Use of Social Security Work Incentives by Supported Employment Agencies and Consumers: Findings from a National Survey

This article reports findings from a survey of 385 supported employment provider agencies on their use of two Social Security Work Incentives, the Plan for Achieving Self-Support (PASS) and Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWE). Results indicated that PASSes and IRWEs are used by supported employment consumers at rates far above that of the SSA beneficiary population. PASS and IRWE approval rates were reported to be high, and respondents generally reported few problems in accessing these supports. Set-aside funds were predominantly used to purchase transportation, supported employment services, work equipment and supplies, and other needed supports and services. Findings are discussed in light of reports by the U.S. General Accounting Office that have found mismanagement and misuse of SSA Work Incentives. Perhaps the most tangible and imposing barrier to employment for persons with disabilities is potential loss of income assistance and health care through programs administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA) and the Health Care Financing Administration. As Bowe (1993) notes, the two major disability-related programs operated by SSA, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Disability Insurance (DI), are "dependence-oriented. " Individuals who are in need of assis-tance must prove themselves to be incapable of en-gaging in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA), currently determined by earnings of over $500 per month. Fea