Transportation Assistance for Single Mothers in Alaska
Transportation Assistance for Single Mothers in Alaska
Last updated: September 2025
This guide shows fast, real-world ways to get rides, passes, and travel help across Alaska. It gives exact steps, numbers, links, wait times, and backup plans. Every section ends with a Plan B so you’re never stuck.
If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take
- Call or text Alaska 2-1-1 now and ask for “transportation help near me,” then request a texted list of same-day options through the statewide directory at Alaska 2-1-1 and keep the helpline saved as 1-800-478-2221 for call-back support from United Way of Anchorage’s Alaska 2-1-1. (alaska211.org)
- Ask your clinic to authorize Medicaid non‑emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for today’s appointment using Alaska Medicaid’s transportation page and call the Recipient Helpline 1-800-780-9972 to confirm status with Department of Health – Recipient Helpline. (health.alaska.gov)
- If you live in Anchorage, ride city buses while you sort things out; youth 18 and under ride free on People Mover and adults pay $2 cash—see the Assembly action establishing the permanent youth‑free policy and coverage in Anchorage Agenda Online AO 2025‑69 and Anchorage Daily News. (muni.org)
Quick Help Box — Numbers and Links to Keep Handy
- Statewide referral help: Call 2‑1‑1 or 1‑800‑478‑2221 and search services at Alaska 2‑1‑1 directory; save the contact email at Alaska 2‑1‑1 About page. (alaska211.org)
- Medicaid travel questions: Recipient Helpline 1‑800‑780‑9972 listed on Department of Health – Helpline and travel rules at Medicaid Transportation. (health.alaska.gov)
- Job Centers for work‑related ride help: Find offices and the statewide toll‑free number 1‑877‑724‑2539 on Alaska Job Center Network and learn about services on AlaskaJobs portal. (jobs.alaska.gov)
- Capital Transit (Juneau): Routes, fares, and mobile tickets via Capital Transit news and paratransit details on CAPITAL AKcess. (juneau.org)
- Fairbanks buses and paratransit: MACS fares on FNSB Bus Fares and Van Tran ADA eligibility at FNSB Van Tran. (fnsb.gov)
Who This Guide Is For
Alaska is huge, weather is real, and public transit varies by town. This hub shows what works today for medical rides, work trips, school rides, ferries, paratransit, rural options, and quick stand‑ins like taxis or rideshare. You’ll find state program steps with Alaska Department of Health Medicaid transport and city bus basics like Anchorage People Mover woven in so you can move fast. If a door shuts, you’ll see a Plan B using Alaska 2‑1‑1 or a regional backup like Ketchikan Gateway Borough Transit. (health.alaska.gov)
How to Get a Ride to Medical Appointments Through Alaska Medicaid
Start here if you or your child is on Medicaid or Denali KidCare. Alaska covers non‑emergency medical trips when a provider authorizes it, including bus, taxi, wheelchair van, and travel outside your town if care isn’t available locally, as explained on Medicaid Transportation and in the Service Authorizations page for non‑emergent medical transport. Expect the least costly option to be approved first. (health.alaska.gov)
- Action to take: Ask your clinic to request prior authorization through the state’s contractor per Medicaid Transportation instructions and call the Recipient Helpline at 1‑800‑780‑9972 if you can’t reach the clinic. (health.alaska.gov)
- For kids’ checkups (EPSDT): Call EPSDT travel at 907‑269‑4575 (Anchorage) or 1‑888‑276‑0606 (toll‑free) listed on Medicaid Transportation and ask for same‑day local transport if needed. (health.alaska.gov)
- Out‑of‑town care: If a specialist is only in another city, your provider requests travel; you may get air, ferry, or ground per Medicaid Transportation and Division of Health Care Services prior authorization guidance. (health.alaska.gov)
- Timelines: For non‑crisis trips, expect 3–10 business days; for urgent follow‑ups, providers can mark urgent. Always call the Recipient Helpline to check status if you don’t hear back. (health.alaska.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your clinic to switch to bus token or taxi vouchers if that’s faster per Medicaid Transportation and request a list of local Medicaid transport providers from the Recipient Helpline; if denied, file a fair hearing and keep receipts for reimbursement review. (health.alaska.gov)
Quick Comparison: Transportation Programs Alaskan Single Moms Use Most
