State Adopts Alaska Senior Assistance Program Regulations

Public hearings to be held statewide

Emergency regulations for the Alaska Senior Assistance Program, a new safely net program for needy seniors, took effect July 1, 2003. The Alaska Senior Assistance Program is a needs-based benefit program that offers $120 per month to all Alaskan seniors age 65 or older who meet certain eligibility requirements.

The regulations give specific guidance for implementing the new program. Copies of the regulations, as well as additional information on the Senior Assistance Program, can be found on the Division of Public Assistance (DPA) web page at http://health.hss.state.ak.us/dpa/.

Jun. Empire: ASAP softens blow to seniors losing Longevity Bonus

Eligible seniors will receive their final Longevity Bonus checks in August 2003. With that check, they will receive information about a new program called the Alaska Senior Assistance Program (ASAP). The ASAP is not a replacement for the Longevity Bonus, but it will help soften the blow to some seniors who are losing the bonus.

The Alaska Senior Assistance Program is a temporary program that will provide $120 a month to Alaska seniors age 65 or older who meet certain income and asset tests.