There are many governmental resources out there to help you succeed, take advantage of this support by learning which programs are available to you.
Here is a quick overview of the benefits available:
- Regional Center of Orange County (RCOC) is one of 21 private, nonprofit organizations contracted by the State of California to coordinate lifelong services and supports for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) provides cash benefits to people with disabilities or blind individuals who are “insured” by workers, employers, and self-employed people.
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a means-tested program intended for people with disabilities who have little or no income and few resources
- The Ticket-to-Work Program (http://www.yourtickettowork.com) offers people with disabilities a “Ticket” to obtain the employment support services, vocational rehabilitation services, and other services they may need to get and keep a job.
- The California Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) is an employment and independent living resource for people with disabilities.
- The Protection and Advocacy for Beneficiaries of Social Security (PABSS) program offers beneficiaries information, consultation, and legal representation around work incentives, vocational rehabilitation, other employment services, and the Ticket-to-Work program
- WorkAbility (WAI) is a transition program for youth with disabilities, mandated by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and stated in the California Education Code(EC) Sections 56470–56474. WorkAbility services are available in high school through four year college programs.
Information about benefits: