Legal Definitions - Plan for Achieving Self-Support (PASS)

The Plan for Achieving Self-Support (PASS) is a specialized program offered by the Social Security Administration (SSA) designed to help individuals who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) become financially independent through employment.

Under the PASS program, an SSI recipient develops a detailed plan outlining a specific work goal and how certain resources, such as money or property, will be used to achieve that goal. The crucial benefit of an approved PASS plan is that these designated resources are temporarily excluded from the calculation of a person's assets. This means the individual can save or use these resources for their work-related expenses without jeopardizing their eligibility for SSI benefits or reducing the amount they receive. The program aims to remove financial barriers, enabling recipients to invest in their future employment and eventually reduce or eliminate their reliance on SSI.

• Example 1: Pursuing Vocational Training

  Maria receives SSI and dreams of becoming a certified medical billing specialist. She identifies a reputable online vocational program that requires tuition fees, textbooks, and a certification exam fee, totaling $3,000. If Maria were to save this money in her bank account, it would likely exceed SSI's strict asset limits, potentially causing her to lose her benefits. Through a PASS plan, Maria can outline how these $3,000 will be used specifically for her training. Once approved by the SSA, this money is set aside and not counted as an asset, allowing her to pay for her education without losing her SSI, ultimately enabling her to gain the skills needed for a new career.

• Example 2: Starting a Small Business

  David, an SSI recipient, has a talent for woodworking and wants to start a small business selling custom-made items from his home. To do this, he needs to purchase specialized tools, some raw materials, and obtain a business license, which will cost approximately $2,500. Without a PASS plan, saving this amount would put him over the SSI asset limit. By submitting a PASS plan, David can demonstrate to the SSA how these funds are essential for establishing his business. If approved, these funds are protected, allowing him to acquire the necessary equipment and licenses to launch his venture, with the ultimate goal of generating enough income to support himself.

• Example 3: Acquiring Adaptive Technology for Employment

  Sarah, who receives SSI due to a visual impairment, secures a job offer as a remote customer service representative. However, to perform the job effectively, she needs specialized screen-reading software and a large-print keyboard, costing around $1,500. These items are crucial for her to access the computer system and communicate with customers. If Sarah tried to save this money, it could affect her SSI eligibility. Through a PASS plan, she can show that these specific adaptive technologies are direct requirements for her new job. The SSA's approval means these funds are not counted as assets, allowing Sarah to purchase the necessary equipment and successfully begin her employment, moving towards greater financial independence.