How do I get WIPA / Benefits Planning Services through Benefits Consulting Services?
We are a Vocational Rehabilitation Vendor, and the vast majority of your services are provided to VR Customers. To get Benefits Planning Services - simply ask your Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor for WIPA / Benefits Planning services, and request Benefits Consulting Services as your WIPA Provider. We are an approved Vendor with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) and may provide services to Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) participants.”
What sets Benefits Consulting Services apart?
Benefits Consulting Services is a small startup with a strong community focus. As a disability-owned business, we bring lived experience into everything we do. Our co-founder is a former VR customer himself, giving him a unique understanding of the Vocational Rehabilitation system from both the client and provider perspective.
We are proudly based in Florida and are committed to serving our fellow Florida residents with personalized, knowledgeable, and compassionate support.
How long does the process take?
Our typical turnaround time from intake meeting to completed report is typically 1 to 3 weeks. Our times are based on your responsiveness, and the speed from which we get paperwork back from Social Security.
What does Benefits Consulting Services do with my information?
Benefits Consulting Services is a small, disability-owned community organization committed to protecting your privacy. We treat all personal information with the highest level of security, confidentiality, and HIPAA compliance standards. Your information is only used for the purpose of providing your services and supporting your case within your Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) service network. We do not share, sell, or disclose your information to any outside individuals, organizations, or third parties.
Does Benefits Consulting Services report my income or employment to Social Security?
NO — Benefits Consulting Services does not report your changes to income, employment status, or any personal changes to the Social Security Administration. Reporting changes to the Social Security Administration is your responsibility. Our only routine contact with Social Security is to request a Benefits Planning Query (BPQY) to verify your benefits. In limited cases, we may also communicate with Social Security if you explicitly authorize us to assist you in resolving an SSA-related issue.
What are the two most common type of Social Security Benefits you provide Planning for?
Typically we see customers who either receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or both. We also provide Benefits Planning for other types of benefits as well. Benefits Planning is incredibly important for any person receiving public benefits, so they can plan ahead and know how working will impact their benefits.
Can I work and still receive SSDI and Medicare?
YES — there are excellent work incentives available whether your goal is to maintain your benefits while working or work toward greater financial independence and self-sufficiency. Many individuals can continue receiving their SSDI benefits while working, depending on their earnings and employment situation. In addition, Medicare coverage can continue for an extended period — even if your SSDI cash benefits eventually stop due to work activity — allowing you to pursue employment with greater confidence and security.
Can I work and still receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits?
YES — in many cases, you can. Your SSI benefits may gradually decrease as your earnings increase, depending on how much you make. However, Social Security does not reduce your SSI payment dollar-for-dollar based on your wages. In fact, less than half of your gross earned income is typically counted when calculating your SSI benefit amount.
Can I work and still keep my Medicaid coverage?
YES — in many cases, you can. How employment affects your Medicaid depends on the type of coverage you receive. Many individuals who receive SSI can continue Medicaid while working, even if their SSI payment is reduced or stops due to earnings. Special work incentives, such as 1619(b), may allow you to keep Medicaid coverage while employed if you meet certain requirements.