PASS Plan — Plan to Achieve Self-Support
A PASS Plan lets SSI recipients set aside income or resources to reach a work goal, like school or starting a business, without losing their SSI.
Official source: ssa.gov
A PASS Plan is a special program. It helps people who get Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSI helps people who are older, blind, or have disabilities and have little money.
With a PASS Plan, you can save money for a work goal. This could be going to school, getting job training, or starting your own small business. The money you save will not count against your SSI benefits. This means your SSI payments will not go down while you save. The goal is to help you earn more money and become more independent.
This plan is important because it lets you invest in yourself. You can get the education or training you need. This helps you get a good job. You can reach your work goal without losing the financial help you need each month. It is a way to move forward and improve your life.
If you want to learn more, you can contact your local Social Security office. They can tell you if a PASS Plan is right for you. They can also help you apply.
In real life
- An SSI recipient saved tuition money in a PASS Plan to train as a medical coder.
- Maria uses a PASS Plan to save money for tools and supplies to start her own dog grooming service.
- David set up a PASS Plan to pay for classes to become a certified electrician and get a good job.
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Frequently asked questions about PASS Plan
What is PASS Plan?+
A PASS Plan lets SSI recipients set aside income or resources to reach a work goal, like school or starting a business, without losing their SSI.
Who qualifies for PASS Plan?+
People with limited income and resources who are 65+, blind, or have a qualifying disability. SSI does not require a work history.
How do I apply for PASS Plan?+
Apply online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at your local Social Security office. There's no cost to apply. Official forms and instructions: https://www.ssa.gov/disabilityresearch/wi/pass.htm.
Where can I get help?+
Use BenefitKarma's free Benefit Eligibility Screener to see if you qualify for SSI, then start your application at ssa.gov or your local Social Security office. There's no cost to apply.
Source: ssa.gov