TANF Assistance for Single Mothers in Alaska
TANF in Alaska (ATAP): A No‑BS Guide for Single Mothers
Last updated: August 2025
This guide focuses on Alaska’s TANF program, officially called Alaska Temporary Assistance Program (ATAP). It gives you clear steps, real timelines, and official links so you can apply fast and avoid common mistakes. Where dollar amounts vary by region or change often, we point you to the exact state charts or calculators so you can get the current numbers today—without guesswork.
Quick Help (Fast Actions You Can Take Now)
- Apply online for ATAP through the State of Alaska ARIES portal: Apply for benefits on the ARIES Participant Portal — secure, works with a free myAlaska account (official).
- If you prefer help by phone, call the Alaska Division of Public Assistance (DPA) Virtual Contact Center: 800-478-7778 (statewide) or use Alaska Relay 711 if you are deaf or hard of hearing (official).
- Find your nearest DPA office and drop off or pick up forms: Find a DPA office and contact information (official home page with program and contact links).
- If you are Alaska Native or American Indian, you may qualify for a Tribal TANF program. Start with HHS’s official directory: Tribal TANF programs and contacts (official).
- Need food now? Apply for SNAP at the same time: SNAP in Alaska — official program information (USDA page with Alaska links), or call 800-478-7778 (DPA).
- Not sure where to start? Call Alaska 2‑1‑1 for live referrals: 2-1-1 or 800-478-2221; or visit Alaska 2‑1‑1 (United Way).
ATAP at a Glance (What It Is, Who It Helps)
ATAP is Alaska’s version of TANF. It provides time-limited cash assistance plus work services to low-income families with at least one minor child (or a pregnant person in the last trimester). ATAP is run by the Alaska Department of Health, Division of Public Assistance (DPA) under Alaska statutes (AS 47.27) and federal TANF rules.
Key takeaways:
- ATAP is cash help plus required work activities. Benefit levels vary by family size and your community’s cost-of-living region (Urban, Rural I, Rural II). For exact amounts, use the state’s current payment standards or call DPA.
- The federal lifetime limit is generally 60 months on TANF-funded assistance. Some hardship exceptions can apply. See “Time Limits” below.
- You can and should apply for SNAP, Medicaid, WIC, and child care assistance at the same time if you qualify.
Official references:
- Alaska DPA programs: Alaska Department of Health – Division of Public Assistance (official)
- TANF program basics (federal): HHS Office of Family Assistance – TANF (official)
- Alaska statutes governing Temporary Assistance: AS 47.27 – Alaska Temporary Assistance Program (official)
ATAP “At‑A‑Glance” Table
| Topic | What to know | Where to verify |
|---|---|---|
| Name | Alaska Temporary Assistance Program (ATAP) | Alaska DPA – Programs |
| Who it helps | Low-income families with a minor child or a pregnant person (late pregnancy) | AS 47.27 – Statutes |
| What you get | Monthly cash assistance + work services | DPA – Programs |
| Time limit | Generally 60 months lifetime, with limited exceptions | HHS TANF Overview |
| How to apply | Online via ARIES, by phone, mail/fax, or in person | ARIES Portal |
| Contact | DPA Virtual Contact Center: 800-478-7778 | DPA – Contacts/Offices |
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If the website is down, call 800-478-7778. Ask for help submitting an application date immediately and a mailed or emailed form.
- If you can’t get through by phone, visit your closest DPA office during business hours. Use the DPA program page to locate office options.
Who Qualifies for ATAP (Eligibility Rules)
Most important action: Confirm you meet the core rules, then apply even if you’re unsure. DPA must give you a written decision you can appeal.
Core eligibility (summarized):
- You live in Alaska and plan to remain here.
- You are pregnant (late pregnancy) or caring for a child under age 18 (or 19 if in school, depending on policy).
- You have low income and limited resources under ATAP rules (Alaska uses “need standards” and region-based payment standards).
- You agree to work participation requirements unless you have an exemption (see Work Requirements).
- You cooperate with child support unless you have good cause, including domestic violence concerns (see Child Support Cooperation).
- You meet citizenship/immigration rules for TANF-funded assistance (some noncitizen statuses qualify).
