Alaska offers several benefits for people with intellectual disabilities, including federal programs like SSI and SSDI, state cash assistance, Medicaid, and ABLE accounts. Eligibility depends on medical, financial, and residency requirements. This guide explains how to apply and what support is available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits, you must have a medically verified intellectual disability that prevents substantial work and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need a work history and enough Social Security credits. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), your income and resources must be below strict limits. Both programs use the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability, which includes intellectual disability as a qualifying condition[1].
In Alaska, adults with intellectual disabilities may qualify for Adult Public Assistance (APA) if they are at least 18 years old, meet the medical definition of disability, and have resources under $2,000 for an individual or $3,000 for a couple. Children under 19 with intellectual disabilities may qualify for Medicaid TEFRA, which uses only the child’s income and resources, not the parents’. Alaska also offers ABLE accounts, which let eligible individuals save up to $14,000 per year without losing federal benefits[2][3][4].
The Alaska ABLE Plan lets individuals with intellectual disabilities save money for qualified expenses like education, transportation, and assistive technology. Earnings are tax-free if used for disability-related expenses. You can contribute up to $14,000 per year without risking federal benefits like SSI or Medicaid[3].
For SSI, the resource limit is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. For Alaska APA, the resource limit is the same. Income limits vary by program and are updated annually[2].
It’s important to report changes in income, resources, or health to the Social Security Administration and Alaska Department of Health. Failing to report can result in overpayments and penalties. Keep records of all changes and report them promptly[2].
Contact the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services or Comagine Health for help with applications and eligibility questions.
SSI is for people with low income and resources, regardless of work history. SSDI is for those with a work history and enough Social Security credits. Both programs provide monthly payments for intellectual disability[1].
Apply for Medicaid TEFRA through Comagine Health. Only the child’s income and resources are counted, not the parents’. The child must meet the medical definition of disability[4].
Yes, the Alaska ABLE Plan lets you save up to $14,000 per year for disability expenses without losing federal benefits like SSI or Medicaid[3].
The resource limit is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. Income limits vary and are updated annually. Check the official APA page for current standards[2].
No, you can apply for disability benefits while working, but your earnings must be below the substantial gainful activity level set by Social Security[1].
On average, it takes about 6 months for an initial decision. Most applicants are denied at first, but you can appeal the decision[3].
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
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You need a diagnosis from a qualified professional, school records, and any other proof of disability. The Social Security Administration will review all records[1].
Yes, you can receive both SSI and Alaska APA if you meet the eligibility requirements for each program[2].
Yes, SSI and SSDI have work incentives that let you keep some benefits while working. Check the SSI & SSDI Work Incentives guide for details[5].
You must report changes in income to avoid overpayments. Failing to report can result in penalties and loss of benefits[2].
