If you write a PASS and it is approved by SSA, it is an agreement between you and SSA. They expect that you will make a reasonable attempt to achieve your work goal as written in your plan. In the event that you are unable to complete the PASS, you must notify SSA
immediately that the PASS has stopped. There is no penalty for not completing a PASS if you have demonstrated a reasonable attempt to accomplish the work goal; however, the funds remaining in the PASS become a resource. A PASS can be amended or revised at
any time to enable you to continue to pursue the work goal. These revisions must be sent to SSA for approval.

The PASS is a unique work incentive and is significantly underutilized. A PASS can provide you with the opportunity to self-direct the vocational rehabilitation process by assisting you in planning and competing in the job market. It is a means to acquire the services and items needed for starting work. It also enables you to receive higher SSI payments and makes it financially feasible for you to set aside or save income and/or resources as you work toward self-sufficiency. We strongly encourage you to consider taking advantage of this work incentive. We feel that this is a great tool that will assist in increasing your income-producing capabilities and reduce your reliance on government benefit support.

Tips Box: People who are potentially eligible for SSI are eligible for the PASS work incentive. For example, if you have too much income or resources (deemed income, SSDI, and/or SSDAC) to be eligible for SSI now, using the income or the resources to pay PASS expenses may make you eligible for SSI and a PASS.