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New Jersey • Chronic Illness
If you have fibromyalgia in New Jersey, you may qualify for federal and state disability benefits. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what programs are available for income, healthcare, and support.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with fibromyalgia, you must show that your symptoms are severe enough to prevent you from doing substantial work for at least 12 months. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a medical guide called the Blue Book. Fibromyalgia is listed under section 14.10. You need medical proof, such as a diagnosis from a doctor, records of symptoms, and evidence that treatments have not helped enough for you to work. You must also meet work credit and income rules for SSDI or SSI[1].
In New Jersey, you may also qualify for Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) if fibromyalgia keeps you from working for a short time. TDI pays up to $1,081 per week for up to 26 weeks. To qualify, you must have worked 20 weeks earning at least $303 per week, or earned $15,200 in the base year before your disability started[3][5].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can save up to $17,000 per year in 2025. Funds can be used for housing, education, transportation, and other qualified expenses. New Jersey residents can open an ABLE account through the NJ ABLE program[5].
You must report any changes in your income, work, or health to the SSA and NJ state agencies. Not reporting changes can lead to overpayments, which you may have to pay back. Keep records of all changes and report them as soon as possible[1][5].
Contact your local Social Security office or the Division of Disability Services for help with your application. Nonprofit groups can also provide free support.
Yes, fibromyalgia can qualify for SSDI or SSI if it severely limits your ability to work for at least 12 months. You need medical proof and must meet work or income rules[1][3].
Apply online at SSA.gov, by phone, or at your local Social Security office. Provide medical records and work history. The SSA will review your case[1].
TDI is a short-term program that pays up to $1,081 per week for up to 26 weeks if you cannot work due to a non-work-related health condition like fibromyalgia[3][5].
In 2025, workers pay 0.23% of their wages (up to $165,400), which is a maximum of $380.42 per year[3][5].
Yes, if your income is low, you may qualify for Medicaid through NJ FamilyCare. Medicaid can help cover healthcare costs for people with disabilities[5].
Medicaid waivers help people with disabilities live at home or in the community. Examples include the Community Care Waiver and the Supports Program[5].
Contact the Division of Disability Services for help with Medicaid waiver applications and long-term care supports[5].
Disclaimer: This guide is for general information only. Always check with official agencies for the most current rules and eligibility.
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. You can save up to $17,000 per year for qualified expenses without losing benefits[5].
Yes, you must report any changes to the SSA and NJ state agencies to avoid overpayments and keep your benefits[1][5].
Contact your local Social Security office, the Division of Disability Services, or a nonprofit advocacy group for help with your application[1][5].
