Disability and Special Needs Support for Single Mothers in New Jersey
Disability & Special Needs Support for Single Mothers in New Jersey
Last updated: September 2025
Quick Help Box
- PerformCare 24/7 intake for children with disabilities or behavioral needs: 1‑877‑652‑7624. Connects you to the New Jersey Children’s System of Care (CSOC) for eligibility, mobile response, respite, and more. See the PerformCare homepage. (nj.gov, performcarenj.org)
- NJ FamilyCare (Medicaid/CHIP) application help: 1‑800‑701‑0710 (TTY 711). Apply online and upload documents at the NJ FamilyCare site. (njfamilycare.dhs.state.nj.us)
- SNAP food assistance fast‑track if you qualify for expedited service: benefits can start within 7 days. Apply at NJ SNAP Application Process or call your county Board of Social Services (see county list below). (nj.gov)
- Non‑emergency medical transportation for NJ FamilyCare members (Modivcare): ride scheduling 1‑866‑527‑9933, “Where’s My Ride” 1‑866‑527‑9934, facility line 1‑866‑527‑9945. Details at NJ DHS transportation page. (nj.gov)
- WIC for pregnant/postpartum moms and children under 5: check 2025–2026 income table and find local agencies at NJ WIC income guidelines. 2025 fruit‑and‑vegetable benefit is 26∗∗forchildren,∗∗26** for children, **47 for pregnant/postpartum, $52 for fully breastfeeding participants. (nj.gov, fns.usda.gov)
- Catastrophic Illness in Children Relief Fund (big medical bills not covered elsewhere): phone 1‑800‑335‑3863. Eligibility threshold is uncovered expenses over 10% of family income (plus 15% of income over $100,000) in any 12‑month period within the past 7 years and before age 22. Apply at the CICRF site. (nj.gov)
Emergency Help First
- Call 911 for life‑threatening emergencies.
- For a child in emotional or behavioral crisis, call PerformCare at 1‑877‑652‑7624 any time for mobile response teams. They can come to your home and help stabilize the situation. This is available statewide for children and youth up to age 21. (nj.gov)
- Dial 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
- Dial 211 to locate local shelters, food, and urgent assistance in your county.
What to do if this doesn’t work—Plan B: If you cannot safely wait for services, go to your local hospital emergency department. Ask to speak with a social worker to help coordinate urgent CSOC or Medicaid supports.
How This Guide Beats Typical Search Results
- Clear actions plus phone numbers and deadlines in one place.
- Current 2025 figures for benefits and income limits with official sources linked directly.
- Realistic timelines, pitfalls, and Plan B options after each section.
- County contacts you can actually call today.
If you see anything outdated, email info@asinglemother.org so we can correct it quickly.
Start Here: One‑Call Entry Points
- PerformCare single point of access for children with developmental disabilities or behavioral health needs: 1‑877‑652‑7624. Use this for DD eligibility (under 18), respite, in‑home supports, and crisis/mobile response. See CSOC overview at NJ DCF. (nj.gov)
- NJ FamilyCare health coverage for your child: most kids qualify at higher incomes, up to 355% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)—example, up to about $9,512/month for a family of four. Apply online or call 1‑800‑701‑0710 (TTY 711). (njfamilycare.dhs.state.nj.us)
- County Social Services for SNAP, TANF cash, and more: find your county’s phone and address on the County Social Service Agencies page. A few quick numbers are listed later in this guide. (nj.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work—Plan B: If calls are backed up, try early mornings or late afternoons (call center wait times are lower on Mondays and Thursdays). You can also submit online applications first, then call to push along. (nj.gov)
Health Coverage Through NJ FamilyCare (Medicaid/CHIP)
Most Important Action
- Apply online now at NJ FamilyCare or call 1‑800‑701‑0710 (TTY 711). Coverage for children under 19 goes up to 355% FPL, and medically necessary services for children under 21 are covered under EPSDT. (njfamilycare.dhs.state.nj.us)
What It Covers That Matters To You
- Routine care, specialists, therapies (PT/OT/ST), durable medical equipment, private duty nursing when medically necessary, and autism services including ABA therapy under EPSDT. See the state’s autism benefit policy. (nj.gov)
Autism/ABA Coverage
- NJ FamilyCare covers ABA as of April 1, 2020, with evaluation, assessment, and treatment authorizations handled by your managed care plan. Details are on the DHS page “Autism Benefits.” (nj.gov)
Managed Care Plans in NJ FamilyCare
Your child will enroll in one of these plans (check your area):
| Plan | Counties served | 
|---|---|
| Aetna Better Health of New Jersey | Statewide | 
| Fidelis Care | Statewide | 
| Horizon NJ Health | Statewide | 
| UnitedHealthcare Community Plan | Statewide | 
| Wellpoint (formerly Amerigroup New Jersey) | Statewide | 
Source: NJ Medicaid & Managed Care. To change plans, call 1‑866‑472‑5338 (TTY 1‑800‑701‑0720). (nj.gov)
Tips
- Keep records of denials in writing and ask for an appeal when medically necessary services are denied.
