Times are changing. We’re moving forward into a year of opportunities, stronger with lessons learned from 2020 about new ways to work and live as valuable members of our communities. As we transition from a year of social distancing and high unemployment, this may be the perfect time for you to think about your long-term work and financial goals. It …
When You Have a Mental Health Disability and Need Benefits….
Complex. Confusing. Overwhelming. These are just a few of the words used to describe what it’s like to have a mental health disability and apply for Social Security and Medicaid benefits. Some people are able to navigate the application process on their own or with the help of family and friends. Others may need a little more support. Jolin, a …
Living with Depression: Creative Solutions for Work
An important part of living well with depression is to engage in as many regular daily activities as possible, including work. For many, the satisfaction and security of work leads to positive self-esteem, and being part of a work team can create a sense of belonging. But. . . you may not feel positive or that you belong at work …
Your DVR Case Closed. It May Be Time for Ticket to Work!
If you have a disability and an employment goal, the Wisconsin Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) can provide services to help you prepare for, obtain, and maintain employment. In many cases, once you get a job and maintain that job for 90 days, your DVR case closes successfully. But what happens next? You May Be Eligible for Ticket to WorkTicket …
Job Skills Employers Value
There are some skills that all employers – no matter what the job or industry – are looking for in their employees. These are the skills that will help you succeed on the job and move ahead in your career. Sometimes called “soft skills”, the skills employers value includes things like communication, attitude, responsibility, and willingness to learn. They’re sometimes …
Working from Home? Grow Your Skills and Knowledge with Free Resources
In COVID-19 times, many of us dramatically changed the way we provide services, going from working in a physical office space to providing services remotely from our homes. For many, this change freed up some extra time to work on professional development and continuing education. And, we saw many the people we serve look for ways to use their extra …
COVID-19 and Taxes: Free Help to File
Although 2020 was difficult year for many of us, there were a few silver linings to the cloud. Stimulus checks, expanded unemployment benefits, the ability to work remotely, and tax relief packages enabled many of us to meet our basic needs and make it through an extraordinarily challenging time. These same silver linings may cause your taxes to look a …
The Not-So-Secret Formula for Reaching Your Goals
Motivation is not the secret to success. Yes. I said it. Motivation does not always end with achievement. And for those of you still skeptical, think on it for a moment. From your desire to set a goal, you have already shown a motivation to do it. You want to change, so you tell other people you’re resolved to change. …
Setting Goals for 2021: It All Begins with Attitude
After 2020, your approach to setting goals for the new year may be different than in years past. 2020 was tough, so this may be the year to give yourself permission to go easy on yourself with setting employment and financial goals. It may also be the year that you explore and tap into new opportunities for employment and financial …
Gifts and Social Security Benefits
We hope you enjoy many gifts this holiday season. And remember, sometimes the best gifts don’t come in packages. Just in case, it’s a good idea to learn how gifts are viewed by Social Security for the SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) and SSI (Supplemental Security Income) programs. Gifts Don’t Affect SSDI At AllLet’s start with the easy one: SSDI. …