Where to verify:
- Program overview and current rules: Alaska DPA – Programs (official)
- TANF federal framework: HHS TANF Overview (official)
Reality check:
- Alaska uses cost-of-living regions (Urban, Rural I, Rural II). The income test and the monthly payment standard depend on your region and household size. Don’t assume amounts from another part of the state match your town.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you think you’re just over income, still apply. Some income is excluded, and child care or work costs can change your net.
- If ATAP is denied, ask about Tribal TANF if you are Alaska Native/American Indian: Tribal TANF directory (HHS).
- Ask DPA about other cash options like General Relief Assistance (GRA) for emergencies. Start at 800-478-7778.
How Much Cash Help You Can Get (Grant Amounts)
Most important action: Use the state’s current payment standards for your region and family size. Do not rely on old charts.
Alaska sets ATAP grant levels by:
- Family size
- Community cost-of-living region (Urban, Rural I, Rural II)
- Countable income (after exclusions)
Where to get the current numbers (official):
- State program hub (links to ATAP pages/charts): Alaska DPA – Programs
- Call for current payment standard and your estimated benefit for your region: 800-478-7778 (DPA)
Why we aren’t posting a flat number here:
- ATAP amounts change and differ sharply by region. Publishing a single figure creates bad decisions (like moving or quitting a job based on wrong numbers). Use the official charts for accurate, region-specific amounts this month.
Real‑world example:
- A single mom with two kids in an Urban region (e.g., Anchorage) will have a different maximum payment than a similar family in Rural II. If she has part‑time wages, DPA will apply income exclusions and then subtract countable income from the region’s payment standard to set the final grant. Call 800-478-7778 and ask for an estimate for your exact town.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you can’t reach DPA, submit your application first to lock in your application date, then follow up for the benefit estimate.
- If you need help right away for rent or utilities, also apply to AHFC and LIHEAP programs listed below while ATAP is still pending.
How to Apply (Step‑by‑Step)
Most important action: Submit an application as soon as possible—your benefits, if approved, are backdated to your application date.
- Apply online: ARIES Participant Portal (official application). You need a free myAlaska account.
- Apply by phone: Call DPA Virtual Contact Center at 800-478-7778 to ask for help completing an application and to get your “application date” recorded.
- Apply in person or by drop‑off/mail/fax: Find your closest office via Alaska DPA – Programs and Contacts. Ask for the Temporary Assistance (ATAP) application and where to return it.
- Language access and disability accommodations: Tell DPA you need an interpreter, translated forms, or reasonable accommodation. You can use Alaska Relay 711.
- Keep proof: If you hand‑deliver, ask for a date‑stamped copy. If you fax or mail, keep the fax confirmation or certified mail receipt.
Expected timeline:
- Interviews are usually scheduled within a few days to a couple of weeks after you apply.
- Eligibility decisions for ATAP typically take up to about 30 days from your application date, depending on workload and how fast documents are provided. If you have an emergency, ask about expedited help while your case is pending.
Where to verify:
- Application portal (official): ARIES Participant Portal
- Program hub and contacts: Alaska DPA – Programs
Documents Checklist (Bring what you can. Don’t delay applying.)
| Document | Examples |
|---|---|
| ID | Driver’s license, state ID, tribal ID, passport |
| Social Security numbers | For you and kids (if available); if not, DPA can help you apply |
| Proof you live in Alaska | Lease, utility bill, mail, tribal letter |
| Proof of income | Pay stubs, employer letter, unemployment, child support receipts |
| Bank/asset info | Recent statements; vehicle info if requested |
| Housing costs | Lease, mortgage, rent receipt, landlord letter |
| Childcare costs | Bills/receipts, provider info |
| Medical/pregnancy | Doctor’s note verifying pregnancy and due date |
| Child info | Birth certificates, school enrollment (if applicable) |
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you’re missing papers, submit the application anyway. Ask for help getting documents.
- If you can’t get something (like an employer letter), tell DPA in writing. They must help you verify or use other proof.
Work Requirements (What Counts and How Many Hours)
Most important action: At your ATAP orientation, ask for your written work plan and keep a copy. Make sure you understand your required hours and which activities count.
Typical TANF work rules (federal framework, Alaska follows similar standards):
- Most single parents must complete around 30 hours/week of approved activities.
