What's New in Workforce Investment?

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has published a request for public comment on a proposed revision to the information collection in support of the Ticket to Work and Self-Sufficiency Program.

SSA's Ticket to Work (Ticket) Program transitions Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients toward independence by allowing them to receive Social Security payments while maintaining employment under the auspices of the program. SSA uses service providers, called Employment Networks (ENs), to supervise participant progress through the stages of Ticket Program participation, such as job searches and interviews, progress reviews, and changes in ticket status. ENs can be private for-profit and nonprofit organizations, as well as state vocational rehabilitation agencies (VRs).

SSA and the ENs utilize the Ticket to Work Program Manager to operate the Ticket Program and exchange information about participants. For example, the ENs use the Program Manager to provide updates on tasks such as selecting a payment system or requesting payments for helping the beneficiary achieve certain work goals.

Since the ENs are not PRA-exempt, the multiple information collections within the Ticket Program Manager require OMB approval, and we clear them under this information collection request (ICR). Most of the categories of information in this ICR are necessary for SSA to: (1) Comply with the Ticket to Work legislation; and (2) provide proper oversight of the program. SSA collects this information through several modalities, including forms, electronic exchanges, and written documentation. The respondents are the ENs or state VRs, as well as SSDI beneficiaries and blind or disabled SSI recipients working under the auspices of the Ticket to Work Program.

Comments are due to the Office of Management and Budget by September 10. Click here for full background and burden hour estimates.