Social Security PASS for SSI Recipients

NC DIVISION OF SERVICES FOR THE BLIND POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION

PLAN FOR ACHIEVING SELF SUPPORT (PASS) FOR RECIPIENTS OF SUPPLEMENTAL SECURITY INCOME (SSI - TITLE XVI)

A Plan for Achieving Self Support, or PASS, is designed for recipients of Supplemental Security Income (SSI-Title XVI) and allows an individual to set aside income and/or resources for a specified time for a work goal. Social Security Administration (SSA) does not count income that is set aside under an approved plan when it decides how much SSI a person receives. This means that a person who sets aside income under a plan may receive a higher SSI benefit than if he or she did not have a plan. A PASS will not increase SSI benefits if the individual already receives the full SSI benefit amount. This also may mean that a person who would not otherwise be eligible for SSI benefits can set aside income and resources under an approved plan to become eligible for SSI benefits. A plan must:

• Be in writing and approved by SSA
• Have a specific work goal which the person can probably reach
• Say how long it will take for the person to reach the goal
• Indicate what income or resources will be set aside and how they will be spent
• Explain how the recipient will keep the income or resources set aside from other money he/she might have, and
• Describe any goods and services needed to reach the goal and explain why they are needed.

For more information on the requirements for a PASS, see Working While Disabled: A Guide to Plans for Achieving Self Support

As referenced, each PASS form is for a specific individual and must be in writing (use form SSA-545-BK, revised 11/05, OMB No. 0960-0559).

As referenced, the PASS must be submitted and approved by the Social Security Office. To locate the appropriate SSA office: sorted by zip code or call 1-(800) 772-1213.

Additional information and assistance can be located by calling toll-free 1-800-772-1213 (for the deaf or hard of hearing, call our TTY number, 1-800-325-0778). SSA can answer specific questions and provide information by automated phone service 24 hours a day.