Group plans work incentives workshop

NEWTON — People who get Social Security Disability (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for a disability can use Social Security “work incentive” programs to maintain their benefits and/or their medical coverage while employed.
New Jersey Work Incentives Network Support (NJWINS) is a grant-funded not-for-profit organization within The Family Resource Network. Its mission is to help people with disabilities understand Social Security’s work incentive programs and how to apply for them.
On Monday evening, March 18, NJWINS Community Work Incentives Coordinator Elisa Cohen will be coming to Sussex County to explain these work incentive programs, the rules for which can sometimes be confusing. The workshop will be held at Bridgeway Rehabilitative Services, 93 Stickles Pond Road in Newton from 7:00-9:00 p.m. Individuals with disabilities, their families and friends, and helping professionals such as case managers and counselors are welcome to attend free of charge.
Ms. Cohen will explain how income from a job will affect SSDI or SSI disability cash benefits and medical insurance. She will provide a comprehensive explanation of “NJ WorkAbility,” how to use “IRWE” and a “PASS” to maximize results, and how to access online tools for providers and consumers.
Work incentive programs can sometimes allow:
SSDI or SSI beneficiaries to keep receiving some cash benefits while testing their ability to work.
SSDI or SSI beneficiaries to keep their medical insurance (Medicare or Medicaid) while working part-time and even after they get a full-time job.
“Trial work periods” for some beneficiaries in which their benefits are protected if they are not able to stay employed.
Other benefits such as free or low-cost job training.
New Jersey residents who are 14 to 64 years of age and who are receiving SSDI or SSI benefits are eligible for NJWINS services.
This workshop is sponsored by Bridgeway Rehabilitative Services, NAMI Sussex, and Intensive Family Support Services (IFSS), a program of the Mental Health Association of Essex and Morris.
Advance registration is requested but not required. To register call 973-579-4399, Ext. 606, or email cparmelee@mhaessexmorris.org.