While it may be best known for retirement, Social Security is also here to help those who are disabled.

For millions of people, work isn’t just a source of income, it’s a vital part of who they are — it gives them purpose and pride — it’s a connection to community. If you’re getting disability benefits, Social Security’s work incentives and Ticket to Work programs can help you if you’re interested in working. Special rules make it possible for people receiving Social Security disability benefits or Supplemental Security Income to work and still receive monthly payments.

Under the Ticket to Work program, you can receive:

>> Free vocational rehabilitation

>> Training

>> Job referrals

>> Other employment support

You can read more about working while collecting disability benefits atsocialsecurity.gov/work.

Work incentives include:

>> Continued cash benefits for a time while you work

>> Continued Medicare or Medicaid while you work

>> Help with education, training and rehabilitation to start a new line of work

If you’re receiving Social Security disability benefits or Supplemental Security Income, let the Social Security office know when you start or stop working, or if any other change occurs that could affect your benefits.

If you returned to work, but you can’t continue working because of your medical condition, your benefits can start again — you may not have to file a new application.

You can read more about the Ticket to Work program in the publication titled “Working While Disabled: How We Can Help” at 808ne.ws/2OeDuS2.

Nicole Tiggemann is a spokeswoman for the Social Security Administration.