Interim Assistance: Frequently Asked Questions

In Alaska, Interim Assistance is a special type of Adult Public Assistance (APA).  Interim Assistance is a state program paying up to $280 per month to people who have applied for SSI but are waiting for final decisions about whether they're disabled.  If people are approved for SSI, then the Interim Assistance changes to APA.

The Alaska Division of Public Assistance distributes Interim Assistance.

Yes. The State makes a decision about whether you're disabled based on your medical records and, sometimes, a visit to a doctor.  The State's disability decision is separate from Social Security's decision.  So even if Social Security says you're not disabled, or hasn't made a decision yet, you may still be able to get Interim Assistance based on your doctor's statement as long as Social Security hasn't made a decision against you at its highest level.

No. You only have to pay back Interim Assistance back if you WIN your disability case.  The State takes its Interim Assistance back by deducting it from the back SSI payments you would otherwise get.

Yes. Interim Assistance uses the SSI income and resource limits.  There are exceptions to those limits, but any person who's un-exempt income or resources are over those limits cannot receive SSI, Interim Assistance, or Adult Public Assistance.

No, but if your SSI application is approved you can get Medicaid.  There are also other types of Medicaid or health insurance that you may be eligible for.

Generally, no. The state of Alaska only offers Adult Public Assistance to people who are currently receiving SSI benefits.  If you are approved for SSI, your APA checks should start coming at the same time.  If APA does not start, contact the Alaska Department of Public Assistance.