| Program | What it pays for | Who to contact | Typical timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medicaid NEMT | Local bus, taxi, wheelchair van; out‑of‑town travel if not available locally | See instructions on Medicaid Transportation and call Recipient Helpline | 3–10 business days (non‑crisis) (health.alaska.gov) |
| Alaska Temporary Assistance (ATAP–TANF) Supportive Services | Bus passes, gas money, car fixes, license fees while you work/seek work | Apply via ATAP page and ask your Work Services case manager | Same week to 2–3 weeks depending on vendor funding (health.alaska.gov) |
| Alaska Job Center help (WIOA, Trade) | Job search travel, training commute help, and Trade job‑search travel/move help | Find offices on Job Center Network; see TAA benefits for Trade rules | Same day for bus passes; TAA travel pre‑approval needed (allow a week) (jobs.alaska.gov) |
| ADA Paratransit | Door‑to‑door rides if disability limits fixed‑route use | Apply at services like Van Tran (Fairbanks) or CAPITAL AKcess (Juneau) | 1–3 weeks for eligibility interview; 1–14 days to start rides (fnsb.gov) |
| Local transit discounts | Free youth and discounted passes | See People Mover Anchorage youth‑free policy and Ketchikan fares | Immediate at purchase; youth‑free applies at boarding (muni.org) |
How to Use Public Transit Fast in Major Alaska Cities
Alaska’s biggest systems are simple and affordable, and many take mobile tickets. Use the official sites and apps below.
Anchorage — People Mover and AnchorRIDES
People Mover runs seven days a week with $2 adult fares and mobile passes in the official mTicket app, and as of July 10, 2025, youth 18 and under ride free per AO 2025‑69 and local reporting in the Anchorage Daily News. For schedules, check sample timetables on People Mover routes and use the live tracker at InfoPoint. (apps.apple.com)
If disability limits your use of fixed routes, apply for door‑to‑door rides through AnchorRIDES using the phone numbers and addresses listed on the Municipality directory and details in the legacy AnchorRIDES Rider Guide, then confirm current procedures by calling 907‑343‑7433. For quick trip planning, get route data from People Mover GTFS and consider reserving rideshare on Uber Anchorage when buses don’t run late. (muni.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your caseworker about ATAP passes via Alaska Temporary Assistance Program and check emergency ride ideas with Alaska 2‑1‑1; if you need paratransit faster, ask about temporary 21‑day eligibility based on ADA paratransit reciprocity noted by AnchorRIDES. (health.alaska.gov)
Fairbanks — MACS Transit and Van Tran
MACS adult cash fare is 1.50andmonthlypassesare1.50 and monthly passes are 40, while reduced fares help youth, Medicare cardholders, and riders with disabilities, as listed on FNSB Bus Fares and rider alerts at MACS Transit page. For ADA paratransit, apply through Van Tran and call 907‑459‑1010 for interview scheduling and eligibility steps. (fnsb.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the Job Center for WIOA supportive services rides at the Fairbanks Job Center and call Alaska 2‑1‑1 for taxi voucher programs or church ride lists. (jobs.alaska.gov)
Juneau — Capital Transit and CAPITAL AKcess
Juneau now offers smartphone fares with the Token Transit app per Capital Transit news and posts current detours and hours on the CBJ site; use CAPITAL AKcess if disability limits fixed‑route use and schedule rides via 844‑425‑2377 or 907‑463‑6194 listed on CAPITAL AKcess. For affordability, fare capping reduces your monthly cost in the app according to KTOO coverage. (juneau.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call Care‑A‑Van (operated by Southeast Senior Services) at 907‑463‑6194 through Choose Juneau resources and ask SAIL about taxi vouchers at SAIL details if buses are down. (choosejuneau.org)
Ketchikan — The Bus and Bus+ ADA/Senior
Ketchikan’s The Bus charges $2 adult and offers digital pass options via Token Transit with detailed prices on KGB Fares and system details on the Transit homepage. For ADA or senior door‑to‑door rides, schedule Bus+ via ADA Paratransit pages and see reservation rules at Bus+ Rider Guide. (kgbak.us)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re coming from Gravina Island, time your airport ferry using KGB Airport Ferry schedule and ask the Transit Office at 907‑225‑8726 about temporary passes noted on Transit Alerts. (kgbak.us)
Mat‑Su (Palmer/Wasilla) — Valley Transit and Sunshine Transit
