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New Jersey • Chronic Illness
If you have Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) in New Jersey, you may qualify for monthly cash payments, healthcare coverage, and paid job-protected leave through federal and state programs. Eligibility and application steps vary depending on your condition, work history, and income. This guide explains which programs cover CFS, how much you may receive, and where to apply.
To qualify for federal disability programs like SSI (Supplemental Security Income) or SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance), you must prove that your Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) prevents you from working in any substantial, gainful activity for at least 12 months. SSI is for low-income individuals with limited resources, regardless of work history. SSDI requires enough Social Security work credits, based on your age when your disability began—generally, adults need 40 credits and 20 in the 10 years before disability. SSDI also follows a strict definition of disability backed by medical evidence showing your CFS dramatically limits daily activities and work. For both programs, income and assets (for SSI) are reviewed, and benefits can be reduced if you return to work above earnings limits (2025 amounts: non-blind, $1,550/month; blind, $2,590/month)[1].
In New Jersey, if your CFS makes you unable to work, you may also apply for Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI), which pays cash benefits for up to 26 weeks. To qualify, you must have worked at least 20 weeks earning at least $303 weekly, or earned $15,200 total, in the base year before your claim (California uses similar base-year rules, but not for New Jersey)[6]. Starting in 2025, workers pay 0.23% of wages up to $165,400 (maximum $380.42/year)[2][3]. The state’s Family Leave Insurance (FLI) is not for disability, but for bonding with a new child or caring for a seriously ill family member—it does not cover your own chronic illness like CFS[4][5]. For Medicaid, you may qualify based on income, or if you get SSI. Some HCBS (Home and Community-Based Services) Medicaid waivers exist in New Jersey, but these typically focus on people with developmental or physical disabilities; there is no explicit CFS waiver, but you may qualify for standard Medicaid or Expanded State Plan options if you meet income limits.
If Chronic Fatigue Syndrome keeps you from working, start with the federal application for SSI/SSDI at ssa.gov. File your application as soon as you can—wait times for decisions average several months. For state support, log on or call the New Jersey Division of Temporary Disability Insurance within one week of your first missed workday to start a TDI claim[3]. Gather all your medical records, doctor’s notes, and work history before applying. If you need help, reach out to a local legal aid group or the Social Security Administration office. Keep copies of everything you submit.
Apply for SSI/SSDI
Apply for New Jersey TDI
Apply for Medicaid
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): This federal program provides monthly payments if you have enough work credits and your CFS prevents you from working. The amount depends on your past earnings. Benefits continue as long as you remain disabled and do not exceed earnings limits[1].
Supplemental Security Income (SSI): SSI offers monthly payments to low-income adults with disabilities, including those with CFS who have not worked enough for SSDI. Income and resource limits apply. If you qualify, you may also get Medicaid automatically[1].
Medicare: After 24 months of SSDI payments, you become eligible for Medicare, which can help cover healthcare costs related to CFS.
ABLE Accounts: These tax-advantaged savings accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing federal benefits. Income limits and other rules apply.
Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI): New Jersey’s TDI program pays up to 26 weeks of benefits if your CFS makes you unable to work. You must have worked at least 20 weeks earning $303/week, or earned $15,200 in the base year before your claim[6]. The maximum weekly benefit in 2025 is $1,081[3]. There is a one-week unpaid waiting period. Workers pay 0.23% of wages up to $165,400 (maximum $380.42/year) in 2025[3]. Apply online at myleavebenefits.nj.gov or by phone as soon as you stop working[3].
Family Leave Insurance (FLI): FLI does not cover your own chronic illness, but may help if you need leave to care for a family member with a serious health condition[4][5].
Medicaid: New Jersey Medicaid covers doctor visits, prescriptions, and some therapies for eligible low-income residents with CFS. If you get SSI, you may qualify automatically. New Jersey does not have a specific Medicaid waiver for CFS, but standard Medicaid or Expanded State Plan options may be available if you meet income and disability criteria.
State Disability Services: New Jersey offers various local programs for people with disabilities, including adult day care, transportation, and home care. Eligibility varies. Contact your County Welfare Agency for details.
ABLE Accounts let people who became disabled before age 26 save up to $18,000/year without losing SSI, Medicaid, or other federal benefits. Savings can be used for qualified disability expenses. New Jersey does not have its own ABLE program, but you can use any state’s plan.
For SSI (2025): Income limits are strict—generally, you must have less than $2,000 in assets ($3,000 for couples). Earned and unearned income affect your monthly payment. For SSDI: No strict income limits, but if you earn above $1,550/month (non-blind), you may lose eligibility[1]. TDI: No asset test, but your benefit is based on earnings—maximum $1,081/week in 2025[3]. Medicaid: Income limits vary; for adults, it’s typically up to 138% of the federal poverty level unless you qualify under another category (like SSI).
If you get overpaid by SSI, SSDI, TDI, or Medicaid, you must repay the extra money. Always report changes in income, work, living situation, or medical condition promptly to avoid overpayments and penalties. Each program has its own reporting process—contact the agency where you receive benefits to learn how.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) can be harder to prove than some other disabilities. Collect detailed medical records, symptom diaries, and statements from your doctors about how CFS limits your daily activities and work. The more evidence you provide, the better your chance of approval.
For New Jersey Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI), file your claim as soon as you stop working—ideally within one week of your first missed day. Delays can affect your benefits[3].
You may be able to work part-time and still get benefits, but earnings over $1,550/month (non-blind) usually disqualify you from SSDI and SSI. TDI stops when you return to work. Report all income changes right away to avoid overpayments.
Processing times vary, but expect several months. Many claims are denied at first due to lack of medical evidence—be prepared to appeal.
No, New Jersey does not have a specific Medicaid waiver for CFS. Most HCBS waivers are for developmental or physical disabilities, but you may qualify for standard Medicaid or Expanded State Plan options.
The maximum benefit is $1,081 per week for 2025, but your actual amount depends on your earnings[3].
You can apply on your own, but many people use legal aid or an attorney, especially if denied. Free legal help is available in New Jersey for those who qualify.
You have the right to appeal. Follow the instructions in your denial letter. You may need to provide more medical evidence or request a hearing.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Program rules and benefit amounts change. Always consult official agencies or a qualified professional for your specific situation.
SSI is for low-income people with disabilities, regardless of work history. SSDI requires enough work credits and is based on your past earnings. See our internal guide for more.
Sometimes, if your SSDI payment is low, you may qualify for SSI too. This is called concurrent benefits.
