Job Loss Support & Unemployment Help for Single Mothers in Alaska

Last updated: September 2025

This guide gives you fast, practical steps to stabilize money, food, housing, health care, and child care after a job loss in Alaska. It focuses on programs and work supports single moms actually use while unemployed or underemployed. Where possible, you’ll see exact contacts, timelines, and plan‑B options. Use the quick actions first, then work through the sections that fit your situation.

If you need to save or share, screenshot the “Quick Help Box,” “Cheat Sheet,” and “Application Checklist.”

If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions To Take

• File Alaska Unemployment Insurance (UI) immediately: Apply online through your myAlaska account under [Unemployment Insurance Benefits] and finish the work registration in [AlaskaJobs] within 7 days to avoid delays. If you can’t apply online, call a UI Claim Center (Anchorage 1-907-269-4700; Juneau 1-907-465-5552; Fairbanks 1-907-451-2871), or use the toll‑free line from underserved broadband areas at 1-888-252-2557. (labor.alaska.gov)
• Stop a shutoff or run‑out today: Ask your utility for an emergency payment plan and apply for the [Heating Assistance Program (HAP)]—use the “Crisis Assistance” option if you’re within 48 hours of disconnect or less than 3 days of fuel. Call 1-800-478-7778 (press option 4 for HAP/LIHEAP) or the HAP line at 1-800-470-3058; submit proof of shutoff/low fuel for faster processing. (health.alaska.gov)
• Get immediate food appointments: Use [Food Bank of Alaska’s Find Help] to locate a pantry today and, if needed, ask for SNAP application help by calling 1-907-222-3119 or texting “SNAP” to 1-907-891-8931. If you live in Fairbanks or Juneau, bookmark your local food banks—[Fairbanks Community Food Bank] and [Southeast Alaska Food Bank]—for hours and pickup rules. (foodbankofalaska.org)

Quick Help Box — Numbers and Links To Keep Handy

• Alaska 2‑1‑1 statewide referral: Dial 2‑1‑1 or 1-800-478-2221 for live help finding housing, utility, and legal aid; see [Alaska 211] if phones are busy. Keep the number visible on the fridge. (alaska211.org)
• DPA Virtual Contact Center (benefits): Call 1-800-478-7778 or use [Alaska Connect] to upload documents for SNAP, ATAP cash, Medicaid, Child Care, and Heating Assistance. If the portal times out, use the [Secure Document Upload] page. (health.alaska.gov)
• Anchorage emergency shelter for moms with kids: [Clare House] (24/7), 1-907-563-4545; youth/young parents can contact [Covenant House Alaska], 1-907-272-1255, open 24/7. (cssalaska.org)
• Job Centers (resume help, training, reemployment): Find your local office via [Alaska Job Center Network] or log in to [AlaskaJobs] to track applications and meet work‑search rules. Toll‑free: 1-877-724-2539. (jobs.alaska.gov)
• Legal help if benefits delayed/denied: Apply with [Alaska Legal Services Corporation] or use [AlaskaLawHelp.org] to request a Fair Hearing for SNAP/Medicaid; for disability or DVR issues, contact the [Disability Law Center of Alaska]. (alaskabar.org)

How To Claim Alaska Unemployment Insurance Fast

Start now—your claim’s “effective date” is the Sunday of the week you apply. File online through [myAlaska’s Unemployment Insurance Benefits] and, within 7 days, register your resume at [AlaskaJobs] or your first payment can be delayed. Call a UI Claim Center if the website locks or you’ve never filed before; hours are typically 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. AKT, Monday–Friday. (labor.alaska.gov)

The maximum weekly benefit is $370(minimum$56) for 16–26 weeks, with an extra $24 per week per child for up to three dependents; add dependents by calling a UI Claim Center before you exhaust benefits. Post your weekly claims on time, report earnings in the week earned, and expect a “waiting week” with no pay that still requires filing. (labor.alaska.gov)