- If your youngest child is under 6, the required hours are often 20 hours/week.
- Approved activities can include job search, unsubsidized employment, subsidized employment, work experience, community service, vocational training, and (in certain cases) education tied to employment goals.
Important Alaska notes:
- Alaska uses a “work‑first” approach—expect to engage in job search and related activities quickly.
- Good cause exceptions exist (e.g., domestic violence, lack of child care, illness). Bring proof and request a written good cause decision.
Where to verify:
- TANF work participation basics (federal): HHS TANF Overview (official)
- For your personal plan/hours, rely on your DPA caseworker and written plan—keep copies.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If activities don’t fit your situation (night shifts, limited childcare, rural distance), ask for a case review to adjust your plan.
- If you get a sanction notice, request a “conciliation” or reconsideration immediately and provide proof for good cause.
Child Care While You Work or Train
Most important action: Apply for child care assistance as soon as you get assigned work activities. Do not wait—slots and approvals can take time.
- Alaska’s Child Care Assistance is run by the Child Care Program Office (CCPO). Copays depend on income and region.
- Apply around the same time you apply for ATAP so your work plan is realistic.
- Ask your caseworker to connect you with CCPO or a local contractor who pays providers and sets your copay.
Where to verify and apply:
- Child care assistance in Alaska (official program hub): Alaska DPA – Programs (look for Child Care/CCPO)
- Or call DPA at 800-478-7778 and ask to be connected to child care assistance for your area.
Reality check:
- In many Alaska communities, licensed child care spots are limited. You may need to consider relatives or approved license‑exempt providers. Ask which providers can be paid under the program.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you cannot find child care, report this in writing and ask for good cause or a different work activity schedule.
- Ask about education or training options you can do while caring for your child at home, if allowed by your plan.
Time Limits (The TANF “Clock”)
Most important action: Track your TANF months. Ask your caseworker for your current count in writing.
- TANF has a federal lifetime limit of 60 months for most families.
- Some months may not count (e.g., fully state‑funded months or certain hardship waivers).
- Extensions can be possible for hardship or domestic violence—ask early, and provide proof.
Where to verify:
- Federal TANF basics: HHS TANF Overview (official)
- Alaska statutes (ATAP framework): AS 47.27 (official)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you’re close to hitting 60 months, ask your worker about hardship criteria, possible exemptions, or Tribal TANF options (if AI/AN): Tribal TANF directory.
Child Support Cooperation and Good Cause
Most important action: Tell your caseworker if cooperating with child support would put you or your children at risk. Domestic violence is “good cause” to not pursue support.
- In general, TANF requires cooperation with child support to establish paternity and collect support.
- Good cause exceptions exist (domestic violence, safety risks, or other specific reasons). You must request it and provide any proof you have.
- Alaska’s child support agency can help locate the other parent and set orders.
Where to verify:
- Alaska Child Support Services Division (CSSD): Child Support Services – State of Alaska (official)
- Domestic violence help and legal guidance: Alaska Network on Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault (established statewide nonprofit), or the National DV Hotline 800-799-7233 (24/7).
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you get sanctioned for non‑cooperation but you have safety concerns, immediately request good cause in writing and contact a DV advocate for help documenting risk.
Keeping Benefits: Reporting, Interviews, Recertification
Most important action: Open and read your DPA mail right away. Deadlines are strict.
- Reporting changes: If your income, household members, address, or child care changes, tell DPA quickly (deadlines are strict; ask your worker for your exact reporting window in writing).
- Interviews and periodic reviews: Expect scheduled check‑ins and a recertification after a set period. Attend or reschedule ahead of time to avoid closure.
- Keep records: Save pay stubs, child care bills, and any proof you send DPA.
Where to verify:
- Your DPA case notices will list exact due dates and what is needed. Call 800-478-7778 with questions.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you miss a deadline, turn in the item ASAP and ask for your case to be reopened or your benefits restored if allowed.
Sanctions, Appeals, and Your Rights
Most important action: If you get a sanction or denial notice, read it and appeal fast. You have the right to a Fair Hearing.
- Sanctions: If you miss work activities or paperwork without good cause, your grant can be reduced or closed.
