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New Jersey • Rare/Genetic
People with Rett Syndrome in New Jersey may qualify for federal and state disability benefits, including SSDI, SSI, Medicaid waivers, and Temporary Disability Insurance. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key resources for families.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have worked enough to earn required Social Security credits. For most adults, this means 40 credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before disability onset. The number of credits needed depends on your age when you became disabled. For Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must have limited income and resources, and your disability must prevent you from doing substantial work. The 2025 Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is $1,550 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,590 for blind individuals. Earning above these amounts usually disqualifies you from SSDI, but special circumstances may be considered[1].
In New Jersey, people with Rett Syndrome may also qualify for state programs like Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) and Family Leave Insurance (FLI). For 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. The maximum weekly benefit in 2025 is $1,081. Workers contribute 0.23% of wages up to $165,400, with a maximum contribution of $380.42. FLI provides up to 12 weeks of benefits for family care or bonding, with a similar earnings test and a 0.33% employee contribution rate[3][4][5].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for benefits like SSI and Medicaid. In New Jersey, you can open an ABLE account through the NJ ABLE program. Contributions are tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses are also tax-free. The annual contribution limit is $18,000 in 2025[1].
For SSI, the 2025 federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. For SSDI, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is $1,550 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,590 for blind individuals. Earning above these amounts may affect eligibility[1].
It’s important to report any changes in income, employment, or medical status to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands or benefit reductions. Report changes promptly to the Social Security Administration and NJ Division of Temporary Disability and Family Leave Insurance[1][3].
Start your application for SSDI, SSI, or state benefits as soon as possible. Delays can affect your eligibility and benefit amounts.
Contact local disability advocacy groups or legal aid for help with applications and appeals.
People with Rett Syndrome in New Jersey may qualify for SSDI, SSI, Medicaid waivers, and Medicare. SSDI requires work credits, while SSI is for those with limited income and resources. Medicaid waivers provide home and community-based services[1].
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. Gather medical records and work history before applying[1].
TDI provides short-term income support for up to 26 weeks for non-work-related disabilities. The maximum weekly benefit in 2025 is $1,081. Workers contribute 0.23% of wages up to $165,400[3][4][5].
Yes, New Jersey offers Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services, including respite care and personal care services. These waivers help people with Rett Syndrome live independently[1].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for benefits. In New Jersey, you can open an ABLE account through the NJ ABLE program. Contributions are tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified expenses are also tax-free[1].
For SSI, the 2025 federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. For SSDI, the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit is $1,550 per month for non-blind individuals and $2,590 for blind individuals[1].
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for specific situations.
FLI provides up to 12 weeks of benefits for family care or bonding. The weekly benefit is 85% of average weekly wage, up to $1,081. Workers contribute 0.33% of wages up to $165,400[4][5].
Yes, it’s important to report any changes in income, employment, or medical status to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands or benefit reductions. Report changes promptly to the Social Security Administration and NJ Division of Temporary Disability and Family Leave Insurance[1][3].
You can apply for Medicaid waivers through the NJ Medicaid website. Gather medical records and documentation of your disability before applying. The application process may include an assessment of your needs[1].
If you disagree with a decision, you can appeal by following the instructions on the decision notice. Appeals can be filed online, by mail, or in person. The process includes several levels, such as reconsideration and a hearing[3].
