Research Article

Journal Article Details

Citation:
Schlegelmilch, A.; Roskowski, M.; Anderson, C.; Hartman, E.; & Decker-Maurer, H. (2019). The impact of work incentives benefits counseling on employment outcomes of transition-age youth receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, 51 (2), 127-136.
Title:
The impact of work incentives benefits counseling on employment outcomes of transition-age youth receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits
Authors:
Schlegelmilch, A.; Roskowski, M.; Anderson, C.; Hartman, E.; & Decker-Maurer, H.
Year:
2019
Journal/Publication: 
Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation
Publisher:
IOS Press
DOI:
Full text:
Peer-reviewed?
Yes
NIDILRR-funded? 
Yes

Structured abstract:

Background:
Work incentive benefits counseling has been shown to be a promising practice in vocational rehabilitation and has had a demonstrated impact on positive employment outcomes for adults with disabilities (Wilhelm & McCormick 2013).
Purpose:
In this study, the Wisconsin Promoting the Readiness of Minors in Supplemental Security Income (PROMISE) demonstration project implemented a new model of work incentive benefits counseling targeting transition-age youth receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits including their families.
Data collection & analysis:
PROMISE youth and families received work incentive benefits counseling through a consultative approach and impact on employment outcomes were assessed.
Findings:
Preliminary results indicate that youth who received work incentives benefits counseling (N?=?535) had significantly higher work activity and explored a greater number of job opportunities, than youth who did not receive benefits counseling (N?=?476). Additionally, 81% of PROMISE treatment youth with earnings above the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) level had met with a benefits specialist at least once.
Conclusions:
This study contributes to the growing evidence demonstrating that work incentives benefits counseling positively influences employment and earnings outcomes for low-income transition-age youth with disabilities. Youth and families preferred the consultation approach, providing information as needed and meeting families where they were at.
Disabilities served:
Multiple disabilities
Populations served:
Transition-age youth (14 - 24)
SSI and SSDI recipients
Interventions:
Benefits counseling
Vocational rehabilitation
Transition services