Mat‑Su riders can request curb‑to‑curb trips or commuter seats to Anchorage by phoning Valley Transit; common public numbers shown by local notices include 907‑864‑5000 as posted in the Mat‑Su Transportation Fair notice and service listings like local chamber entries. Upper Susitna riders can use Sunshine Transit fixed stops across Talkeetna, Willow and Trapper Creek, with routes and dispatch at Sunshine Transit. Call to confirm routes and fares due to funding changes noted on Mat‑Su transit development updates. (matsugov.us)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Anchorage friends to meet you at the People Mover hub using live tracker InfoPoint and check independent shuttles like Red’s Alaska Shuttle when coverage gaps appear. (bustracker.muni.org)
Kenai Peninsula — CARTS and Emerging Tribal Fixed Route
CARTS offers demand‑response public rides across the central peninsula with standard published rates and program‑funded discounts, shown on CARTS fares; service scope changes with local funding as reported in the Peninsula Clarion. The Kenaitze Indian Tribe is launching the Kahtnu Area Transit fixed‑route between Nikiski and Sterling; project updates and contact info are posted by Kenaitze and in KDLL coverage—call to confirm start dates. (ridecartsak.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your Medicaid clinic for travel authorization per Medicaid Transportation and search Alaska 2‑1‑1 for taxi vouchers in Soldotna/Kenai. (health.alaska.gov)
Sitka, Girdwood, and Other Southeast/Road‑Limited Areas
In Girdwood, Glacier Valley Transit provides local free shuttle routes with accessible buses, dispatch contacts, and real‑time tracking via Glacier Valley Transit and mobile apps listed there. Sitka has limited road mileage with local transit and paratransit partners; check local options through City and Borough of Sitka transportation info and the Sitka Care‑A‑Van paratransit hours listed by RIDE Sitka. (glaciervalleytransit.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work: When roads end, ferries connect communities; check the Alaska Marine Highway sailing calendar at AMHS Schedules and book travel through AMHS homepage. Service notices and route changes post under AMHS Service Notices—plan a backup day. (dot.alaska.gov)
Step‑by‑Step: Getting Medicaid Travel Approved
- Ask your provider to request authorization through the state’s prior authorization channel shown on Authorization – HCS and have them document “medically necessary” and “least costly mode” per Medicaid Transportation. Keep your phone on for scheduling calls. (health.alaska.gov)
- Track it by phone with the Recipient Helpline and ask for the travel number. If the trip is for a child, call EPSDT travel (Anchorage 907‑269‑4575; outside 1‑888‑276‑0606) listed on Medicaid Transportation. (health.alaska.gov)
- For village travel ask your clinic to request air/ferry if care is not available locally per Medicaid Transportation and confirm the cheapest medically appropriate mode will be used. If your village is ferry‑served, check AMHS schedules. (health.alaska.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Request same‑day local taxi or bus token authorization under Medicaid Transportation, and if denied, ask the Helpline how to file an appeal and if a temporary travel can be issued while you appeal. (health.alaska.gov)
Work and Training Rides: ATAP, Job Centers, and Trade Act
If you receive Alaska Temporary Assistance (ATAP), ask for “supportive services” for rides to work, training, or interviews—this can include bus passes, gas, car repairs, or license fees per the ATAP Support Services section; coordinate with your Work Services contractor like Nine Star through Nine Star contact page. For training or job search far from home, Trade Act may cover 90% of job search travel up to caps, as posted on TAA Benefits; visit a local office from the Alaska Job Center directory. (health.alaska.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about WIOA Adult supportive services at your Job Center and search Alaska 2‑1‑1 for churches and nonprofits that offer gas cards or taxi vouchers near your zip code. (jobs.alaska.gov)
Paratransit and Disability Transportation
