Request for Applications (RFA) for Ticket to Work (TTW) Program

The Oregon Department of Human Services, Office of Vocational Rehabilitation Services, is requesting applications for participation in the Social Security Administration's Ticket to Work and Self-Sufficiency Program (TTW) under 20 CFR Part 411, with applications due December 31, 2035. Selected organizations will serve as Employment Networks (ENs) and/or Work Incentives Planning and Assistance (WIPA) providers delivering employment services, vocational rehabilitation, benefits counseling, and work incentive planning to SSA beneficiaries aged 18–65 receiving SSDI and/or SSI across designated Oregon service areas.

Applicants must demonstrate organizational capacity to provide comprehensive employment services, maintain adequate staffing qualifications, and achieve documented work-activity and earnings outcomes. Required qualifications include commercial general liability insurance of at least $1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 annual aggregate; workers' compensation coverage; compliance with federal civil rights laws, 2 CFR Part 200 audit requirements, debarment and suspension regulations, and SSA confidentiality provisions for Federal Tax Information; background check compliance; and nondiscrimination provisions covering race, religion, national origin, sex, age, and disability. Organizations must also certify tax law compliance, absence of OFAC sanctions or SAM exclusions, wage equity compliance under ORS 652.220, and sexual harassment and discrimination prevention policies (for anticipated contracts of $150,000 or more).

Compensation follows a milestone and outcome payment model with the State of Oregon retaining 50% of Phase 1 payments and the selected provider receiving 50%, while Phase 2 and Outcome payments are split 20% to the state and 80% to the provider. Payments are made within 45 calendar days of SSA payment receipt. Contracts extend through a specified period with potential renewal up to five years total, contingent on performance metrics and continued federal funding. The funding source is Assistance Listing 84.126 (Social Security Administration). Travel and additional expenses are not reimbursed. Applications constitute firm offers valid for 180 days following the closing date.