Step 1: Understand Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) in NJ

Temporary Disability Insurance (TDI) in New Jersey provides benefits to workers who are temporarily unable to work due to illness, injury, or pregnancy-related conditions. It’s a state-run program designed to replace a portion of your income while you are unable to work.

To qualify for TDI in New Jersey, you must meet the following requirements:

• Be unable to perform your regular job duties due to a temporary medical condition.
• Have worked in New Jersey and earned enough base wages to qualify (the amount is based on your past earnings).
• Be under the care of a licensed physician who provides documentation of your medical condition.
• You must not be receiving paid time off or sick pay from your employer.

Step 2: Check Your Eligibility

To apply for Temporary Disability Insurance in New Jersey, you need to ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria:

• Worked in New Jersey: You must have worked in New Jersey and paid into the state’s Temporary Disability Insurance program through payroll taxes.
• Medical Condition: Your medical condition must be severe enough to prevent you from performing your regular work duties for at least seven consecutive days.
• Income Requirements: Your income during the base year (which is the 12 months before your disability began) must meet the minimum earnings threshold set by the state. This is used to calculate how much you are entitled to in benefits.

You can check the New Jersey Department of Labor & Workforce Development (NJDOL) website for specific eligibility details, as the income and work history requirements can vary.

Step 3: Gather Required Documentation

Before starting the application process, gather the following documentation:

• Social Security Number (SSN) and identification (e.g., driver’s license or state-issued ID).
• Proof of income: Your W-2 forms, pay stubs, or tax returns to confirm your earnings.
• Doctor’s Certification: You will need a certification of your medical condition from your treating physician. This includes details about the nature of your illness or injury and the expected duration of your disability.
• Employment information: Your employer's name, address, and phone number.

Step 4: File Your Claim Online or By Mail

Once you’ve confirmed your eligibility and gathered all necessary documents, you can begin the application process. In New Jersey, TDI claims can be filed either online or by mail:

• Apply Online: The easiest way to file for Temporary Disability Insurance in New Jersey is through the NJDOL’s online portal. You can access the portal and start your application at www.myunemployment.nj.gov. The online process is secure and allows you to track the status of your claim.
• Apply by Mail: If you prefer to file by mail, you can download the Temporary Disability Insurance application from the NJDOL website, fill it out, and send it to the address listed on the form. Keep in mind that applying by mail may result in longer processing times.

Step 5: Complete the Application

When completing your TDI application, be sure to:

• Provide accurate information: Fill out all fields correctly, including personal information, medical details, and employment history.
• Explain your disability: Be specific about the injury or illness that prevents you from working. Include dates of onset, medical treatments, and expected recovery time.
• Submit your doctor’s certification: Your physician needs to complete a certification of your disability form. Ensure that they submit it either directly to the NJDOL or provide it to you to include with your claim.

Step 6: Wait for the Decision on Your Claim

After you’ve submitted your application, the NJDOL will process your claim. This can take up to four weeks or longer in some cases. During this time, the state may contact you or your healthcare provider for more information regarding your disability.

You will receive a notification of your eligibility, including the amount of benefits you are approved for and the start date of your payments. If you are denied, you can appeal the decision.

Step 7: Receive Temporary Disability Benefits

Once your claim is approved, you will begin receiving Temporary Disability Insurance benefits. In New Jersey, these benefits are generally about 66% of your average weekly wage, with a maximum weekly amount set by the state.

• Duration of Benefits: Temporary Disability benefits can be paid for up to 26 weeks. However, the exact duration will depend on the nature of your condition and your ability to return to work.
• Payment Schedule: Payments are typically made every two weeks. You can choose to have your benefits deposited directly into your bank account or receive a paper check.

Step 8: Appeal if Your Claim is Denied

If your claim for Temporary Disability Insurance is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. The appeal process can be complex, so it may be beneficial to seek help from an attorney or professional who specializes in disability claims.



To appeal, you must submit a request for a hearing within 20 days of receiving your denial letter. At the hearing, you can present additional medical evidence and explain why you believe you qualify for benefits.