You must complete weekly work searches—two contacts if you live within 55 road miles of a job center (one if you’re more remote)—and keep a log. Keep proof: date, employer, method, and employer contact. Post your resume in [AlaskaJobs] and update it if it goes inactive. (labor.alaska.gov)

Documents You’ll Need

Bring your Social Security number, last employer information, last day worked, gross earnings for the final week, and details on severance or vacation pay. If you worked for the federal government, fax SF‑8/SF‑50 as instructed; if you worked in another state, ask about combining wages. Use [UI FAQ] for a complete list and how to fax forms safely. (labor.alaska.gov)

Typical Timeline and Payments

Plan on 2–3 weeks to first payment if your claim is clean. Keep filing weekly; late weeks can be disqualified. If Alaska’s economy triggers Extended Benefits (EB), you might receive up to 50% more weeks during high unemployment, but EB turns on and off based on statewide rates. Watch your UI messages and check the [State Extended Benefits] page during winter and summer. (labor.alaska.gov)

Reality Check — Common UI Delays

• Work search audit: If your log is thin or employer info is incomplete, payments pause while staff verify. Use the official [work search log] PDF and over‑document. (labor.alaska.gov)
• Resume not posted: If your [AlaskaJobs] resume lapses, your week can be denied—log in weekly to check the “My Resumes” date. (labor.alaska.gov)
• Phones jammed: If you can’t get through, email via the contact form and keep screenshots; try the underserved‑broadband toll‑free number: 1-888-252-2557. Use [UI Call Centers] for lines and VICTOR phone filing. (labor.alaska.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Call the UI Claim Center during posted hours and ask for a callback window; if you suspect a decision error, request a written determination and appeal instructions through [Unemployment Insurance].
• Ask a Job Center staffer for help filing and scanning documents—find yours via the [Alaska Job Center Network].
• If you get a denial, talk to [Alaska Legal Services Corporation] about appeal steps and deadlines; for language access or disability accommodations, ask UI for interpreter services or contact the [Disability Law Center of Alaska]. (jobs.alaska.gov)

Temporary Cash While You Job Hunt (ATAP/TANF)

If UI doesn’t cover your household or you’ve been out of work a while, apply for the Alaska Temporary Assistance Program (ATAP) for families with dependent children. Apply by phone through the DPA Virtual Contact Center at 1-800-478-7778 or upload your application via [Alaska Connect]; read rules and income guidelines at [Alaska Temporary Assistance] before you apply. (health.alaska.gov)

ATAP is job‑focused and requires a Family Self‑Sufficiency Plan with work activities; amounts depend on household size, income, and shelter costs, and benefits may be reduced for very low shelter costs. Families must cooperate with the [Child Support Services Division] for paternity and support, which can boost your monthly budget via withholdings and [direct deposit or ReliaCard]. (health.alaska.gov)

Plan B if ATAP stalls

• Ask DPA about interim help through [General Relief Assistance] (GRA) for urgent rent, utilities, food, or burial when no other aid fits; limits are tight (e.g., resources under $500), but it fills gaps.
• If tribal‑eligible, check Tribal TANF or BIA General Assistance through your tribal organization—examples include [Tlingit & Haida TANF] in Southeast and [ASNA BIA General Assistance] on the North Slope.
• If your application is delayed or denied, request a DPA Fair Hearing via [AlaskaLawHelp.org] and consider legal help from [Alaska Legal Services Corporation]. (health.alaska.gov)

Food & Nutrition While Unemployed

Apply for SNAP right away; 2025 benefits adjust each October. Use the online SNAP application through [DPA’s SNAP page], ask for expedited processing if your cash and income are very low, and upload pay stubs and ID using [Alaska Connect]. For one‑month budgets, note that Alaska has higher allotments—maximums vary by region, and rural areas can be significantly higher than urban. (health.alaska.gov)

