Hundreds of SSI Recipients May Qualify for This U.S. Government Program

The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers a valuable initiative known as the PASS program, short for Plan to Achieve Self-Support. This program is designed to help Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients, including those with disabilities, achieve their career goals and become self-sufficient. Whether you’re aiming to go back to work or pursue a new career path, PASS can be a game-changer.

Eligibility

If you’re on SSI and have a disability, the PASS program can help you return to work by allowing you to set aside income and resources to pay for items or services needed to reach your employment goals. Even individuals as young as 15 can benefit from PASS, enabling them to focus on long-term career aspirations without the immediate worry of financial constraints.

Approval Process

To participate in PASS, you must first get approval from Social Security. This involves creating a detailed plan outlining your career goals and the expenses required to achieve them. The main objective of PASS is to assist individuals with disabilities in finding employment, reducing their reliance on SSI or SSDI benefits, which often fall short of covering all living expenses.

Setting Up PASS

The first step in setting up a PASS is identifying your employment goal and the training needed to achieve it. This could include anything from paying for school expenses and uniforms to purchasing tools, equipment, or even supplies to start a business. Here’s how to get started:

1. Define Your Goals: Clearly outline your career or employment goal. Determine what kind of job you want and the steps required to get there.
2. Identify Needs: List the services, items, or support you’ll need to meet your goals. This could include educational expenses, business supplies, transportation, or vocational training.
3. Get Help: Seek assistance from a Vocational Rehabilitation counselor or other organizations that specialize in helping individuals with disabilities. They can provide guidance and support in creating your PASS plan.

Available Support

The PASS program isn’t just about setting aside money; it’s about comprehensive support. Here are some resources available to you:

• Benefits Specialists: These professionals can help you understand the benefits and ensure your plan meets all necessary criteria.
• Advocacy Organizations: These groups can provide additional support and resources.
• Employment Networks and Ticket to Work Program: These initiatives offer further assistance in finding employment and achieving self-sufficiency.
• Social Security Offices: Local offices can provide guidance and help you with the application process.

Application Process

To apply for PASS, you’ll need to fill out Form SSA-545, which you can find on the SSA website. Once completed, submit the form to your local SSA office. Here are the steps in detail:

1. Download the Form: Get Form SSA-545 from the SSA website here.
2. Complete the Form: Provide detailed information about your employment goals, the resources needed, and how you plan to use them.
3. Submit the Form: Take the completed form to your nearest SSA office.

Making PASS Work for You

The PASS program is a powerful tool for SSI recipients to achieve financial independence and pursue their career dreams. By setting aside funds and receiving necessary support, individuals can focus on their goals without the immediate financial burden. Remember, the key to a successful PASS application is a well-defined plan and utilizing available resources to support your journey.

So, if you or someone you know could benefit from PASS, don’t hesitate to reach out to the SSA and start the application process today. It could be the first step towards a brighter, more independent future.

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