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:

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

What is the income limit for TANF in Alaska?

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

How much does TANF pay in Alaska?

The amount of cash assistance eligible families in Alaska may receive largely depends on the family 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.

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

What documents do I need to apply for TANF in Alaska?

When you apply for TANF cash assistance in Alaska, you may be asked to provide all or some of the following documents:

• A valid photo ID
• Social Security numbers for the people applying (or proof that you have applied for them)
• Proof of residency (where you live), such as a lease or a utility bill
• Proof of U.S. citizenship or eligible immigration status
• Proof of your children’s identity and their relationship to you, such as birth certificates
• Proof of earned and unearned income for everyone in your household, such as pay stubs
• Proof of other resources, such as bank statements, if the state asks for them
• Proof of pregnancy, if you are applying while pregnant
• Information about the children’s other parent, such as a name and last known address, which states use for child support
• Any additional documents needed to verify your household’s situation

Each state sets its own rules, and what you need may depend on your situation. If you are not sure what to bring, contact Alaska DPA (DPA) at (888) 804-6330 and they can tell you exactly what your application requires.

How much is adult public assistance in Alaska?

A person who is single and residing in an assisted living facility can get up to $1,094 per month in APA benefits or $1,691 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.