Myalgic Encephalomyelitis Benefits in New Jersey

• To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have a medical condition that stops you from working for at least 12 months. You also need enough work credits from jobs covered by Social Security. In 2025, you earn one credit for every $1,730 in covered earnings, up to four per year. Most adults need 40 credits total, with 20 earned in the 10 years before disability began[1].
• For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, and be disabled, blind, or age 65 or older. Your disability must be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death[1].
• The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a list of impairments called the "Blue Book." Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) is not listed, but you can still qualify if your symptoms are as severe as a listed condition or if you cannot do any substantial work[1].
• You must not earn more than the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit. In 2025, this is $1,550 per month for non-blind people[1].

• New Jersey Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) gives short-term cash benefits if you cannot work due to a serious health condition like Myalgic Encephalomyelitis. You must have worked at least 20 weeks earning $303 per week, or earned $15,200 in the base year before your disability[3][5][6].
• The maximum weekly benefit in 2025 is $1,081. You can get benefits for up to 26 weeks[3][5].
• Workers pay 0.23% of their first $165,400 in wages for TDI in 2025. The most you will pay is $380.42[3][5][7].
• New Jersey Medicaid helps with medical costs if you have low income and assets. You may also qualify for Medicaid waivers that cover home and community-based services[5].

• If you think you qualify for SSDI or SSI, start your application online at SSA.gov or call 1-800-772-1213.
• For New Jersey Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI), your employer will help you start the claim. You can also apply online at myleavebenefits.nj.gov.
• For Medicaid, apply through NJ FamilyCare at njfamilycare.nj.gov or by calling 1-800-701-0716.
• Gather medical records and work history before you apply.

• Step 1: Gather Documents

  • Collect medical records that show your diagnosis and how Myalgic Encephalomyelitis affects your daily life and ability to work.
  • Get work history, pay stubs, and tax returns.
  • List all medications and treatments.

• Step 2: Apply for SSDI/SSI

  • Go to SSA.gov and click "Apply for Disability."
  • Fill out the online application or call 1-800-772-1213 to apply by phone.
  • The SSA will review your medical and work records. They may ask for more information or schedule a medical exam.
  • You will get a decision by mail. If denied, you can appeal.

• Step 3: Apply for New Jersey TDI

  • Tell your employer you are disabled and need to file for TDI.
  • Your employer will give you a claim form or direct you to myleavebenefits.nj.gov.
  • Fill out the claim form and have your doctor complete the medical section.
  • Submit the form online or by mail.
  • The Division of Temporary Disability and Family Leave Insurance will review your claim and send a decision.

• Step 4: Apply for Medicaid

  • Go to njfamilycare.nj.gov and create an account.
  • Fill out the application and upload required documents.
  • You may be asked to provide more information or attend an interview.
  • You will get a decision by mail. If approved, you will get a Medicaid card.

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Monthly cash benefits for people who have worked and paid into Social Security. Payments start after a 5-month waiting period[1].
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Monthly cash benefits for people with low income and resources who are disabled, blind, or age 65 or older[1].
• Medicare: Health insurance for people who get SSDI after 24 months of disability[1].
• Medicaid: Health coverage for people with low income and resources, including those with disabilities[1].

• New Jersey Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI): Short-term cash benefits for up to 26 weeks if you cannot work due to a serious health condition like Myalgic Encephalomyelitis. The maximum weekly benefit is $1,081 in 2025[3][5].
• New Jersey Medicaid: Health coverage for people with low income and resources. You may qualify for Medicaid waivers that cover home and community-based services[5].
• Family Leave Insurance (FLI): Cash benefits for up to 12 weeks to care for a family member with a serious health condition or to bond with a new child. The weekly benefit is 85% of your average weekly wage, up to $1,081[5].
• Medicaid Waivers (HCBS): Programs that help people with disabilities live in the community instead of institutions. These waivers cover services like personal care, home health, and respite care[5].

An ABLE account lets people with disabilities save money without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, and other benefits. In New Jersey, you can open an ABLE account through NJ ABLE. The account can be used for qualified disability expenses like housing, education, and transportation[5].

• For SSDI, there is no strict income limit, but you cannot earn more than the SGA limit ($1,550 per month in 2025)[1].
• For SSI, the federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual in 2025. New Jersey may add a small state supplement[1].
• For Medicaid, the income limit depends on your household size and whether you get SSI or SSDI[5].

If you get too much money from a benefit program, you must report it and may have to pay it back. Always tell the agency about changes in your income, work, or living situation. This helps avoid overpayments and keeps your benefits safe[5].

• Social Security Administration
  Phone: 1-800-772-1213

  TTY: 1-800-325-0778

  Hours: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Monday-Friday

  Website

  For SSDI/SSI questions and applications.
• NJ Division of Temporary Disability and Family Leave Insurance
  Phone: 1-888-795-2677

  Hours: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM, Monday-Friday

  Website

  For TDI and FLI questions and applications.
• NJ FamilyCare (Medicaid)
  Phone: 1-800-701-0716

  Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday-Friday

  Website

  For Medicaid questions and applications.

• Can I get disability benefits for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis in New Jersey?

  Yes, if your Myalgic Encephalomyelitis is severe enough to stop you from working for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSDI, SSI, or New Jersey TDI. You must meet the program's medical and work requirements[1][3][5].

• How do I apply for SSDI or SSI in New Jersey?

  You can apply for SSDI or SSI online at SSA.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a local Social Security office. You will need medical records and work history[1].

• What is the maximum weekly benefit for New Jersey TDI in 2025?

  The maximum weekly benefit for New Jersey Temporary Disability Insurance in 2025 is $1,081. You can get this for up to 26 weeks if you qualify[3][5].

• Do I have to pay for New Jersey TDI?

  Yes, in 2025, workers pay 0.23% of their first $165,400 in wages for TDI. The most you will pay is $380.42 per year[3][5].

• Can I get Medicaid if I have Myalgic Encephalomyelitis?

  Yes, if you have low income and resources, you may qualify for Medicaid in New Jersey. Medicaid covers medical costs and may include home and community-based services[5].

• What is an ABLE account and how can it help me?

  An ABLE account lets you save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, and other benefits. You can use the funds for things like housing, education, and transportation[5].