If disability affects your ability to use buses, apply for ADA paratransit. In Fairbanks, complete the application and medical form and schedule an in‑person assessment via Van Tran; in Juneau, certification is through CAPITAL AKcess. Anchorage has AnchorRIDES; use the city directory for phone and addresses at MOA contact listing and review rider expectations in the AnchorRIDES Rider Guide. (fnsb.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If your eligibility is still pending, ask for temporary eligibility or reciprocity if you were certified in another city as noted by regional AnchorRIDES resource listings and call Alaska 2‑1‑1 to locate accessible taxis or volunteer driver programs. (jedc.org)
Ferries, Remote Access, and Travel Timing
For many coastal towns, the ferry is the road. Check monthly and color‑grid schedules on AMHS Schedules and review current service notices on AMHS Service Notices. If you are in Ketchikan, time transfers with the airport ferry hours posted at KGB Airport Ferry and check the AMHS route overview at Where We Go to plan connections. (dot.alaska.gov)
Reality check: Expect weather delays, vessel overhauls, and seasonal cuts; DOT&PF posts plan updates like the long‑range plan notice on DOT&PF press releases and STIP amendments on Amendment #2 press note—build a one‑day buffer. (dot.alaska.gov)
Child Car Seats and Safe Rides for Babies and Toddlers
You can get fittings, education, and sometimes low‑cost seats through local coalitions led by hospitals, with statewide support from DOT’s Highway Safety Office. Anchorage families can contact Safe Kids Alaska at Providence for appointment‑only checks; Kenai families can reach Safe Kids Kenai Peninsula for seats and clinics; Fairbanks families can call Safe Kids Fairbanks. The state also funds occupant protection programs listed by the Alaska Highway Safety Office. (safekids.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your clinic to note “no car seat” on your Medicaid visit and check if a seat can be issued during a safety check; watch for pop‑up events on Safe Kids events pages and reach out to the Highway Safety Office link on Partners in Safety Alaska DOT&PF. (events.safekids.org)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting to call the clinic for Medicaid travel. Always ask your provider to submit the authorization before the appointment using Medicaid Transportation steps and keep your phone on for the travel vendor call listed by the Helpline page. (health.alaska.gov)
- Not asking for supportive services when you get a job or training slot. Request bus passes or gas under ATAP Support Services and ask a Job Center about WIOA help. (health.alaska.gov)
- Missing local discounts. In Anchorage, youth ride free on People Mover; in Ketchikan, monthly and seasonal passes are low‑cost via KGB Fares—carry your ID. (muni.org)
Reality Check
- Winter and staffing shortages can cut route frequency, like Anchorage’s fall 2024 service changes covered by the Anchorage Daily News and summer detours noted by Capital Transit alerts. Always confirm the current schedule before you leave. (adn.com)
- Ferry maintenance and weather can cancel sailings with little notice; check AMHS Service Notices the night before and morning of travel, and keep a Plan B with your clinic. (dot.alaska.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Need | Fastest first step | Where to check |
|---|---|---|
| Medical ride today | Ask clinic to request Medicaid local ground transport | Medicaid Transportation and Helpline (health.alaska.gov) |
| Work interview ride | Request ATAP supportive services | ATAP Support Services (health.alaska.gov) |
| ADA paratransit | Apply and schedule assessment | Van Tran or CAPITAL AKcess (fnsb.gov) |
| Ferry connection | Look up sailings and notices | AMHS Schedules and Notices (dot.alaska.gov) |
| General help | Call Alaska 2‑1‑1 | Alaska 2‑1‑1 directory (alaska211.org) |
Application Checklist (printable)
- Photo ID: State ID, Tribal ID, or school ID; ask about alternatives on Alaska 2‑1‑1 and check Medicaid ID rules via Recipient Helpline. (alaska211.org)
- Medicaid member number: Find it on your card; ask Helpline to resend if lost; EPSDT has direct lines on Medicaid Transportation. (health.alaska.gov)
- Appointment details: Date/time, clinic name, and reason for visit; provider submits for NEMT per Authorization – HCS; keep your phone charged. (health.alaska.gov)
- Income or program proof for supportive services: ATAP case number or proof of job activity per ATAP page and Job Center referral on AJCN offices. (health.alaska.gov)
- Disability paperwork (if paratransit): ADA application and provider form from Van Tran application or CAPITAL AKcess eligibility; ask about interim rides. (fnsb.gov)
Resources by Region (key contacts and links)
