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New Jersey • Sensory
People who are hard of hearing in New Jersey can access federal and state disability benefits, including income support, healthcare, and work incentives. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key programs for New Jersey residents.
To qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, you must have a medical condition that meets Social Security’s definition of disability. For SSI, you must also have limited income and resources. SSDI requires a work history with enough Social Security-covered jobs. Both programs require medical proof of your disability. You can learn more about eligibility for SSI and SSDI on the Social Security Administration’s website [^1].
In New Jersey, people who are hard of hearing may qualify for state disability programs if they meet work and earnings requirements. For Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI), you must have worked 20 weeks earning at least $303 per week, or earned a combined total of $15,200 in the base year before your disability began [^2]. Family Leave Insurance (FLI) has similar eligibility rules. You must also be unable to work due to your disability. New Jersey also offers Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities who need extra support services [^3].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities 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 ABLE program. Contributions are limited each year, and funds can be used for things like education, housing, transportation, and assistive technology [^5].
Federal and state disability programs have income and resource limits. For SSI, the 2025 federal benefit rate is $943 per month for an individual. SSDI payments depend on your work history. TDI and FLI benefits are based on your average weekly wage, up to $1,081 per week in 2025 [^2].
If your income or situation changes, you must report it to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can happen if you earn more than allowed or if your disability status changes. Report changes to Social Security and New Jersey state agencies as soon as possible to avoid penalties [^4].
Contact the New Jersey Division of Disability Services for help with applications and support services.
Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) in New Jersey provides income replacement for up to 26 weeks if you cannot work due to a non-work-related disability, including hearing loss. The maximum weekly benefit in 2025 is $1,081 [^2].
To qualify for SSI, you must have a qualifying disability and limited income and resources. For SSDI, you must have a qualifying disability and enough work credits. Both require medical proof of your disability [^1].
Family Leave Insurance (FLI) in New Jersey provides up to 12 weeks of income replacement for bonding with a new child or caring for a family member with a serious health condition. The maximum weekly benefit in 2025 is $1,081 [^4].
Yes, if you meet income and disability requirements, you can get Medicaid in New Jersey. Medicaid covers healthcare and may include extra support services through waivers [^3].
Medicaid waivers in New Jersey help people with disabilities get extra support services, such as home care or assistive devices. These waivers are for people who need more help than regular Medicaid provides [^3].
You can apply for federal benefits (SSI/SSDI) online, by phone, or in person. For state benefits (TDI/FLI), apply online or by mail through the New Jersey Division of Temporary Disability and Family Leave Insurance [^2].
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.
An ABLE account is a tax-advantaged savings account for people with disabilities. You can save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits [^5].
Yes, you must report changes in your income or situation to avoid overpayments. Report changes to Social Security and New Jersey state agencies as soon as possible [^4].
