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Alaska • Sensory
People with low vision in Alaska can access federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and ABLE accounts. These programs help cover medical costs, daily living expenses, and support independence. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key resources.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with low vision, your vision must meet Social Security Administration (SSA) standards. For adults, this usually means vision in your better eye is 20/200 or worse with correction, or your field of vision is 20 degrees or less. Children must meet similar criteria. You must also show your condition has lasted or is expected to last at least 12 months, or result in death. Federal programs include SSI (for limited income) and SSDI (for those with work history). Both require medical proof and may need additional documentation. [^1]
If you are approved, you can receive monthly payments and access Medicaid or Medicare. SSI and SSDI have strict income and asset limits, but work incentives and ABLE accounts can help you keep benefits while working or saving. [^1]
In Alaska, people with low vision may qualify for Adult Public Assistance (APA) if they are blind or disabled. To be considered blind, your vision in the better eye must be 20/200 or less with correction, or your field of vision must be 20 degrees or less. You must also be at least 18 years old and a resident of Alaska. APA provides cash assistance to help with daily living expenses. [^2]
Alaska also offers Medicaid waivers and the TEFRA program for children with disabilities, including low vision. These programs help cover medical costs and services not covered by regular Medicaid. Eligibility depends on medical need and, for TEFRA, only the child’s income and resources are considered. [^4]
ABLE accounts are available for Alaskans with qualifying disabilities, including low vision. These accounts let you save up to $14,000 per year without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. [^1]
Alaska’s ABLE Plan lets people with qualifying disabilities, including low vision, open tax-advantaged savings accounts. You can save up to $14,000 per year for qualified expenses like education, transportation, and assistive technology. Earnings are tax-free if used for these expenses. ABLE accounts do not affect eligibility for SSI or Medicaid. The account is easy to set up online and is managed by the state. [^1]
It is important to report any changes in income, health, or living situation to all benefit programs. Failure to report can result in overpayments and penalties. If you receive too much money, you may have to pay it back. Always keep records of your reports and follow up with the agency. [^2]
Contact your local Division of Public Assistance office or Comagine Health for help with applications and documentation.
For federal and state disability benefits, low vision usually means vision in your better eye is 20/200 or worse with correction, or your field of vision is 20 degrees or less. You must also show your condition has lasted or is expected to last at least 12 months. [^1][^2]
Yes, you can work and still get disability benefits. SSI and SSDI have work incentives that let you keep benefits while working. ABLE accounts also let you save money without losing benefits. Always report your income to avoid overpayments. [^3]
Start by getting a medical evaluation and gathering records. Apply for SSI or SSDI through the Social Security Administration. Apply for Alaska Adult Public Assistance (APA) through the Division of Public Assistance. For children, apply for Medicaid TEFRA through Comagine Health. [^1][^2][^4]
The Alaska ABLE Plan is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities, including low vision. You can save up to $14,000 per year for qualified expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. The account is easy to set up online. [^1]
Yes, Alaska Medicaid TEFRA is a special program for children under 19 with disabilities, including low vision. Only the child’s income and resources are considered, so some children who would not qualify for regular Medicaid can get benefits. [^4]
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for your specific situation.
The average SSI payment for low vision in Alaska is $613.36 per month. The average SSDI payment is $1,333.89 per month. Payments depend on your income, work history, and other factors. [^3]
Yes, you must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified immigrant to get disability benefits in Alaska. You must also be a resident of Alaska. [^2]
On average, it takes about 6.1 months to get an initial decision on a disability application in Alaska. Most applicants are denied at first, but many are approved after appeal. The full process can take up to two years. [^3]
If your application is denied, you can appeal within 60 days. Most applicants are denied at first, but many are approved after appeal. It is important to submit all medical records and answer questions honestly. [^3]
Yes, you can get help from the Social Security Administration, the Division of Public Assistance, or organizations like Comagine Health. They can help you fill out forms and gather medical records. [^4]
