Work Incentives Planning and Assistance (WIPA) is a cooperative agreement through Social Security Administration (SSA) with local agencies, like CIL Jacksonville, to provide work incentives information and planning services for individuals:

• Between the ages of 14 through full retirement age
• Working or interested in working
• A current Social Security Disability (Title II or SSI) beneficiary

Work Incentives

Work incentives are special rules that make it possible for people with disabilities receiving Social Security or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) to work and still receive monthly payments and Medicare and Medicaid.

Community Work Incentive Coordinators (CWICs)

Community Work Incentives Coordinators (CWIC) undergo intensive training, screening, and continuing education to provide you with the most accurate information on how work and earnings can affect your benefits. CWICs meet with each beneficiary either by phone or in-person and then research each client’s unique situation. CWICs will:

• Explain how work and earned income may affect your cash and medical benefits.
• Explain all aspects of available work incentives, some of which are automatic while others need to be initiated.
• Give information about the Ticket to Work Program, its benefits, and how to choose an Employment Network.
• Give information about the PASS Program (Plan to Achieve Self Support) and guide beneficiaries through the application process.
• Refer beneficiaries to various community resources as needed to address areas of concern outside the scope of the WIPA project.

Get Started

To begin services, call 1-866-968-7842 or ask your Vocational Rehabilitation counselor about benefits screenings at CIL Jacksonville. There is never a cost for any of the services provided under the WIPA project.