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New Jersey • rare/genetic
People with Williams Syndrome in New Jersey may qualify for state disability insurance, Medicaid waivers, federal SSI/SSDI, and other programs. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and key benefits—including cash assistance, healthcare coverage, and ABLE savings accounts.
To qualify for federal disability benefits like SSI or SSDI, you must have a medically documented condition that significantly limits your ability to work for at least one year or is expected to result in death. SSI also has strict income and asset limits. SSDI requires enough work credits. Williams Syndrome, as a rare genetic disability, often meets the medical criteria for federal disability programs, but approval depends on your case details and documentation.
In New Jersey, state disability programs like Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) and Family Leave Insurance (FLI) help those who have worked and paid into the system. For TDI, you must have earned at least $303 per week for 20 weeks, or at least $15,200 total, in the previous year[5][6]. For FLI, similar work history is required. Programs like Medicaid waivers are available for those with medical needs, regardless of work history. Medicaid eligibility is based on income and disability status—Williams Syndrome may help you qualify, but you still must meet financial requirements.
Start by gathering medical records, income statements, and work history. Apply for SSI/SSDI online at ssa.gov or by phone at 1-800-772-1213. For Medicaid, apply online through NJ FamilyCare or by calling 1-800-701-0710. Contact your local Medicaid office to ask about waiver programs for Williams Syndrome. For NJ State Disability Insurance, apply online at myleavebenefits.nj.gov.
Step 1. Seek medical documentation Ask your healthcare provider to prepare detailed records of your Williams Syndrome diagnosis and how it affects your daily life.
Step 2. Apply for federal benefits
Step 3. Apply for state disability insurance
Step 4. Request a Medicaid waiver If you need in-home care or specialized services, contact your local Medicaid office to ask about waiver programs (HCBS). These waivers can help pay for services not usually covered by regular Medicaid.
Step 5. Open an ABLE account If you receive SSI, open an ABLE account (NJ ABLE) to save for disability-related expenses without losing your benefits[internal_links].
Step 6. Report changes and avoid overpayments Stay in contact with all agencies to report any change in income, living situation, or medical condition to avoid benefit overpayments[internal_links].
The main federal benefits for people with Williams Syndrome are Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). SSI provides monthly payments to low-income individuals with disabilities, regardless of work history. SSDI offers benefits to those with a sufficient work record who are now unable to work. Both programs require medical documentation of Williams Syndrome and its impact on functioning.
New Jersey’s main state benefits include:
New Jersey ABLE accounts let individuals with disabilities (including Williams Syndrome) save up to $100,000 without affecting SSI eligibility. Withdrawals for qualified disability expenses are tax-free. Anyone eligible for SSI or SSDI—or who became disabled before age 26—can open an ABLE account[internal_links].
SSI has strict income and resource limits in 2025: $1,915/month for couples, $1,447/month for individuals. Medicaid limits vary based on household size and waiver program. Certain waivers may allow higher income if medical costs are high. NJ state disability insurance benefits depend on your earnings history, not your assets.
If your income or household changes, report it promptly to SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and state disability agencies to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in benefit cuts or repayment demands. New Jersey’s worksheet and guidelines help you stay compliant[internal_links].
If you are unsure where to start, contact the NJ Department of Human Services or your local county welfare office for help with Medicaid, waiver programs, and referrals to local disability services.
If you receive SSI/SSDI but want to work, check out our guide to work incentives. You may be able to keep some benefits while earning income.
SSI and SSDI offer monthly payments to those with qualifying disabilities. SSI is needs-based, while SSDI requires a work history. Both require medical documentation of Williams Syndrome and its impact on daily life.
If you’ve worked in New Jersey and can’t work due to disability, apply online at myleavebenefits.nj.gov. Provide your earnings record and medical certification. The maximum weekly benefit in 2025 is $1,081[3].
Yes, New Jersey has Medicaid waivers for in-home and community services. Williams Syndrome may qualify if you meet medical and financial criteria. Contact your local Medicaid office for details[internal_links].
Yes, NJ ABLE accounts let you save for disability expenses up to $100,000 without affecting SSI or Medicaid eligibility. Withdrawals for qualified expenses are tax-free[internal_links].
In 2025, the federal SSI income limit is $1,447/month for individuals and $1,915/month for couples. Some Medicaid waivers have higher limits if you have high medical costs.
The benefit is 85% of your average weekly wage, up to a maximum of $1,081/week in 2025. Your base year earnings determine your actual amount[2][3].
Disclaimer: This guide is for general information only and not legal advice. Benefits and eligibility rules can change. Always consult official agency websites or a qualified benefits counselor for your situation.
Yes, Family Leave Insurance (FLI) provides cash benefits for up to 12 weeks to care for a seriously ill child. You need a qualifying work history to apply[2][4][5].
Report any changes in income, living situation, or medical condition to SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, and NJ state disability agencies right away to avoid overpayments and penalties[internal_links].
Yes, employers must contribute to Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI), but not to Family Leave Insurance (FLI). Employee contributions returned for TDI and FLI in 2025 after a two-year pause[2][4].
Visit the MyLeaveBenefits NJ portal, the NJ FamilyCare website, or the Social Security Administration for federal benefits. For assistance, contact the NJ Department of Human Services or your local Medicaid office.
