Cystic Fibrosis Benefits in Alaska: How to Apply & Get Help

To get federal disability benefits in Alaska, you must have a health condition that stops you from working for at least one year. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need enough work credits (usually 40, with 20 in the last 10 years). For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), your income and assets must be low. Cystic Fibrosis is listed as a qualifying condition if it meets Social Security’s medical rules. Both programs require a detailed medical review to prove your disability is severe enough to stop you from working[1].

• SSDI: Based on your work history and Social Security taxes paid.
• SSI: Based on financial need, not work history.
• Both programs use the same medical standards for disability.
• You must provide medical records and complete application forms.
• Most applicants are denied at first but can appeal[2].

In Alaska, people with Cystic Fibrosis may qualify for extra help through state programs. Alaska Medicaid — TEFRA helps children under 19 with disabilities, even if their family income is too high for regular Medicaid. Only the child’s income and resources are counted. Alaska also has Medicaid waiver programs for adults with disabilities, which can cover home care, therapy, and other supports. The Alaska ABLE Plan lets people with disabilities save money for disability-related expenses without losing benefits like SSI or Medicaid. To qualify for state programs, you must meet both federal and state rules, and some programs require a separate application[3][4].

• Alaska Medicaid — TEFRA: For children under 19 with disabilities.
• Medicaid Waivers: For adults with disabilities, covers extra services.
• Alaska ABLE Plan: Tax-advantaged savings for disability expenses.
• State programs may have different rules than federal ones.

• Gather medical records for Cystic Fibrosis.
• Decide if you need SSI, SSDI, or both.
• Fill out the application online or at a Social Security office.
• Submit all required documents.
• Wait for a decision (usually 6+ months).
• If denied, you can appeal[2].

• Step 1: Get medical records from your doctor or hospital. These should show your Cystic Fibrosis diagnosis and how it affects your daily life.
• Step 2: Decide which program(s) you want to apply for (SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, ABLE account).
• Step 3: Apply online at the Social Security website or visit your local Social Security office. For Medicaid, apply through the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services.
• Step 4: Fill out all forms completely and truthfully. Include all medical records and proof of income.
• Step 5: Wait for a decision. The Alaska Disability Determination Services will review your case and may ask for more information.
• Step 6: If denied, you can appeal within 60 days. Appeals include reconsideration and a hearing.
• Step 7: If approved, you will get benefits and must report any changes in your situation[2][3].

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Monthly payments for people who worked and paid Social Security taxes. Average payment in Alaska is about $1,334 per month.
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Monthly payments for people with low income and assets. Average payment in Alaska is about $613 per month.
• Both programs require a medical review to prove your disability is severe enough to stop you from working[2].

• Alaska Medicaid — TEFRA: Medicaid for children under 19 with disabilities. Only the child’s income and resources are counted, not the parents’.
• Medicaid Waiver Programs: Extra services for adults with disabilities, such as home care and therapy.
• Alaska ABLE Plan: Tax-advantaged savings account for disability-related expenses. You can save up to $14,000 per year without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits.
• Disability Determination Services: State agency that reviews medical evidence for disability benefits[3][4].

The Alaska ABLE Plan lets people with disabilities save money for qualified expenses like education, transportation, and assistive technology. You can save up to $14,000 per year without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. The account is tax-advantaged, like a 529 college savings account. To open an account, visit the Alaska ABLE Plan website[1].

• SSI: Income and assets must be low. The asset limit is $2,000 for an individual.
• SSDI: No asset limit, but you must have enough work credits.
• Alaska Medicaid — TEFRA: Only the child’s income and resources are counted, not the parents’.
• Alaska ABLE Plan: No asset limit for the account, but total savings are capped at $100,000 for SSI eligibility[1][2].

If your income or situation changes, you must report it to Social Security or Medicaid. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. For SSI, report changes in income, assets, or living situation. For SSDI, report changes in work or medical condition. For Medicaid, report changes in income or family size. Always keep records of what you report[5].

• Alaska Disability Determination Services
  Phone: 907-269-5150

  Website

  Handles medical eligibility for SSDI and SSI.
• Alaska Department of Health and Social Services
  Phone: 800-770-8973

  Website

  Handles Medicaid and other state health programs.

• Can people with Cystic Fibrosis get disability benefits in Alaska?

  Yes, people with Cystic Fibrosis can get disability benefits in Alaska if their condition meets federal and state rules. You must show that your disability stops you from working for at least one year and meets Social Security’s medical standards[2].

• How do I apply for SSI or SSDI in Alaska?

  You can apply online at the Social Security website or visit your local Social Security office. You will need medical records and proof of income. The Alaska Disability Determination Services will review your case[2].

• What is the Alaska ABLE Plan?

  The Alaska ABLE Plan is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. You can save up to $14,000 per year for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits[1].

• Does Alaska have special Medicaid programs for children with disabilities?

  Yes, Alaska Medicaid — TEFRA helps children under 19 with disabilities, even if their family income is too high for regular Medicaid. Only the child’s income and resources are counted[4].

• How long does it take to get a decision on disability benefits in Alaska?

  It usually takes about 6 months to get an initial decision on disability benefits in Alaska. Most applicants are denied at first but can appeal, which can take up to two years[2].

• What is the average SSI payment in Alaska?

  The average SSI payment in Alaska is about $613 per month. The amount you get depends on your income and other factors[3].