Identify, Analyze, Utilize Project: Getting PASS Up & Running in FL

Beth Keeton

Keeton Consulting

bkeeton@keetonconsultinggroup.com

Project Goals

Increase PASS utilization among APD customers (active & on waitlist)

Build capacity in PASS development for: APD staff Provider agencies Beneficiaries & family members Other key stakeholders

Increase employment outcomes

Resource Development Goals

Create an electronic toolkit to support: Benefits analysis Reporting & documentation Work incentive analysis & utilization

PASS, SEIE, IRWE, Subsidy, BWE, etc.

Toolkit accessed through APD

PASS Support Process

Identify individuals interested in PASS Run basic PASS analysis Secure BPQY

Contact APD for referral to TA Schedule TA

Must involve APD, individuals, & team members Work directly with individuals to develop and

submit PASS

Assessing for PASS Potential

To qualify for PASS, individuals must: Meet basic SSI program requirements except for

income and resources Age, disability, etc.

Have an additional source of income to contribute to PASS Earned income (from wage or self-employment) Unearned income (e.g., SSDI, VA Benefits, etc.)

In-kind Support & Maintenance- Presumed Max Value Income reduces SSI (or prevents eligibility)

Assess PASS Potential, cont.

For PASS to be viable, individuals must also: Identify a feasible viable goal Achieve the goal in a “reasonable” timeframe Detail expenses necessary to reach this goal Demonstrate that attainment of work goal will

reduce or eliminate dependence on either system supports or the cash benefit

Meet personal financial obligations during PASS Manage reporting & tracking requirements (with

support)

PASS Refresher

PASS allows individuals to: Set aside money for a work goal Have resources over the asset limit Maintain Medicaid eligibility Not have other benefits affected

Individuals contribute funds- (not SSI $)!! SSI benefits can increase to full FBR

Possible PASS Expenditures

Transportation to or from work Tuition, books, etc. (school or training) Attendant care Employment services (job coaching) Supplies to start a business Equipment/tools, safety equipment Uniforms, special clothing

PASS: Earned Income (James)

James is 24 years old and has been receiving SSI for 6 years (eligible for full FBR of $674). For the past two years, James has been working for a company that sells camping supplies over the internet ($1100/month gross wages).

James recently learned about PASS and wants to use it to get his database developer certification (cost approx. $5000). This would ultimately enable him to take a higher paying position with his company.

Based on this information, what are James’ PASS possibilities????

James: PASS Analysis

1. Expenses necessary to reach your work goal?2. Achieving work goal lead to elimination of SSDI or

reduced dependence on SSI?3. Money other than SSI to set aside?4. Live on remaining income after money has been set

aside?5. Meet SSI eligibility?6. Able to track and report PASS income/expenditures

with necessary support?

James without PASS

James with PASS

PASS: Unearned Income

Natalia is 28 years old and has never worked. She has received an SSDI payment of $420 and an SSI check of $274. Natalia has wanted to find a job in the clothing design industry since she graduated from high school, but she has been unable to secure the assistance of either VR or an employment provider to assist her. A local agency is willing to provide employment services, but no funding is available.

Based on the information provided above, what are Natalia’s PASS possibilities?

Natalia: PASS Analysis

1. Expenses necessary to reach your work goal?2. Achieving work goal lead to elimination of SSDI or

reduced dependence on SSI?3. Money other than SSI to set aside?4. Live on remaining income after money has been set

aside?5. Meet SSI eligibility?6. Able to track and report PASS income/expenditures

with necessary support?

Natalia without PASS

Natalia with PASS

Analyzing PASS Potential

SSI only: PASS possible If business projects profits

and/or If beneficiary has countable

income from another job

SSDI only: PASS possible Must meet all SSI eligibility

criteria except that SSDI income is over the limit

Must be able to cover personal expenses with SSI income (and disregarded earned income, if profits projected)

Dual Beneficiary~ Best PASS Potential!!