Social Security “Ticket to Work” Program in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties
- Date 3/25/2026
- Media Contact Doug Tobin
- Email tobind@careersourcetb.com
- Contact phone (813) 397-2054
CSTB Expands Outreach for Social Security “Ticket to Work” Program in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties
~ Free program helps individuals receiving Social Security Disability benefits transition back into the workforce ~
TAMPA, FL – CareerSource Tampa Bay (CSTB) is increasing outreach across Hillsborough and Pinellas counties to connect individuals receiving Social Security Disability benefits with employment opportunities through the federal Ticket to Work program.
The program provides free career services and individualized support for eligible individuals with disabilities who want to enter or reenter the workforce while maintaining important Social Security safety nets during the transition.
Through the program, participants receive one-on-one assistance that may include career counseling, job search support, and ongoing employment guidance designed to help them increase their earnings and move toward greater financial independence.
The CSTB Ticket to Work program is designed for adults ages 18 to 64 who currently receive Social Security Disability benefits and want to earn income above the federal Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) level. In 2026, SGA is defined as $1,690 in gross monthly earnings for non-blind individuals and $2,830 for individuals who are blind.
Eligible participants also benefit from important protections while pursuing employment, including:
- Continued Medicare or Medicaid coverage while working
- No medical disability reviews while making progress toward work goals
- A built-in safety net if a disability prevents continued employment with expedited reinstatement.
- Personalized career counseling and job placement assistance
“Many people receiving disability benefits want to work but are unsure how employment could affect their benefits,” said Kristin Winn, who supervises the CareerSource Tampa Bay Ticket to Work program. “The Ticket to Work program provides guidance and safeguards so participants can explore employment opportunities with confidence.”
CareerSource Tampa Bay serves individuals with all types of disabilities who live in Hillsborough and Pinellas counties. All services are provided at no cost to eligible participants.
Individuals interested in learning more can complete an online interest form and will be invited to attend a virtual orientation session to learn how the program works and determine eligibility.
To learn more or submit an interest form, visit:
https://careersourcetampabay.com/persons-with-disabilities/.