How the PASS Program Helps You Save Money Without Losing SSI Benefits

A Step-by-Step Guide for People with Disabilities

If you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and want to save money or increase your income without risking your benefits, the PASS program could be your solution.

The Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS) is a Social Security program that allows people with disabilities to set aside income or assets to pursue a work-related goal—without that money affecting their SSI eligibility.

In this guide, you'll learn:

• What the PASS program is and how it works
• Who qualifies
• Benefits and drawbacks
• Common reasons for denial
• Key takeaways to help decide if it’s right for you

What Is the PASS Program?

The PASS (Plan to Achieve Self-Support) program is a work incentive through Social Security that helps individuals with disabilities become financially independent. It allows you to use your own income or assets to pay for expenses related to a specific work goal—without that money counting against your SSI.

Examples of goals the PASS program can support:

• Paying for education or job training
• Starting a small or home-based business
• Buying tools, equipment, or assistive technology
• Covering transportation or childcare needed for work

This allows you to “shelter” funds that would normally reduce or eliminate your SSI eligibility—as long as they are used for your approved PASS plan.

Who Qualifies for the PASS Program?

You may qualify for PASS if you meet all the following requirements:

• You are disabled or blind under Social Security rules
• You currently receive (or are eligible for) SSI
• You have income or assets that would otherwise make you ineligible for SSI
• You have a specific and achievable work goal
• You’re under age 65 (exceptions may apply)
• You can create a detailed written plan and commit to tracking your progress

Note: If you only receive SSDI (not SSI), you’ll need to qualify for SSI to use the PASS program.

Pros and Cons of the PASS Program

✅ Benefits

• Protects your SSI while you work toward long-term goals
• Encourages financial independence
• Can cover a broad range of work-related expenses
• Allows savings beyond standard SSI income and asset limits

❌ Potential Drawbacks

• The application process is paperwork-heavy and detailed
• Your goal must be very specific and pre-approved
• All funds must be used exactly as outlined in the plan
• Requires ongoing documentation and reporting to the SSA

Common Reasons PASS Plans Are Denied

Even if you meet the general qualifications, your PASS application could be denied if:

• Your goal is too vague (e.g., “make money online” without a plan)
• You fail to provide itemized cost estimates or a clear timeline
• Funds are proposed for non-work-related expenses
• You don’t currently qualify for SSI
• You do not follow the approved plan after approval

Tip: You don’t have to go through this process alone—consider working with a vocational rehabilitation counselor or a disability benefits planner.

Key Takeaways

• The PASS program helps SSI recipients save or earn money for a specific work goal without losing their benefits
• Ideal for those pursuing employment, education, or self-employment
• Requires a clearly written, detailed plan approved by Social Security
• Though underused, PASS can be a powerful tool for financial growth

How to Apply for the PASS Program

Ready to explore PASS? Start here:

• SSA PASS Program – Official Page
• Contact your local Vocational Rehabilitation office for help writing your plan
• Speak with a disability benefits planner or advocate in your area

You deserve a financial future that works with your benefits—not against them. The PASS program could be your first step.

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