- Conciliation: You can usually fix the issue before a sanction takes full effect by contacting your worker quickly.
- Fair Hearing: You can appeal a denial, closure, or sanction. The notice explains how to request a hearing and the deadline.
Where to verify:
- Appeal rights are on your official DPA notice. Call 800-478-7778 if you need help filing.
- Free legal help: Alaska Legal Services Corporation (established statewide nonprofit) may assist with benefit appeals.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If a sanction is already in place, ask what you must do to cure it and how soon your grant can restart after compliance.
Pair ATAP with These Programs (Most Families Do)
Apply for these at the same time to stretch your budget and meet work rules.
| Program | What it covers | How to apply | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| SNAP (Food Stamps) | Food benefits on EBT card | Apply with ATAP or separately | DPA: 800-478-7778; USDA SNAP Alaska page with state links |
| Medicaid/CHIP | Health coverage for you and kids | Apply with ATAP or online via myAlaska | Alaska Medicaid – State site |
| WIC | Healthy foods, nutrition help for pregnant/postpartum people and kids <5 | Contact local WIC clinic | USDA WIC – Alaska contacts |
| Child Care Assistance (CCPO) | Helps pay child care so you can work/train | Apply alongside ATAP | DPA: 800-478-7778; Program hub |
| Heating Assistance (LIHEAP/HAP) | Help with heat bills (critical in Alaska) | Seasonal application windows | HHS LIHEAP – Alaska profile |
| Housing (AHFC) | Rental assistance, waitlists, public housing | Apply to Alaska Housing Finance Corporation | AHFC – Rental assistance |
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If a program is closed or waitlisted, ask for referrals from Alaska 2‑1‑1 (2-1-1 or 800-478-2221) and your tribal or local nonprofits.
Money Timing: When Will I Get Paid?
Most important action: Set up direct deposit or make sure you have your EBT card as soon as you’re approved.
- Approval timeline: Many ATAP decisions are made within about 30 days of application if documents are turned in timely.
- Payment method: Alaska typically pays benefits by direct deposit or onto your state EBT card after approval. Ask your worker how your cash will be issued in your case and when to expect your first deposit.
- Ongoing payments: ATAP is paid monthly. Turn in any required reports on time to prevent delays.
Where to verify:
- Ask your worker at 800-478-7778 and review your approval notice for exact pay dates.
Reality check:
- Rural mail and banking access can delay card arrival or direct deposit setup. Ask for a temporary solution if you urgently need funds.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If payment is late or missing, call 800-478-7778 and request a trace. If the card did not arrive, report it lost and request a replacement.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting to apply until you have “every document.” File now; you can submit missing items afterward.
- Skipping the work orientation or missing a scheduled call. This triggers sanctions. If you can’t make it, reschedule ahead.
- Not reporting new income fast. Overpayments cause benefit cuts later.
- Assuming child care will be easy. Apply early and ask about license‑exempt providers if needed.
- Ignoring mail from DPA. Notices have short deadlines and hearing rights.
- Forgetting Tribal TANF. If you’re AI/AN, you may have different options you should compare.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you already made a mistake (missed interview, late documents), fix it fast and ask for conciliation, good cause, or a reopened case.
Real‑World Examples
- Example 1: A mom in Bethel starts ATAP and is assigned job search. Child care is scarce. She documents that no licensed provider has space and asks about license‑exempt care with a trusted relative. DPA helps set up payments to that provider so she can meet her hours.
- Example 2: A mom in Juneau works variable shifts at a grocery store. Her hours push her close to the income limit some weeks. She turns in pay stubs on time and keeps an eye on net income after exclusions. When hours drop, ATAP adjusts back up without a fresh application because she meets reporting deadlines.
- Example 3: A survivor in Anchorage files for “good cause” not to pursue child support. With help from an advocate, she submits a safety plan and past police report. DPA approves good cause, protecting her and her kids while she participates in safe work activities.
City‑Specific FAQs (Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, Bethel, Nome)
Anchorage, AK — How do I apply in person and who helps with Tribal TANF?
- Use the ARIES portal or call 800-478-7778 for an application date.
- For in‑person help and office options, start at the DPA program page.
