenticeship?

While apprenticeships are not restricted to any age group, they can be especially helpful for young adults transitioning into adulthood. Apprenticeships are paid work opportunities that allow people to gain skills for the workplace, and some apprenticeships can offer a variety of supports for the apprentice, including opportunities to go to college or to receive college credits at no cost.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, other benefits of apprenticeship include:

• Hands-on career training. Apprentices receive practical on-the-job training in a wide range of occupations and industries such as healthcare, construction, information technology, transportation, energy and advanced manufacturing.
• An education. Apprentices may be able to earn college credit toward an associate or bachelor’s degree.
• A career. Once the apprenticeship is complete, workers are on their way to a successful long-term career with a competitive salary and little or no educational debt.
• National credential. When an apprentice graduates from a career training program, they earn a certified portable credential accepted by industries and employers across the U.S.
  Source: https://www.apprenticeship.gov/career-seekers

Some apprenticeships even offer:

• Housing
• Transportation
• Equipment
• Childcare

What to Know About Registered Apprenticeships

There are many benefits to an apprenticeship:

• You get paid as soon as the apprenticeship starts and are eligible for pay increases as you learn more skills.
• You get to do meaningful work.
• You can grow your personal and professional network.
• You can work in a career field that you’re interested in.
• You can build your resume (soft and technical skills).

Ready to get started? The U.S. Department of Labor offers a search tool to help you discover apprenticeship opportunities in your area in an industry that interests you. To find the apprenticeship that's right for you:

• Visit https://www.apprenticeship.gov/apprenticeship-job-finder
• Enter keywords to search for careers that interest you, like Automotive Technician, Nurse Aide, Claims Adjuster, or others.
• Enter your location.
• Select Search.

This will bring up a list of apprenticeships in your area. You can browse the listings to learn more about the skills and responsibilities you'll learn during an apprenticeship. Some listings may also include specific information about training and certifications that apprentices will complete.

Looking for more ways to find a job? Join us May 22, 2024, for our next webinar: “Expanding Your Job Search with Ticket to Work.”

How Can Ticket to Work Help?

Social Security’s Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSDI/SSI) and want to work. Through this free and voluntary program, eligible participants can work with service providers to receive the services and supports they need to find and maintain employment, including apprenticeships, as they move toward financial independence.

Your Ticket Program service provider can help you search for an apprenticeship that matches your career goals, review your resume and application for a specific position, and offer interview-preparation assistance to help you increase your chances of being accepted into an apprenticeship. Once you start working, an Employment Network (EN) may offer continuous supports to help you succeed in the workplace, including assistance with requesting a reasonable accommodation if you need one due to your disability.

Learn More

To learn more about the Ticket Program, visit choosework.ssa.gov or call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842. For callers who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability, call our TTY at 1-866-833-2967 (TTY). Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET. You can also learn more by registering for a free, online Work Incentives Seminar Event webinar. Or text TICKET to 1-571-489-5292 to receive Ticket Program texts. Standard messaging rates may apply, and you can opt out at any time.

We talk a lot about how important it is to report your wages each month to avoid overpayments from Social Security. But what is an overpayment?

An overpayment is when you receive more money than you should have received for one or more months. If this happens, Social Security will notify you by mail. They are required by law to adjust benefits or recover debts when they establish that someone received payments to which they are not entitled.

What should you do if you receive an overpayment notice?

Getting an overpayment notice may be unsettling or unclear, but Social Security will help you navigate the process. When you receive an overpayment notice, you should read the notice carefully. Each person’s situation is unique, so Social Security handles overpayments on a case-by-case basis. The notice will include the amount they overpaid you, the reason you were overpaid, and options to repay the overpayment, request an appeal or request a waiver.

If you would like to request an appeal or a waiver of your overpayment and have questions about it, you should contact Social Security. If you do not contact them within 60 days, they may begin reducing your monthly benefits payments to recover the overpayment.

What is an appeal?

An appeal is your opportunity to request a review of an overpayment decision. You can appeal an overpayment if you don’t agree that you’ve been overpaid or believe the overpayment amount is incorrect. The form you should use is SSA-561—U2-Request for Reconsideration. You have 60 days from the date you received the original overpayment notice to request an appeal. Social Security will assume you received this notice 5 days after the date on it, unless you show that you didn’t get it within the 5-day period. You must have a good reason for waiting more than 60 days to ask for an appeal.

What is a waiver?

A waiver is a request to excuse some or all of your overpayment. You can request that Social Security waive collection of the overpayment if you believe it was not your fault for causing the overpayment and you cannot afford to pay it back or think it is unfair for some other reason. You can do this by submitting form SSA-632-BK-Request for Waiver of Overpayment Recovery. There is no time limit for filing a waiver. If your overpayment is $1,000 or less, you can request a waiver by calling 1-800-772-1213 or your local Social Security office. They may be able to process your request quickly over the phone.

Are there repayment options?

Social Security examines every waiver request to determine if the person caused the debt and their ability to repay. If Social Security can’t waive the debt, they have flexible repayment options – including repayment amounts as low as $10 per month. You may request a lower repayment rate without requesting a waiver of recovery. You can do this by submitting form SSA-634-BK-Request for Change in Overpayment Recovery Rate.