For FY 2025 (Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025), the USDA raised SNAP maximums; for a family of four, Alaska maximums range from $1,258upto$1,953 depending on the area, with updated deductions and asset limits for many households. Always confirm current amounts on the federal [SNAP FY 2025 COLA] memo and the CRS table showing Alaska’s tiers. (fns.usda.gov)

Where to get food today

Use [Food Bank of Alaska’s Find Help] for a pantry or hot meal; in Fairbanks call [Fairbanks Community Food Bank] (1-907-457-4273), and in Juneau check [Southeast Alaska Food Bank] for Thursday public pantry hours. If you’re in Kenai/Soldotna, the [Kenai Peninsula Food Bank] operates direct service windows and a weekday meal (“Fireweed Diner”). (foodbankofalaska.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask Food Bank of Alaska’s SNAP team for application help (call 1-907-222-3119 or text “SNAP” to 1-907-891-8931), or call the DPA VCC at 1-800-478-7778; use [DPA’s Division page] to find the Secure Upload link.
• If DPA misses SNAP deadlines or you filed on time and still have no benefits, request a Fair Hearing via [AlaskaLawHelp.org] and consider legal help through [Alaska Legal Services Corporation]. (foodbankofalaska.org)

How To Stop Utility Shutoff in Alaska Today

Call your utility first to set a short‑term plan—Chugach Electric (1-907-563-7366) offers autopay and budget billing in “My Account,” and Matanuska Electric Association takes payments by phone at 1-844-964-1629; both can confirm current balances. Then file the [Heating Assistance Program] (HAP) application and choose “Crisis Assistance” for urgent shutoff/fuel crises—applications accept email, fax, drop‑off, or mail. (chugachelectric.com)

For water bills in Anchorage, set arrangements or pay at [Anchorage Water & Wastewater Utility] online or via the 24‑hour IVR at 1-907-564-2700; customer service hours are posted, and holiday closures can affect counter service. In Fairbanks, contact [Golden Heart Utilities/Utility Services of Alaska] at 1-907-479-3118 to discuss past‑due bills or emergencies. (awwu.biz)

If you live in eligible rural communities, the Power Cost Equalization (PCE) program lowers the per‑kWh price for basic household use through the [Alaska Energy Authority]; check with your electric utility about PCE credits on your bill. For fuel deliveries, your HAP benefit is paid to the vendor (credit on your account), and processing can take up to 45 days unless expedited—keep paying something during review to prevent a shutoff. (akenergyauthority.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Call HAP’s hotline at 1-800-470-3058 and ask for emergency processing; use the IVR to check status (1-888-804-6330 statewide). See [HAP FAQ] for the exact steps and codes used in the phone system.
• Ask your tribe about energy aid and vendor credits, and call [Alaska 211] to locate local crisis funds; if a shutoff still happens, prioritize reconnection with proof of your pending HAP case. (health.alaska.gov)

Keep Health Coverage During Unemployment

If you lost employer insurance, check Alaska Medicaid right away. The fastest path for income‑based groups (adults 19–64, parents/caregivers, children, pregnant people) is to apply through [HealthCare.gov], then use [Apply for Medicaid (Alaska DOH)] if you need help or want to upload documents through Alaska Connect. Denali KidCare covers kids and pregnant people—confirm current income standards on [Denali KidCare’s page] and call 1-800-478-7778 if you need an urgent appointment flagged. (health.alaska.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If your Medicaid is delayed, ask DPA to prioritize due to pregnancy or urgent care, and call the Medicaid helpline at 1-800-770-5650 for coverage/billing questions; see the [DPA Services page] for contact options.
• If you receive a denial you think is wrong, request a Fair Hearing and contact [Alaska Legal Services Corporation] for help with appeals. (health.alaska.gov)

