Benefits and Resources for Disabled Seniors in New Jersey
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Last updated:
Quick Help (Emergency and Urgent Support)
If you are in danger or need urgent help, use the fastest option below.
| Need | Who to Contact | How it Helps |
|---|---|---|
| Life-threatening emergency | Call 911 | Police, fire, ambulance. |
| Mental health crisis or thoughts of self-harm | Call or text 988 | 24/7 suicide and crisis lifeline with trained counselors. |
| Fast help finding local services (food, housing, utility help) | Dial 2-1-1 or visit the New Jersey 211 website: https://www.nj211.org | 24/7 statewide referral line for basic needs, shelters, utility help, and more. |
| Aging/disability help and benefits counseling | Call the NJ Aging & Disability Resource Connection (ADRC): 1-877-222-3737 or visit the NJ ADRC page: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/adrc/ | One-stop entry to county Aging offices for benefits screening, home supports, caregiver help. |
| Suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation of a vulnerable adult | See Adult Protective Services by county: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/aps/ | County investigators respond to abuse/neglect of vulnerable adults age 18+. |
| Problems in a nursing home or assisted living | NJ Office of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman: https://www.nj.gov/ooie/ | Independent advocates for residents in long-term care. |
What This Guide Covers
- How to apply once (NJSave) for multiple programs like PAAD, Senior Gold, Lifeline Utility Assistance, and Medicare Savings Programs.
- Health coverage, long-term services and supports (including Medicaid MLTSS and JACC).
- Money and bills help: utility aid, property tax relief, SNAP, and more.
- Housing, food, transportation, legal rights, and caregiver resources.
- Inclusive help for LGBTQ+ seniors, veteran seniors, Native/tribal communities in NJ, and rural seniors.
- Regional links to county agencies and statewide directories.
- Real-life tips and “reality checks” about waitlists, paperwork, and appeals.
Throughout, you’ll find direct links to official sources.
Who This Is For (and Basic Eligibility Notes)
- “Senior” in many NJ programs means age 60+ (for aging services) or 65+ (for Medicare, PAAD, Senior Gold).
- “Disabled” usually means you receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or you meet disability criteria used by Social Security or Medicaid.
- Many benefits are income- and/or asset-based. Limits change over time. Always check the official pages linked below.
Start Here: One Application for Many Benefits (NJSave)
The fastest way for most disabled seniors in NJ to lower costs is through NJSave. This is a unified application that screens you for several benefits at once.
- Apply online: NJSave official site (NJ Department of Human Services): https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/njsave/
- You can also download a paper application there or ask your county ADRC for help completing it.
Programs screened through NJSave include:
- Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged and Disabled (PAAD)
- Senior Gold Prescription Discount
- Lifeline Utility Assistance
- Hearing Aid Assistance to the Aged and Disabled (HAAAD)
- Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI)
- And related supports
Reality check:
- You may need proof of identity, address, income (such as Social Security award letter), and Medicare information.
- If something isn’t clear, call ADRC at 1-877-222-3737 or contact your county Aging office via the ADRC page: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/adrc/
- Keep copies of everything you submit and note the date.
Programs You Can Reach Through NJSave
| Program | What it Does | Who It’s For | Where to Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|
| PAAD | Lowers prescription drug costs and coordinates with Medicare Part D. | NJ residents who are 65+ or receiving Social Security disability, within income limits. | NJ PAAD (official): https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/paad/ |
| Senior Gold | Additional prescription discount for those over PAAD’s income limit. | 65+ NJ residents with higher income than PAAD limits. | Senior Gold (official): https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/seniorgold/ |
| Lifeline Utility Assistance | Credit on electric and gas bills (separate from the federal phone Lifeline). | Low- to moderate-income seniors or persons with disabilities. | NJ Lifeline (official): https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/lifeline/ |
| HAAAD | Limited reimbursement toward hearing aids for eligible PAAD or Lifeline participants. | Seniors or people with disabilities in PAAD/Lifeline who meet criteria. | HAAAD info (official overview via DoAS): https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/ |
| Medicare Savings Programs | Help pay Medicare Part B premium and sometimes cost sharing. | Medicare enrollees with limited income/assets. | Medicare Savings Programs (CMS): https://www.medicare.gov/your-medicare-costs/get-help-paying-costs/medicare-savings-programs |
Tip: If you already applied for NJSave within the last year and your income changed, update your info. Many people miss extra savings because they don’t report changes.