- If you are AI/AN and live in the Anchorage/Mat‑Su/Kenai area, ask about Tribal TANF and Native workforce services; verify via the HHS Tribal TANF directory and your tribal organization.
Fairbanks, AK — How long will ATAP take and what if my phone service is unreliable?
- Many decisions take about 30 days after you apply.
- If cell service is spotty, attend in‑person appointments when possible and ask for written notices by mail and email.
- Use the DPA page to find office times or call 800-478-7778 to schedule.
Juneau, AK — Can I coordinate child care with my ATAP plan?
- Yes. Tell your worker your hours and provider options right away so CCPO can line up payments and set your copay.
- Start by calling 800-478-7778 and asking to connect with child care assistance for Juneau.
Bethel, AK — Is there help if I’m AI/AN and live in the Yukon‑Kuskokwim Delta?
- You may have access to a Tribal TANF or Native assistance program in addition to state ATAP. Check the HHS Tribal TANF directory and your regional tribal organization.
- Apply for state ATAP at the same time if you’re not sure which program will serve you faster. Call 800-478-7778.
Nome, AK — What if there’s no licensed child care in my village?
- Ask DPA about license‑exempt providers (like a relative) and how to get them approved and paid.
- If child care truly isn’t available, request good cause for work requirements or a different activity you can do with your child at home.
Detailed Steps and Timelines (Table)
| Step | What to do | Best practice | Typical timing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Submit ATAP application | Online via ARIES, by phone 800-478-7778, or in person | Keep proof of submission date | Same day |
| Interview/orientation | Attend by phone or in person | If you can’t make it, reschedule ahead | Within 3–14 days (varies) |
| Turn in documents | Use upload, fax, mail, or drop‑off | Send as you get them; don’t wait for all at once | Ongoing; watch deadlines on notices |
| Eligibility decision | DPA reviews income, household, work plan | Keep your phone on and voicemail clear | About 30 days |
| First payment | Direct deposit or EBT after approval | Confirm method and account info | Shortly after approval (varies) |
| Ongoing compliance | Meet work hours, report changes | Keep a simple log and calendar alerts | Monthly |
| Recertification | Submit renewal packet and attend interview if scheduled | Start early so benefits don’t lapse | As scheduled on notice |
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If any step stalls, call 800-478-7778 and ask for a supervisor callback. If needed, contact Alaska Legal Services for help with delays: ALSC.
Documents: What to Do if You’re Missing Proof (Table)
| If you don’t have… | Try this… |
|---|---|
| Photo ID | Tribal ID, school ID, or ask DPA how to verify identity without ID |
| Birth certificate | Ask DPA if they can verify through Vital Records or accept other proof temporarily |
| Pay stubs | Employer letter with hours and gross pay; ask DPA for a wage verification form |
| Lease or landlord info | Landlord letter with rent amount and address; prior rent receipts |
| Childcare receipts | Provider statement with dates, hours, and fees |
| SSN for a child | Apply for SSN and give DPA the receipt; benefits can often proceed while you wait |
Tribal‑Specific Options (AI/AN Families)
Most important action: If you are Alaska Native or American Indian, ask if a Tribal TANF program can serve your household. Some tribal programs have different service models or supports.
- Find your regional Tribal TANF: HHS Tribal TANF directory (official).
- If you’re unsure which program serves your village or city, call your tribal government office or regional nonprofit and ask about TANF/Native Family Assistance.
Tip:
- You can explore both State ATAP and Tribal TANF at the same time. You cannot receive duplicate cash assistance for the same month, but checking both can shorten wait times.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you’re told you’re out of area for Tribal TANF, apply for state ATAP right away (or vice versa). Call 800-478-7778.
Local Organizations and Practical Help
These groups can help with applications, food, rent, utilities, and crisis support.
| Organization | What they do | How to reach |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska 2‑1‑1 (United Way) | Live referrals to local help | Call 2-1-1 or 800-478-2221; Alaska 2‑1‑1 |
| Food Bank of Alaska | Food pantries, SNAP outreach | Food Bank of Alaska |
| Alaska Legal Services Corporation | Free civil legal help (benefits appeals, DV, housing) | ALSC – Get Help |
| Alaska Network on DV & SA | DV advocacy, shelter referral | ANDVSA; National hotline 800-799-7233 |
| Alaska Housing Finance Corporation | Rental programs, waitlists | AHFC – Rental Assistance |
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If phone lines are busy, try mornings. For rural areas, ask local tribal councils and health organizations for on‑the‑ground help with forms and scanning documents.