Child Care You Can Afford While Job Searching or Training

Apply for the Child Care Assistance Program run by Alaska’s Child Care Program Office (CCPO). PASS categories help different situations: PASS I (while on ATAP), PASS II (transitioning off ATAP), and PASS III (you’ve never had ATAP). Use the application at [Child Care Assistance Program], and find licensed providers via the [AKCCIS/ICCIS portal]; providers (including relative or tribal) can get approved to accept payments through the [Become a Provider] page. (health.alaska.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask your ATAP case manager to connect child care approval to your work plan; if you’re not on ATAP, submit the CC08 form and call the regional Child Care Assistance office listed on [CCAP’s page].
• If you cannot find a licensed slot, ask about legally exempt care; if you’re in OCS protective services, use PASS IV with your caseworker as directed on [CCAP’s site]. (health.alaska.gov)

Fast Reemployment, Training, and Career Moves

Register and search daily on [AlaskaJobs], the state’s job system; then visit your nearest [Alaska Job Center] for resume fixes, mock interviews, RESEA workshops, and WIOA training referrals. If you are selected for Reemployment Services, finishing the steps protects your UI benefits. (jobs.state.ak.us)

If you want trades or targeted credentials, the Alaska Vocational Technical Center (AVTEC) in Seward offers 19‑week and 38‑week programs with posted 2025‑26 tuition and fees; see current costs by program on [AVTEC Training Costs] and apply early. Ask about federal Pell Grants and Alaska loans or grants through the [Alaska Commission on Postsecondary Education]; AVTEC’s financial aid office can help you complete FAFSA. (avtec.edu)

Reality Check — Paying for Training

• AVTEC requires payment or a funding letter 30 days before training; use [AVTEC Financial Aid] and request written billing authorizations from funding sources.
• The Alaska Education Grant or ACPE loans may help, but loan payments start after grace periods—budget for that date; read the latest [ACPE financial aid] updates before you borrow. (avtec.edu)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask your Job Center about short courses, on‑the‑job training, or apprenticeships that pay while learning; keep your [AlaskaJobs] resume current to show up in employer searches.
• If you have a disability, contact [Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR)] for counseling, training, and job supports; if you hit barriers with DVR, the [Client Assistance Program (CAP)] at the Disability Law Center can step in. (labor.alaska.gov)

Transportation and Work Gear

In Anchorage, youth 18 and under ride People Mover free; adults can still use $2 cash fares and monthly passes—check city updates before commuting to interviews. In Juneau, [Capital Transit] added a mobile payment option and fare‑capping in 2025; see fares and the Token Transit app on their site. Fairbanks MACS routes continue with posted reduced fares for certain riders; confirm current prices with the borough. (adn.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask your Job Center about bus tokens or interview clothing vouchers; some nonprofits can help with boots, tools, or uniforms.
• Call [Alaska 2‑1‑1] for ride vouchers, volunteer driver programs, or faith‑based gear closets near you. (alaska211.org)

Phone and Internet On A Tight Budget

The federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended in 2024 due to lack of funding. Ask your provider about their own low‑cost plans, and check the federal [Lifeline] discount for phone/internet; get help through the [USAC Lifeline Support Center] at 1-800-234-9473. Expect to recertify yearly and keep only one Lifeline benefit per household. (fcc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• If your carrier can’t resolve Lifeline issues, file a complaint with the FCC and contact USAC for assistance; start at the [Lifeline “Get Help” page].
• For library internet/workspaces, ask your [local Job Center] about resume computers and printing if the library is far. (lifelinesupport.org)

Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups

• Anchorage: [Clare House] (women with children, 24/7), [Covenant House Alaska] (youth 13–24, 24/7), and [Food Bank of Alaska] (statewide referrals) connect to beds, food, and stabilization. For HIV/health supports, [Alaskan AIDS Assistance Association] lists help lines and services in Anchorage and Juneau. (cssalaska.org)
• Fairbanks: [Fairbanks Community Food Bank] (call 45‑SHARE) and emergency food box directions help same‑day; check [Golden Heart Utilities] for water payment options. (fairbanksfoodbank.org)
• Juneau/Southeast: [Southeast Alaska Food Bank] posts public pantry hours, and [Capital Transit] updates routes and fares online. For refugee/immigrant help, [Alaska Institute for Justice] has a Juneau office. (sealaskafoodbank.org)