Social Security just announced it will decrease the default overpayment withholding rate for Social Security beneficiaries to ten percent (or $10, whichever is greater) from 100 percent, significantly reducing financial hardship on people with overpayments.

Learn More

Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive SSDI or SSI due to their disability and want to work. The Ticket Program is free and voluntary. It helps people with disabilities move toward financial independence and connects them with the services and support they need to succeed in the workforce, including guidance about preventing overpayments.

To learn more about the Ticket Program, visit choosework.ssa.gov or call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842. For callers who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability, call our TTY at 1-866-833-2967 (TTY), Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET. Ask for a list of Ask for a list of service providers or find providers on your own using the Ticket Program Find Help tool.

You can also learn more about the Ticket Program by registering for a free, online Work Incentives Seminar Event webinar. Or text TICKET to 1-571-489-5292 to receive Ticket Program texts. Standard messaging rates may apply, and you can opt out at any time.

In recognition of National Deaf History Month, we are spotlighting Matt, one of our Ticket to Work Success Stories. For a long time, Matt’s hearing loss and other medical issues interfered with employment. But he was eager to move beyond the limitations of relying on his Social Security disability benefits. "I always wanted and planned to work," he says, "…to be productive, build a career, and earn more money …." So how did he do it?

As a job seeker who is deaf and needed accommodations in the workplace, Matt was uncertain about his prospects for employment. At first, he was reluctant to ask for anything from a prospective employer. He wondered whether employers would hire him if they knew he needed job accommodations. Before we describe Matt’s journey, let’s talk about accommodations.

According to the Job Accommodation Network, there are more than 28 million Americans who are deaf or hard of hearing.

What’s an Accommodation?

Reasonable accommodations are changes to a job, work environment, work schedule or any other adjustment that makes it possible for an employee with a disability to perform a job for which they are qualified. For example, Matt's primary means of communication is by keyboard. Using email is the best way for him to share thoughts and ideas with coworkers. In addition, Matt can read lips so one-on-one meetings are more productive than large group sessions. In large group settings, Matt needs an interpreter to facilitate his participation.

The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified employees and applicants with disabilities, unless such accommodations would pose an undue hardship to the employer (e.g. too costly, too extensive, too substantial, too disruptive). In general, the applicant or employee with a disability is responsible for letting the employer know that they need an accommodation to participate in the application process, to perform essential job functions, or to receive equal benefits and the privileges of employment

Asking for Accommodations During a Job Search

Did you know that accommodations can help you even before you've been hired? You are also legally entitled to adjustments to the interview or application process. But taking the initiative to request accommodations can be anxiety-inducing for many people. Here are some tips for you to consider about requesting reasonable accommodations from a prospective employer:

1. Consider your timing. Knowing when to disclose your disability and ask for accommodations is a highly personal decision. Some people want to let recruiters know before an initial screening, especially if they need accommodations to successfully participate in the screening or in a later interview. Others prefer to wait longer to disclose. For example, some people wait to disclose until they receive the job offer. Finally, others decide to wait to see if they can perform the job first without an accommodation. It is up to you.
2. Ask questions about the hiring process. You need to know what to expect so that you can make an informed decision about when or whether to disclose your disability and what kind of accommodation to ask for.
3. Be specific about your needs. It's up to you to be direct and explicit about what you require to perform a job optimally.
4. Frame your request positively. Demonstrate that you're engaged and solution oriented by conveying your interest in the position, emphasizing your desire to do your best throughout the hiring process and in the position and finally, by requesting one or more specific accommodations.
5. Know before you begin the hiring process how much information about your disability you want to share. You don't need to provide great detail. Share only what is relevant to your success on the job.

What did Matt do?

Together, Matt and his counselor from Community Integrated Services (CIS), a Pennsylvania-based Ticket to Work Employment Network (EN), identified the accommodations that he needed to perform well in an office environment and to demonstrate his abilities during an application process. They agreed on an approach for disclosing his disability and requesting accommodations that made him comfortable.

By the end of 2014, Matt was offered part-time work at a nonprofit organization that provides direct support to people with developmental disabilities. He served in a variety of capacities as an administrative assistant and the experience bolstered his collaborative problem-solving skills. Of equal importance was the growth in his self-confidence. It felt good to contribute.

Matt had good relationships at work, but soon needed more responsibility than the job could offer. His connection to the staff at CIS had grown strong throughout the year that they had worked together. They appreciated his skills and personal attributes. Matt knew they could provide the accommodations and work environment he needed. When he expressed a desire for full-time work, CIS offered him full-time work as a Human Resources Assistant, and he was delighted.

Matt's work gives him the fulfillment and stability to continue building the future he envisions. In 2019, he purchased a home, an achievement that seemed remote four years earlier.

If you're working with a Ticket to Work service provider, like an EN or State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agency, they can help you brainstorm how to request accommodations. They can guide you through the process of discussing and disclosing your disability with an employer and may suggest accommodations that can help you succeed at work.