Health Coverage, Long-Term Care, and In-Home Support
Medicare and Free Counseling (SHIP)
- SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program) offers free, unbiased help choosing Medicare coverage, checking drug plans, and fixing billing mistakes.
- Contact: NJ SHIP via the Division of Aging Services: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/ship/
Reality check:
- Plans and drug formularies change every year. Review during Medicare Open Enrollment (Oct. 15–Dec. 7) or when you have a special enrollment event.
- Bring a current medication list and your Medicare card to counseling.
Medicaid and Managed Long Term Services & Supports (MLTSS)
- NJ FamilyCare is New Jersey’s Medicaid program. For seniors and adults with disabilities who meet financial and clinical criteria, it can fund long-term services at home, in assisted living, or in nursing homes through Managed Long Term Services & Supports (MLTSS).
- Learn more: NJ MLTSS (official): https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dmahs/clients/ltc/mltss/
Key points:
- Eligibility includes income/assets and a clinical “nursing facility level of care” assessment.
- Medicaid has a five-year “look-back” on asset transfers when applying for long-term care. See MLTSS policy details and ask your county for guidance (link above).
- Apply through your County Board of Social Services or online via NJ FamilyCare: https://njfamilycare.dhs.state.nj.us/
Reality check:
- Processing can take time. Gather documents early (ID, Social Security card, bank statements, proof of income, insurance, property information).
- If denied, you have appeal rights. Ask ADRC or Legal Services of New Jersey for help (https://www.lsnj.org).
PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly)
- PACE provides complete medical care and long-term services for eligible seniors who need a nursing home level of care but live in the community.
- Learn what PACE covers and how to qualify: Medicare PACE overview: https://www.medicare.gov/your-medicare-costs/get-help-paying-costs/pace
- To find local PACE sites, ask ADRC or use the Medicare PACE locator.
In-Home Support Without Full Medicaid: JACC
- Jersey Assistance for Community Caregiving (JACC) can help eligible seniors who are not on Medicaid pay for in-home services and supports so they can remain at home.
- Official program page: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/jacc/
Reality check:
- JACC has eligibility criteria and may have waitlists. It’s administered locally through county ADRCs with a care plan and monthly budget.
- If your needs grow, reassess for MLTSS.
Statewide Respite Care Program
- The Statewide Respite Care Program offers short-term relief for unpaid caregivers (in-home respite, adult day services, or short stays).
- Official page: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/srcp/
Prescription, Hearing, Vision, and Assistive Tech
PAAD and Senior Gold
- PAAD reduces prescription costs and coordinates with Medicare Part D plans. Senior Gold provides discounts for individuals with incomes slightly above PAAD’s limits.
- Official pages: PAAD: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/paad/ and Senior Gold: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/seniorgold/
Tip: Even if you have Medicare drug coverage, PAAD can lower what you pay at the pharmacy for covered drugs.
Hearing Aid Help (HAAAD) and Deaf/Hard of Hearing Services
- Hearing Aid Assistance to the Aged and Disabled (HAAAD) provides limited reimbursement for hearing aids for eligible PAAD/Lifeline participants.
- Overview via DoAS programs: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/
- New Jersey Division of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DDHH) offers communication access services, equipment distribution program information, and advocacy: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/ddhh/
Vision and Blindness Services
- NJ Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CBVI) provides eye health services, rehabilitation, and vocational help statewide to children and adults, including seniors: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/cbvi/home/
Assistive Technology and Durable Medical Equipment
- NJ Assistive Technology programs can help you borrow devices, get low-cost loans, and find device reuse options. Start here: DHS Assistive Technology overview: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dds/home/at.html
- For federal benefits planning, see ABLE accounts (save money without losing SSI/Medicaid): New Jersey ABLE (Treasury): https://www.state.nj.us/treasury/able/
Money, Bills, and Essential Household Costs
Utility and Energy Help
New Jersey has several programs to help with electric and gas bills and energy-saving repairs.
