Rheumatoid Arthritis Benefits in Alaska

To qualify for federal disability benefits like Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have a medical condition that prevents you from working and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. For SSDI, you need enough work credits based on your employment history. For SSI, your income and resources must be below certain limits. Rheumatoid arthritis may qualify if it severely limits your ability to work and is supported by medical evidence. [^1]

• SSDI: You generally need 40 work credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years. [^1]
• SSI: Income and resource limits apply; in 2025, the resource limit is $2,000 for an individual. [^2]
• Both programs require a detailed medical review to confirm your disability. [^1]

In Alaska, you may also qualify for state-specific programs if you have rheumatoid arthritis. The Adult Public Assistance (APA) program provides cash assistance to disabled adults who meet income and resource limits. To qualify, you must be under 65, disabled, a resident of Alaska, and have resources not exceeding $2,000 for an individual or $3,000 for a couple. [^2]

• Medicaid in Alaska covers medical costs for eligible disabled individuals. Some programs, like Medicaid TEFRA, are for children with disabilities and significant medical needs. [^3]
• The Alaska ABLE Plan allows eligible individuals with disabilities to save money for qualified expenses without losing federal benefits. [^4]
• You must apply for and pursue all other benefits for which you may be eligible, such as SSI, Social Security, and veterans’ benefits. [^2]

• Gather medical records and proof of income.
• Review eligibility for SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and Alaska ABLE.
• Contact the Social Security Administration or Alaska Division of Public Assistance.
• Submit applications online or in person.
• Follow up on your application status and provide any requested information. [^1][^2][^4]

• Step 1: Collect all necessary documents, including medical records, proof of income, and identification.
• Step 2: Review the eligibility requirements for each program (SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, Alaska ABLE).
• Step 3: Contact the Social Security Administration to apply for SSI or SSDI. You can apply online, by phone, or in person at a local office. [^1]
• Step 4: For Medicaid and Adult Public Assistance, contact the Alaska Division of Public Assistance. You can apply online or in person. [^2]
• Step 5: For the Alaska ABLE Plan, visit the official website and complete the online application. [^4]
• Step 6: Submit all required documents and follow up on your application status. Respond promptly to any requests for additional information.
• Step 7: If approved, you will receive benefits according to the program’s rules. Report any changes in your situation to avoid overpayments. [^2][^4]

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Provides monthly payments to people who cannot work due to a disability and have a qualifying work history. [^1]
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Provides monthly payments to people with disabilities who have limited income and resources. [^2]
• Medicaid: Provides health coverage to eligible disabled individuals. [^3]
• Medicare: Provides health coverage to people with disabilities after a waiting period. [^3]
• ABLE Accounts: Allow eligible individuals with disabilities to save money for qualified expenses without losing federal benefits. [^4] [^5]

• Adult Public Assistance (APA): Provides cash assistance to disabled adults who meet income and resource limits. [^2]
• Alaska Medicaid: Provides health coverage to eligible disabled individuals. Some programs, like Medicaid TEFRA, are for children with disabilities and significant medical needs. [^3]
• Alaska ABLE Plan: Allows eligible individuals with disabilities to save money for qualified expenses without losing federal benefits. [^4]
• Medicaid Waiver Programs: Provide additional services for people with disabilities who need long-term care. [^5]
• Disability Benefits for Alaska Employees: Provides monthly benefits to state employees who become disabled. [^6]

The Alaska ABLE Plan allows eligible individuals with disabilities to save money for qualified expenses without losing federal benefits. You can save up to $14,000 per year in an ABLE account. Earnings in the account are tax-free if used for qualified disability-related expenses, such as education, transportation, and assistive technology. [^4]

• SSI: Resource limit is $2,000 for an individual or $3,000 for a couple. [^2]
• Adult Public Assistance (APA): Resource limit is $2,000 for an individual or $3,000 for a couple. [^2]
• Alaska ABLE Plan: You can save up to $14,000 per year without affecting federal benefits. [^4]

If your income or resources change, you must report these changes to the relevant agency to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment requirements or loss of benefits. Always report changes promptly and keep records of all communications. [^2]

• Alaska Division of Public Assistance
  Phone: 1-800-780-9972

  Website

  For Medicaid and Adult Public Assistance applications.
• Social Security Administration
  Phone: 1-800-772-1213

  TTY: 1-800-325-0778

  Website

  For SSI and SSDI applications.

• Can I get SSI or SSDI for rheumatoid arthritis in Alaska?

  Yes, if your rheumatoid arthritis severely limits your ability to work and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. You must meet the medical and financial criteria for SSI or SSDI. [^1][^2]

• What is the Alaska ABLE Plan?

  The Alaska ABLE Plan allows eligible individuals with disabilities to save money for qualified expenses without losing federal benefits. You can save up to $14,000 per year in an ABLE account. [^4]

• How do I apply for Medicaid in Alaska?

  You can apply for Medicaid in Alaska online or in person through the Alaska Division of Public Assistance. You will need to provide medical and financial information to determine eligibility. [^2][^3]

• What is the resource limit for SSI and Adult Public Assistance in Alaska?

  The resource limit for SSI and Adult Public Assistance in Alaska is $2,000 for an individual or $3,000 for a couple. [^2]

• Can I work while receiving disability benefits in Alaska?

  Yes, there are work incentives that allow you to work while receiving disability benefits. You must report any changes in income to avoid overpayments. [^5]

• What medical evidence do I need for a disability application?

  You need detailed medical records from your healthcare provider that show your diagnosis, treatment, and how your condition limits your ability to work. [^1]