What is the Caribbean Work Incentive Planning and Assistance Project?

The Caribbean Work Incentive Planning and Assistance Proyect is an alternative community-based service for Social Security beneficiaries with disabilities with the objective of assisting them in managing and planning their benefits, while supporting a successful integration to the employment world. This program will assist a beneficiary so he can understand the impact of work on benefits and help them make informed chances about working.

Where does this project come from?

The project was started under the Work Incentive Act signed by Former President Clinton on December 17, 1999 titled “The Ticket to Work and Work Incentive Investment Act”. This created the following opportunities:

- Increases the number of alternatives that the beneficiary has to obtain vocational and rehabilitation services

- Eliminates barriers that require beneficiaries with disabilities to chose between their Medicare or return to work.

- Assures more citizens with disabilities an opportunity to participate in the workforce, reducing their reliance on welfare.

When do these new work incentives begin and what do they offer for me?

On October 1, 2000, this law expanded Medicare to four and a half years beyond its current limit (39 months) to Social Security beneficiaries who return to work. Persons whose benefits have been terminated due to their work activity may opt to establish that they can no longer work because of their disability. In this case, benefits will be reinstated immediately without a new application. The beneficiary can receive provisional benefits and health coverage for up to six months while their case is reviewed. Also, as of January 1, 2002, beneficiaries who use their ticket to work will not have periodic disability reviews.

Where can I get more information?

The Caribbean Work Incentive Planning and Assistance Proyect has established a service network for Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, through Centers for Independent Living. These are: Movimiento para el Alcance de Vida Independiente and the Virgin Islands Association for Independent Living.
These Centers provide benefits planning and assistance for people with disabilities who receive social security benefits and provide a way for Social Security beneficiaries to receive the following services:

- A personal benefit planer who can evaluate your current situation and support you in making on informed decision in regards to your return to work.

- An individualized benefits and budget management plan to assist you during your transition to work.

- Counseling, referrals and orientation before, during and after you become employed giving you assistance and support.

-Educational seminars with current information regarding the ticket to work and work incentives that can be of benefit to you.

If you are interested in receiving a personal orientation with more details about the Caribbean Work Incentive Planning and Assistance project, please contact one of our Benefit Planners at (787) 758-7901 or Long distance at 1-888-549-6284.

The Caribbean Work Incentive Planning and Assistance Proyect schedules visits to St. Croix and St. Thomas every month. We can also, make educational presentations and outreach activities in your community.