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

1. Identify, Analyze, Utilize Project: Getting PASS Up & Running in FL Beth Keeton Keeton Consulting bkeeton@keetonconsultinggroup.com

2. 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

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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)

6. 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)

7. 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

8. 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

9. 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????

10. James: PASS Analysis • Expenses necessary to reach your work goal? • Achieving work goal lead to elimination of SSDI or reduced dependence on SSI? • Money other than SSI to set aside? • Live on remaining income after money has been set aside? • Meet SSI eligibility? • Able to track and report PASS income/expenditures with necessary support?

11. James without PASS

12. James with PASS

13. 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?

14. Natalia: PASS Analysis • Expenses necessary to reach your work goal? • Achieving work goal lead to elimination of SSDI or reduced dependence on SSI? • Money other than SSI to set aside? • Live on remaining income after money has been set aside? • Meet SSI eligibility? • Able to track and report PASS income/expenditures with necessary support?

15. Natalia without PASS

16. Natalia with PASS

17. 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) Analyzing PASS Potential Dual Beneficiary~ Best PASS Potential!!