See details for your state

Social Security Administration

Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS)

BenefitDisability SupportRecurringRolling

What it may cover

Varies

Enrollment

Open enrollment

Where available

Check locally

What you get

PASS allows SSI recipients to set aside income or resources for a defined period to pursue a specific work goal — such as education, vocational training, or starting a business — without those funds reducing SSI benefits or counting toward the resource limit. An approved PASS plan documents the work goal, the steps and timeline to achieve it, and the expenses to be set aside. A free PASS specialist at SSA reviews and approves plans collaboratively with the applicant.

Support for disability-related income, healthcare, services, equipment, or independent living needs.

Bring medical, school, or agency records that explain the disability and the support needed.

Do you qualify?

Check what applies to you. Your answers are saved on this device so you can come back later.

0/4 confirmed

Are you receiving SSI or be eligible for SSI if not for the income or resources being set aside?
Do you have a feasible occupational goal that requires setting aside money or resources?
Are you able to achieve the work goal within a reasonable timeframe?
Do you have income or resources above the SSI limits that can be set aside under the plan?

What to bring

If you do not have one of these, apply anyway and ask what substitutes are accepted.

1SSI award letter or documentation of SSI eligibility
2SSA Form 545-BK (PASS Application)
3Documentation supporting the work goal (school acceptance letter, business plan, training enrollment, etc.)
4Itemized list of anticipated plan expenses

How to apply

Processing time varies by location and program funding.

1Find the right local officeUse your ZIP code to confirm the local benefits office that handles Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS).
2Apply online, by phone, or in personUse the official application path and keep a copy of anything you submit.
3Complete the interview or verificationMany benefits require a short call, appointment, or document check.
4Watch for a decisionKeep mail, email, and phone open so you do not miss follow-up requests.

Find local help

Your ZIP helps you confirm the right local office and state-specific rules.

You may also qualify for

Other programs in the same category that often go hand-in-hand.

U.S. Department of the Treasury / State ABLE Programs

ABLE Accounts

Administration for Community Living, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

Assistive Technology Act Programs

Administration for Community Living, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

Independent Living Centers

See details for your state

Social Security Administration

Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS)

BenefitDisability SupportRecurringRolling

What it may cover

Varies

Enrollment

Open enrollment

Where available

Check locally

What you get

Support for disability-related income, healthcare, services, equipment, or independent living needs.

Bring medical, school, or agency records that explain the disability and the support needed.

Do you qualify?

Check what applies to you. Your answers are saved on this device so you can come back later.

0/4 confirmed

Are you receiving SSI or be eligible for SSI if not for the income or resources being set aside?
Do you have a feasible occupational goal that requires setting aside money or resources?
Are you able to achieve the work goal within a reasonable timeframe?
Do you have income or resources above the SSI limits that can be set aside under the plan?

What to bring

If you do not have one of these, apply anyway and ask what substitutes are accepted.

1SSI award letter or documentation of SSI eligibility
2SSA Form 545-BK (PASS Application)
3Documentation supporting the work goal (school acceptance letter, business plan, training enrollment, etc.)
4Itemized list of anticipated plan expenses

How to apply

Processing time varies by location and program funding.

1Find the right local officeUse your ZIP code to confirm the local benefits office that handles Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS).
2Apply online, by phone, or in personUse the official application path and keep a copy of anything you submit.
3Complete the interview or verificationMany benefits require a short call, appointment, or document check.
4Watch for a decisionKeep mail, email, and phone open so you do not miss follow-up requests.

Find local help

Your ZIP helps you confirm the right local office and state-specific rules.

You may also qualify for

Other programs in the same category that often go hand-in-hand.

U.S. Department of the Treasury / State ABLE Programs

ABLE Accounts

Administration for Community Living, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

Assistive Technology Act Programs

Administration for Community Living, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

Independent Living Centers