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New Jersey • Sensory
People who are Deaf in New Jersey can access federal and state benefits for income, healthcare, and support. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and important programs for Deafness in New Jersey.
Deafness can qualify for federal disability benefits if it meets Social Security's definition of disability. To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked and paid Social Security taxes. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources. Both programs require medical proof that your Deafness prevents you from working. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses specific rules to decide if a hearing loss is severe enough for benefits [ssa.gov, 2025-11-06].
In New Jersey, Deafness may qualify you for state disability programs like Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) and Family Leave Insurance (FLI). To get TDI, you must be unable to work due to a health condition, including Deafness if it is severe enough. You must have worked at least 20 weeks earning at least $303 per week, or earned $15,200 in the base year before your disability started. FLI helps if you need time off to care for a family member or bond with a new child. Both programs require contributions from workers and employers. The 2025 maximum weekly benefit is $1,081 [nj.gov, 2025-11-06].
Federal programs for Deafness include Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSDI provides monthly payments if you have a work history and paid Social Security taxes. SSI helps people with limited income and resources. Both programs may also provide access to Medicare or Medicaid. You can learn more about these programs and how to apply at ssa.gov [ssa.gov, 2025-11-06].
New Jersey offers Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) and Family Leave Insurance (FLI) for people who are Deaf or have other disabilities. TDI provides partial wage replacement if you cannot work due to a health condition. FLI helps if you need time off to care for a family member or bond with a new child. Both programs require contributions from workers and employers. The 2025 maximum weekly benefit is $1,081. You can apply online at myleavebenefits.nj.gov or call the Division of Temporary Disability and Family Leave Insurance [nj.gov, 2025-11-06].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In New Jersey, you can open an ABLE account if you became disabled before age 26. Funds can be used for expenses like education, housing, and transportation. Learn more about ABLE accounts and how to open one at nj.gov/able [nj.gov/able, 2025-11-06].
Income limits for SSI and Medicaid vary by program and household size. For SSI, the 2025 federal benefit rate is $943 per month for an individual. Medicaid income limits depend on your situation. Check with your local county welfare agency for exact limits and how to apply [nj.gov, 2025-11-06].
If you get too much money from SSI or Medicaid, you may have to pay it back. Report changes in income, resources, or living situation right away to avoid overpayments. You can report changes online, by phone, or in person. Learn more about avoiding overpayments and reporting changes at nj.gov [nj.gov, 2025-11-06].
Contact your local Social Security office or the New Jersey Division of Temporary Disability and Family Leave Insurance for help with your application.
Yes, Deafness can qualify for federal and state disability benefits if it meets the program's definition of disability. You must provide medical proof and meet work or income requirements.
The maximum weekly benefit for Temporary Disability Insurance in New Jersey in 2025 is $1,081. This amount is based on your average weekly wage and the state's wage cap.
You can apply for federal benefits online at ssa.gov, by phone, or in person. For state benefits, apply online at myleavebenefits.nj.gov or call the Division of Temporary Disability and Family Leave Insurance.
The employee contribution rate for Temporary Disability Insurance in New Jersey in 2025 is 0.23% of wages up to $165,400. The maximum employee contribution is $380.42.
Yes, you may qualify for Medicaid if you are Deaf and meet income and resource requirements. Medicaid can help pay for healthcare, including hearing aids and other services.
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. Funds can be used for expenses like education, housing, and transportation.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice on your specific situation.
Report changes in income, resources, or living situation right away to avoid overpayments. You can report changes online, by phone, or in person.
SSI helps people with limited income and resources, while SSDI is for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both programs may provide monthly payments and access to healthcare.
Yes, you can work while getting disability benefits. There are work incentives that help you keep benefits while you try to work. Learn more about work incentives at ssa.gov.
Family Leave Insurance provides partial wage replacement if you need time off to care for a family member or bond with a new child. The 2025 maximum weekly benefit is $1,081.
