Alaska Food Stamp Program Benefits
The Alaska Food Stamp Program provides food benefits to low income households. The Federal government funds 100 percent of the food stamp benefit. The State pays half the costs of operating the Food Stamp Program in Alaska. The Division of Public Assistance issues food stamp benefits via the Alaska Quest card. The amount a household receives each month depends on the household's countable income and size of the household. Eligible households use the food stamp benefits to buy food products from authorized stores statewide.
Alaska Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
The Alaska Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program provides food benefits to low-income households. The federal government funds 100% of the SNAP benefit. The State pays half the costs of operating the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program in Alaska. The Division of Public Assistance issues SNAP benefits via the Alaska Quest card. The amount a household receives each month depends on the household's countable income and size of the household.
Eligible households use SNAP benefits to buy food products from authorized stores statewide. Eligible applicants must pass income and assets tests. The gross monthly income test is based on 130% of the current Alaska poverty standard. Alaska has special rules that allow for higher SNAP benefits in rural areas, and the use of benefits to purchase certain hunting and fishing subsistence supplies.
Alaska Food Stamp Program
The Alaska Food Stamp Program, officially known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), is administered by the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services. The program provides assistance to eligible individuals and families to purchase food. Here are some key aspects of the Alaska SNAP program:
- Eligibility: Eligibility for SNAP benefits is determined based on factors such as household size, income, and expenses. The program is designed to assist low-income individuals and families in meeting their nutritional needs. Eligibility criteria may vary, and it's important for applicants to check the specific requirements set by the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services.
- Application Process: Individuals can apply for SNAP benefits in Alaska through various methods, including online applications through the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services website, by mail, or in person at local office locations. The application process typically involves providing information about household income, expenses, and other relevant details.
- Benefit Calculation: The amount of SNAP benefits a household receives is determined by factors such as income, allowable deductions, and household size. The Alaska Department of Health and Social Services provides tools, such as a benefit calculator, to help individuals estimate their potential benefits.
- Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT): Approved individuals and families receive benefits on an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. This card can be used at authorized retailers to purchase eligible food items, similar to a debit card. The EBT system helps ensure the privacy and dignity of recipients while allowing them to access their benefits.
- Work Requirements: Able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) may be subject to work requirements to maintain eligibility for SNAP benefits. However, there are exceptions and waivers based on factors such as age, disability, and other circumstances.
- Outreach and Support: The Alaska Department of Health and Social Services may conduct outreach activities to inform eligible individuals about the program and encourage them to apply. Additionally, they may provide support services to help recipients achieve self-sufficiency.
For the most current and accurate information regarding the Alaska SNAP program, including eligibility criteria, application procedures, and benefit amounts, it is recommended to visit the official website of the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services or contact their offices directly.
Alaska Food Stamp Program Benefits
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as the food stamp program, is a federal assistance program in the United States that provides eligible individuals and families with funds to purchase food. In Alaska, the program is administered by the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services.Generally, eligibility for SNAP benefits is determined based on factors such as income, household size, and expenses. Here are some key points about the Alaska SNAP program:
- Income Eligibility: The income eligibility criteria for SNAP in Alaska may vary based on factors like household size and expenses. Generally, households with lower incomes are more likely to qualify for benefits.
- Benefit Calculation: The benefit amount is calculated based on factors such as income, expenses, and household size. The Alaska Department of Health and Social Services provides a benefit calculator on its website to help individuals estimate their potential SNAP benefits.
- Application Process: To apply for SNAP benefits in Alaska, individuals can submit an application through the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services website or in person at their local office. The application process typically includes providing information about income, expenses, and household composition.
- Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT): Once approved for SNAP benefits, recipients receive an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. This card can be used like a debit card to purchase eligible food items at authorized retailers.
- Work Requirements: Some able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) may be subject to work requirements to maintain eligibility for SNAP benefits. However, there are exceptions and waivers based on factors such as age, disability, and other circumstances.
It's crucial to check the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services website or contact their offices directly for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding eligibility, benefits, and the application process.
Alaska Food Stamps Program Requirements for Eligibility
Residency. Applicants must be residents of the State of Alaska to receive Supplement Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits from Alaska.
Age and Relationship. There are no specific age limits to receive SNAP benefits. Parents and their children 21 years old or younger living together are considered one household. Minors who apply on their own must be living independently. Individuals living together and who purchase and prepare food together are treated as one household.
Citizenship and Social Security Numbers. An applicant must be a U.S. citizen, a U.S. National, or a qualified alien to get SNAP benefits. Some legal immigrants are ineligible for SNAP benefits; however, dependents of an ineligible immigrant are often eligible. All household members must have a social security number or proof of having applied for one.
Work. To receive SNAP benefits, most able-bodied people between 16 and 59 years old must register for work, participate in the Employment & Training Program (E&T) if offered, accept offers of employment, and cannot quit a job. In addition, unless exempt, SNAP benefits are limited to 3 months within a 36 month period for Able Bodied Adults without Dependents (ABAWD’s) between the ages of 18 and 52 who are not working or participating in an approved E&T program an average of 20 hours per week.
Other Factors. Strikers must be resource and income eligible before the day of the strike. Most college students must be working half time, enrolled in work-study, caring for young dependents, or receiving Temporary Assistance. Felons convicted of drug-related offenses are not eligible for SNAP benefits unless they meet specific conditions. Individuals disqualified for fraud are ineligible for one year for the first offense, two years for the second offense, and permanently for the third. Dependents of disqualified or ineligible individuals may be eligible.
Resource Test. The asset limit is $2,750 for most households and $4250 for households containing a member who is disabled or 60 years or older.
