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Can Social Security help me buy a handicapped van for my daughter? She is 25 years old and in a wheelchair.

Last Updated: December 22, 2010

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According to the Social Security Administration, the agency never buys outright a vehicle for anyone, nor would it become involved in how a person uses their benefit monies — except in the case of SSI when low-income beneficiaries are expected to use some of their monthly checks toward food/shelter needs. However, they have something called a PASS (Plan to Achieve Self-Support) plan. With a PASS plan, a person could set aside money for a loan toward a vehicle or use benefit monies toward an adaptive car, for example. But PASS plans are possible only if the vehicle will be used for employment. Check this site for more information: http://www.socialsecurity.gov/ssi/spotlights/spot-plans-self-support.htm. You may also want to check with your state's Legal Rights Center or Center for Independent Living (www.virtualcil.net/cils/) regarding questions about transportation and independence issues. We would like your feedback on this Personal Finance Frequently Asked Question.

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