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Adult Public Assistance: Frequently Asked Questions
by: Alaska Legal Services Corporation
Q.	What is Adult Public Assistance (APA)?

A.	APA is a state cash-assistance program that provides financial assistance for low-income people over 65 and disabled people.

Q.	Who distributes APA?

A.	The State Division of Public Assistance (DPA) distributes APA.

Q.	How much can I expect to receive in APA?

A.	The amount you receive depends on your income; the more income you have, the less Adult Public Assistance you can expect to get. In 2003, the maximum monthly benefit for a single person living alone is $362 (plus the person’s federal Supplemental Security Income); the most typical maximum monthly benefit for a couple where both persons are over 65 or disabled is $528 (plus the couple’s SSI).

Q.	Who decides if I am disabled?

A.	Generally, people who can’t work apply for both federal Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and state Adult Public Assistance (APA). The State usually follows the federal Social Security decision about whether you’re disabled. If your income is too high to qualify you for SSI, and you’re not also applying for Social Security Disability, the State will make its own decision about whether you’re disabled, using the federal Supplemental Security Income rules. If you feel the State’s decision is in error, you can appeal to a state Fair Hearing, to the Director of the Division of Public Assistance, and perhaps later to state or federal court.

Q.	How will the State calculate my income to decide whether I should get Adult Public Assistance, and if I do qualify, to decide how much I should get?

A.	The State will use the same rules that apply to federal SSI.

Q.	Is there a limit on the resources I can have and still get APA?

A.	Yes. The State follows the federal SSI resources rules.

Q.	Will I receive medical coverage along with my Adult Public Assistance?

A.	Yes. Generally, people who receive Adult Public Assistance also receive Medicaid. In fact, some people whose income is just a little too high for them to get an actual APA check still get Medicaid.


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	Last Reviewed On: 07/16/03

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