How to Apply for TANF in Alaska

Alaska's cash assistance program is called ATAP — the Alaska Temporary Assistance Program — and it's run by the Division of Public Assistance under a "Work First" philosophy: the state expects most participants to look for paid work right away rather than complete training first. Applications go through the Alaska Connect Portal rather than a mailed form, and help is capped at 60 months over a lifetime, with reduced benefits for two-parent households during July through September when seasonal work is more available.

Updated August 2026

1. 1

   Check resource and income limits

   Your family's countable resources must be under $2,000 (or $3,000 if someone in the household is 60 or older); your home, personal property, and most vehicles don't count. Countable income must fall under the ATAP limit for your family size.

2. 2

   Apply through the Alaska Connect Portal

   Submit your application online through the Alaska Connect Portal, linked from the ATAP page on health.alaska.gov.

3. 3

   Agree to work requirements

   Participants must look for paid employment or take part in activities that lead directly to a job, such as community work experience, job skills training, adult basic education, or GED preparation.

4. 4

   Use available support services

   ATAP can help with transportation costs (including car repairs and getting a driver's license), interview clothing, child care costs, and on-the-job training while you work toward self-sufficiency.

5. 5

   Understand the time limit and restrictions

   ATAP assistance is limited to 60 months total, benefits are reduced for two-parent families in July, August, and September, and the ATAP EBT card can't be used at bars, liquor stores, gambling establishments, or adult entertainment venues.

Verified against the official Alaska TANF agency site. View source