| Program | What It Covers | Where to Apply/Check Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) | Help with heating and sometimes cooling bills; may include emergency assistance. | NJ DCA LIHEAP page: https://www.nj.gov/dca/divisions/dhcr/offices/hea.html |
| USF (Universal Service Fund) | Lowers monthly gas/electric bills for eligible households; can work with LIHEAP. | USF (official): https://www.nj.gov/dca/divisions/dhcr/offices/usf.html |
| Lifeline Utility Assistance (state) | Credit on electric/gas for eligible seniors/people with disabilities; apply via NJSave. | NJ Lifeline: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/lifeline/ |
| Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) | Free energy-efficiency improvements (insulation, sealing, safety checks) for eligible homes. | NJ WAP: https://www.nj.gov/dca/divisions/dhcr/offices/wap.html |
Reality check:
- Funding is limited and seasonal for LIHEAP. Apply early each program year (dates posted on the DCA site).
- Bring your latest utility bill(s), ID, and income proof.
Separate from the state’s utility Lifeline, there’s the federal Lifeline phone/internet discount:
- Federal Lifeline for phone/internet service: https://www.lifelinesupport.org
Note: The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) has experienced funding changes. Check the FCC for the current status: https://www.fcc.gov/acp
Food and Nutrition
- SNAP (food assistance) helps low-income individuals and seniors buy groceries.
- Learn and apply: NJ SNAP (official): https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/njsnap/
- Online screening/application: https://www.njhelps.org/
- Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (seasonal produce vouchers):
- Program info (NJ Department of Health): https://www.nj.gov/health/fhs/wic/participants/seniorfarmersmarket/
- Home-delivered meals and congregate meals are coordinated locally by county Aging offices via the ADRC: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/adrc/
- Food pantries statewide: Community FoodBank of New Jersey has a locator and partner network: https://cfbnj.org
Reality check:
- SNAP recertification is required; watch your mail for deadlines to avoid losing benefits.
- Meals on Wheels and congregate meal sites may have waitlists or prioritized eligibility; contact your county ADRC early.
Cash Assistance and Income Supports
- Social Security retirement, SSDI, and SSI are federal. Apply or manage benefits: https://www.ssa.gov
- New Jersey State Supplemental Payment (SSP) adds to SSI for eligible residents; it’s administered by NJ DHS:
- SSP program info: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dfd/programs/ssp/
Tip: If your disability or living situation changes, tell SSA and your county right away to avoid overpayments.
Property Tax Relief for Homeowners and Renters
New Jersey offers multiple property tax relief programs for seniors and disabled residents.
| Program | Who It Helps | What It Does | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|
| Senior Freeze (Property Tax Reimbursement – PTR) | Eligible seniors and disabled NJ residents who meet income and residency rules | Reimburses the difference between current property taxes and taxes from your “base year” once you’re in the program | Senior Freeze (official): https://www.nj.gov/treasury/taxation/ptr/ |
| ANCHOR (Affordable NJ Communities for Homeowners & Renters) | Eligible homeowners and renters | Annual benefit to reduce property tax burden or offset rent; amounts vary | ANCHOR (official): https://www.nj.gov/treasury/taxation/anchor/ |
| $250 Property Tax Deduction for Senior Citizens/Disabled Persons | Homeowners age 65+ or disabled meeting income/ownership criteria | Annual $250 deduction on property tax bill | Deductions & Exemptions overview: https://www.nj.gov/treasury/taxation/relief.shtml |
Reality check:
- Deadlines and income limits change. Always follow the dates and instructions on the NJ Treasury pages above.
- Keep copies of your PTR and ANCHOR submissions and confirmation numbers.
Housing: Staying Housed or Finding a Safer Place
- State Rental Assistance Program (SRAP): Helps very low-income residents with rent when vouchers are available.
- SRAP (official): https://www.nj.gov/dca/divisions/dhcr/offices/srap.html
- Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher and Public Housing: Managed by local housing authorities and sometimes by NJ DCA; expect waitlists.
- NJ DCA Affordable Housing programs: https://www.nj.gov/dca/divisions/dhcr/
- HUD Resource Locator to find local housing authorities: https://resources.hud.gov
- Homelessness prevention and emergency shelter: Start with NJ 2-1-1 (https://www.nj211.org) and your county Board of Social Services for Emergency Assistance.
