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BEM 174 1 of 4 FREEDOM TO WORK (FTW) BPB 2026-016 7-1-2026

BRIDGES ELIGIBILITY MANUAL STATE OF MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES

DEPARTMENT POLICY MA Only This is an SSI-related Group 1 MA category. FTW is available to an individual with disabilities aged 16 through 64 who has earned income. Eligibility begins the first day of the calendar month in which all eligibility criteria are met. All eligibility factors must be met in the calendar month being tested. Note: SSI recipients whose SSI eligibility has ended due to financial factors are among those who should be considered for this program. NON-FINANCIAL ELIGIBILITY FACTORS 1. The individual must be disabled according to the disability standards of the Social Security Administration, except employment, earnings, and substantial gainful activity (SGA) cannot be considered in the disability determination. Note: FTW applicants who do not already have a disability established with Social Security Administration require a disability determination from Disability Determination Service (DDS). The medical packet must clearly indicate the individual is applying for FTW by checking the other Program box and writing “Freedom to Work” or “FTW” on the cover sheet. 2. The individual must be employed. FTW coverage is retained when a participant is relocated due to employment. Note: An individual may have temporary breaks in employment up to 24 months if the break is the result of an involuntary layoff, or is determined to be medically necessary, and retain FTW eligibility. Use individual statements to verify. Note: Employment includes self-employment. There is no set number of minimum hours of employment required. 3. The MA eligibility factors in the following items must be met: • BEM 220, Residence.