Diverse Communities: Targeted Help and Contacts

LGBTQ+ single mothers: [Identity Alaska’s Community Center and Clinic] lists groups and health services in Anchorage, and [Choosing Our Roots] supports LGBTQ+ youth and young adults with housing navigation and host homes in Anchorage and Mat‑Su. Use [Pride Foundation’s Alaska page] to locate funded local partners that may have supportive services or stipends. Ask Alaska 2‑1‑1 about safe‑space shelters if you face discrimination. (identityalaska.org)

Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Contact [Division of Vocational Rehabilitation] for job supports and accommodations, and use [Disability Law Center of Alaska] for Medicaid appeals, DVR issues (CAP), or discrimination. Ask DPA for large‑print or interpreter support; the state offers no‑cost language services through the VCC. (labor.alaska.gov)

Veteran single mothers: For health and mental health, call the [VA Alaska Health Care System] at 1-888-353-7574; Women Veterans care is available, and Vet Centers in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Wasilla, Juneau, and Kenai provide counseling. The Alaska Office of Veterans Affairs lists clinic numbers and contacts at [Veterans Alaska – Clinics]. If you’re homeless or at risk, ask the VA for the Homeless Care Team and call 988 (press 1) for crisis help. (va.gov)

Immigrant/refugee single moms: [Refugee Assistance & Immigration Services (RAIS)] helps with employment and resettlement, and [Alaska Institute for Justice] provides immigration legal services statewide with multilingual interpreter support. If language is a barrier with benefits, the DPA VCC connects to free interpreters; ask when calling [DPA Services]. (cssalaska.org)

Tribal‑specific resources: If you’re Alaska Native/American Indian, ask about [Tribal TANF] or BIA General Assistance through your tribe, such as [Tlingit & Haida TANF] (Southeast) or [ASNA BIA GA] (North Slope). For job supports with a cultural lens, ask your tribe about vocational programs or Tribal VR. (acf.hhs.gov)

Rural single moms: Phone lines can be busy; use [Alaska 2‑1‑1] for call‑back support and ask about fee agents for DPA paperwork if the nearest office is far. Ask your local utility about PCE credits and request “Crisis” handling on [HAP] if sweep days or weather risks are immediate. (alaska211.org)

Single fathers: All the programs here apply; child support and custody questions go through the [Child Support Services Division], and fathers can apply for ATAP if eligible. Job Center staff can assist with resumes and training via [Alaska Job Centers]. (childsupport.alaska.gov)

Language access: Tell staff your preferred language when you call DPA’s VCC so they can add a free interpreter; for court or immigration, the [Language Interpreter Center at AIJ] provides trained interpreters statewide. For TTY/Relay, dial 7‑1‑1 on state lines, and check the [DPA Services] page for accessibility notes. (akijp.org)

Resources by Region (Quick Contacts)

• Anchorage & Eagle River: File UI online at [Unemployment Insurance]; for food, search [Food Bank of Alaska]; shelters include [Clare House] and [Covenant House Alaska]. Water billing questions go to [AWWU] at 1-907-564-2700. (labor.alaska.gov)
• Mat‑Su (Wasilla/Palmer): Job help at the [Mat‑Su Job Center]; electricity from MEA (pay by phone); use [Alaska 2‑1‑1] for local rent/utility resources. (jobs.alaska.gov)
• Fairbanks/North Pole: Job help at [Fairbanks Job Center]; food via [Fairbanks Community Food Bank]; water/sewer billing through [Golden Heart Utilities]. (jobs.alaska.gov)
• Juneau & Southeast: Job help at [Juneau Job Center]; transit passes in [Capital Transit] app; food at [Southeast Alaska Food Bank]. (jobs.alaska.gov)
• Kenai Peninsula (Kenai/Soldotna/Homer): Job help at [Kenai Peninsula Job Center]; food through [Kenai Peninsula Food Bank]; ask city utilities about arrangements if behind. (jobs.alaska.gov)
• Bethel/Y‑K Delta: Job help at [YK Delta Job Center]; call [Alaska 2‑1‑1] to locate AVCP or village programs; ask your utility about PCE and [HAP] Crisis. (jobs.alaska.gov)
• Nome & Bering Strait: Job help at [Nome Job Center]; check Nome Coordinated Entry list and [Alaska 2‑1‑1] for fuel/food; confirm PCE with your co‑op. (jobs.alaska.gov)
• North Slope: Ask about ASNA services and [ASNA BIA General Assistance]; confirm PCE with your utility and file [HAP] early due to weather delays. (arcticslope.org)

