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New Jersey • Chronic Illness
If you have heart disease in New Jersey, you may qualify for federal disability benefits (SSDI/SSI) and state programs like Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI). This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and what benefits are available in 2025.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) in New Jersey, you must have a medical condition like heart disease that prevents you from working for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death. You also need enough work credits earned through Social Security-covered jobs. In 2025, you earn one credit for every $1,730 in covered earnings, up to four credits per year. Most adults need 40 credits total, with 20 earned in the 10 years before disability began. The exact number depends on your age when you became disabled. For example, if you are under 24, you need 6 credits in the 3 years before disability started. If you are 62 or older, you need 40 credits total. You must also earn less than the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit: $1,550 per month for non-blind individuals in 2025. If you do not have enough work credits, you may qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) if your income and resources are low. SSI is for people with limited income and assets, regardless of work history. Both SSDI and SSI require medical proof that your heart disease prevents you from working. [1]
New Jersey residents with heart disease may also qualify for Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI). TDI provides short-term income replacement for up to 26 weeks if you cannot work due to a serious health condition, including heart disease. To qualify, you must have worked at least 20 weeks earning at least $303 per week, or earned a combined total of $15,200 in the four quarters before your disability began. The maximum weekly benefit in 2025 is $1,081. Workers and employers both contribute to TDI. In 2025, workers contribute 0.23% of their wages up to $165,400, with a maximum contribution of $380.42. There is a one-week unpaid waiting period before benefits start. TDI is not available for job-related injuries; those are covered by workers' compensation. [2][3][4][5][6]
An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing eligibility for benefits like SSI and Medicaid. In New Jersey, you can open an ABLE account if your disability started before age 26. Contributions are limited, but earnings grow tax-free. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses, including medical care, housing, and education. [internal_link]
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. For SSDI, there is no strict income limit, but you must earn less than the SGA limit of $1,550 per month. For TDI, you must have earned at least $303 per week for 20 weeks or $15,200 in the base year. [1][5]
If your income or condition changes, you must report it to Social Security or the NJ Division of Temporary Disability and Family Leave Insurance. Failing to report changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. Always keep records of your reports and follow up on any notices. [internal_link]
Contact the NJ Division of Temporary Disability and Family Leave Insurance or your local Social Security office for help with your application.
Yes, if your heart disease prevents you from working for at least 12 months and you have enough work credits. You must provide medical proof and meet the income limits. [1]
The maximum weekly benefit is $1,081 in 2025. The actual amount depends on your earnings history. You must have worked at least 20 weeks earning $303 per week or $15,200 in the base year. [3][5]
Yes, in 2025, workers contribute 0.23% of their wages up to $165,400. Your employer also contributes. If you did not pay in, you may not qualify. [2][3]
TDI can provide benefits for up to 26 weeks in a 52-week period for a serious health condition like heart disease. There is a one-week unpaid waiting period. [3][4]
Yes, you can apply for both. SSDI is for long-term disability, while TDI is for short-term. You may qualify for both if you meet the eligibility rules. [1][3]
You need medical records showing your heart disease diagnosis, treatment, and how it limits your ability to work. Social Security will review your records to decide if you qualify. [1]
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult an expert for your specific situation.
If your claim is denied, you can appeal within 60 days. Follow the instructions in your denial notice. You may need to attend a hearing or provide more medical evidence. [3]
You can work, but your earnings must be below the SGA limit ($1,550/month in 2025) for SSDI. For TDI, you cannot work during the period you receive benefits. [1][3]
SSDI is for people with a work history and enough work credits. SSI is for people with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Both require medical proof of disability. [internal_link]
Report changes in income or condition to Social Security or the NJ Division of Temporary Disability and Family Leave Insurance. Keep records of your reports and follow up on any notices. [internal_link]
