Alaska Temporary Assistance Program (ATAP)

Alaska Temporary Assistance Program (ATAP) provides time-limited cash assistance and work-readiness services to low-income families with children.

The goal of ATAP is to “move Alaskans from welfare into jobs” so they can support the families on their own. To attain this goal, the program uses the “Work First” approach.

As a result, ATAP participants are required to immediately seek paid employment opportunities or participate in work related activities for a specified number of hours per week. ¹

Participants must engage in approved activities, which can include:

Job search and readiness training.
Education and vocational training.
On-the-job training or work experience.
Community service.

FAQ

Do I qualify for welfare in Alaska?

To qualify for welfare in Alaska, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:

Be a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident.
Be a resident of the state of Alaska.
Be pregnant or have a child under age 19.
Be unemployed or under employed for very low wages.
Meet income limit guidelines. ²

What is the income limit for TANF in Alaska?

In Alaska, a family is considered “needy” when their countable income is less than $2,149 a month for a family of three. The limit for countable resources is $2,000. ³

Household Size	Income Limit
2	$1,908
3	$2,149
4	$2,388
5	$2,629
6	$2,870
7	$3,108
8	$3,351

How much does TANF pay in Alaska?

The amount of cash assistance eligible families in Alaska may receive largely depends on the family’s size, income and shelter expenses.

For example, Alaska pays a maximum of $923 per month for a family of three with assets not exceeding $2,000.

Household Size	Payment
2	$821
3	$923
4	$1,025
5	$1,127
6	$1,229
7	$1,331
8	$1,433

The amounts shown represent the maximum monthly cash benefits available to families with no countable income. Actual payments may vary based on a family’s income and other eligibility factors.

However, the law limits eligible families to no more than 60 months of cash benefits unless they qualify for a time-limit exemption.

How do I apply for welfare in Alaska?

To apply for the Alaska Temporary Assistance Program (ATAP), you can download an application and submit it to your nearest Division of Public Assistance (DPA) office, ⁴ or apply online through the Alaska Connect Portal .

After your application is filed, an interview will be arranged by a caseworker from Division of Public Assistance to determine your family’s eligibility.

Alaska Department of Health and Social Services
Division of Public Assistance
(800) 478-7778

How much is adult public assistance in Alaska?

A person who is single and residing in an assisted living facility can get up to $1,067 per month in APA benefits or $1,650 per month for a couple. ⁵

Adult Public Assistance (APA) a state-run program administered by the Alaska Division of Public Assistance that provides cash assistance to aged, blind, and disabled Alaskans with limited income and resources.

What is the senior benefits program in Alaska?

The Senior Benefits Program pays cash benefits to Alaskan seniors who are age 65 or older and have low to moderate income, with amounts varying from $125 to $250 based on income.

No minimum weekly or monthly number of attendance hours applies to single parents under age 20 who participate in High School or GED Preparation. ↩
Division of Public Assistance. TEMPORARY ASSISTANCE NEED AND MAXIMUM PAYMENT STANDARDS ↩
The income limits for families of different sizes are listed in the chart here . ↩
The Alaska Division of Public Assistance (DPA) operates regional offices across Alaska. Use the office locator to find a DPA office near you. ↩
Click on the link to view the current Adult Public Assistance (APA) income limits and payment standards. ↩