To learn more about the Ticket to Work Program, you can call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842 or 1-866-833-2967 (TTY) Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET. A representative can answer questions and send you a list of service providers. Or you can use the Find Help tool to search for service providers on your own. The filters can help you find a service provider that provides the services you want, and you can search specifically for a service provider with experience working with people who are deaf or hard of hearing.

When you’re looking for a job, it’s important to identify all your skills. There are two general types of skills: soft skills and hard skills. Soft skills are those you gain from your life experiences rather than through school or coursework. Hard skills, also known as technical skills, are those you gain through performing various tasks or learn through education.

Why is it important to know the difference? 

Often, technical skills are specific to a particular job or career. For example, if you apply for a position in a greenhouse, the employer will be more interested in your knowledge of plant care than your customer service skills. Reading a position description will help you identify which skills an employer value most.

How do these skills transfer to your next job?

Technical skills, like soft skills, can apply to many different types of jobs. To know which technical skills you should have before applying for a job, look under the “Required Qualifications” or “Education and Experience” section of the position advertisement. There you will find a list of the skills an employer is looking for. As an example, an advertisement for a position as an Assistant Grower in a greenhouse lists:

• Minimum Qualifications:
  
  • Intermediate math skills
  • Solid reading skills
  • Ability to accurately identify irrigation needs for various crops

Your resume and cover letter should explain how and where you have used these skills previously and why you think your experience will benefit the employer.

Taking inventory of your skills

How do you know what skills you may possess, and which ones are transferable? When you are analyzing your skills, think about the tasks you did with them rather than the job or career associated with them. When you finish writing down your skills, compare your list with jobs that you are interested in and see how the skills help you qualify. This way, you can identify areas where you need more training or experience for your desired job.

How can Ticket to Work help?

Through the Ticket Program, a service provider can help you identify your technical skills and even help you develop your inventory. They can help you highlight your skills in a resume or cover letter and where they might fit when applying for jobs. Social Security’s Ticket to Work Program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSI or SSDI) and want to work. The Ticket Program is free and voluntary. It helps people with disabilities move toward financial independence and connects them with the services and support they need to succeed in the workforce.

Learn More

To learn more about the Ticket Program, visit choosework.ssa.gov or call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842 or 1-866-833-2967 (TTY), Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET. You can also learn more by registering for a free, online Work Incentives Seminar Event webinar. Or you can text TICKET to 1-571-489-5292 to receive Ticket Program texts. Standard messaging rates may apply, and you can opt out at any time.

It's tax season! If you earned income in 2023, it's important to file your taxes. Today's blog post discusses a tax credit that may apply to you and free services available through the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

Earned Income Tax Credit

The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is a benefit for working people with low to moderate income. To qualify, you must meet certain requirements and file a tax return, even if you do not owe any taxes or are not required to file. The EITC reduces the amount of taxes you owe and may qualify you for a refund.

Do I qualify for the EITC?

To qualify for the EITC you must meet some basic requirements such as:

• Have worked and earned income under $63,398
• Have investment income below $11,000 in the tax year 2023
• Have a valid Social Security number by the due date of your return

You can determine your eligibility and file and claim your EITC for free:

• Use the online EITC Assistant at IRS.gov to help determine if you're eligible. Information is available in English and Spanish.
• If you made $79,000 or less in 2023, you can use software products through IRS's Free File and electronically file your return to claim your EITC. Visit IRS.gov to access the software.

Will a tax refund affect my SSDI or SSI?

You may be concerned that a tax refund will affect your eligibility for public benefits, including Social Security disability benefits, Medicare or Medicaid, and food stamps (SNAP). The law is clear that, in most cases, tax refunds, including refunds from tax credits such as the EITC, are not counted as income for purposes of determining eligibility for benefits or payments. This applies to any federal program and any state or local program financed with federal funds.

For SSI recipients, income tax refunds are not counted as income and all federal tax refunds received on, or after January 2010, are not counted toward your SSI resource limit for 12 months (current allowable resource amount is $2,000 for an individual and 3,000 for a couple). For more information, contact Social Security toll-free at 1-800-772-1213 (1-800-325-0778 TTY) or visit your local office.

Who can help?

The IRS works with national partners, community-based coalitions and thousands of local partners and governments. These partnerships, also known as the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, provide free EITC tax return preparation and tax help and tax education.

VITA offers free basic tax-return preparation to people who:

• Generally make $64,000 or less
• Have a disability
• Are limited-English-speaking taxpayers
• IRS-certified volunteers provide free basic income tax return preparation with electronic filing to qualified individuals. To find your local VITA site, call 1-800-906-9887, or use the VITA Locator Tool.

About Ticket to Work

Social Security's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive SSDI or SSI and want to work. The Ticket Program is free and voluntary. It helps people with disabilities move toward financial independence and connects them with the services and support they need to succeed in the workforce.

Learn more

To learn more about the Ticket Program, call the Ticket to Work Help Line at 1-866-968-7842. For callers who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability, call our TTY at 1-866-833-2967 (TTY). Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET. Ask a representative to send you a list of service providers or find providers on your own with the Ticket Program Find Help tool.