What Is Considered Low Income for Seniors in Alaska?
Date Updated: July 26, 2024
Written by:
Rachel Lustbader is a writer and editor with a background in healthcare and technology. Her work has been published on websites including HealthCare.com, BiteSizeBio.com, BetterHelp.com, Caring.com, and PayingforSeniorCare.com. She studied health science and public health at Boston University.
Both of Rachel’s grandmothers had very positive experiences in senior living communities, and Rachel saw firsthand the impact that kind, committed caregivers and community managers can have on seniors’ and their family members’ lives. With her work at Caring, Rachel hopes to help other families find communities, caregivers, and at-home products that benefit elderly loved ones and make life less stressful for family caregivers
Seniors in Alaska are classed as on a low income if their monthly income is $2,124 for a single person or $2,861 for a couple. This figure is 150% of the Federal Poverty Level. The Federal Poverty Level is reassessed every year, and many benefits have their eligibility requirements based on a percentage of the poverty level. In most cases, the permitted income is between 130% and 150% of the Federal Poverty Level.
Low-income seniors may qualify for support with their housing. They may also qualify for help with the cost of assisted living, in-home care or other medical assistance. In addition to the income requirements, there are asset limits, although the family home is not considered to be a countable asset when calculating eligibility for Medicaid.
Eligibility for Medicare Benefits is Not Income-Based
Eligibility for Medicare is not based on a person’s income. Someone who has a higher income may pay higher Medicare premiums, but their income will not affect any claims they make. Eligibility for Medicare benefits is based on a person’s needs, as assessed by a qualified medical professional.