UI, Food, Utility, Child Care — Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Money Timeline — What Usually Pays Out First

Food Programs at a Glance

Utility & Energy Help Snapshot

Child Care & School‑Age Support Summary

Job Training & Reemployment

Common Mistakes To Avoid

• Missing work‑search logs: Always enter two valid contacts (or one if over 55 miles from a center) with employer details, and keep screenshots; use [the state’s log]. (labor.alaska.gov)
• Not posting your resume in AlaskaJobs: Claims get denied for inactive or missing resumes—log in weekly to verify the “active” date on [AlaskaJobs]. (labor.alaska.gov)
• Waiting to apply: The UI “effective date” starts the week you file—apply at [UI Benefits] right away even if a new job is “maybe.” (labor.alaska.gov)
• Sending partial HAP packets: Sign all pages, include recent bills, proof of last month’s income, and IDs—see [HAP FAQ] for the checklist and IVR status steps. (health.alaska.gov)
• Using old SNAP amounts: 2025 maximums changed; confirm with [USDA SNAP FY 2025 COLA] and [AK SNAP page] before budgeting. (fns.usda.gov)

Application Checklist (Print/Screenshot Friendly)

[ ] UI: myAlaska login; last employer info; last day worked; last‑week gross pay; direct deposit info; resume posted on [AlaskaJobs]. (labor.alaska.gov)
[ ] SNAP: IDs, SSNs, residency, rent/utility bills, last 30 days of income; upload via [Alaska Connect] or [Secure Upload]. (health.alaska.gov)
[ ] Medicaid/Denali KidCare: Apply at [HealthCare.gov]; upload proof of income and pregnancy/children’s ages on [Apply for Medicaid]. (health.alaska.gov)
[ ] HAP (LIHEAP): Copy of heating and electric bills, proof of income from the prior month, SSN/ID; submit by email/fax/drop; track via IVR. Use [HAP page] and [HAP FAQ]. (health.alaska.gov)
[ ] Child Care Assistance: Completed CC08; employment/training schedule; provider info from [AKCCIS]. (health.alaska.gov)
[ ] Backups: Photos of documents saved to your phone; keep confirmation pages and submission dates.

Troubleshooting: If Your Application Gets Denied

• Unemployment Insurance: Ask for the written determination; appeal by the deadline listed; request your file and prepare your work‑search log. Use [UI FAQ] and ask a [Job Center] coach to review your appeal points. (labor.alaska.gov)
• SNAP/Medicaid/ATAP/HAP: File a Fair Hearing request in writing; keep copies and certified mail receipts. Use [AlaskaLawHelp.org] for steps and call [Alaska Legal Services Corporation] for representation if eligible. (alaskalawhelp.org)
• DVR services: If you’re stuck on a waitlist or feel misserved, contact the [Client Assistance Program (CAP)] at the Disability Law Center to mediate. (dlcak.org)

Real‑World Examples (How Moms Solve Gaps)