- Ask your plan’s Care/Case Management for help coordinating multiple therapies and transportation.
What to do if this doesn’t work—Plan B: Appeal through your plan’s grievance process and request an external fair hearing if needed. For children with autism, your plan must process ABA requests consistent with state policy. (nj.gov)
Early Intervention for Babies and Toddlers (Birth to Age 3)
Most Important Action
- Call NJ Early Intervention if your child is under age 3 and missing milestones. Evaluations, service coordination, and safeguards are provided at no cost; ongoing services use a sliding fee. Families under 300% FPL pay $0 for services. See the state’s “System of Payment and Family Cost Participation” page. (nj.gov, nj.gov)
What To Expect
- Evaluation, IFSP development, and service coordination are free. Copays for ongoing services are based on household income using the 2024–2025 fee table. You will receive written notice of your hourly co‑pay and monthly cap. (nj.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work—Plan B: Contact your county’s Special Child Health Services Case Management Unit (SCHS CMU) for help navigating services up to your child’s 22nd birthday. See county phone numbers below. (nj.gov)
Children’s System of Care (CSOC) and PerformCare
Most Important Action
- Call PerformCare: 1‑877‑652‑7624 for developmental disability (DD) eligibility (under 18), respite, family support services, in‑home or community supports, mobile response, and camp help. (nj.gov)
Family Support Services You Can Request
- Respite (in‑home, agency after‑school, overnight, weekend recreation).
- Assistive technology, home and vehicle modifications when not covered by insurance.
- Educational advocacy for school issues.
See “Family Support Services” and the Youth & Family Guide on PerformCare. Funding is limited and based on need and availability. (p1.performcarenj.org, performcarenj.org)
Summer Camp Help
- Each spring, CSOC offers financial support for qualified day/overnight camps and can fund a one‑to‑one aide if needed. The 2025 application deadline was June 30, 2025; check in fall for 2026 dates. Apply through the PerformCare Family Portal. (performcarenj.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work—Plan B: If funds are paused (for example, assistive technology has periodic pauses), ask about alternative resources like AT loan programs via ATAC and the Catastrophic Illness in Children Relief Fund. (performcarenj.org)
Special Child Health Services Case Management (Birth to 21)
Most Important Action
- Call your county’s SCHS Case Management Unit for a free case manager who helps coordinate care, navigate benefits, and connect you to local resources up to the 22nd birthday.
A few key county numbers for quick dialing:
| County | SCHS CMU phone | 
|---|---|
| Bergen | 201‑634‑2621 | 
| Essex | 973‑395‑8836 or 973‑395‑8473 | 
| Hudson | 201‑204‑0004 (press 7) | 
| Middlesex | 732‑745‑3100 | 
| Monmouth | 732‑224‑6950 | 
| Morris | 973‑971‑4155 | 
| Ocean | 732‑806‑3931 | 
| Union | (via Children’s Specialized) 908‑301‑2514 or 908‑301‑2544 | 
Full statewide list: NJ DOH CMU Contacts by County. (nj.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work—Plan B: Ask your pediatrician or hospital social worker to fax a referral to your CMU and follow up by phone within 48 hours.
Transportation To Appointments
Most Important Action
- Schedule Medicaid rides with Modivcare at 1‑866‑527‑9933 at least two business days before the appointment (sooner if possible). Use 1‑866‑527‑9934 if your return ride is late. Details and online booking are on the state’s transportation page. (nj.gov)
Tips:
- Have your NJ FamilyCare ID, pick‑up address, provider info, and any special needs ready.
- For repeated appointments, ask your provider to set a standing order.
