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Alaska • Mental Health
If you have depression in Alaska, you may qualify for federal and state benefits like SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and ABLE accounts. These programs help cover medical costs, living expenses, and support independence. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key resources.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with depression, your condition must be severe and long-lasting. The Social Security Administration (SSA) requires that your depression:
You may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) if you have a work history and paid Social Security taxes. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history [4].
In Alaska, adults with depression may qualify for Adult Public Assistance (APA) if they meet the state’s definition of disability. To be considered disabled, you must be unable to participate in any substantial gainful activity due to a medically verified mental impairment (like depression) that has lasted or is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death [2].
You must also:
Alaska also offers ABLE accounts for people with disabilities, including depression, allowing tax-advantaged savings for qualified expenses without risking federal benefits [1].
Alaska’s ABLE Plan lets people with disabilities, including depression, save up to $14,000 per year in tax-advantaged accounts. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses like education, transportation, and assistive technology. Savings in an ABLE account do not count against federal benefit limits, so you can keep your SSI and Medicaid benefits [1].
You must report any changes in your income, resources, or medical condition to both federal and state agencies. Failure to report changes can result in overpayments and loss of benefits. Report changes promptly to avoid penalties and keep your benefits [2].
Contact your local Social Security office or Alaska Department of Health and Social Services for help with applications and questions.
Yes, depression can qualify for federal and state disability benefits in Alaska if it is severe, medically documented, and prevents you from working. You must meet SSA criteria for disability and Alaska’s APA requirements [2][4].
You can apply for SSI/SSDI online at SSA.gov or at your local Social Security office. You’ll need medical records, proof of income, and other documents. The process can take several months [4].
APA provides cash assistance to low-income adults in Alaska who are aged, blind, or disabled. If you have depression and meet APA criteria, you may qualify for monthly payments to help with living expenses [2].
Yes, you can open an Alaska ABLE account. This lets you save up to $14,000 per year for qualified disability expenses without risking your SSI or Medicaid benefits [1].
For SSI, the 2025 federal limit is $943/month for an individual. For APA, resources must be under $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. Countable income must also be below APA limits [2].
Yes, you must report any changes in income, resources, or medical condition to both federal and state agencies. Failure to report changes can result in overpayments and loss of benefits [2].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
A Medicaid waiver in Alaska provides home and community-based services for people with disabilities, including mental health support. These programs help people live independently and access needed care [5].
Yes, you can work while receiving disability benefits, but your earnings must be below the substantial gainful activity limit ($1,620/month in 2025). There are work incentives to help you keep benefits while working [4].
The approval process for SSI/SSDI can take several months. APA applications are usually processed within a few weeks. Providing complete documentation can help speed up the process [2][4].
You need a diagnosis and treatment records from a licensed mental health professional. Documentation should show how depression affects your daily life and ability to work [4].
