Benefits to Independence 101
Module 1: Session 1
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Social Security Disability Benefits - Myth #1
"If I go to work, I’ll lose my cash benefits"
Learning Objectives:
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Understand why getting a job does not automatically mean losing your Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) cash benefits.
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Identify work incentives that let you keep benefits while working.
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Learn how and when to report earnings to Social Security.
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Know where to get support for benefit planning.
Click here to watch "Social Security Myth: If I go to work, I'll lose my cash benefits" on YouTube.
Activities:
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Benefit Identification Exercise: Document all benefits you currently receive (e.g. SSI, SSDI, Medicare, Medi-Cal, HUD/Section 8, etc.). Download the Benefit Identification worksheet here.
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Fear List & Fact Check: Write down your top 3 concerns about working, then go to DB101 website to fact-check each one. Download the Fear and Fact worksheet here.
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Success Story Review: Watch a Success Story on the DOR "Spotlight on Social Security" YouTube Channel of a peer who has successfully started work and kept their benefits.
Resources:
Social Security Disability Benefits Myth 1 – Resource Guide