| Region | Main transit | Paratransit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anchorage | People Mover | AnchorRIDES info | Youth ride free; use mTicket app. (muni.org) |
| Fairbanks/North Pole | MACS Transit | Van Tran | Buy passes/token at listed vending spots. (fnsb.gov) |
| Juneau | Capital Transit | CAPITAL AKcess | Token Transit fare capping helps low‑cash riders. (juneau.org) |
| Ketchikan | KGB Transit | Bus+ ADA/Senior | Downtown shuttle free in summer; airport ferry separate. (kgbak.us) |
| Mat‑Su | Valley Transit (call) | Valley Transit demand-response | Confirm routes/funding via Mat‑Su Transit Development. (matsugov.us) |
| Kenai/Soldotna | CARTS | CARTS ADA trips (call) | Watch service changes per Peninsula Clarion. (ridecartsak.org) |
| Girdwood | Glacier Valley Transit | N/A | Free local shuttles; use TransLoc tracker. (glaciervalleytransit.com) |
| Ferry‑served hubs | AMHS | N/A | Check notices and book early. (dot.alaska.gov) |
How to Stop a School Transportation Crisis Fast
If you’re doubled up or in a shelter, your kids have rights to school transportation under the McKinney‑Vento Act. Districts must provide transport so children can stay in their school of origin per the state’s summary on DEED’s District Responsibilities and program page at DEED Title VII‑B. Call the statewide homeless education line 1‑877‑854‑5437 to connect to your district’s liaison. (education.alaska.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Alaska 2‑1‑1 to warm‑transfer you to the district liaison after you provide your school name using Alaska 2‑1‑1 and keep receipts if you had to self‑pay for temporary transport. (alaska211.org)
“Reality” Scenarios and Workarounds
- You have an afternoon clinic visit but no sitter. Ask the clinic to authorize a same‑day Medicaid taxi per Medicaid Transportation and board a bus with your stroller on People Mover or Capital Transit depending on your location. (health.alaska.gov)
- You live rural and only have ferry/plane. Ask your provider to request out‑of‑community travel authorization under Medicaid Transportation and choose dates with reliable sailings using AMHS Schedules. (health.alaska.gov)
- Your bus route got cut. Check rider alerts on MACS Transit or KGB Transit Alerts and ask the Job Center for a temporary taxi or mileage support for interviews. (fnsb.gov)
Costs, Insurance, and Safety Notes
Alaska’s auto insurance rules can be complex and rates are high; the Division of Insurance explains required coverage and the Assigned Risk Plan on Auto Insurance pages and offers consumer help contacts at Division of Insurance contact page. If you drive, shop discounts listed on Common Auto Discounts and call 1‑800‑INSURAK for help on complaints on Auto claims guidance. (commerce.alaska.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If no insurer will cover you, ask about the Assigned Risk Plan at AIPSO listed on Auto Insurance – If You Can’t Find Coverage and compare bus or rideshare costs with Uber Anchorage while you rebuild your record. (commerce.alaska.gov)
Diverse Communities: Tailored Tips and Links
LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask clinics and caseworkers to use your correct name and pronouns, and request safe transport vendors via Alaska 2‑1‑1; if you prefer rideshare, use in‑app safety features on Uber Anchorage and keep driver details shared with a friend. For legal name updates and insurance, call the Division of Insurance on consumer contacts and check bus policies through People Mover. (alaska211.org)
Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Apply for ADA paratransit through Van Tran or CAPITAL AKcess and ask about temporary eligibility; request EPSDT travel for kids from Medicaid Transportation. For home‑to‑clinic shuttles in the Interior, see TCC Patient Shuttle. (fnsb.gov)
Veteran single mothers: Pair public transit with VA hospital travel policies and ask the Fairbanks Job Center about veteran supportive services for transportation to work or training; check ferry discounts and schedules at AMHS when traveling between coastal clinics. (jobs.alaska.gov)
Immigrant and refugee single moms: Ask for free interpreters when you call Alaska 2‑1‑1 and when you request Medicaid travel help; drivers are used to language cards. For school rides during resettlement, call your liaison under DEED McKinney‑Vento and request transportation while disputes are resolved. (alaska211.org)
