NMPASI Programs:Protection and Advocacy for Beneficiaries of Social Security (PABSS)
authorized in the Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act, 42 USC 1320b-20, PL 106-170.
PROTECTION & ADVOCACY FOR BENEFICIARIES OF SOCIAL SECURITY
(PABSS)
STATEMENT OF GOALS AND PRIORITIES FY 2009
GOAL 1: To assist beneficiaries of social security disability benefits who are seeking vocational rehabilitation services, employment services and other support services from employment networks and other service providers.
Priority 1.1: In fiscal year 2009, PABSS personnel will investigate and review any complaint of improper or inadequate services provided to a beneficiaries with a disabilities by a service provider, employer or other entity, except SSA, involved in the beneficiary’s return to work efforts;
Priority 1.2: In fiscal year 2009, PABSS personnel will provide information and referral services to beneficiaries with disabilities about work incentives and employment, including information on the types of services and assistance that may be available to assist them in securing, maintaining, or regaining gainful employment;
Priority 1.3: In fiscal year 2009, PABSS personnel will provide consultation to and legal representation on behalf of beneficiaries with disabilities when such services become necessary to protect the rights of such beneficiaries (Note: To the extent possible alternative dispute resolution procedures should be used);
Priority 1.4: In fiscal year 2009, PABSS personnel will assist beneficiaries with disabilities in disputes before SSA involving work-related program decisions and benefits overpayments that are clearly a barrier to securing, maintaining, or regaining employment; and
[* Specific activities might include the following:
(1) Helping beneficiaries pursue the waiver or reconsideration of an overpayment due to excess earnings – up to and including any fact-finding hearing at SSA’s,
(2) Accompanying beneficiaries to local SSA field offices,
(3) Explaining the appeal process to beneficiaries and assisting in filling out necessary paperwork;
(4) Pursuing appeals of continuing disability review determinations based on substantial gainful activity;
(5) Giving advice to assure complete consideration of potential subsidies, impairment related work expenses and plans for achieving self support; and
(6)Referring beneficiaries to other entities for support.]
Priority 1.5: In fiscal year 2009, PABSS personnel will provide information and technical assistance on work incentives to governmental agencies, employment networks and other service providers, and advocacy organizations; and
Priority 1.6: In fiscal year 2009, PABSS personnel will advocate to identify and correct deficiencies in entities providing vocational rehabilitation services, employment services and other support services to beneficiaries with disabilities.
