If you have depression in New Jersey, you may qualify for federal and state disability benefits. These include Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI), Medicaid, and more. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get help.
To qualify for federal disability benefits for depression, you must meet Social Security’s definition of disability. This means your depression must be severe enough to stop you from working for at least 12 months. You must also meet work credit requirements for SSDI or income and asset limits for SSI.
Depression must be diagnosed by a qualified medical professional and supported by medical records.
New Jersey offers several programs for people with depression:
New Jersey also offers support services like vocational rehabilitation and counseling through state agencies [5].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing benefits. You can use the funds for disability-related expenses like housing, education, and transportation. New Jersey residents can open an ABLE account through the state’s program [5].
For SSI, the federal income limit in 2025 is $943/month for an individual. New Jersey adds a small state supplement. For Medicaid, income limits vary by household size and program. For TDI, you must have earned at least $303 per week for 20 weeks or $15,200 in the base year [3].
If your income or health changes, you must report it to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can lead to penalties or loss of benefits. Report changes to Social Security, Medicaid, or the NJ Division of Temporary Disability and Family Leave Insurance as soon as possible [5].
Contact a Work Incentives Planning and Assistance (WIPA) counselor or your local One-Stop Career Center for free help with your application.
Yes, depression can qualify for SSDI, SSI, and state disability programs if it severely limits your ability to work. You must provide medical records and meet eligibility requirements [1][3].
The maximum weekly benefit in 2025 is $1,081. The actual amount depends on your earnings and the length of your disability [3].
Yes, you must have worked 20 weeks earning at least $303 per week, or earned $15,200 in the base year to qualify for TDI [3].
Yes, Medicaid covers mental health services for those with low income. You may also qualify for Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services [5].
SSDI is for those who have worked and paid Social Security taxes. SSI is for those with limited income and resources. Both require a severe disability [1].
Apply for SSDI or SSI through Social Security. Apply for TDI through your employer or the NJ Division of Temporary Disability and Family Leave Insurance. Apply for Medicaid through NJ FamilyCare or your county social services agency [1][3][5].
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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Yes, there are work incentives that let you keep benefits while working. Contact a WIPA counselor for help [5].
You need records from a qualified medical professional showing your diagnosis, treatment, and how depression affects your ability to work [1].
Yes, New Jersey offers counseling, vocational rehabilitation, and support services through state agencies [5].
Approval times vary. SSDI and SSI can take several months. TDI is usually faster, but depends on your situation [1][3].