Tribal‑specific resources: Many tribal health systems run shuttles and can help with travel; Interior families can use the TCC Patient Shuttle, and central peninsula families can watch the Kenaitze Kahtnu Area Transit updates. Ask your clinic about tribal travel funds alongside Medicaid Transportation. (tananachiefs.org)
Rural single moms with limited access: Ferry and air are your links for care; plan with AMHS schedules and ask clinics to request out‑of‑community travel via Medicaid Transportation. In the Mat‑Su, call Valley Transit dispatch lines for curb‑to‑curb trips. (dot.alaska.gov)
Single fathers: You qualify for the same ride programs; ask your Job Center about WIOA rides and your clinic for Medicaid travel just as moms do. For child car seats, call Safe Kids Alaska for fittings. (jobs.alaska.gov)
Language access and accessibility: Use TTY/Alaska Relay 7‑1‑1 to reach state numbers listed on DEED contacts, and ask for large‑print applications from paratransit via Van Tran. For translated school rights, contact DEED Title VII‑B. (education.alaska.gov)
Tables You Can Use Right Away
Medicaid Travel: What Your Provider Must Do and What You Should Expect
| Step | What the clinic does | What you do |
|---|---|---|
| Prior authorization | Submits request to HCS for non‑emergent transport per Authorization – HCS | Ask them to mark urgency and confirm “least costly mode” per Medicaid Transportation (health.alaska.gov) |
| Scheduling | Vendor calls with pickup time | Keep phone on; call Recipient Helpline if no call by the day before (health.alaska.gov) |
| Day of trip | Vendor dispatches ride | Bring ID and appointment letter; keep receipts for appeals per Medicaid Recipient Handbook link (health.alaska.gov) |
Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau: Adult Fare Quick Look
| City | Single ride | Monthly pass | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anchorage | $2 adult | App/day/week options on mTicket app | Youth 18‑under ride free per AO 2025‑69 (apps.apple.com) |
| Fairbanks (MACS) | $1.50 adult | $40 adult | Reduced fares posted on FNSB Bus Fares (fnsb.gov) |
| Juneau | $2 adult | Fare capping via app | Mobile pay details on Capital Transit news (juneau.org) |
Ketchikan: Fixed Route vs. Bus+ (ADA/Senior)
| Service | Adult fare | Passes | Key link |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Bus (fixed) | $2 | Day/25‑ride/month/annual digital passes | KGB Fares (kgbak.us) |
| Bus+ (ADA/Senior) | $2 cash; accepts regular‑rate passes | Monthly/seasonal/annual accepted on Bus+ | Bus+ info (kgbak.us) |
Ferries: Trip Planning Essentials
| Task | Where to check | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Find sailings | AMHS Schedules | Use the monthly calendar view to spot gaps (dot.alaska.gov) |
| Check disruptions | Service Notices | Recheck morning of travel for late changes (dot.alaska.gov) |
| Learn routes | Where We Go | Build extra time for transfer towns (dot.alaska.gov) |
Car Seat Help — Where to Call
| Area | Coalition | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Anchorage | Safe Kids Alaska | 907‑212‑3194 (safekids.org) |
| Kenai Peninsula | Safe Kids Kenai Peninsula | 907‑714‑4539 (safekids.org) |
| Fairbanks | Safe Kids Fairbanks | 907‑458‑6982 (safekids.org) |
Local Organizations, Charities, and Churches That Often Help
- Anchorage: Try emergency transport help through Catholic Social Services Anchorage via 2‑1‑1 referral and domestic‑violence safety rides via AWAIC referrals listed with Alaska 2‑1‑1; coordinate with your Job Center for interview rides. (alaska211.org)
- Kenai/Soldotna: Ask Alaska 2‑1‑1 for CARTS vouchers and local church gas cards; check CARTS fares and contact to schedule rides. (alaska211.org)
- Interior (Fairbanks): Tribal households can use the TCC Patient Shuttle and call Van Tran for ADA rides; non‑tribal clients can request Job Center help at Fairbanks AJCN. (tananachiefs.org)
If Your Application Gets Denied
- Medicaid travel: Ask for the denial in writing and request a fair hearing; confirm whether the “least costly mode” rule was applied correctly using Medicaid Transportation text and check with the Recipient Helpline about any missing clinic documentation. (health.alaska.gov)
- Paratransit: Request temporary eligibility and a functional in‑person reassessment per Van Tran process or CAPITAL AKcess; ask for alternative training on fixed‑route use. (fnsb.gov)
- ATAP supportive services: Re‑verify your activity hours using ATAP rules and ask your Job Center for a one‑time emergency pass. (health.alaska.gov)
FAQs (Alaska‑specific)
- How do I get Medicaid to pay for rides in Alaska?