Reality check:
- Most rental assistance programs have long waitlists. Apply to multiple options (local housing authorities, SRAP if open, and any senior/accessible housing waitlists).
- Ask your county ADRC for help applying for accessible units and for reasonable accommodations.
Transportation and Mobility
| Program | What It Offers | How to Use It |
|---|---|---|
| NJ TRANSIT Reduced Fare | Discounted fares for seniors and people with disabilities. | Program info and ID details: https://www.njtransit.com/reduced-fare |
| Access Link (ADA Paratransit) | Curb-to-curb service for riders who can’t use local buses due to disability, within 3/4 mile of fixed routes. | Eligibility and application: https://www.njtransit.com/access-link |
| County paratransit/senior shuttles | Local rides to medical appointments, shopping, and more; vary by county. | Find via ADRC county contacts: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/adrc/ |
Reality check:
- Access Link requires an in-person or phone assessment. Plan ahead; rides need advance booking and pickup windows.
- Keep a back-up plan for critical medical appointments.
Safety, Rights, and Legal Help
- Adult Protective Services (APS): Report abuse, neglect, or exploitation of vulnerable adults. County contacts: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/aps/
- Long-Term Care Ombudsman (OOIE): Advocates for residents in nursing homes, assisted living, and similar settings: https://www.nj.gov/ooie/
- Disability Rights New Jersey (DRNJ): Protection and Advocacy for people with disabilities (legal and advocacy support): https://www.drnj.org
- Legal Services of New Jersey (LSNJ): Free or low-cost civil legal help for eligible residents (benefits appeals, housing, consumer issues): https://www.lsnj.org
- Advance Directives and POLST (end-of-life medical orders): NJ Department of Health resources and forms: https://www.nj.gov/health/advancedirective/
Tip: Keep copies of powers of attorney, living will, and POLST with you and share with your doctor and family.
Caregivers and Family Support
- Statewide Respite Care Program: Short-term relief for unpaid caregivers: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/srcp/
- National Family Caregiver Support Program (local services via county ADRC): https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/adrc/
- Alzheimer’s and dementia resources: Alzheimer’s Association New Jersey Chapter (support groups, education): https://www.alz.org/nj
Reality check:
- Caregiver burnout is real. Ask your ADRC about respite, adult day services, and counseling. Some services have sliding fees or grants.
Inclusive Resources: Reaching Every Community
LGBTQ+ Seniors
- SAGE (national) provides LGBTQ+ aging resources, support groups, and help finding welcoming services: https://www.sageusa.org
- Garden State Equality offers advocacy and referrals, including aging-related resources: https://www.gardenstateequality.org
- Medicare and Medicaid are nondiscriminatory. If you face bias from a provider, report it. For long-term care settings, contact the NJ Long-Term Care Ombudsman: https://www.nj.gov/ooie/
Tip: If you need name/gender updates on Medicare or Social Security records, see SSA guidance: https://www.ssa.gov
Veteran Seniors
- NJ Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMAVA): Benefits info, state veterans service officers, and help with claims: https://www.nj.gov/military/veterans/
- VA Aid & Attendance/Housebound benefits can help pay for care at home or in facilities for eligible veterans/spouses: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/
- Find VA health care and clinics: https://www.va.gov/find-locations
Tip: Bring your DD-214 and medical records to appointments with a Veterans Service Officer.
Native/Tribal Communities
- As of recent federal listings, New Jersey does not have federally recognized tribes, so Older Americans Act Title VI tribal aging services are not locally administered here. See the current federal list: https://www.bia.gov/service/tribal-leaders-directory
- State-recognized Native communities exist in NJ. Native seniors should contact their county ADRC for the same aging/disability benefits as other residents: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/adrc/
Rural Seniors and Limited Access Areas
Counties like Salem, Cumberland, Sussex, and Warren can have fewer nearby services.
