People with epilepsy in New Jersey can get help through federal and state programs. These include disability benefits, Medicaid, and financial support. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what benefits are available.
Epilepsy is a neurological condition that can qualify for federal disability benefits if it limits your ability to work. The Social Security Administration (SSA) looks at how often seizures happen, how severe they are, and how they affect daily life. To qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have low income and limited resources. For Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you need a work history and enough work credits. Both programs require medical proof, such as doctor reports and test results. If approved, you may get monthly cash payments and health coverage.
For more details, visit the SSA website or call 1-800-772-1213.
In New Jersey, people with epilepsy may qualify for state disability programs if they cannot work due to their condition. The main program is Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI), which gives short-term cash benefits if you are unable to work for up to 26 weeks. To qualify, you must have worked and earned enough wages in the past year. The maximum weekly benefit in 2025 is $1,081. Workers pay a 0.23% contribution on wages up to $165,400, with a maximum employee contribution of $380.42 for the year. Employers also pay a small share.
New Jersey also offers Medicaid waivers for long-term care and support services. These can help with home care, therapy, and other needs. To qualify, you must meet income and asset rules and show a need for services.
Learn more about SSI & SSDI Work Incentives
ABLE accounts let people with epilepsy save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the money for housing, education, transportation, and more. New Jersey offers its own ABLE program. You can open an account online or through a financial institution. Contributions are limited each year, but earnings grow tax-free.
Learn more about ABLE Accounts
For SSI, the income limit in 2025 is about $914 per month for an individual. For SSDI, there is no strict income limit, but you must not earn more than $1,550 per month from work. For Medicaid, limits vary by program and household size. For ABLE accounts, you can contribute up to $18,000 per year in 2025. Always check the latest rules with the state or federal agency.
You must report changes in income, work, or health to avoid overpayments. If you get too much money, you may have to pay it back. Report changes as soon as possible by phone, online, or in writing. Keep records of all reports and letters. If you get an overpayment notice, you can ask for a waiver or set up a payment plan.
Call the NJ FamilyCare/Medicaid Call Center at 1-800-356-1561 for help with Medicaid or county services.
Contact the NJ Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services at 1-800-792-8339 for help with work and disability support.
Yes, epilepsy can qualify for federal and state disability benefits if it limits your ability to work. You need medical proof and must meet income and work rules. Apply through Social Security or the NJ Division of Temporary Disability and Family Leave Insurance.
In 2025, the maximum weekly benefit is $1,081. The amount you get depends on your past wages. You can get benefits for up to 26 weeks if you qualify.
Yes, workers pay a 0.23% contribution on wages up to $165,400 in 2025. The maximum employee contribution is $380.42 for the year. Employers also pay a small share.
SSI is for people with low income and resources. SSDI is for people who worked and paid Social Security taxes. Both provide monthly cash payments and health coverage if you qualify.
Yes, people with epilepsy may qualify for Medicaid if they meet income and asset rules. Medicaid covers health care, therapy, and long-term support services.
Medicaid waivers help people with disabilities get long-term care and support services at home or in the community. They cover things like home care, therapy, and respite care.
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 apply for an ABLE account online or through a financial institution. You need proof of disability and your Social Security number. Contributions are limited each year.
If your claim is denied, you can appeal. You have 60 days to file an appeal. Gather more medical records and ask for a hearing. You can get help from a disability advocate.
Yes, you must report changes in income, work, or health to avoid overpayments. Report changes as soon as possible by phone, online, or in writing. Keep records of all reports.
You can get help from Social Security, your local county office, or a disability advocate. Call 1-800-772-1213 for Social Security or contact your county social services office.
