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New Jersey • Mental Health
People with schizophrenia in New Jersey can access federal and state disability benefits, Medicaid waivers, and financial support programs. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key resources for New Jersey residents.
To qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, your schizophrenia must meet the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability. This means your condition must be severe enough to prevent you from working and is expected to last at least 12 months or result in death. You must also meet income and resource limits for SSI, or have enough work credits for SSDI. Medical evidence from a licensed provider is required to prove your diagnosis and how it affects your ability to work. [^1]
If you receive SSI or SSDI, you may also qualify for Medicaid and other support programs. These benefits can help cover medical care, therapy, medications, and daily living expenses. [^2]
In New Jersey, people with schizophrenia may qualify for Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) if they are unable to work due to their condition. TDI provides short-term income replacement for up to 26 weeks. The 2025 maximum weekly benefit is $1,081. Workers contribute 0.23% of their wages up to $165,400, with a maximum annual contribution of $380.42. [^3][^4]
New Jersey also offers Family Leave Insurance (FLI) for up to 12 weeks to care for yourself or a family member with a serious health condition. The FLI contribution rate for employees is 0.33% of wages up to $165,400, with a maximum annual contribution of $545.82. [^5]
Medicaid waivers, such as the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver, can help cover long-term care and support services for people with schizophrenia. These waivers may cover therapy, supported employment, and residential services. [^6]
ABLE accounts allow people with disabilities to save money for disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for SSI, Medicaid, or other benefits. You can save up to $17,000 per year (2025 limit) in an ABLE account. Funds can be used for housing, education, transportation, and other qualified expenses. [^7]
For SSI, the 2025 federal income limit is $943 per month for an individual. For SSDI, there is no strict income limit, but you must not be able to engage in substantial gainful activity (SGA). For Medicaid, income limits vary based on household size and program. [^1][^2]
If your income or resources change, you must report it to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands or loss of benefits. Report changes to Social Security, Medicaid, and other benefit programs as soon as possible. [^8]
Contact the NJ Division of Disability Services or your local Social Security office for help with applications and questions about eligibility.
Yes, schizophrenia can qualify for federal SSI/SSDI if it meets Social Security’s disability criteria. You must provide medical evidence showing how it affects your ability to work. New Jersey also offers TDI and Medicaid waivers for people with schizophrenia.
To apply for TDI, file a claim with your employer or directly with the NJ Division of Temporary Disability and Family Leave Insurance. You will need medical certification and proof of wages. The 2025 maximum weekly benefit is $1,081.
The 2025 maximum weekly benefit for Temporary Disability Insurance in New Jersey is $1,081. This amount is subject to change each year based on state guidelines.
Yes, people with schizophrenia may qualify for Medicaid in New Jersey. If you receive SSI or SSDI, you may automatically qualify. Otherwise, you can apply through NJ FamilyCare or the NJ Department of Human Services.
Medicaid waivers, like the HCBS waiver, help cover long-term care and support services for people with schizophrenia. These may include therapy, supported employment, and residential services.
You can apply for an ABLE account online through the NJ ABLE program. You must have a qualifying disability and meet the program’s eligibility requirements. Funds can be used for disability-related expenses.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal or financial advice. Always consult with a professional for your specific situation.
Yes, you must report changes in income or resources to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in repayment demands or loss of benefits. Report changes to Social Security, Medicaid, and other benefit programs as soon as possible.
SSI provides monthly cash payments to people with disabilities who have limited income and resources. SSDI provides monthly benefits to people with disabilities who have a work history and paid Social Security taxes.
Yes, you may be able to work while receiving disability benefits, but there are limits on how much you can earn. SSI and SSDI have different rules for work incentives and substantial gainful activity.
You can get help from the NJ Division of Disability Services, local Social Security offices, or nonprofit organizations that assist people with disabilities. They can help you apply for SSI/SSDI, Medicaid, and other programs.
