Overview of New Jersey Temporary Disability Benefits

New Jersey’s Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) provides partial wage replacement to workers who cannot work due to a non-work-related illness, injury, or other disability (including pregnancy and childbirth recovery).

Key Features of NJ State Disability Benefits:

• Short-Term Coverage: TDI is designed to cover temporary disabilities—usually up to 26 weeks.
• Wage Replacement: Eligible workers can receive a portion of their average weekly wage, up to a maximum weekly benefit that adjusts yearly.
• Available to Most Workers: Coverage is mandatory for most New Jersey employers, and you’ve likely been contributing through payroll deductions.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for New Jersey’s state disability benefits, you must:

• Be employed in New Jersey (or have recently been employed)
• Have paid into the TDI program through payroll deductions
• Have earned enough in the base year (the first 4 of the last 5 completed calendar quarters)
• Be under the care of a licensed medical provider
• Be unable to work due to a non-job-related physical or mental health condition

How to Apply for NJ Temporary Disability Benefits

Step 1: Get a Medical Certification

You’ll need your medical provider to fill out a portion of your application verifying your disability and expected recovery time.

Step 2: Apply Online

The fastest way to apply is through the New Jersey Department of Labor’s website at myleavebenefits.nj.gov. You’ll need to provide:

• Personal and employer information
• Details of your condition and when you stopped working
• Medical certification from your provider

Step 3: Monitor Your Claim

You can track your claim status online. If approved, you’ll receive benefits either by direct deposit or a debit card issued by the state.

Benefit Amounts and Duration

As of 2024:

• You may receive up to 85% of your average weekly wage, up to a maximum weekly benefit (this figure changes annually).
• Benefits can last up to 26 weeks per year.
• There is a one-week waiting period, but if your disability extends beyond three weeks, you’ll be paid for that first week retroactively.

Job Protection and Paid Leave

Receiving TDI benefits doesn’t automatically protect your job, but you may qualify for job-protected leave under laws like the NJ Family Leave Act or FMLA. Make sure to discuss your leave options with your employer’s HR department.