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Alaska • Chronic Illness
If you have kidney disease in Alaska, you may qualify for federal disability benefits (SSI/SSDI), Medicaid, and state programs. These benefits help cover medical costs, living expenses, and support independence. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what resources are available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with kidney disease, you must have a condition that stops you from working for at least 12 months. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a list of impairments called the Blue Book. Kidney disease is listed under Section 6.00 (Genitourinary Disorders). If your condition meets the criteria, you may get Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSDI is for people who worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both programs require medical proof of your disability and ongoing review of your status [6].
In Alaska, adults with kidney disease may qualify for Adult Public Assistance (APA) if they are disabled and meet income and resource limits. APA is for Alaskans who are blind, disabled, or aged 65+. To qualify, you must be a U.S. citizen or qualified immigrant, live in Alaska, and have resources under $2,000 (individual) or $3,000 (couple). Your monthly income must also be below APA limits. You must apply for and use other benefits like SSI, Social Security, or VA benefits before APA. Alaska also offers Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities, which can help with home care and other supports [2][7].
The Alaska ABLE Plan lets people with disabilities save up to $14,000 per year in a tax-advantaged account. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses like medical care, transportation, and assistive technology. Savings in an ABLE account do not count against SSI or Medicaid resource limits, so you can keep your benefits while saving for the future [1].
You must report changes in income, resources, or health status to avoid overpayments. If you get too much in benefits, you may have to pay it back. Report changes to the SSA for federal benefits and to the Alaska Department of Health for state benefits. Use the Alaska DB101 website for help with reporting and avoiding overpayments [7].
Contact the Alaska DB101 helpline or visit your local Social Security office for free help with applications and reporting changes.
Yes, if your kidney disease stops you from working for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSI or SSDI. You must provide medical proof and meet income and resource limits. Alaska also has state programs like APA and Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities [6][2].
You can apply online at ssa.gov, by phone, or in person at your local SSA office. You’ll need medical records and proof of income. The Alaska DB101 website has guides and tools to help you through the process [6][7].
The Alaska ABLE account lets people with disabilities save up to $14,000 per year for qualified expenses. Savings do not count against SSI or Medicaid resource limits, so you can keep your benefits while saving for the future [1].
Yes, Alaska offers Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities, including those with kidney disease. These waivers can help with home care, personal care, and other supports. You can apply through the Alaska Department of Health [7].
APA is a state program that gives cash assistance to Alaskans who are blind, disabled, or aged 65+. To qualify, you must meet income and resource limits and apply for other benefits first [2].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
The resource limit for SSI is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. The income limit is based on federal guidelines and Alaska’s APA program. You must report all income and resources to avoid overpayments [2][6].
Yes, there are work incentives for people with disabilities. You can earn a certain amount without losing benefits. The Alaska DB101 website has tools and guides to help you plan for work [7].
You need medical records, lab results, and doctor statements that show your diagnosis and how it affects your ability to work. The SSA uses these to decide if you qualify for benefits [6].
On average, it takes about 6 months to get an initial decision. Most applicants are denied at first, but you can appeal. The full process can take up to 2 years [3].
You must report changes to the SSA for federal benefits and to the Alaska Department of Health for state benefits. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments and loss of benefits [7].
