Up To $967 in SSI Payments: If you’re receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you might be wondering if there’s a way to earn more money without losing your benefits. Up to $967 in SSI payments is now available in 2025 due to cost-of-living adjustments (COLA), and the Ticket to Work program could help you take full advantage of this while moving toward financial independence.
Many people mistakenly believe that starting work means automatically losing disability benefits. But the truth is more optimistic. The Ticket to Work program gives people with disabilities the tools, support, and opportunities to start a career or return to work without immediately jeopardizing their SSI payments. Whether you’re a young adult starting out, a mid-career professional who became disabled, or a caregiver helping a loved one, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
Let’s break it down so it’s easy to understand for anyone—from parents and students to professionals and policy-makers.
Up To $967 in SSI Payments
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum SSI Payment (2025) | $967/month for individuals (SSA.gov) |
| Eligibility | Ages 18–64 receiving SSI or SSDI |
| Ticket to Work Cost | Free and voluntary program |
| Main Benefits | Job support, career planning, trial work period, protection from medical reviews |
| Program Website | choosework.ssa.gov |
The Ticket to Work program opens a powerful gateway for individuals receiving up to $967 in SSI payments to pursue work, independence, and personal growth. Instead of seeing your disability benefits as a ceiling, this program reframes them as a foundation for building something greater.
With structured support, safety nets like the Trial Work Period, and access to free professional help, the path to employment is more secure and less stressful. You don’t have to risk your income to explore your potential.
Whether you want to try part-time work, pursue a dream job, or go back to school, Ticket to Work is designed to help you thrive on your own terms.
What Is the Ticket to Work Program?
The Ticket to Work program is a special initiative by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to help people receiving SSI or SSDI explore job opportunities and take confident steps toward independence. It’s voluntary and free, designed for adults aged 18 through 64 who want to work but still need some help along the way.
When you sign up, you get a “ticket” that you can use with an Employment Network (EN) or State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agency. These groups provide personalized guidance and resources to help you:
- Plan your career path
- Learn and improve job skills
- Receive training or go back to school
- Find a suitable job
- Maintain employment with ongoing support
These services are designed to remove the barriers that may have stopped you from entering the workforce. It’s like having a personal career coach and support team to walk beside you every step of the way.
Real-World Example:
Jasmine, 32, was receiving SSI due to a chronic illness. She always dreamed of becoming a graphic designer but feared losing her benefits. Through Ticket to Work, she worked with an EN, built her portfolio, landed a remote job, and is now thriving—all while receiving SSI during her trial work period. With continued support and flexible scheduling, Jasmine even began freelancing and built a small business.
How Much Can You Get With SSI in 2025?
Thanks to the 2.5% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA), the maximum monthly SSI benefit is now $967 for individuals and $1,451 for eligible couples. This update ensures that benefits keep pace with inflation and the rising costs of basic living necessities.
It’s important to know that some states supplement federal SSI payments with their own state-funded benefits. Depending on where you live, you might receive even more than the federal maximum.
- See official payment rates
- State supplemental payment info
These payments help cover essential expenses like rent, food, and utilities—and with the Ticket to Work program, you can begin earning money from work without immediately reducing this support.
How Ticket to Work Helps You Keep SSI While Working
Here’s the big question: Can I work and still keep my SSI? Yes, and here’s how. Ticket to Work includes built-in protections and incentives that let you test out work while maintaining benefits.
Key Support Features:
1. Trial Work Period (TWP)
This feature lets you test your ability to work over at least nine months without losing your benefits. During the TWP, you can earn any amount of money, and your SSI payments won’t stop. This gives you peace of mind to try working without the fear of immediate financial consequences.
2. Extended Period of Eligibility (EPE)
After your trial work period ends, you move into a 36-month window called the EPE. During this time, you’ll still receive SSI benefits in any month that your income falls below the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) level.
- In 2025, the SGA level is $1,590/month for non-blind individuals and $2,590/month for blind individuals (SSA.gov)
3. Protection From Medical Reviews
Typically, Social Security conducts Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs) to ensure a person still qualifies for benefits. But when you’re actively participating in Ticket to Work and making timely progress in your work plan, you are protected from these reviews.
4. Access to Free Employment Services
These include:
- Career counseling and job coaching
- Resume building and interview training
- Referrals for training and education programs
- On-the-job support and workplace accommodations
- Financial literacy and benefits planning
These tools are crucial in building long-term confidence and independence.
How to Joining Ticket to Work
Ready to get started? Here’s a simple step-by-step process:
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
You must be:
- Between ages 18 and 64
- Receiving SSI or SSDI
- Interested in working or going back to work
Step 2: Visit the Official Program Website
Go to choosework.ssa.gov, the Social Security Administration’s official portal for the Ticket to Work program. This site includes tools, FAQs, and videos to guide you.
Step 3: Find a Service Provider
Use the “Find Help” tool to search for:
- Employment Networks (ENs)
- State Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) agencies
- Workforce ENs and other partner organizations
You can choose a provider that understands your needs and offers services in person or virtually.
Step 4: Develop an Individual Work Plan (IWP)
Your EN or VR agency will help you build a work plan tailored to your strengths, experience, and goals. It will include milestones, timelines, and the supports you need to succeed.
Step 5: Start Working and Report Income
Once you begin working, you must report your income to SSA every month. This ensures your benefits stay accurate and you take full advantage of work incentives.
Tips for Making the Most of the Program
Here are some expert strategies to ensure success:
- Start part-time: Ease into work gradually to build stamina and confidence.
- Keep in contact: Stay in touch with your EN or VR team regularly.
- Use benefits counseling: Understand how different earnings levels affect your benefits.
- Track your progress: Maintain records of your income, job milestones, and correspondence.
- Take advantage of remote work: Many Ticket to Work participants find flexibility and success in work-from-home roles.
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FAQs About Up To $967 in SSI Payments
Q1: Will I lose my SSI if I start working?
Not right away. With the Trial Work Period and other incentives, you can try working while still receiving benefits.
Q2: Is the Ticket to Work program mandatory?
No. It’s entirely voluntary, and there’s no penalty for choosing not to participate.
Q3: What if I try working but can’t continue due to my disability?
You may qualify for Expedited Reinstatement (EXR), which allows your benefits to resume without filing a new application.
Q4: Can I participate if I receive only SSDI?
Yes. The Ticket to Work program supports both SSI and SSDI recipients.
Q5: Is there a deadline or enrollment period?
There is no enrollment deadline. You can join when you’re ready, whether that’s next week or next year.
