SOAR and Employment for SSI/SSDI Beneficiaries

By SAMHSA SOAR TA Center

This issue brief, developed by the SAMHSA SOAR TA Center, describes: the misconceptions about employment and loss of disability benefits; how earned income from employment affects SSI/SSDI benefits and Medicare/Medicaid coverage; the employment resources and work incentives offered by SSA to current SSI/SSDI beneficiaries; and the role SOAR programs can play in connecting individuals to employment resources.

Individuals who are disabled and receive cash and other benefits through the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) programs are eligible for employment supports to assist them in obtaining and maintaining employment. When SSI/SSDI benefits begin, lifelong employment goals do not end. In the spirit of SSI/SSDI Outreach, Access and Recovery (SOAR) as a stepping stone to recovery, people who receive SSI/SSDI are encouraged to seek employment and employment services throughout the application process and after benefits are obtained.

Read the issue brief: SOAR and Employment for SSI/SSDI Beneficiaries