Website: Plan for Achieving Self-Support (PASS): Social Security Administration
A Plan for Achieving Self-Support (PASS) is a Social Security work incentive designed to help individuals with disabilities pursue employment goals while maintaining eligibility for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Through a PASS, an individual may set aside income and/or resources to pay for items or services needed to reach a specific vocational goal.
Funds set aside under an approved PASS are not counted by SSA when determining SSI eligibility and payment amounts. PASS plans may be used to support employment, education, vocational training, self-employment, transportation needs, and assistive technology related to achieving a work goal.
Assistive technology included in a PASS must directly support the individual’s approved vocational objective. Examples may include computers with accessibility software, mobility devices, vehicle modifications, communication devices, or other equipment necessary for employment or job preparation.
Eligibility Requirements and Application Process
To qualify for a PASS, an individual must:
- Be blind or have a disability recognized by SSA;
- Meet SSI disability criteria;
- Have earned income, unearned income, and/or resources that can be set aside under the plan;
- Have a clearly identified vocational goal that is expected to increase self-support and reduce dependence on benefits.
Individuals who are not currently eligible for SSI due to excess income or resources may become eligible through an approved PASS.
Individuals play a central role in developing their PASS plan. Plans may be written independently or with assistance from parents, educators, vocational rehabilitation counselors, job coaches, social workers, employers, or other professionals.
SSA PASS Cadre specialists are available to review and assist with PASS development. Work Incentives Planning and Assistance (WIPA) programs may also help individuals understand how PASS interacts with SSI and employment benefits.
Additional information and application guidance are available through SSA by phone or through the SSA PASS website.
AT Services Provided/Covered
PASS does not directly provide assistive technology services. However, approved PASS funds may be used for:
- Assistive technology purchases;
- Training or education expenses;
- Transportation;
- Equipment and supplies related to employment goals;
- Other disability-related work expenses approved by SSA.
Assistive Technology Provided/Covered
A wide range of assistive technology may be included in a PASS plan when it is necessary to support the individual’s vocational goal.
Assistive Technology Resource Guide link: Plan for Achieving Self-Support (PASS): Social Security Administration
Categories: Public funding sources