What to do if this doesn’t work—Plan B: Contact the Modivcare State Monitoring Unit if issues persist; you can also call your plan’s Member Services for help. (nj.gov)
Food & Nutrition Support
SNAP (Food Stamps)
- FY2025 maximum allotment for a family of four in the 48 contiguous states is 975/month∗∗;minimumbenefitis∗∗975/month**; minimum benefit is **23. COLA changes effective October 1, 2024. See USDA’s FY2025 memo for full household sizes and deductions. (fns.usda.gov)
- Expedited SNAP: if your household has very low income and resources, you may receive benefits within 7 days. See the state’s SNAP application page for criteria and timelines. (nj.gov)
How to apply:
- Apply online at MyNJHelps or call your County Board of Social Services. County phones: see County Social Services list. A few examples:
| County | Phone | 
|---|---|
| Essex | 973‑395‑8000 (Essex County DSS) | 
| Bergen | 201‑368‑4200 | 
| Mercer | 609‑989‑4320 | 
| Monmouth | 732‑431‑6000 | 
| Ocean | 732‑349‑1500 | 
Source: State county directory. (nj.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work—Plan B: Contact a SNAP Navigator (community partners like Community FoodBank of NJ, Fulfill, YMCA sites) for free application help listed on the “Ways to Apply” page. (nj.gov)
WIC (Women, Infants & Children)
- 2025–2026 NJ WIC income limits are posted by the NJ Department of Health. Examples: family of 2 up to 3,261/month∗∗,familyof4upto∗∗3,261/month**, family of 4 up to **4,957/month. WIC provides monthly fruit‑and‑vegetable benefits of 26∗∗forchildren,∗∗26** for children, **47 for pregnant/postpartum, $52 for fully breastfeeding participants through Sept 30, 2025. (nj.gov, fns.usda.gov)
- Find your local WIC clinic and apply in person or online from the DOH page above.
What to do if this doesn’t work—Plan B: Ask your pediatrician or WIC office about temporary certification if you’re missing documents. If your child has special formula needs, request a WIC medical/therapeutic formula form.
Cash Assistance, Paid Leave, and Child Support
WorkFirst NJ (TANF) Cash Assistance
Typical maximum monthly TANF amounts (Schedule I) include:
| People in the Assistance Unit | Max TANF grant | 
|---|---|
| 1 | $214 | 
| 2 | $425 | 
| 3 | $559 | 
| 4 | $644 | 
| 5 | $728 | 
| 6 | $814 | 
Source: Essex County WFNJ/TANF schedule updated January 8, 2025; amounts are generally consistent statewide. Apply via your County Board of Social Services or at MyNJHelps. (wecare.essexcountynj.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work—Plan B: Ask Legal Services of NJ for help with denials or underpayments.
Family Leave Insurance (care for a seriously ill child)
- In 2025, NJ Family Leave Insurance pays 85% of your average weekly wage up to $1,081/week for up to 12 weeks per year. There’s no waiting week, benefits are paid for each approved day after claim approval. See NJDOL Family Leave page. (nj.gov, nj.gov)
- To estimate your benefit, review your base weeks and wages as explained on the NJDOL site. (nj.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work—Plan B: If denied, request reconsideration promptly and submit medical documentation. You can also talk to your employer’s HR about job‑protected leave rights.
Housing and Utility Help
State Rental Assistance Program (SRAP)
- SRAP waitlist accepted pre‑applications January 13–31, 2025; selections were by lottery with preferences for disabled, homeless, veterans, elderly, and local residency. Check the DCA SRAP page for future openings. (nj.gov)
- For federal Housing Choice Vouchers, DCA’s waitlist is often closed; watch the DCA site and your local housing authority for openings. (nj.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work—Plan B: Ask your county social services about emergency motel placements or short‑term help tied to WFNJ. Talk to local nonprofits listed later.
Energy Bills: LIHEAP and USF
- LIHEAP (heating, electric, deliverable fuels): 2025 benefit amounts vary by fuel, household size, and income. Example: in most counties, electric‑heat households of 1–4 at the lowest income tier may receive around 529∗∗;renterswithutilitiesincludedmayreceive∗∗529**; renters with utilities included may receive **234 at the lowest tier. See NJ DCA’s 2025 benefit matrix for exact amounts by tier and county. (nj.gov)
- USF (Universal Service Fund): aims to keep combined gas and electric burden at or below 6% of household income, with credits applied monthly. Apply year‑round (often combined with LIHEAP). NJBPU approved enhancements in 2025 to increase the minimum monthly credit from 5∗∗to∗∗5** to **20 effective October 1, 2025. Apply at DCAid or call 1‑800‑510‑3102. (nj.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work—Plan B: Ask your utility about payment plans, Fresh Start, Comfort Partners energy efficiency, or REAP bill credits when available. (nj.gov)
Income Support for Children With Disabilities (SSI)
- The 2025 federal SSI payment standard is $967/month for an individual. For children, Social Security “deems” part of a parent’s income when deciding eligibility and payment amounts. Deeming rules are described in SSA’s 2025 Spotlight. (ssa.gov)
- SSI payments may be affected by parental income, but when a child turns 18, deeming stops and eligibility is re‑evaluated as an adult. (ssa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work—Plan B: If you’re denied, appeal within 60 days. Ask SCHS CMU or a legal aid group for help preparing evidence.
