People with intellectual disability in New Jersey can access federal and state benefits, including SSI, SSDI, Medicaid waivers, and ABLE accounts. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key resources.
To qualify for federal disability benefits, you must have a severe, long-term disability that prevents substantial work. For SSI, you must have limited income and resources. For SSDI, you need enough work credits from jobs covered by Social Security. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses strict medical and financial criteria. Intellectual disability is recognized as a qualifying condition if it meets SSA’s definition and severity requirements. You must be unable to work for at least 12 months or have a condition expected to result in death. The SSA reviews medical records, work history, and financial information to decide eligibility [1].
In New Jersey, people with intellectual disability may also qualify for state-specific programs. Medicaid waivers, such as the Supports Program, provide services for people with developmental disabilities who meet financial and functional criteria. To qualify, you must be a New Jersey resident, meet Medicaid financial limits, and need services due to your disability. New Jersey also offers Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) and Family Leave Insurance (FLI) for short-term needs. TDI covers non-work-related disabilities, including intellectual disability, if you meet the work and earnings requirements. FLI helps with family care needs. Both programs require contributions from workers and employers [3][4][5].
ABLE accounts let people with intellectual disability save money for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can contribute up to $17,000 per year (2025). Funds can be used for education, housing, transportation, and more. New Jersey offers the NJ ABLE program. Learn more at the official NJ ABLE website [1].
SSI has strict income and resource limits. In 2025, the federal SSI limit is $943/month for an individual and $1,415/month for a couple. SSDI has no income limit, but you cannot earn above the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) threshold ($1,550/month in 2025) and still qualify. Medicaid income limits vary by program and household size. TDI and FLI benefits are based on your average weekly wage, up to $1,081/week [1][3][4][5].
If you receive too much SSI or SSDI, you may have to repay the overpayment. Report changes in income, resources, or living situation to the SSA promptly. Overpayments can happen if you work, get other benefits, or have changes in household. You can request a waiver if repayment would cause hardship. For Medicaid, report changes to the NJ Department of Human Services [1].
Contact the NJ Division of Disability Services or your local Social Security office for help with applications and eligibility questions.
SSI and SSDI offer work incentives to help you keep benefits while working. Learn more about these programs.
SSI is for people with limited income and resources, while SSDI is for those with enough work credits. Both require a qualifying disability. SSI is need-based; SSDI is based on work history. People with intellectual disability may qualify for either or both, depending on their situation [1].
Contact the NJ Division of Disability Services. You will need to complete a functional assessment and financial review. The Supports Program offers home and community-based services for people with intellectual disability who meet eligibility criteria [3].
Yes, but there are limits. SSI has strict income limits. SSDI allows some work, but you cannot earn above the SGA threshold ($1,550/month in 2025). Work incentives help you keep benefits while working [1].
An ABLE account lets you save for disability-related expenses without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can contribute up to $17,000 per year. Funds can be used for education, housing, transportation, and more. New Jersey offers the NJ ABLE program [1].
Report changes in income, resources, or living situation to the SSA or NJ Department of Human Services promptly. This helps avoid overpayments and keeps your benefits accurate [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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TDI provides short-term income replacement for up to 26 weeks for non-work-related disabilities. In 2025, the maximum weekly benefit is $1,081. Workers contribute 0.23% of earnings up to $165,400 [3][4].
FLI offers up to 12 weeks of paid leave for family care needs. The weekly benefit is 85% of average weekly wage, up to $1,081. Workers contribute 0.33% of earnings up to $165,400 [4][5].
If your application is denied, you can appeal. Every decision notice includes instructions. You can file an appeal online, by mail, or in person. Keep records of all correspondence [3].
The DDD provides case management, residential services, employment support, and more for people with intellectual disability. Contact them for information on eligibility and services [3].
Yes, Medicaid waivers and DDD may cover transportation for medical appointments. Contact your case manager or the NJ Division of Disability Services for details [3].
