Open a Purple account in minutes. Banking built for people with disabilities.
Alaska • Chronic Illness
People in Alaska with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) may qualify for federal and state disability benefits. These include Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Alaska Medicaid, and state-specific cash and support programs. Eligibility depends on medical proof, income, and resources. This guide explains how to apply and what benefits are available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits in Alaska, you must have a medical condition that prevents you from doing any substantial gainful activity for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need enough work credits, usually earned through employment. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), your income and resources must be below certain limits. Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) is considered a disabling condition if it meets these criteria. Both programs require detailed medical records and proof of your inability to work [ssa.gov, 2025-11-05].
In Alaska, people with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) may qualify for Adult Public Assistance (APA) if they are disabled and meet income and resource limits. To be considered disabled, your condition must prevent you from engaging in any substantial gainful activity for at least 12 months or be expected to result in death. You must also be a U.S. citizen or qualified immigrant, a resident of Alaska, and at least 18 years old. Resources must not exceed $2,000 for an individual or $3,000 for a couple. Income limits are set by the state and change annually. You must apply for and pursue all other benefits for which you may be eligible, such as SSI, Social Security, and veterans’ benefits [health.alaska.gov, 2025-11-05].
Alaska offers ABLE accounts, which allow people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, and other benefits. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses such as education, housing, transportation, and personal support services. To open an ABLE account, you must have a qualifying disability that began before age 26 [ak.db101.org, 2025-11-05].
If you receive more benefits than you are entitled to, you must report it and may have to repay the overpayment. Report any changes in income, resources, or living situation to the relevant agencies promptly. Failure to report changes can result in penalties or loss of benefits [ssa.gov, 2025-11-05; health.alaska.gov, 2025-11-05].
If you need help with your application, contact the Alaska Department of Health or a local disability advocacy group. They can provide guidance and support throughout the process.
Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) is a chronic illness that causes severe fatigue, pain, and other symptoms that can make it hard to work or do daily activities. It is recognized as a disabling condition by federal and state agencies.
You need detailed medical records from your doctors that show your diagnosis, symptoms, and how ME affects your ability to work. This includes test results, treatment history, and statements from healthcare providers.
You may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Alaska Adult Public Assistance (APA), Medicaid, and other state programs. Each has its own eligibility requirements.
Gather your medical records, review eligibility requirements, and apply for SSDI, SSI, or APA through the Social Security Administration or Alaska Department of Health. Submit all required documentation and follow up on your application.
For SSI, the federal limit is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple in 2025. For APA, income limits are set by the state and change annually. Check the current APA income limits for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, there are work incentives that allow you to work and still receive benefits. The amount you can earn without losing benefits depends on the program. Check with the Social Security Administration or Alaska Department of Health for details.
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.
An ABLE account allows people with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, and other benefits. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses such as education, housing, transportation, and personal support services.
If your application is denied, you have the right to appeal. Gather more evidence and consider getting help from a disability advocate or attorney. You can also reapply with additional documentation.
It usually takes about 6 months to get an initial decision on a disability application. Most applicants are denied at first, but you can appeal. The full process, including appeals, can take up to 2 years.
Yes, there are special rules for elderly or disabled people applying for SNAP. These include higher income and resource limits and exemptions from work requirements. Check with the Alaska Department of Health for details.