• UI pending + shutoff notice: Mom in Wasilla sets a 2‑week payment plan with MEA by calling the pay‑by‑phone line, files HAP “Crisis,” and sends proof of her shutoff notice; HAP credits vendor within a week while UI clears the waiting week. Use [MEA pay by phone] and the [HAP page]. (mea.coop)
• Rural fuel run‑out: Bethel mom requests HAP “Crisis,” asks her fuel vendor to note the case number, and calls [Alaska 2‑1‑1] to locate a small local fund to bridge the delivery. (alaska211.org)
• Child care barrier to job start: Anchorage mom submits CC08 for [Child Care Assistance], picks a licensed provider from [AKCCIS], and asks her ATAP worker to link PASS I support to her job start date. (health.alaska.gov)
• SNAP delay: Fairbanks mom requests a Fair Hearing using [AlaskaLawHelp.org] templates, gets help from [Alaska Legal Services Corporation], and receives retroactive issuance after DPA corrects the case. (alaskalawhelp.org)

County/Borough Variations That Matter

Alaska doesn’t use counties like many states, but borough and community differences affect benefits:

• SNAP: Rural Alaska maximums are higher than urban to reflect food costs—budget using the updated [FY 2025 SNAP COLA] tables and ask DPA which area you’re in. (fns.usda.gov)
• Power costs: Rural communities eligible for PCE see lower electric rates up to a usage cap—ask your provider and see the [Alaska Energy Authority] PCE overview.
• Housing waitlists: AHFC openings vary by community and change often—check [AHFC Waiting List Status] for what’s open in Anchorage, Juneau, Bethel, and more.

FAQs (Alaska‑Specific, Longer Answers)

1. How much can I get from Alaska UI, and how long does it last?
   Alaska’s maximum weekly UI is $370(minimum$56) for 16–26 weeks, plus $24/week per dependent (up to three). Your benefit year starts the Sunday of the week you apply. Keep filing weekly even during the waiting week. See [UI General Info] and [UI Handbook] for details.
2. What are the weekly UI work‑search rules if I don’t have a car?
   You must report two work searches each week if you live within 55 road miles of a Job Center (one if more remote). Online applications count if they reach a real hiring contact. Log them using the state’s [work search guide] and post your resume in [AlaskaJobs] within 7 days.
3. What if I got fired or quit—can I still get UI?
   It depends on why; report the facts. UI will make a non‑monetary determination. You may face disqualification weeks for quitting without good cause or for misconduct, but always file so the state can decide. See [UI Handbook] sections on separations.
4. How long does HAP take, and can it stop a shutoff?
   Non‑crisis HAP can take up to 45 days. “Crisis” is accepted year‑round for imminent shutoff/low fuel and moves faster if you submit proof. Ask your vendor to note your case number. See [HAP FAQ] and the [HAP page].
5. Did SNAP amounts change this year?
   Yes. As of Oct 1, 2024, maximums increased for FY 2025, with Alaska having higher amounts—rural areas higher than urban. Confirm with [USDA SNAP FY 2025 COLA] and the state [SNAP page].
6. Can I get low‑cost internet while unemployed?
   ACP ended in 2024, but some providers have internal discounts; check [Lifeline] and contact the [USAC Lifeline Support Center] for enrollment or questions at 1-800-234-9473.
7. How do I find a job fast in my region?
   Register in [AlaskaJobs], set daily alerts, and ask your [local Job Center] for RESEA workshops and employer recruitments. If you need a short certificate, check [AVTEC] programs that start soon.
8. What if I have a disability and need job supports?
   Apply with [DVR] for counseling, training, and accommodations; if you have trouble getting services, contact the [CAP program] at the Disability Law Center to help resolve issues.
9. Who helps immigrants and refugees with jobs and paperwork?
   Contact [RAIS] for employment services and [Alaska Institute for Justice] for immigration legal help; the [Language Interpreter Center] supports agencies and families that need interpreters.
10. Where can I get legal help if DPA or UI denies me?
    Start at [AlaskaLawHelp.org] for self‑help and Fair Hearing instructions, then apply to [Alaska Legal Services Corporation]; for DVR issues, contact the [Disability Law Center (CAP)].

Spanish Summary / Resumen en Español

Esta es una guía rápida para madres solteras en Alaska que perdieron su empleo.