Diverse Communities: Targeted Tips and Resources
LGBTQ+ single mothers
- Ask DPA for a safe, respectful point of contact and written communication if you prefer.
- For legal name/ID issues, Alaska Legal Services may assist: ALSC.
Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children
- Ask for reasonable accommodations for appointments and work activities in writing.
- If your child has disabilities, ask about added supports and how to align your work plan with treatment schedules.
Veteran single mothers
- Coordinate ATAP with VA supports (housing, employment). Start with the State Office of Veterans Affairs: Alaska Office of Veterans’ Services (official).
Immigrant and refugee single moms
- Some immigration statuses qualify for TANF; others do not. Apply and let DPA make an official determination.
- Refugee resettlement services (for newly arrived refugees) are available through established providers; ask Alaska 2‑1‑1 (2-1-1 or 800-478-2221) for current local contacts.
Tribal‑specific resources (AI/AN)
- Check for Tribal TANF and Native workforce programming: HHS Tribal TANF directory.
- Tribal health and social services often help with documents and case coordination—ask your tribal office.
Rural single moms with limited access
- Tell DPA if you lack internet or scanning. Ask about phone interviews, mail‑in options, and alternative proof.
- If travel is hard, request long appointment windows or notice by text/email when possible.
Single fathers
- ATAP is for low‑income parents—single fathers can qualify. Apply through the same channels and ask about child care help.
Language access
- Free interpreters are available. Tell DPA your preferred language and ask for translated notices where available. Call 800-478-7778 and say the language you need.
“If This Doesn’t Work” (Plan B Options by Topic)
- Can’t get through to DPA: Submit online at ARIES to lock your date, then follow up. Use Alaska 2‑1‑1 to find in‑person help.
- No child care: Ask for license‑exempt provider approval, good cause, or an adjusted work plan; document every provider you called.
- Sanctioned: Request conciliation or a hearing fast; fix the missed task and submit proof.
- Hitting the 60‑month limit: Ask about hardship extensions early; explore Tribal TANF if eligible.
- Domestic violence: Request good cause not to pursue child support; connect with ANDVSA or call 800-799-7233.
- Housing crisis: Apply to AHFC and ask local nonprofits for emergency aid while ATAP is pending.
Key Contacts and Official Links (Table)
| Need | Contact/Link |
|---|---|
| Apply/Case questions | DPA Virtual Contact Center: 800-478-7778; Alaska DPA – Programs |
| Online application | ARIES Participant Portal |
| Medicaid info | Alaska Medicaid (DHCS) |
| SNAP info | USDA SNAP – Alaska page with state links |
| WIC | USDA WIC – Alaska contacts |
| LIHEAP (heating) | HHS LIHEAP – Alaska profile |
| Housing | Alaska Housing Finance Corporation |
| Tribal TANF directory | HHS Office of Family Assistance – Tribal TANF |
| Legal help | Alaska Legal Services Corporation |
| General help/referrals | Alaska 2‑1‑1: 2-1-1 or 800-478-2221; Alaska 2‑1‑1 |
Reality Checks, Warnings, and Tips
- Alaska’s cost‑of‑living regions make a big difference. Always check the region on any chart you use.
- Keep a simple binder or phone folder of documents you send and receive. It saves time in reviews and appeals.
- If an employer won’t verify wages, tell DPA; they must help verify with other sources.
- Working some hours usually helps your long‑term income and can keep you on track with ATAP’s work rules.
- If you move between regions (Urban/Rural), tell DPA right away. Payment standards can change.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you feel stuck, ask for a supervisor call‑back and write down names, dates, and what was promised. If needed, contact ALSC for advice.
Frequently Asked Questions (More Details)
How do I find the exact current ATAP dollar amount for my family?
- Call DPA at 800-478-7778 and ask for the “current ATAP payment standard” for your family size and your town’s region (Urban, Rural I, or Rural II). They can also estimate your grant after income exclusions.
