Work Incentive Specialist Advocacy (WISA)

Plainspoken benefits counseling for people who want to work and need to understand how it will affect their income and supports.

Work Incentive Specialist Advocacy (WISA) at Branches of Life helps people make informed decisions about work without guessing what will happen to their benefits. We sit down with you, look at your current benefits and work goals, and create a clear report that explains how much you can earn, what will change, and what will stay the same. The goal is to replace fear and confusion with a concrete plan.

Our WISA services are part of a larger employment support approach and are often used at the point when someone is ready to explore a new job, more hours, or a promotion.

What’s included in WISA service

• A review of your current benefits and income
• A written report that explains how work and earnings will affect those benefits
• Plainspoken explanations of Social Security work incentives and rules
• Specific scenarios (for example, “If I work X hours at $Y/hour, what happens?”)
• Guidance on what to report, when, and to whom
• A virtual meeting to walk through the report and answer your questions
• A copy of the report you can take with you and share with others

Who this service is for

This service is designed for people who:

• Are considering work, more hours, or a new job and want to know how it will affect their benefits
• Receive SSI, SSDI, or other disability-related benefits
• Use or may use Medicaid waivers
• Want to plan for greater financial stability without losing essential supports

WISA is especially helpful for:

• Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals who want accessible, direct communication
• People working with DARS on employment goals
• Families and supporters who want to understand how work and benefits fit together

How it works

Referral and information gathering: Most WISA referrals come from DARS counselors. We gather information about your benefits, work history, and goals so we can run accurate scenarios.

Benefits analysis and report: We review your situation and prepare a written report that outlines how different work options are likely to affect your benefits over time

Virtual meeting to review your options: We meet with you virtually to walk through the report in plain language, answer your questions, and make sure you understand the options.

You keep the report: You receive a copy of the report to keep and share. You can take it with you to appointments with DARS, your family, or other providers as you move forward with your employment plan.

This is typically a one-time service connected to a specific work decision, but it can be repeated later if your situation changes and a new review is needed.

Our approach

• Plainspoken: We avoid jargon and explain things in everyday language.
• Accessible: We pay attention to communication needs, especially for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals.
• Person-centered: We focus on your goals and what you want from work, not just the rules.
• Collaborative: We coordinate with DARS counselors and other supports when needed so everyone is on the same page.

Referral and funding

Most WISA services at Branches of Life are funded and referred through the Virginia Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS).

If you are already working with a DARS counselor, you can ask them about a WISA referral to Branches of Life. We will work with your counselor to set up the service and schedule the virtual meeting.

If you are not sure whether you qualify or how to get connected, you can contact us and we’ll help you understand your options.

Frequently asked questions

Do you change my benefits for me?

No. We do not make decisions about your benefits. We explain how the rules work in your situation so you can make informed choices and communicate clearly with Social Security, DARS, and other agencies.

Is this only for people who are already working?

No. WISA is useful whether you are working now or just thinking about work. It is especially helpful when you are considering a change, like starting a job, increasing hours, or accepting a promotion.

Can my family or support person join the meeting?

Yes. We encourage people to include family, interpreters, or other support people if that helps them understand and remember the information.

What if my situation changes later?

If your work or benefits change, you may need a new review. Talk with your DARS counselor or contact us to see if another WISA appointment is appropriate.

Ready to talk about WISA?

If you’re working with DARS, ask your counselor about a WISA referral to Branches of Life. If you’re not yet connected but want to understand your options, you can contact us and we’ll help you figure out next steps.