The array of public benefit programs, entitlements and work incentives available to individuals with disabilities is diverse. From disability programs administered by the Social Security Administration and Veterans Affairs to Worker's Compensation and tax credits, the effect of an individual's return to work on their existing package of benefits is complex. The Employment and Disability Institute focuses their efforts on research, policies and practice that support the movement of individuals form dependence on public entitlements to greater economic self-sufficiency and independence.
Cornell provides training and technical support as well as materials development and dissemination on issues pertaining to benefits and work incentives planning and assistance.
"The foundational principle of the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999 is that beneficiaries with disabilities have access to the information they need, when they need it, and in a format they can access to assist them in making informed choices about work and benefits."
Thomas P. Golden, Director
Through the ongoing sponsorship of various state agencies, this state-specific Center continues to hone the development of the New York State benefits and work incentives planning infrastructures through the delivery of ongoing training, technical assistance and materials development and dissemination.
The Working Communities Division of the Rockefeller Foundation funded Cornell to work collaboratively with York University to do a comparative analysis of return to work practices in the U.S. and U.K. and highlight best evidenced-based practices. Download the paper: What Works and Looking Ahead: A Comparative Study of UK and US Policies and Practices Facilitating Return to Work for People with Disabilities
