Plan for Achieving Self Support

Plan for Achieving Self Support (PASS) is a program created by the Social Security Administration to help claimants who have the goal of returning to work. Under the PASS program the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) applicant can set aside money and other resources to help pay for items and services they will need to reach their work goals.

If you are interested in the PASS program you first need to determine what training, items or services you will need to reach your work goal. Common items that you might need include school expenses, equipment and tools, transportation and uniform requests. Calculate the total costs for these products and services. Fill out the application for PASS. If your application is approved the money you save will not be counted towards your total income or asset limit and will not interfere with the your eligibility to receive SSI benefits. All PASS applications which are denied can be appealed. All denial and acceptance notifications will be sent to you by mail. If your PASS application is not approved, you have the right to appeal the decision. If your PASS application is approved all PASS money must be kept separate from other funds.