Save Without Losing SSI: NJ ABLE
- Money in an ABLE account is not counted by SSI up to $100,000; if the balance goes above that, SSI cash payments may be suspended, but Medicaid continues so long as other SSI rules are met. See SSA’s ABLE Spotlight and POMS for details. (ssa.gov, secure.ssa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work—Plan B: If you need to park a back payment or settlement, ask Social Security about Special Needs Trusts as another option. ABLE account contributions are generally limited by the federal gift tax limit for the year; check your ABLE program’s site for current annual contribution limits.
School Supports, IEPs, and Your New Rights in 2025
Most Important Action
- Put requests in writing to your district for evaluations or IEP changes and keep copies. Under NJ code, districts must hold an identification meeting within 20 calendar days (excluding school holidays, not summer vacation) after a written referral. (law.cornell.edu)
New Law in 2025: More Information Before Annual IEP Meetings
- P.L.2025, c.107 requires districts to give parents a written statement at least 2 business days before the annual IEP review that includes current academic/functional levels, names of any required IEP members who will be absent with their written input, and an invitation for parent input. The bill was approved July 22, 2025. See S3982/A5492 and NJDOE guidance noted by the School Boards Association. (legiscan.com, acnj.org)
Timelines to Know (NJ Code)
| Step | Key timeline | 
|---|---|
| Respond to your written request | District must provide written notice within 20 calendar days; if a meeting is needed, it must occur and a determination be made within the same 20‑day window. | 
| Prior written notice before implementing a change | At least 15 calendar days before implementation. | 
Source: N.J.A.C. 6A:14‑2.3. (law.cornell.edu)
Get Help
- Special Education Ombudsman: 609‑376‑9060, email OSEinfo@doe.nj.gov. See NJDOE “Parental Rights & Engagement.” (nj.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work—Plan B: Request mediation or a due process hearing if you can’t resolve issues. Ask your county Family Support Organization for peer advocacy (see below).
Child Care When Your Child Has Special Needs
- CCAP (Child Care Assistance Program): as of August 1, 2025, NJ is not accepting new CCAP applications due to funding limits. Current recipients remain covered if still eligible; income protections at redetermination remain up to 250% FPL, with a one‑year graduated phase‑out up to 85% of State Median Income (SMI). See ChildCareNJ Important Information for 2025–2026 family income thresholds (examples: family of 3 66,625∗∗at25066,625** at 250% FPL; family of 4 **80,375). (childcarenj.gov)
- If CCAP is closed and you need care, ask your school district about free 3‑ and 4‑year‑old preschool or check Head Start in your area (links on ChildCareNJ).
What to do if this doesn’t work—Plan B: Ask your SCHS CMU if respite or after‑school social‑recreation options can bridge coverage. (nj.gov)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Need | Where to start | Key numbers | Notes | 
|---|---|---|---|
| Crisis help at home | PerformCare Mobile Response | 1‑877‑652‑7624 | Available 24/7 statewide. (nj.gov) | 
| Medicaid/CHIP for kids | NJ FamilyCare | 1‑800‑701‑0710 (TTY 711) | Kids eligible up to 355% FPL. (njfamilycare.dhs.state.nj.us) | 
| Autism/ABA coverage | NJ FamilyCare Autism Benefit | Contact your MCO | Covered under EPSDT; ABA covered. (nj.gov) | 
| Transportation | Modivcare | 1‑866‑527‑9933 | Book at least 2 business days ahead. (nj.gov) | 
| Food | NJ SNAP | County BSS; expedited in 7 days if eligible | Apply online or via county. (nj.gov) | 
| WIC | NJ DOH WIC | Local WIC clinic | 2025 monthly produce benefit 26–26–52. (fns.usda.gov) | 
| Big medical bills | CICRF | 1‑800‑335‑3863 | 10% + 15% threshold; up to 7 years. (nj.gov) | 
Real‑World Example
- Essex County, 6‑year‑old with autism: Mom applies for NJ FamilyCare online and selects Horizon NJ Health. The pediatrician confirms ASD; the MCO authorizes ABA after assessment. She calls PerformCare to request respite and is referred to DD eligibility and Family Support Services. For summer, she applies for CSOC camp financial support before June 30 and gets 10 days covered plus a one‑to‑one aide. She uses Modivcare for therapy rides and applies for SNAP with expedited service while waiting for child support to start. (nj.gov, performcarenj.org, nj.gov)
Financial & Utility Tables
SNAP FY2025 Maximum Allotments (selected sizes)
| Household size | Max monthly SNAP | 
|---|---|
| 1 | $291 | 
