Get Involved
Benefits of Going to Work
Learning Target
At the end of this activity, you will be able to describe the benefits of working and why getting a job will help you become more independent. You will understand how a job might affect your SSI benefits, and identify the process of contacting a benefits counselor who can help you.Pre-ETS Connection: Job Exploration and Self-Advocacy
Instructor Resources
Review the Benefits of Going to Work Fact Sheet along with any other resources and complete the activity below.
Think about...
- What can you gain from getting a job and going to work?
- What are SSI benefits and how might they affect your decision about going to work?
- Why is it important to talk to a benefits counselor if you receive SSI benefits?
- Why is it important to review your benefits when you are getting close to turning 18?
- How might getting SSI benefits affect your decisions about a job?
Instructions
Getting a job can provide you with many opportunities to gain independence. When exploring your options for going to work, it is important to consider if you are currently receiving money and health insurance from the Social Security Administration. Going to work can affect the benefits you receive, so it is important to contact a benefits counselor to help you navigate this process.
- Open the SSI Benefits and Working Activity – CLICK HERE
- Download the SSI and Benefits of Working Activity Cards
- Each card includes a step in the process of getting help with understanding the benefits process
- Read through the steps on each card
- Sequence the steps by putting them in the correct order
Review the Benefits of Going to Work Fact Sheet along with any other resources and complete the activity below.
Instructions
Choose five questions you have about the Benefits to Work program and how they can help you. Then, interview a benefits counselor to ask them your questions and record their answers.
- Download the Interview Questions and Recording Form
- Choose five questions from this list that interest you or write your own questions that you want answered about the Benefits to Work program
- Contact a Benefits to Work counselor and set up a meeting virtually or on the phone
- Answer the reflection questions as you think about your experience talking with a Benefits to Work counselor
Reflect
- What are some benefits you may gain from getting a job and going to work?
- If you receive SSI benefits, would you want to meet with a benefits counselor?
- Why is understanding how going to work couldimpact your SSI benefits important?
- What other resources could you use to find out more about SSI and your benefits?
- What other information do you think you need to feel prepared to be responsible for your SSI benefits when you turn 18?
