In 2023, self-employment played a significant role for workers with disabilities, who had a higher self-employment rate (8.4%) than those without disabilities (5.9%). This is indicative of the value of self-employment in improving accessibility and providing job flexibility, particularly through the Ticket to Work (TTW) Program of the Social Security. However, the employment gap between disabled and non-disabled workers remains substantial. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that only 37.1% of people with a disability, aged 16 - 64, were employed in 2023, compared to 75% of those without a disability in the same age range.

Programs like TTW facilitate the return to work for former workers who had to quit due to a severe medical condition or disability. Unfortunately, beneficiaries are often unaware of the safety net offered by the combined benefit of SSDI and TTW. Believe it or not, they fear they could lose their SSDI income and health benefits if they return to work. However, TTW, supported by Social Security-authorized Employment Networks (EN) and state Vocational Rehabilitation agencies (SVR), ensures these individuals have the best possible chance of success, even amid setbacks.

Employers, on the other hand, often struggle with misconceptions about hiring people with disabilities. Studies strongly suggest that companies, which employ individuals with disabilities, often gain a competitive advantage. Several organizations, such as Positive Work and Disability: IN, offer resources to help businesses overcome biases and misconceptions, and promote inclusivity in the workplace.

If SSDI beneficiaries and employers better understood the possibilities and benefits offered by programs like TTW, and the potential advantages of a more inclusive workforce, we could start to see a shift in employment trends for disabled workers.

For more information on disability benefits and programs, people can reach out to EDD customer service. They provide essential customer assistance and can navigate one through queries related to SSDI benefits and the TTW program. Anyone looking for advice or assistance can get ahold of EDD customer service at eddcaller.com, which can greatly simplify the process.