Maryland Work Incentives Network

What is a WIPA project?It is a program created and funded by Social Security to help disability beneficiaries understand and use the work incentives available to them.Translation: If you have thought that you would like to work, but don’t want to do anything that would mess up your disability benefits, come talk to us.Many disability beneficiaries won't work or limit their earnings for fear of losing their benefits. Our goal is to let you know that you can work and increase your income and become more independent.SSA administers two types of disability benefits: SSI and SSDI.• SSI is Supplemental Security Income, a needs-based program for people over 65 or who have a disability and have very limited income and resources (assets). If you have SSI, you are also eligible for Medicaid, which in Maryland we call Medical Assistance (link to Medical Assistance web page).• SSDI is Social Security Disability Insurance, a program for people who have a disability and who have sufficient “credits” with Social Security. People who have SSDI will qualify for Medicare, usually after 2 years.• Some people get both SSI and SSDI