PASS is an SSI program that creates motivation to work because it allows a person with a disability to set aside money that would otherwise be countable income and/or resources for a specific period of time so that they can reach a work goal.
You can use a PASS if:
You have, or will soon have, money other than SSI to set aside.
You receive SSI or meet all of the requirements for SSI except for income and/or resources (which could be excluded for a PASS).
You have or will have expenses that are needed for getting a vocational evaluation, getting a specific kind of job, or starting a business.
Your goal is to some day reduce your need for SSI or get rid of your need for SSDI (earning over $1000 a month in 2010, $1640 a month if blind).
How it works:
Examples of Expenses:
Exploring careers. Attendant care. Equipment, supplies, operation capital, and inventory you need to start and carry on a trade or business. Equipment and tools. Food and shelter while staying at a temporary residence to go to educational, training, employment, trade, or business activities if there is also a cost to keep your permanent residence. Job coaching. Job search or relocation costs. Meals eaten during work hours (including job-training and school). Changes to buildings, cars, etc., for operational or access purposes for people with disabilities. Transportation – hiring private or commercial carriers, or hiring a person to drive your car. Transportation – lease, rental, or purchase of a vehicle, plus related costs for fuel, insurance, care, registration, taxes, etc. Tuition, books, supplies, and all costs of things related to an educational or job training facility such as fees for tutoring, testing, counseling, etc. Uniforms, special clothing, and appropriate clothes you need for job interviews or to begin working in an office or professional setting. Resources
Contact information for assistance:
Work Incentives Planning and Assistance Program Black Hills Special Services 221 S Central Ave Pierre, SD 57501 Phone: (605) 224-6287 or (800) 224-5336 Fax: (605) 224-8320 Web: www.bhssc.org/conent/services/wipa.htm Social Security Online http://www.socialsecurity.gov/disabilityresearch/wi/pass.htm http://www.ssa.gov/ssi/spotlights/spot-plans-self-support.htm
A publication of the Freedom To Work Project, affiliated with the Black Hills Special Services Cooperative and South Dakota Coalition of Citizens with Disabilities. Freedom To Work is a program of the State of South Dakota through the Department of Human Services, Division of Rehabilitation Services. Funding is provided through the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Grant # P-91485/8