Have your provider submit a request before your appointment; the state uses prior authorization for non‑emergency transport as shown on Authorization – HCS, and you can call 1‑800‑780‑9972 from Recipient Helpline to confirm. (health.alaska.gov) - What are realistic timelines for Medicaid travel?
For non‑urgent visits, plan 3–10 business days; urgent care may be faster if your provider marks it urgent per Medicaid Transportation and you follow up with the Helpline. (health.alaska.gov) - Is bus fare free anywhere for kids?
Yes in Anchorage; the Assembly approved permanent free fares for under 18 on People Mover (AO 2025‑69), covered by the Anchorage Daily News. (muni.org) - Does Juneau have mobile bus tickets?
Yes; Juneau launched Token Transit with fare capping per Capital Transit news and media coverage at KTOO. (juneau.org) - What if I can’t use the bus due to a disability?
Apply for ADA paratransit in your city; for example, Van Tran in Fairbanks and CAPITAL AKcess in Juneau provide door‑to‑door rides within ADA rules. (fnsb.gov) - I live in a ferry town—can Medicaid cover the ferry to medical care?
Yes if the service isn’t available locally and the ferry is the least costly suitable mode; your provider requests it per Medicaid Transportation, and you can check sailing options on AMHS Schedules. (health.alaska.gov) - Where can I get help with child car seats?
Call Safe Kids Alaska in Anchorage or your regional Safe Kids coalition; the state’s Highway Safety Office supports programs listed on Occupant Protection. (safekids.org) - Can the Job Center help with interview rides?
Yes in many cases; ask for supportive services at your nearest Alaska Job Center and consider Trade Act travel for layoffs as listed on TAA Benefits. (jobs.alaska.gov) - I’m homeless—how do I keep my kids in their school with transportation?
Call your district’s McKinney‑Vento liaison; districts must provide school transportation per DEED Title VII‑B and District Responsibilities. (education.alaska.gov) - Who do I call when I don’t know where to start?
Alaska 2‑1‑1 helps you find the right agency; call 2‑1‑1 or 1‑800‑478‑2221 or search Alaska 2‑1‑1 online. (alaska211.org)
Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español
Esta guía ofrece pasos rápidos para conseguir transporte para atención médica, trabajo y la escuela en Alaska. Para ayuda inmediata, llame al 2‑1‑1 (o 1‑800‑478‑2221) y busque en Alaska 2‑1‑1; para viajes médicos, pida a su clínica que solicite transporte de Medicaid usando Transporte de Medicaid y confirme en la línea 1‑800‑780‑9972. En Anchorage, los jóvenes de 18 o menos viajan gratis con People Mover; en Fairbanks use MACS y Van Tran; en Juneau use Capital Transit y CAPITAL AKcess. Esta traducción fue producida con herramientas de IA; verifique siempre detalles y disponibilidad con las agencias oficiales. (alaska211.org)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
This guide uses official sources including:
- Alaska Department of Health – Medicaid Transportation and Recipient Helpline. (health.alaska.gov)
- Alaska Temporary Assistance Program (ATAP) and Alaska Job Center Network. (health.alaska.gov)
- Anchorage People Mover youth‑free policy and Ketchikan Fares. (muni.org)
- Alaska Marine Highway System schedules and notices and Service Notices. (dot.alaska.gov)
- DEED McKinney‑Vento pages and District Responsibilities. (education.alaska.gov)
Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.
This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards 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. 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 content is for general information. Program rules, fares, and schedules change. Always confirm current availability, eligibility, and costs directly with the agency through the official links provided here, including Medicaid Transportation and local transit sites. Call to confirm before you spend money or travel long distances. (health.alaska.gov)
What to do if this article didn’t solve it
Try a three‑call sequence: call Alaska 2‑1‑1 and ask for “transportation vouchers near me,” then contact your clinic using Medicaid Transportation steps, and finally request emergency supportive services at your nearest Job Center. If you still can’t ride today, check the next ferry or bus on AMHS or a local transit alert page. (alaska211.org)
By keeping these numbers, links, and steps close, you can line up rides for medical visits, work shifts, school days, and daily life across Alaska—without guesswork.
🏛️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
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ 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
