If you have a mobility impairment in Alaska, you may qualify for federal and state disability benefits. These include Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid, and special savings accounts. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what programs are available.
To qualify for 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 earned in the last 10 years before your disability began. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), your income and assets must be below certain limits. Both programs use the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability, which includes mobility impairments that severely limit your ability to work or perform daily activities[1].
Common qualifying conditions include musculoskeletal disorders, nervous system diseases, and circulatory system diseases. The decision is based on medical evidence, work history, age, and education[2].
Alaska residents with mobility impairments may also qualify for state-specific programs. The Alaska Medicaid TEFRA program helps children under 19 with disabilities and significant medical needs, using only the child’s income and resources for eligibility[3]. Alaska also offers the Alaska ABLE Plan, which allows eligible individuals with disabilities to save money for qualified expenses without losing federal benefits like SSI or Medicaid[4].
Disability Determination Services (DDS) in Alaska reviews medical evidence for SSDI and SSI claims. The process includes requesting medical records, consulting doctors, and assessing your ability to work[5]. Alaska’s state programs may have additional requirements, so check with local agencies for details.
The Alaska ABLE Plan allows eligible individuals with disabilities to save money for qualified expenses without losing federal benefits like SSI or Medicaid. You can save up to $14,000 per year in a tax-advantaged account. Funds can be used for education, transportation, assistive technology, and other qualified expenses. The website is easy to navigate and accounts can be opened online[4].
For SSI, the income and asset limits are strict. Most people can have no more than $2,000 in assets. For SSDI, there is no asset limit, but you must have enough work credits. Alaska Medicaid TEFRA uses only the child’s income and resources for eligibility, not the parents’[3].
It’s important to report any changes in your income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. If you receive too much money, you may have to pay it back. Always keep copies of your reports and follow up with the agency to confirm receipt[8].
If you need help with your application, contact your local Social Security office or Comagine Health for assistance. They can help you complete forms and answer questions.
SSDI is for people who have worked and paid into Social Security. SSI is for people with disabilities who have limited income and resources. Both programs can help with mobility impairments[1].
You can apply for SSDI or SSI online, by phone, or at a local Social Security office. For Alaska Medicaid TEFRA, contact Comagine Health or the Division of Public Assistance[3].
You need medical records, doctor’s notes, test results, and treatment plans related to your mobility impairment. The more detailed, the better[5].
Yes, there are work incentives for people with disabilities. You can earn some income without losing benefits, but there are limits. Check with the Social Security Administration for details[8].
The Alaska ABLE Plan allows eligible individuals with disabilities to save money for qualified expenses without losing federal benefits. Accounts can be opened online and are tax-advantaged[4].
On average, it takes about 6.1 months to get an initial decision. Most applicants are denied at first, but you can appeal the decision[2].
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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Alaska Medicaid TEFRA is a program for children under 19 with disabilities and significant medical needs. Eligibility is based on the child’s income and resources, not the parents’[3].
Yes, if you meet the income and asset requirements. Alaska also offers Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities, including those with mobility impairments[7].
If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision through reconsideration and a hearing. It’s important to act quickly and provide any additional evidence[2].
Report any changes in your income, resources, or living situation to the agency. Keep copies of your reports and follow up to confirm receipt[8].