- Use NJ 2-1-1 to find mobile food pantries, transportation, and local clinics: https://www.nj211.org
- Apply online when possible to save travel: NJSave (https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/njsave/), NJ SNAP (https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/njsnap/), NJ FamilyCare (https://njfamilycare.dhs.state.nj.us/)
- Ask ADRC about county paratransit and home-delivered services if travel is a barrier: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/adrc/
- For phone/internet discounts, check federal Lifeline: https://www.lifelinesupport.org
How to Apply: Step-by-Step
- Gather documents:
- Photo ID, Social Security card, Medicare card.
- Proof of NJ residence (utility bill, lease).
- Proof of income (Social Security award letter, pension stubs, bank statements).
- Recent utility bills (for energy help).
- Apply to “bundle” benefits first:
- Submit NJSave online or by paper: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/njsave/
- If you need help, call ADRC 1-877-222-3737 or contact your county office through the ADRC page.
- Health coverage and long-term supports:
- For Medicare choices, get SHIP counseling: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/ship/
- For Medicaid/MLTSS, apply via county Board of Social Services or NJ FamilyCare: https://njfamilycare.dhs.state.nj.us/
- Ask about JACC if you are over Medicaid limits but need in-home help: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/jacc/
- Utilities and housing:
- Apply for LIHEAP/USF and Weatherization: https://www.nj.gov/dca/divisions/dhcr/offices/hea.html and https://www.nj.gov/dca/divisions/dhcr/offices/usf.html and https://www.nj.gov/dca/divisions/dhcr/offices/wap.html
- Check SRAP and local housing authorities for rental help: https://www.nj.gov/dca/divisions/dhcr/offices/srap.html and HUD locator: https://resources.hud.gov
- Food and nutrition:
- Apply for SNAP: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/njsnap/ or https://www.njhelps.org/
- Ask ADRC for home-delivered meals.
- Save copies and follow up:
- Keep confirmation numbers and submission dates.
- If you don’t hear back in the posted timeframe, call the agency or ask ADRC to help follow up.
Reality Checks, Warnings, and Tips
- Watch for scams. Government programs never charge you to apply. If someone asks for a fee or your full bank PIN, stop and call ADRC or 2-1-1.
- Deadlines matter. Property tax relief (Senior Freeze and ANCHOR), LIHEAP seasons, and SNAP recertifications all have due dates on their official pages.
- Medicaid look-back. Don’t transfer assets without advice. See NJ MLTSS info and consider free legal help (https://www.lsnj.org).
- Keep medications list updated for SHIP counseling and emergency care.
- Ride timing. Paratransit and Access Link require advance booking; keep buffer time for pickups.
Program Snapshot Tables (At-a-Glance)
Health and Care Supports
| Program | Core Benefit | Where to Start |
|---|---|---|
| SHIP Medicare Counseling | Free help picking and using Medicare coverage | https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/ship/ |
| NJ FamilyCare/Medicaid | Health coverage; long-term supports via MLTSS | https://njfamilycare.dhs.state.nj.us/ and MLTSS: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dmahs/clients/ltc/mltss/ |
| JACC | In-home help for those not on Medicaid | https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/jacc/ |
| PACE | All-inclusive care for eligible seniors at nursing home level of care | https://www.medicare.gov/your-medicare-costs/get-help-paying-costs/pace |
Prescriptions, Hearing, Vision
| Program | Core Benefit | Official Link |
|---|---|---|
| PAAD | Lowers prescription costs (works with Part D) | https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/paad/ |
| Senior Gold | Prescription discount for those over PAAD limits | https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/seniorgold/ |
| HAAAD | Partial help with hearing aids for PAAD/Lifeline enrollees | https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/ |
| CBVI | Vision/blindness services statewide | https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/cbvi/home/ |
| DDHH | Deaf and hard of hearing services | https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/ddhh/ |
Utilities and Home Energy
| Program | Core Benefit | Official Link |
|---|---|---|
| LIHEAP | Help with heating/cooling bills | https://www.nj.gov/dca/divisions/dhcr/offices/hea.html |
| USF | Ongoing reduction to energy bills | https://www.nj.gov/dca/divisions/dhcr/offices/usf.html |
| Lifeline Utility (state) | Annual credit on electric/gas | https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/lifeline/ |
| Weatherization (WAP) | Free energy-efficiency upgrades | https://www.nj.gov/dca/divisions/dhcr/offices/wap.html |
Food and Basic Needs
| Program | Core Benefit | Official Link |
|---|---|---|
| NJ SNAP | Monthly help to buy groceries | https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/njsnap/ |
| Senior Farmers’ Market | Seasonal produce vouchers | https://www.nj.gov/health/fhs/wic/participants/seniorfarmersmarket/ |
| NJ 2-1-1 | Find food pantries and local help | https://www.nj211.org |
Property Tax Relief
| Program | Core Benefit | Official Link |
|---|---|---|
| Senior Freeze (PTR) | Reimburses property tax increases from your base year | https://www.nj.gov/treasury/taxation/ptr/ |
| ANCHOR | Property tax/rent relief | https://www.nj.gov/treasury/taxation/anchor/ |
| $250 Deduction | Annual deduction for seniors/disabled | https://www.nj.gov/treasury/taxation/relief.shtml |
Resources by Region (Find Your Local Office)
Because phone numbers and hours change, the safest path is to use NJ’s official directories to find the most current county contacts near you.