• Presente su reclamo de desempleo por [myAlaska – Beneficios de Desempleo] y registre su currículum en [AlaskaJobs] dentro de 7 días.
• Para evitar cortes de servicios, solicite [HAP/LIHEAP] (opción de “Crisis”) y acuerde un plan de pago con su empresa de servicios públicos.
• Para comida inmediata, use [Food Bank of Alaska – Find Help] y para SNAP solicite ayuda llamando al 1‑907‑222‑3119.
• Para Medicaid/Denali KidCare, aplique por [HealthCare.gov] y la página estatal [Medicaid Alaska].
• Para cuidado infantil, presente la solicitud de [Child Care Assistance] y busque proveedores en [AKCCIS].

Nota: esta traducción fue producida con herramientas de IA y revisada por humanos cuando fue posible. Consulte siempre los sitios oficiales para confirmar reglas, montos y plazos actualizados.

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

• [Alaska Department of Labor & Workforce Development – Unemployment Insurance]
• [Alaska Department of Health – Division of Public Assistance (SNAP, ATAP, Medicaid, HAP, CCAP)]
• [USDA Food and Nutrition Service – SNAP FY 2025 COLA]
• [Alaska Job Center Network (AlaskaJobs and offices)]
• [Alaska Housing Finance Corporation – Waiting List Status]
• [Alaska Energy Authority – Power Cost Equalization]
• [IRS Free File and IRS announcements]
• [Disability Law Center of Alaska / Client Assistance Program]

Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.
Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur – email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

Disclaimer

This guide is informational and not legal advice. Program rules and funding change. Always confirm eligibility, benefit amounts, and deadlines with the official agency or your caseworker before making decisions. If you have a hearing notice or denial, act before the deadline and consider speaking with [Alaska Legal Services Corporation] or using [AlaskaLawHelp.org].

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Source Notes (selected)

• UI benefit amounts, dependent allowance, work search, call centers: [UI General Info], [UI Handbook], [UI Work Search], and [UI Call Centers].
• SNAP FY 2025 amounts/income rules: [USDA SNAP FY 2025 COLA] and CRS table (FY25).
• Heating Assistance (HAP) rules, crisis option, timelines: [HAP (DOH)] and [HAP FAQ].
• AHFC waitlists: [AHFC Waiting List Status] and Anchorage HCV opening (Mar/Apr 2025).
• Job Centers/AlaskaJobs: [AJCN Offices] and [AlaskaJobs] portals.
• AVTEC costs/aid: [AVTEC Training Costs] and [AVTEC Financial Aid].
• Medicaid/Denali KidCare application paths: [Apply for Medicaid] and [Denali KidCare].
• People Mover youth‑free fares; Capital Transit fares/app: [Anchorage Daily News People Mover story] and [Capital Transit Fares].
• PCE overview: [Alaska Energy Authority].
• Lifeline/ACP status: [FCC ACP wind‑down/close] and [USAC Lifeline Support].

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Tip: Always screenshot your confirmations from portals like [Alaska Connect], [AlaskaJobs], and [myAlaska UI]. If phones are jammed, keep dialing, try during off‑peak hours, and ask for interpreter or disability accommodations explicitly.

🏛️More Alaska Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Alaska

• 📋 Assistance Programs
• 💰 Benefits and Grants
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Child Support
• 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
• ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
• 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
• 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
• 🎓 Education Grants
• 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
• 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
• 🔧 Job Training
• ⚖️ Legal Help
• 🧠 Mental Health Resources
• 🚗 Transportation Assistance
• ⚡ Utility Assistance
• 🥛 WIC Benefits
• 🏦 TANF Assistance
• 🏠 Housing Assistance
• 👶 Childcare Assistance
• 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
• 🚨 Emergency Assistance
• 🤝 Community Support
• 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
• 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
• 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
• 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
• 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
• 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
• 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
• 👩‍💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
• 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
• 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
• 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery