If your 2022 income was in the low to moderate range, you could be eligible for a tax break through the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). The EITC could reduce the taxes you owe and increase your refund. To qualify for the EITC, you must: Have worked in 2022 and have an adjusted gross income (AGI) under $59,187. AGI is your gross …
Gifts and Social Security Benefits
Tis’ the season for festive celebrations – and gifts! During the holidays, 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. Gifts do not affect SSDI at all! You don’t even …
Self-Care: Help for Holiday Blues
There are decorations all around, and holiday music is playing in all the stores. For many people it is a time for celebration — a bright spot in the winter gloom. For others, the holidays may be overwhelming, or lonely, or intense. The stress of obligations can dull the spirit of the season. Family celebrations shown on television may not …
Speak Up for Yourself
Self-determination is having the freedom to make choices about your own life. Self-advocacy is having the skills to speak up about what choices you want to make.Why should we speak up? By speaking up for what you need or want, you are more likely to: find solutions that work, feel confident and empowered, have ownership in your success. What’s involved …
Student Earned Income Exclusion 2022
Do you know about the Student Earned Income Exclusion (SEIE) exclusion? This is a work incentive for students in the Social Security Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program. To be eligible, you must meet the following conditions: Age under 22 years; Regularly attending school, college or training to prepare for a paying job;* Working. If these conditions are met, Social Security …
Medicaid Purchase Plan (MAPP) Updates
The Medicaid Purchase Plan (MAPP) provides health care coverage for people with a disability age 18 or older and are working or interested in working. MAPP provides the same health benefits offered through Medicaid. In addition, the program includes ways to save money with an independence account. This money does not count toward the program’s asset limit. Learn more about …
Disclosing a Vision Impairment at Work
The Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Employment of People Who are Blind or Have Low Vision published a new advice sheet for people with vision impairments. The advice sheet provides information for people who are blind or have low vision and are considering disclosing their visual disability at work. Topics include the benefits, the pros and cons, protections under …
Transportation: Knowing the Options
As you consider your job goals, part of that process is considering how you will get to and from work. If owning and driving a vehicle is not an option, there are many different transportation options. Learn more what they are, how they work, and how to use them.A Variety of Options“Transportation Options for Older Adults and People with Disabilities” …
See You Later – But Don’t Be a Stranger: Jolin’s Next Adventure
If you – or someone you know – had ERI’s help applying for benefits, you probably know Jolin Mitchel. He has been the manager and main contact for ERI’s Community Benefits Specialist (CBS) program since its inception. Starting as an intern in 2009, Jolin has become one of ERI’s longest-serving employees. He has helped countless individuals apply for Social Security …
Guardianship and Voting: Preserving and Restoring the Right to Vote
In Wisconsin, anyone 18 years old or older is legally an adult and is presumed by law to be able to manage all personal and financial affairs, including the ability to register to vote and to vote. – DisabilityVote.org Persons with disabilities, even those with guardians, have the right to vote. Often, people don’t know the rules and rights for …