Minnesota Work Incentives Connection

Programs: Benefits planning & assistance:benefits planning and assistance encompasses the connection's individualized services, including:benefits hotline - 3,004 contacts in fy 2010. Via a toll-free hotline, the connection offers specialized information and referral services, answering questions about public program requirements, special work incentive provisions, and other issues related to employment and benefits for people with disabilities. For complex inquiries (known as "problem-solving" cases), additional research is conducted, and callers are provided with step-by-step directions on how to frame questions for their social security representatives, county workers, or subsidized housing managers. If needed, connection staff advocate directly on behalf of the consumer with benefit program representatives. Benefits analysis - 387 completed in fy 2010benefits analysis is the connection's most intensive service, which starts with gathering background information and verifying the individual's benefits with the social security administration, county and local housing authorities. An individualized, benefits analysis report is written, including: calculations and written narrative, explaining how the participant's projected level of work will affect each type of benefit they receive. A bottom line assessment of total income (wages + benefits) prior to and after working. Explanations of social security and other benefit program rules and work incentives that apply to the individual's specific situation. Identification of health care options to ensure comprehensive, affordable coverage that addresses disability-related needs. A benefits management plan with specific information on reporting income (where to call and what to report); guidance on monitoring wages and benefits; and milestones that will impact benefits. Each benefits analysis report is delivered in person, regardless of where the consumer lives in minnesota. Ongoing assistance is provided as participants experience changes in employment or other life factors.

training - 17 sessions with 241 trainees in fy 2010. The connection provides training sessions, ranging from 2 to 4 hours, on social security and other benefit programs. Training topics include the primary benefit programs used by people with disabilities, the work rules of those programs, and special work incentives available to encourage people with disabilities to work.

outreach - 55 sessions with 1,798 attendees in fy 2010. Each year, the connection conducts outreach presentations and conference exhibits throughout minnesota. Information is provided on various topics related to work and benefits, such as social security work incentives, medical assistance for employed persons with disabilities, other health coverage options, and subsidized housing. Outreach sessions generally last less than 90 minutes. The connection also publishes semi-annual newsletters and hosts a website (www. Mnworkincentives. Com), which include extensive information on government benefit program rules and incentives for people with disabilities who want to work. Outcome data continues to demonstrate statistically significant increases in employment and reductions in government benefits received by connection participants.