Affiliations: Cornell University Institute for Policy Research,
Washington, DC, USA | Mathematica Policy Research, Washington, DC, USA
Note: [] Address for correspondence: Gina A. Livermore, Mathematica
Policy Research, 600 Maryland Ave. SW, Ste. 550, Washington, DC 20024, USA.
Tel.: +1 202 264 3462; Fax: +1 202 863 1763; E-mail:
glivermore@mathematica-mpr.com
Abstract: We present findings from the 2004 National Beneficiary Survey (NBS),
a nationally representative survey of Social Security disability beneficiaries
conducted by Mathematica Policy Research for the Social Security Administration
as part of the Ticket to Work program evaluation. The NBS data provide an
overview of the health and sociodemographic characteristics of Social Security
disability beneficiaries, and highlight their employment activity, work
aspirations, and use of employment-related services. Although most
beneficiaries have significant health problems that limit their ability to
work, the NBS data suggest that there is potential demand for employment and
employment-related services among Social Security disability beneficiaries.
While only a small share of beneficiaries are employed or actively seeking
employment, a rather substantial number have goals that include work and see
themselves working in the future, and many have used employment-related
services during the previous year. The NBS data also suggest, however, that
even if beneficiaries have employment aspirations and attempt to work, many
potential challenges to successful employment may need to be addressed. In
addition to the activity limitations and poor health associated with their
disabling conditions, most beneficiaries: have low levels of education that
might limit their employment opportunities; are living at or near poverty,
suggesting that they and their families may rely on public programs for which
eligibility could be jeopardized by earnings; and many have experienced
work-related obstacles such as a lack of reliable transportation, inaccessible
workplaces, and discouragement from work either by others or through their own
experiences.
Keywords: Ticket to Work, Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act, Social Security disability benefits, National Beneficiary Survey, disability and employment