- You can also start your online application at ARIES and ask your worker to provide the estimate in writing.
Can I apply for ATAP, SNAP, and Medicaid at the same time?
- Yes. Most families do. Apply together at ARIES or ask by phone at 800-478-7778.
What if I’m over the income limit by a little?
- Still apply. Some income is excluded, and work‑related expenses can reduce countable income. You may qualify for a smaller grant or just for work services and child care help, which can still be valuable.
What if I have no safe way to pursue child support?
- Tell DPA and request “good cause” right away. Provide any proof you have (safety plan, court order, police report, or a statement from an advocate). See ANDVSA for help; National hotline 800-799-7233.
How often will I have to meet with my worker?
- Expect an initial orientation and then regular check‑ins to confirm work activities, document income, and keep child care lined up. Always read your mail and respond by the deadlines on your notices.
Resources by Region (Examples You Can Call Today)
Anchorage/Mat‑Su/Kenai
- Apply/Questions: 800-478-7778; DPA Program Hub
- Food: Food Bank of Alaska – Find Food
- Housing: AHFC
Interior (Fairbanks/North Pole/Interior villages)
- Apply/Questions: 800-478-7778; DPA Program Hub
- Legal help: ALSC
- Heating help: HHS LIHEAP – Alaska profile
Southeast (Juneau, Sitka, Ketchikan)
- Apply/Questions: 800-478-7778; DPA Program Hub
- Housing: AHFC
- DV services: ANDVSA – member programs
Western/Southwest (Bethel, Dillingham, Bristol Bay)
- Apply/Questions: 800-478-7778
- Check Tribal TANF options: HHS Tribal TANF directory
Northwest/Arctic (Nome, Kotzebue, North Slope/Utqiaġvik)
- Apply/Questions: 800-478-7778
- Heating assistance: HHS LIHEAP – Alaska profile
- Tribal/social services: Contact your tribal office for local help with applications and document uploads.
Source Notes (Verification and Dates)
- Alaska DPA program hub and contacts (official): Alaska Department of Health – Division of Public Assistance – accessed and verified August 2025.
- ARIES Participant Portal (official application portal): https://aries.alaska.gov/ParticipantPortal/ – verified August 2025.
- TANF federal program overview and requirements: HHS Office of Family Assistance – TANF – verified August 2025.
- Tribal TANF directory (programs serving Alaska Native/American Indian families): HHS Office of Family Assistance – Tribal TANF – verified August 2025.
- SNAP – Alaska information via USDA state directory (official): USDA SNAP – State Directory – verified August 2025.
- Medicaid – Alaska program site (official): Alaska Medicaid – DHCS – verified August 2025.
- WIC – Alaska contact directory (USDA official): USDA WIC – Alaska Contacts – verified August 2025.
- LIHEAP – Alaska profile (HHS official): HHS LIHEAP – Alaska – verified August 2025.
- Alaska statutes governing Temporary Assistance: AS 47.27 – verified August 2025.
- Alaska 2‑1‑1 (United Way, established statewide nonprofit): https://alaska211.org – verified August 2025.
- Alaska Legal Services Corporation (established statewide nonprofit): https://www.alsc-law.org – verified August 2025.
- Alaska Housing Finance Corporation (state agency): https://www.ahfc.us – verified August 2025.
- Alaska Child Support Services Division (state): https://childsupport.alaska.gov – verified August 2025.
- ANDVSA (established statewide nonprofit): https://andvsa.org – verified August 2025.
If you need the latest ATAP payment standards for your exact town and family size, call 800-478-7778 or use the DPA program hub above. Alaska updates these numbers and they vary by region; avoid using outdated charts.
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from Alaska Department of Health (Division of Public Assistance), HHS Office of Family Assistance, USDA, AHFC, and established nonprofits.
This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards: ASingleMother.org Editorial Policy using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
Last verified August 2025, next review April 2026.
Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur – email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 48 hours.
Disclaimer
Program rules, payment standards, income limits, required documents, and timelines can change at any time. Always confirm details with the Alaska Department of Health, Division of Public Assistance, at 800-478-7778 or through the official sites linked in this guide. This guide is for general information only and is not legal advice.
🏛️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
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
- 🏠 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