Many types of assets are not counted such as the home you occupy and its lot, household goods, burial plots, cash value of life insurance, money in retirement savings accounts, pension plans, income producing property, 529 college savings plans, and vehicles used for an exempt reason or with an equity value under $1,500.
Countable assets include cash on hand, money in checking or savings accounts, certificates of deposit, U.S. savings bonds, stocks, bonds, property not up for sale, crowdfunding accounts, and lump-sum payments. Special rules apply to Alaska Permanent Fund Dividends.
Income Test. SNAP does not count loans, Title IV Education Act and Bureau of Indian Affairs Grants and Awards, reimbursements, Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA) Corporation payments to shareholders, heating or energy assistance, and earnings of children under age 18 who are in school.
Countable income includes wages, self-employment, public assistance benefits, unemployment benefits, worker's compensation, child support, Social Security benefits (SSA), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), pensions, and Senior Benefits payments. Special rules apply to Alaska Permanent Fund Dividends.
Deductions. SNAP rules allow income deductions, including a 20% deduction of gross earned income, a standard deduction of $338 given to households with one to five members and $349 given to households with six or more members, a deduction for dependent care costs if they are for a child who is a member of the SNAP household and are necessary to allow a household member to work or attend school, medical expenses over $35 for elderly or disabled household members, and a shelter/utility deduction not to exceed $1073 for most households. There is no limit on shelter/utility deductions for households that contain an elderly or disabled individual.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education (SNAP-Ed)
For SNAP-eligible residents, SNAP-Education services are available in several communities throughout the state. To learn more about this program, visit the SNAP-Ed webpage.
Alaska’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Nutrition Education and Obesity Prevention Program (SNAP-Ed) program provides nutrition education for low income Alaskans. The goal of SNAP-Ed is to improve the likelihood that persons eligible for SNAP will make healthy food choices within a limited budget and choose physically active lifestyles consistent with the current Dietary Guidelines for Americans and MyPlate.
USDA Nondiscrimination Statement – Food and Nutrition Service
In accordance with federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), religious creed, disability, age, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity.
Program information may be made available in languages other than English. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication to obtain program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language), should contact the agency (state or local) where they applied for benefits. Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339.
To file a program discrimination complaint, a Complainant should complete a Form AD-3027, USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form which can be obtained online at: https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/USDA-OASCR%20P-Complaint-Form-0508-0002-508-11-28-17Fax2Mail.pdf, from any USDA office, by calling (833) 620-1071, or by writing a letter addressed to USDA.
The letter must contain the complainant’s name, address, telephone number, and a written description of the alleged discriminatory action in sufficient detail to inform the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights (ASCR) about the nature and date of an alleged civil rights violation. The completed AD-3027 form or letter must be submitted to:
mail:
Food and Nutrition Service, USDA
1320 Braddock Place, Room 334
Alexandria, VA 22314; or
fax:
(833) 256-1665 or (202) 690-7442; or
email:
[email protected]
Who is eligible for Alaska Food Stamp Program?
To be eligible for this benefit program, you must be a resident of the state of Alaska and meet one of the following requirements:
- You have a current bank balance (savings and checking combined) under $2,001, or
- You have a current bank balance (savings and checking combined) under $3,001 and share your household with one of the following:
- A person or persons age 60 and over or
- A person with a disability (a child, your spouse, a parent, or yourself).
Alaska Food Stamp Program Income Limits
In order to qualify, you must have an annual household income (before taxes) that is below the following amounts:
| Household Size* | Maximum Income Level (Per Year) |
| 1 | $23,673 |
| 2 | $32,032 |
| 3 | $40,391 |
| 4 | $48,750 |
| 5 | $57,109 |
| 6 | $65,468 |
| 7 | $73,827 |
| 8 | $82,186 |
For households with more than eight people, add $8,359 per additional person. Always check with the appropriate managing agency to ensure the most accurate guidelines.
Alaska Unemployment Insurance Program BenefitsHow do I apply for Alaska Food Stamp Program?
To apply for the Alaska Food Stamp Program, officially known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), you can follow these general steps. Keep in mind that the process may be subject to change, so it's a good idea to check the official Alaska Department of Health and Social Services website or contact their offices for the most up-to-date information:
Online Application:
- Visit the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services website.
- Look for the section related to SNAP or Food Stamp Program.
- Locate the online application portal or download the application form.
Paper Application: If you prefer a paper application, you can typically download it from the official website or request one from the local office.
Visit a Local Office: You can apply in person by visiting a local office of the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services. You can find the nearest office by checking the department's website.
Complete the Application:
- Whether you apply online or using a paper application, you'll need to provide information about your household, income, expenses, and other relevant details.
- Make sure to fill out the application form accurately and completely.
Submit Supporting Documents: Along with the application, you may need to submit supporting documents. These may include proof of income, rent or mortgage information, utility bills, and other relevant documentation.
Interview: After submitting your application, you may be required to participate in an interview. This can be done in person, over the phone, or sometimes even online. During the interview, you may be asked additional questions about your household and financial situation.
Receive a Decision: Once your application is processed, you will receive a notification indicating whether you qualify for SNAP benefits and, if so, the amount you are eligible to receive.
Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) Card: If approved, you will receive an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. This card is used to access your SNAP benefits and can be used at authorized retailers to purchase eligible food items.
Remember that the application process and requirements may be subject to change, so it's crucial to refer to the official Alaska Department of Health and Social Services website or contact their offices for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
How do I apply for Alaska Food Stamp Program?
To apply for this program, download a copy of the application. Once completed, call your local Public Assistance office to set up a time for an interview. Local office locations can be found at the Public Assistance Offices page.
Alaska Food Stamp Program Phone Number
For more information, visit the Food and Nutrition Services' SNAP Program page. Or call: 907-465-3347.