Frequent Pitfalls

Many people on Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) who are thinking about working don’t realize that setting up a PASS can make their transition into the workplace much easier.

Using a PASS may give you access to more income and assets, and make it easier to pay for expenses related to a return to work.

After you submit your PASS application, it takes one to three weeks for Social Security to figure out if you qualify.

If your PASS application is incomplete, it will take longer and your application may be denied. Be sure you supply all the information that is requested in your application.

Do not start making purchases related to your PASS before your PASS has been approved.

PASS is not an entitlement and there is no guarantee that your PASS will be approved or that purchases you made will be covered retroactively.

You must provide receipts for all the expenses you intend to pay for using funds in your PASS. PASS funds cannot be deposited into an account that is used for personal expenses; funds intended for your PASS must be deposited into a separate account.

If you don’t use your PASS funds as approved, or if you don’t keep your PASS funds separate from your personal expense funds, you could:

• Receive a SSI overpayment
• Have your PASS suspended or terminated
• Jeopardize your future participation in a PASS

Remember that you are responsible for the record keeping and management of your PASS.

• Keep thorough and accurate records.
• Keep all receipts and bank statements.
• Keep track of the milestones in your PASS plan and meet them on time.
• Keep all notices and letters you receive from your PASS Cadre.
• Keep copies of everything you send to your PASS Cadre.
• Keep a record of all contacts with your PASS Cadre (for example, telephone conversations and emails).
• Keep a file or binder that contains all the information related to your PASS.
  

If you don’t respond to requests or notices you receive from your PASS Cadre, your PASS plan may be suspended or terminated.

If you want to make any changes to your PASS plan, discuss it with your PASS Cadre first.

Never pay for anything with PASS funds that is not on your list of approved PASS expenses. If you want to change or add to your list of approved expenses, call the PASS Cadre and ask for approval first.

Request all changes to your PASS in writing. If the changes are approved, your PASS Cadre will amend your plan and send you confirmation in writing. Some changes may be conditional and you may have to complete certain steps before the change is allowed.

Do not assume that if you report a change in income, resources, or living arrangement to your PASS Cadre that your local Social Security office will get that information.

Report such changes to both your PASS Cadre and your local Social Security office (ph: 1-800-772-1213; TTY: 1-800-325-0778).