If you have rheumatoid arthritis in New Jersey, you may qualify for federal and state disability benefits. These include Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI), and Medicaid. Each program has different rules for eligibility and application.
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you must have a medical condition that prevents you from working and have earned enough work credits. For rheumatoid arthritis, Social Security looks at how much your condition limits your ability to do basic work tasks. You must also meet the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit, which is $1,550 per month in 2025 for non-blind individuals. If you have limited income and resources, you may qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) instead. Both programs require medical proof of your disability[1].
In New Jersey, you can also get Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) if you cannot work due to rheumatoid arthritis. To qualify, you must have worked at least 20 weeks earning $303 per week, or earned $15,200 in the base year before your disability started. TDI pays up to $1,081 per week for up to 26 weeks. Workers and employers both pay into TDI, with workers contributing 0.23% of their wages up to $165,400 in 2025[2][3][4]. New Jersey also offers Medicaid and Medicaid waivers for those with low income and high medical needs[1].
ABLE accounts let people with disabilities save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. In New Jersey, you can open an ABLE account if your disability started before age 26. You can save up to $17,000 per year, and the account grows tax-free. Use the funds for qualified disability expenses like medical care, housing, and education[1].
For SSI, the income limit in 2025 is $943 per month for an individual and $1,415 for a couple. For Medicaid, the income limit varies by program and family size. For TDI, you must have earned at least $303 per week or $15,200 in the base year before your disability started[1][3][4].
You must report changes in your income, work, or medical condition to avoid overpayments. If you get too much money, you may have to pay it back. Report changes to Social Security, Medicaid, and TDI as soon as possible. Keep records of all reports and payments[1].
Contact your local Social Security office or county welfare agency for help with your application. You can also get free legal help from disability advocacy groups.
Save copies of all forms, medical records, and letters from agencies. This helps if you need to appeal a decision or report changes.
Yes, if rheumatoid arthritis severely limits your ability to work, you may qualify for SSDI, SSI, or TDI. You must provide medical proof and meet income and work requirements[1][3].
In 2025, TDI pays up to $1,081 per week for up to 26 weeks if you cannot work due to rheumatoid arthritis. The amount depends on your earnings[3][4].
Yes, you must have worked at least 20 weeks earning $303 per week, or earned $15,200 in the base year before your disability started[3][4].
Yes, you can get both SSDI and TDI if you meet the rules for each program. TDI is for short-term disability, while SSDI is for long-term disability[1][3].
You can apply for Medicaid online at nj.gov/medicaid or through your county welfare agency. You must provide proof of income, disability, and residency[1].
An ABLE account lets you save money without losing SSI or Medicaid benefits. You can use the funds for qualified disability expenses like medical care, housing, and education[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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Yes, you must report changes to Social Security, Medicaid, and TDI as soon as possible to avoid overpayments and keep your benefits[1].
Yes, but there are limits. For SSDI, you cannot earn more than $1,550 per month in 2025. For SSI, you can earn some income, but it may reduce your benefits[1].
It can take 3 to 6 months to get a decision on SSDI or SSI. TDI payments usually start after a one-week waiting period[3].
If your claim is denied, you can appeal the decision. Each program has its own appeal process. You can get help from a disability advocate or attorney[3].
