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New Jersey • Chronic Illness
People with cancer in New Jersey can access disability benefits, Medicaid, and other support programs. This guide covers eligibility, how to apply, and key resources for 2025.
Federal disability programs like Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) help people with cancer who cannot work. To qualify for SSDI, you must have worked enough to earn work credits and have a medical condition that meets Social Security’s definition of disability. SSI is for low-income individuals with limited resources, regardless of work history. Both programs require medical proof of your cancer diagnosis and how it limits your ability to work. For more details, visit the Social Security Administration’s website.
For more information, see the SSA’s disability eligibility page.
In New Jersey, people with cancer may qualify for Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) if they cannot work due to their condition. To be eligible for TDI, you must have worked at least 20 weeks earning at least $303 per week, or earned a combined total of $15,200 in the four quarters before your disability began. The 2025 maximum weekly benefit is $1,081. Workers contribute 0.23% of their wages up to $165,400 for TDI. Family Leave Insurance (FLI) is also available for caregivers of cancer patients, with a maximum weekly benefit of $1,081 and a contribution rate of 0.33% of wages up to $165,400.
For more information, see the NJ Division of Temporary Disability and Family Leave Insurance.
For more information, see the SSA and CMS websites.
For more information, see the NJ Division of Temporary Disability and Family Leave Insurance and NJ Medicaid websites.
ABLE Accounts allow people with cancer to save money without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits like SSI and Medicaid. Contributions to an ABLE account are not taxed, and withdrawals for qualified disability expenses are tax-free. In New Jersey, you can open an ABLE account through the NJ ABLE program. For more information, see the NJ ABLE program website.
Income limits for disability programs vary. For SSI, the 2025 federal benefit rate is $943 per month for an individual. For Medicaid, income limits depend on household size and other factors. For TDI and FLI, there is no income limit, but benefits are based on your earnings. For more information, see the SSA and NJ Medicaid websites.
If your condition or income changes, you must report it to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in penalties or loss of benefits. For more information, see the SSA and NJ Division of Temporary Disability and Family Leave Insurance websites.
Contact the NJ Division of Temporary Disability and Family Leave Insurance for help with your application. They can answer questions and guide you through the process.
Workers in New Jersey who cannot work due to cancer may qualify for TDI if they have worked at least 20 weeks earning at least $303 per week, or earned a combined total of $15,200 in the four quarters before their disability began. Medical documentation is required.
The maximum weekly benefit for TDI in 2025 is $1,081. The actual amount you receive depends on your average weekly wage, up to the maximum.
Yes, workers in New Jersey contribute 0.23% of their wages up to $165,400 for TDI in 2025. This is deducted from your paycheck.
Yes, Family Leave Insurance (FLI) provides benefits to caregivers of cancer patients. The maximum weekly benefit is $1,081, and workers contribute 0.33% of their wages up to $165,400.
You can apply for TDI or FLI online, by mail, or in person through the NJ Division of Temporary Disability and Family Leave Insurance. You will need medical documentation from your healthcare provider.
Yes, you can receive both TDI and SSDI if you meet the eligibility requirements for each program. TDI is for short-term disability, while SSDI is for long-term disability.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.
If your cancer goes into remission and you can return to work, you should report this change to avoid overpayments. You may be able to return to work with accommodations.
Yes, New Jersey offers Medicaid waivers for people with cancer who need long-term care. These waivers provide additional support services beyond standard Medicaid coverage.
Yes, ABLE accounts allow people with cancer to save money without losing eligibility for means-tested benefits. Contributions are not taxed, and withdrawals for qualified disability expenses are tax-free.
If you disagree with a decision about your benefits, you can appeal. Each decision notice includes instructions for filing an appeal. For more information, see the NJ Division of Temporary Disability and Family Leave Insurance website.
