Accessing Work Incentives Benefits Counseling

Whether you live in Rhode Island or Connecticut, work incentives benefits counseling can be accessed in various ways as described below.  If you have questions about your options, contact the Sherlock Center for more information. 

In Rhode Island

• If you receive services from the Office of Rehabilitation Services (ORS), either from the Vocational Rehabilitation Program or Services For the Blind or Visually Impaired (SBVI), contact your counselor to request work incentives benefits counseling.
• RI Department of Behavioral Health, Developmental Disabilities and Hospitals (BHDDH): If you are approved from the Division of Developmental Disabilities, BHDDH, you can submit an Employment and Earnings Form to request work incentives benefits counseling.  If you receive services from an agency, you can ask your agency's service coordinator to submit the required form. If you use self -directed supports, you can ask your plan writer or BHDDH social worker to help. Learn more about BHDDH's employment and earnings reporting requirements.
• Work Incentives Planning and Assistance (WIPA) Program: WIPA is a free service, coordinated by the Sherlock Center, that helps SSI and SSDI beneficiaries to make informed choices about working. Services are available by phone, video conferencing and in-person. Eligible beneficiaries include youth, 14 to 17 years of age, and adults, 18 years of age to full retirement age.  Learn more about WIPA and how to request services

In Connecticut

• Bureau of Rehabilitation Services: If you are a client of the Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS) ask your counselor.
• Connect to Work Center: The Connect to Work Center provides work incentive benefit counseling services throughout the state, in-person or remotely. To learn more or to find a location near you at Benefits Counseling, Connecticut Aging and Disability Services. 
• Work Incentives Planning and Assistance (WIPA) Program: WIPA is a free service coordinated by the Sherlock Center that helps SSI and SSDI beneficiaries to make informed choices about working. Services are available by phone, video conferencing and in-person. Eligible beneficiaries include youth age 14 to 17 and adults age 18 to full retirement age. In addition to age, benefits counseling services are based on your benefits, earnings and/or goals. Learn more about WIPA and how to request services