People with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in New Jersey can access state and federal disability benefits, including Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI), Family Leave Insurance (FLI), Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key programs.
People with ALS may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSDI is for those who worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for low-income individuals with limited resources. Both programs require a medical diagnosis of ALS. The Social Security Administration (SSA) considers ALS a Compassionate Allowances condition, so approval is often faster. You must be unable to work due to your condition. For more details, see the SSA website.
In New Jersey, ALS is considered a qualifying disability for state programs. To get Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI), you must have worked at least 20 weeks earning at least $303 per week, or earned $15,200 in the base year. Family Leave Insurance (FLI) is also available for caregivers. Medicaid waivers, such as the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver, help with long-term care needs. You must meet income and asset limits for Medicaid. ABLE accounts let you save for disability-related expenses without losing benefits. For more details, see the NJ Division of Disability Services.
Learn more about Medicaid vs Medicare
Learn more about ABLE Accounts
ABLE accounts let people with ALS save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You must have a disability before age 26. The NJ ABLE program lets you save up to $100,000 without affecting SSI. Contributions are tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses are tax-free. You can use funds for housing, education, transportation, and more.
Learn more about ABLE Accounts
For SSI, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual in 2025. For Medicaid, income limits vary by program. For TDI and FLI, there is no income limit, but benefits are based on your earnings. For ABLE accounts, you must have a disability before age 26 and meet SSI or SSDI criteria.
Learn more about Medicaid Waivers (HCBS)
If your income or status changes, you must report it to avoid overpayments. For SSI and SSDI, report changes online or by phone. For Medicaid, report changes to the NJ Department of Human Services. For TDI and FLI, report changes to your employer or the NJ Division of Disability Services. Overpayments can result in repayment or loss of benefits.
Contact the NJ Division of Disability Services or your local Social Security office for help with applications.
The maximum weekly benefit for Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) in New Jersey in 2025 is $1,081. This is for people who cannot work due to ALS or other qualifying conditions.
In 2025, employees in New Jersey contribute 0.23% of their wages up to $165,400 for TDI. The maximum employee contribution is $380.42 per year.
The maximum weekly benefit for Family Leave Insurance (FLI) in New Jersey in 2025 is $1,081. This is for people who need to care for a family member with ALS.
In 2025, employees in New Jersey contribute 0.33% of their wages up to $165,400 for FLI. The maximum employee contribution is $545.82 per year.
To qualify for TDI in New Jersey, you must have worked at least 20 weeks earning at least $303 per week, or earned $15,200 in the base year. You must be unable to work due to ALS or another qualifying condition.
To qualify for FLI in New Jersey, you must have worked at least 20 weeks earning at least $303 per week, or earned $15,200 in the base year. You must need to care for a family member with ALS or another qualifying condition.
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
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The maximum federal SSI benefit in 2025 is $943 per month for an individual. New Jersey may add a small state supplement, but the federal limit is $943.
The maximum SSDI benefit in 2025 varies by your work history. The average is about $1,500 per month, but it can be higher for those with higher earnings.
The income limit for Medicaid in New Jersey varies by program. For most programs, it is about 138% of the federal poverty level, which is about $2,000 per month for an individual in 2025.
The asset limit for SSI in New Jersey is $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple. This includes cash, bank accounts, and other resources.
