The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers a valuable program known as the Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS). This program is designed to help Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients with disabilities to achieve their employment goals.
Here’s an in-depth look at how the PASS program works, who qualifies, and how to set it up.
Understanding the PASS Program
What is PASS?
The PASS program allows SSI recipients to set aside income and resources for a specific period. This money can be used to pay for items or services needed to achieve a work goal, such as starting a business or gaining new skills for employment.
The ultimate aim is to help individuals with disabilities become financially self-sufficient, reducing their reliance on SSI or SSDI benefits.
Who Can Benefit?
The PASS program is available to SSI recipients who have a disability and a defined work goal. It is not limited by age, meaning even those as young as 15 who receive SSI can participate.
This flexibility makes PASS a versatile tool for anyone looking to enhance their career prospects and work towards self-support.
Eligibility and Approval
Approval Process
To take part in the PASS program, participants must get their plan approved by the SSA. The plan should outline the employment goal, the items or services needed to achieve it, and a timeline for reaching the goal.
Approval ensures that the set-aside income and resources won’t affect the recipient’s SSI benefits.
Goals and Resources
The primary objective of PASS is to help participants find gainful employment. This can include:
- Training: Courses or programs needed to gain employment skills.
- Business Supplies: Items necessary to start or run a business.
- School Expenses: Tuition, books, and other educational costs.
- Uniforms and Tools: Work-related clothing or equipment.
- Transportation: Costs associated with getting to and from work or school.
Setting Up a PASS
Planning Your PASS
The first step in setting up a PASS is defining your employment goal. This could be obtaining a specific job, starting a business, or completing educational training. Once the goal is clear, identify the resources and services needed to achieve it. These can include supplies, training programs, or equipment.
Assistance and Support
Several resources are available to help you set up your PASS:
- Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors: These professionals can assist in developing your plan.
- Benefits Specialists and Advocacy Organizations: They provide guidance and support to ensure your plan meets SSA requirements.
- Employment Networks and Ticket to Work Program: These networks can offer additional support and resources to help you achieve your employment goals.
Submitting Your PASS
To apply for the PASS program, you need to fill out the SSA-545 form, which is available on the SSA website at SSA-545 Form. Once completed, submit the form to your nearest SSA office for approval.
Conclusion
The PASS program is an excellent opportunity for SSI recipients with disabilities to work towards financial independence.
By setting aside money and resources to achieve specific work goals, participants can reduce their reliance on government benefits and pursue fulfilling careers.
If you or someone you know could benefit from the PASS program, consider exploring this option further. With the right planning and support, achieving self-sufficiency is within reach.
FAQs
What is the PASS program?
The PASS program helps SSI recipients set aside income and resources to achieve work goals.
Who is eligible for PASS?
SSI recipients with disabilities who have a defined work goal are eligible.
How do I apply for the PASS program?
Fill out the SSA-545 form and submit it to your nearest SSA office.
What can PASS funds be used for?
Funds can be used for training, business supplies, school expenses, uniforms, tools, and transportation.
Where can I get help setting up a PASS?
Vocational Rehabilitation counselors, Benefits Specialists, Advocacy organizations, and Employment Networks can assist.
