Pros and Cons of Free Vocational Rehabilitation for SSDI Recipients

The Disabled Can Go to College for Free

Free vocational rehabilitation services are available for individuals receiving Social Security Disability Income (SSDI) and may include disbursements for up to four years of college education.

Many SSDI recipients are either unaware of the government sponsored vocational rehabilitation program or my have misconceptions about it. It is natural to think one may lose their SSDI as a result of going to school or to assume the application process is quite overwhelming. 

In reality, the vocational rehabilitation program itself will not impact your benefits nor should it red flag you for a premature SSDI review. If and when you obtain gainful employment, your benefits then would be reviewed. But even at this point the SSA offers what is known as a trial work period, which has several benefits and protections.

How Does Vocation Rehabilitation Work

The Social Security Act allows SSA to pay vocational rehabilitation providers for providing funds and services to SSDI beneficiaries as long as certain conditions are met. Foremost, according to the SSA, "vocational rehabilitation services must result in the person's return to work for at least nine continuous months at a substantial earnings level."

Starting the vocational rehabilitation process first involves making an appointment with a counselor (see the related links at the end of this article). You may then receive a little paperwork in the mail, usually it's minimal, and an appointment.

Approval: As an SSDI recipient you automatically qualify for vocational rehabilitation and may not need to offer much additional information. However, the actual approval process for the initial paperwork may take 30-60 days generally.

Time frame: Keep this time frame in mind when applying for vocational rehabilitation. If you wish to be completely approved in time for the school year, try applying for vocational rehabilitation at least 90 days in advance.

Documents: The one document you will need initially for your Vocational Rehabilitation application is your SSDI award letter. A copy of which can be obtained from any local Social Security Administration office.