People with Multiple Sclerosis in New Jersey can access federal and state disability benefits, including SSDI, SSI, Medicaid waivers, and Temporary Disability Insurance. Eligibility depends on work history, income, and medical documentation. This guide explains how to apply and what support is available.
To qualify for federal disability benefits like SSDI or SSI, you must have a medical condition that meets Social Security’s definition of disability. For SSDI, you need enough work credits based on your age and when your disability began. In 2025, most adults need 40 credits, with 20 earned in the 10 years before disability. SSI is for those with limited income and resources, regardless of work history. Multiple Sclerosis is a qualifying condition if it severely limits your ability to work for at least 12 months [1].
The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit in 2025 is $1,550 per month for non-blind individuals. Earning above this amount usually disqualifies you from SSDI, but special circumstances may apply [1].
New Jersey residents with Multiple Sclerosis can also access state programs. Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) provides short-term income replacement for up to 26 weeks if you cannot work due to a serious health condition. To qualify, you must have worked 20 weeks earning at least $303 per week or earned $15,200 in the base year. The maximum weekly benefit in 2025 is $1,081 [3].
Medicaid waivers, such as the Community Care Waiver, help people with Multiple Sclerosis get home-based services and avoid nursing home placement. Eligibility depends on income, assets, and medical need. New Jersey also offers ABLE accounts for saving without losing benefits [2].
ABLE accounts let people with Multiple Sclerosis in New Jersey save money without losing eligibility for benefits like SSI or Medicaid. You can contribute up to $16,000 per year (2025 limit), and the first $100,000 is not counted as a resource for SSI. Funds can be used for qualified disability expenses, such as medical care, housing, and education [2].
For SSI in 2025, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual. New Jersey may have higher limits for Medicaid. For TDI, you must have earned at least $303 per week for 20 weeks or $15,200 in the base year. The maximum weekly TDI benefit is $1,081 [3].
If your income, work status, or medical condition changes, you must report it to Social Security and NJ state agencies. Failing to report changes can lead to overpayments and penalties. Keep records of all communications and updates [3].
Contact the NJ Division of Disability Services or your local Social Security office for help with applications and documentation.
Yes, if your Multiple Sclerosis meets Social Security’s disability criteria and you have enough work credits. Most adults need 40 credits, with 20 earned in the 10 years before disability. Medical evidence is required [1].
The maximum weekly TDI benefit in New Jersey for 2025 is $1,081. This applies to those unable to work due to Multiple Sclerosis or other serious health conditions [3].
Contact the NJ Department of Human Services or visit their website. You’ll need to provide financial and medical information to determine eligibility for home-based services [2].
You can work, but your earnings must stay below the Substantial Gainful Activity limit of $1,550 per month in 2025. Special rules may apply for workplace accommodations [1].
An ABLE account lets you save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use funds for qualified disability expenses, such as medical care and housing [2].
Yes, you must report any changes in income, work status, or medical condition to avoid overpayments and penalties. Keep records of all updates [3].
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 receive TDI benefits for up to 26 weeks in a benefit year if you cannot work due to Multiple Sclerosis or another serious health condition [3].
Yes, you can receive both SSDI and TDI if you meet the eligibility requirements for each program. TDI is for short-term needs, while SSDI is for long-term disability [1].
You need a diagnosis from a doctor, treatment records, and evidence that your Multiple Sclerosis severely limits your ability to work for at least 12 months [1].
If your claim is denied, you can appeal by following the instructions in the decision notice. You may need to submit additional medical evidence or attend a hearing [3].