- County Aging & Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) offices (Area Agencies on Aging): browse by county:
- Find your county ADRC: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/adrc/
- County Boards of Social Services (for Medicaid, SNAP, general assistance):
- Start at NJ SNAP: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/njsnap/ (click “Contact Us” to find your county office) or apply online at https://www.njhelps.org/
- LIHEAP/USF local agencies (by county/municipality):
- DCA agency finder and program info: https://www.nj.gov/dca/divisions/dhcr/offices/hea.html
- Transportation:
- NJ TRANSIT Reduced Fare: https://www.njtransit.com/reduced-fare
- NJ TRANSIT Access Link: https://www.njtransit.com/access-link
- County paratransit (via ADRC page above; each county lists its service)
- Legal help and protection:
- Legal Services of New Jersey: https://www.lsnj.org
- Disability Rights NJ: https://www.drnj.org
- Long-Term Care Ombudsman: https://www.nj.gov/ooie/
- Adult Protective Services by county: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/aps/
If you prefer phone help, call ADRC at 1-877-222-3737 and ask for your county’s Aging office contact.
FAQs: Benefits & Resources for Disabled Seniors in New Jersey
What is NJSave and why should disabled seniors in New Jersey use it?
NJSave is a single application that screens older adults and people with disabilities for multiple New Jersey benefits at once—including PAAD, Senior Gold, Lifeline Utility Assistance, HAAAD, and Medicare Savings Programs. It streamlines eligibility checks and reduces paperwork for New Jersey seniors with disabilities.
What’s the difference between PAAD and Senior Gold?
Both programs lower prescription costs for New Jersey residents. PAAD serves seniors 65+ and people receiving Social Security disability who meet income limits and coordinates with Medicare Part D. Senior Gold is a prescription discount for those whose incomes are just above PAAD’s limits.
Can New Jersey help pay my Medicare Part B premium?
Yes. The Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI) can pay your Part B premium and, in some cases, other Medicare costs if you qualify. You can be screened and apply through NJSave.
What is Lifeline Utility Assistance?
Lifeline provides an annual credit toward electric and gas bills for eligible New Jersey seniors and people with disabilities. You can apply through NJSave to see if you qualify.
What is Medicaid Managed Long Term Services & Supports (MLTSS) in New Jersey?
MLTSS is New Jersey’s Medicaid option that funds long-term care at home, in assisted living, or in a nursing facility for eligible adults who meet financial and clinical criteria. MLTSS is part of NJ FamilyCare and is designed to help people remain safely in the community when possible.
Do I have to be on Medicaid to get in-home help?
Not always. New Jersey’s JACC program can provide in-home supports for eligible older adults who are over Medicaid limits. Your county Aging & Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) can also connect you to local grants, respite, and adult day services.
Does Medicaid review my past finances for long-term care?
Yes. For long-term services such as nursing home care or MLTSS, New Jersey Medicaid applies a 5-year look-back on asset transfers to determine eligibility.
How can disabled seniors in New Jersey get help with food?
Apply for SNAP, and check with your county ADRC for home-delivered (Meals on Wheels) and congregate meals. SNAP has periodic recertifications, so watch your mail for deadlines.
What property tax relief is available to New Jersey seniors and disabled residents?
