An individual can submit a PASS plan for a self-employment goal to help cover start-up
expenses only. An individual’s PASS plan should not extend beyond the start-up period.
Once the start-up period has ended, the individual has purchased the items included
in their plan, and the individual has met the initial milestones, the plan must be
bringing in sufficient profit to support on-going business expenses.
The PASS Cadre will consider the following when making a decision on a PASS for self-employment:
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Does the individual have their Ticket assigned to an Employment Network (EN) or are
they working with Vocational Rehabilitation Services (obtain the Individual Employment
Plan, IEP, if so).
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What additional capital does the individual have besides PASS funds? Do they have
investors, a small business loan, or VR financial support?
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Does the individual have outstanding debt that would prohibit further investments
in the business, or encumber the ability to cover living expenses?
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What additional supports does the individual have in place for their business? Do
they have a partner or family support?
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Are all start-up expenses listed in the plan and will PASS funds be able to cover
everything?
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Does the individual require specialized training or additional education? Is this
training included in the steps (Part C) of the plan?
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Has the individual had a prior PASS? If so, did they follow through with milestones
and accounting provisions?
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Does the individual have profit and loss statement? Does it show that the business
will make a net profit after the start-up period? Is the profit enough to replace
their Title II benefits or significantly decrease their dependence on SSI per SI 00870.006A.5.
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Does the individual have a representative payee? Does the payee understand the requirements
of the plan? For reporting responsibilities refer to SI 00870.023C.10.a.
If the PASS Specialist cannot approve the plan for self-employment, we should re-contact
the individual to inquire if they want to amend the goal to work in the chosen field
for an employer. For more information, see SI 00870.025A.3. for modification of a PASS.