Benefits and Services

ABLE accounts allow individuals with disabilities to build savings for qualified expenses—while keeping access to SSI, Medicaid, and other supports. Giving those with disabilities the ability to save. New Alaska ABLE Plan helps individuals save, while preserving their SSI and Medicaid. 

The  Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority (TRUST) funds projects and programs that promote long-term systemic change and improve the lives and circumstances of beneficiaries.  

• DD Mini-Grant Application: The Trust awards mini grants with an annual limit of one application of up to $2,500 per beneficiary depending upon need. Mini grants are only awarded to an agency on behalf of a beneficiary. 

Assistive Technology of Alaska (ATLA) is the only private non-profit, statewide, comprehensive, resource center serving Alaskans of any age to make informed decisions about AT that best meets their needs at work, school, home or just in life! 

The Developmental Disabilities Resource Connection (DDRC) program helps people with intellectual and developmental disabilities get support and services they need. 

• Apply for the Developmental Disabilities (DD) eligibility program
• Complete forms and gather documentation for Medicaid
• Learn about care and support options
• Find help in your community 

Alaska Disability Benefits 101 (AK DB101) provides tools and information on health coverage, benefits, and employment – allowing people with disabilities to plan ahead and learn how work and benefits go together.  

• Medicaid Buy-In: For working individuals with disabilities who need Medicaid for support 

Alaskans receive comprehensive prevention, treatment, and support services at the appropriate level of care across the lifespan, leading to meaningful lives in their home communities. 

The Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) Unit oversees these waiver services for people with intellectual or developmental disabilities: 

• Developmental Disabilities (DD) eligibility program
• DD Registry (also known as the “Waitlist”)
• Individualized Supports Waiver (ISW)
• Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) Waiver 

As the Division of Public Assistance charts a course toward a new welfare system, the following mission and vision statements define a direction for the agency. The guiding principles and program philosophies explain common beliefs that enable this agency to achieve its goals. 

As a person with a disability, you may qualify for certain tax deductions, income exclusions, and credits. Use tax benefits available to people with disabilities and their families. 

• Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) 

Empowering people with disabilities through research, demonstrations, and employment support work and keep healthcare coverage. 

• Plan to Achieve Self-Support (PASS): A Social Security program that lets you save income for goals like education or starting a business
• Ticket to Work: Supports career development for people ages 18 through 64 who receive Social Security disability benefits and want to work. 
• Social Security Red Book: The Red Book serves as a general reference source about the employment-related provisions of the Social Security Disability Insurance and the Supplemental Security Income Programs. 

The WIPA Project was developed by the UAA Center for Human Development and also has a list of the certified Community Work Incentive Coordinators (CWICs) for the State of Alaska. Free help understanding how a job will affect your benefits.