New Jersey offers Senior Freeze (PTR) to reimburse increases over a base year, ANCHOR benefits for eligible homeowners and renters, and a $250 property tax deduction for eligible seniors and disabled homeowners. Amounts, deadlines, and income limits vary by year.
Is there reduced-fare or paratransit transportation in New Jersey?
Yes. NJ TRANSIT Reduced Fare provides discounted rides for seniors and people with disabilities, and Access Link offers ADA paratransit for those who qualify. Counties also operate paratransit—contact your ADRC for details.
Where can I get fast, local help navigating New Jersey benefits?
Call the Aging & Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) at 1-877-222-3737 for one-on-one help with screening, applications, and local services. For general basic-needs referrals, dial 2-1-1; for mental health crises, call or text 988.
Are there assistive technology or savings options for people with disabilities in New Jersey?
Yes. New Jersey’s Assistive Technology programs offer device loans and reuse options, and New Jersey ABLE accounts let eligible individuals save for disability-related expenses without affecting SSI/Medicaid resource limits.
How do I apply to multiple New Jersey benefits at once?
Start with NJSave. It screens you for programs like PAAD, Senior Gold, Lifeline, HAAAD, and Medicare Savings Programs with a single application and helps reduce paperwork.
Key Official Resources (Bookmark These)
- ADRC (county aging/disability help): https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/adrc/
- NJSave application hub: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/njsave/
- PAAD and Senior Gold: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/paad/ and https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/seniorgold/
- Lifeline Utility Assistance: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/lifeline/
- Medicaid/MLTSS: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dmahs/clients/ltc/mltss/
- NJ FamilyCare application: https://njfamilycare.dhs.state.nj.us/
- SHIP Medicare counseling: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/ship/
- SNAP food assistance: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/njsnap/ and https://www.njhelps.org/
- LIHEAP/USF: https://www.nj.gov/dca/divisions/dhcr/offices/hea.html and https://www.nj.gov/dca/divisions/dhcr/offices/usf.html
- Weatherization: https://www.nj.gov/dca/divisions/dhcr/offices/wap.html
- Property Tax Relief (PTR, ANCHOR, deductions): https://www.nj.gov/treasury/taxation/ptr/ and https://www.nj.gov/treasury/taxation/anchor/ and https://www.nj.gov/treasury/taxation/relief.shtml
- Long-Term Care Ombudsman: https://www.nj.gov/ooie/
- Adult Protective Services: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/aps/
- Disability Rights NJ: https://www.drnj.org
- Legal Services of NJ: https://www.lsnj.org
- NJ TRANSIT Reduced Fare and Access Link: https://www.njtransit.com/reduced-fare and https://www.njtransit.com/access-link
- CBVI: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/cbvi/home/
- DDHH: https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/ddhh/
- NJ 2-1-1: https://www.nj211.org
Disclaimer
Program rules, income limits, deadlines, and contact details can change. Always verify current information with the official agency websites linked in this guide or by calling your county ADRC (1-877-222-3737). This guide is for general information and is not legal, financial, or medical advice.
About This Guide
by the GrantsForSeniors.org Editorial Team
The GrantsForSeniors.org editorial team has been building benefit and assistance resources for seniors nationwide since 2020. We research programs across all 50 states by reviewing government websites, checking agency updates, and gathering information from available sources.
Our Commitment to You:
- Experience & Expertise: The information in this guide is compiled and reviewed by a team with experience in senior services and financial aid programs. We are committed to sharing our knowledge to help you find the support you need.
- Authority & Trust: We rely on verified sources, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and official program websites, to ensure the accuracy of our content. Our goal is to be a trusted authority you can rely on for credible information.
- Clarity & Accessibility: We understand that seeking financial assistance can be challenging. This guide is designed to be clear and easy to understand, breaking down complex topics into actionable steps.
While we work hard to provide the most accurate information available, please note that program details and eligibility requirements can change. We recommend always checking with the official program source or agency website for the most current information, as we are not official agencies but rather compile available information.
- Last Updated: January 2026
- Sources Verified: January 2026
- Next Review: May 2026
If you find outdated information, discover new resources, or have questions, please contact us at info@grantsforseniors.org. We’re here to help seniors find resources that can make a real difference in their daily lives.
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