People with Down Syndrome in New Jersey can access federal and state disability benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key resources for families.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have a qualifying disability and enough work credits. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), eligibility is based on limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Down Syndrome is a condition that often meets the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability, especially for children and adults who cannot work due to their condition. The SGA limit for 2025 is $1,550 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,590 for blind individuals. Earning above these amounts generally disqualifies you from SSDI, but Social Security considers special circumstances and unsuccessful work attempts[1].
In New Jersey, people with Down Syndrome may qualify for Medicaid waivers that provide home and community-based services (HCBS). These waivers help with care, therapy, and support services. To qualify, you must meet income and asset limits and have a diagnosis of Down Syndrome or another qualifying disability. New Jersey also offers Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) and Family Leave Insurance (FLI) for families who need time off work to care for a loved one with Down Syndrome. TDI provides up to 26 weeks of benefits, and FLI provides up to 12 weeks for family care[3][4][5].
ABLE accounts let people with Down Syndrome save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In New Jersey, you can open an ABLE account through the state’s program. Contributions are limited to $18,000 per year, and the account can grow tax-free[5].
For SSI in 2025, the income limit is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. For Medicaid waivers, income and asset limits vary by program. For TDI/FLI, you must have earned at least $303 per week for 20 weeks, or $15,200 in the base year[1][5].
You must report changes in income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. If you receive too much money, you may have to pay it back. Report changes to Social Security or the NJ Division of Disability Services as soon as possible[1].
Contact the NJ Division of Disability Services or your local Social Security office for help with applications and eligibility questions.
Yes, Down Syndrome is a qualifying condition for SSI in New Jersey. You must meet income and resource limits to be eligible[1].
Contact the NJ Division of Disability Services to apply for Medicaid waivers. You must meet income and asset limits and have a diagnosis of Down Syndrome[5].
Yes, New Jersey’s TDI and FLI programs provide income replacement for up to 26 weeks (TDI) or 12 weeks (FLI) for family care[3][4][5].
For SSI in 2025, the income limit is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple[1].
You can open an ABLE account through the New Jersey ABLE program. Contributions are limited to $18,000 per year, and the account can grow tax-free[5].
Yes, you must report changes in income, resources, or living situation to avoid overpayments. Report changes to Social Security or the NJ Division of Disability Services as soon as possible[1].
The SGA limit for SSDI in 2025 is $1,550 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,590 for blind individuals[1].
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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You can receive TDI benefits for up to 26 weeks in New Jersey[3][4][5].
Yes, you can get both SSI and SSDI if you meet the eligibility requirements for both programs[1].
The maximum weekly benefit for TDI in New Jersey is $1,081 per week in 2025[3][4][5].