| 2 | $535 | 
| 3 | $766 | 
| 4 | $975 | 
Source: USDA FY2025 COLA. (USDA provides full table including larger households and deductions.) (fns.usda.gov)
Family Leave Insurance 2025 Snapshot
| Item | Amount | 
|---|---|
| Wage replacement | 85% of average weekly wage | 
| Weekly cap | $1,081 | 
| Duration | Up to 12 weeks per 12‑month period | 
Source: NJDOL Family Leave Insurance. (nj.gov)
USF & LIHEAP Quick Glance
| Program | Typical benefit | 
|---|---|
| USF monthly credit | Sized so energy burden is at or below 6% of income; minimum monthly credit increases to $20 on Oct 1, 2025. Apply with LIHEAP or year‑round. (nj.gov, nj.gov) | 
| LIHEAP 2025 | Benefit depends on fuel, income tier, and county; examples show electric‑heat households at the lowest tier may receive around 529∗∗;renterswithutilitiesincludedaround∗∗529**; renters with utilities included around **234. See the state’s benefit matrix PDF for exact tiers. (nj.gov) | 
NJ FamilyCare MCOs (2025)
| MCO | Member services | 
|---|---|
| Aetna Better Health of NJ | On your ID card | 
| Fidelis Care | On your ID card | 
| Horizon NJ Health | On your ID card | 
| UnitedHealthcare Community Plan | On your ID card | 
| Wellpoint (Amerigroup) | On your ID card | 
Source: NJ DHS Managed Care page. To switch plans: 1‑866‑472‑5338 (TTY 1‑800‑701‑0720). (nj.gov)
Transportation & Contact Table
| Service | Phone | 
|---|---|
| Modivcare ride scheduling | 1‑866‑527‑9933 | 
| Modivcare “Where’s My Ride?” | 1‑866‑527‑9934 | 
| Modivcare facility line | 1‑866‑527‑9945 | 
Source: NJ DHS Transportation page. (nj.gov)
Diverse Communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: ask PerformCare for affirming providers and language services; they maintain multilingual and inclusive resources and have LGBTQIA+ resource pages during Pride campaigns. (d1.performcarenj.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or caring for medically fragile children: request Personal Care Assistance, skilled nursing, or home health aide hours through your child’s NJ FamilyCare plan when medically necessary, and use SCHS CMU for care coordination. (nj.gov, nj.gov)
- Veteran single mothers: check SRAP preferences for veterans and ask your County Veterans Service Office about additional housing and caregiver supports. (nj.gov)
- Immigrant and refugee single moms: NJ FamilyCare offers live translators and language help; many kids qualify based on residency rules. WIC and school services are often available regardless of immigration status for children. Call 1‑800‑701‑0710 for NJ FamilyCare language assistance. (nj.gov)
- Tribal‑specific resources: if your child is a tribal citizen or eligible, ask SCHS CMU for culturally specific referrals and check eligibility for federal programs that coordinate with Medicaid and education services.
- Rural single moms with limited access: request mobile response through PerformCare and ask Modivcare about mileage reimbursement options when providers are far; review the state’s provider directory for in‑home services. (mymodivcare.com, performcarenj.org)
- Single fathers: all programs in this guide apply equally; Family Support Organizations offer father‑inclusive peer support statewide. (nj.gov)
- Language access: NJ FamilyCare and PerformCare provide free interpreter services. Always ask for an interpreter if you need one during calls or appointments. (nj.gov)
Local Nonprofits and Peer Support
- Family Support Organizations (FSOs): county‑based, family‑run groups that offer parent support, workshops, and youth activities. See the full county list and phone numbers at DCF and PerformCare. (nj.gov, performcarenj.org)
- The Arc of New Jersey Family Institute: guides and checklists for CSOC camp funding and advocacy. (thearcfamilyinstitute.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work—Plan B: If you cannot reach a local group, call PerformCare and ask for your local Care Management Organization and FSO contact.
Education Advocacy Shortcuts
- Put your request in writing and date it.
- Ask for meeting documents at least 2 business days before the annual IEP (your right under P.L.2025, c.107).
- Call the Special Education Ombudsman at 609‑376‑9060 if timelines slip or communication breaks down. (nj.gov)
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Missing deadlines for CSOC summer camp (apply before June 30 each year). (performcarenj.org)
- Not asking for expedited SNAP when you qualify.
- Skipping written requests for school evaluations or IEP changes—verbal requests don’t start timelines. (law.cornell.edu)
- Forgetting transportation—book Modivcare rides 2 business days ahead and keep confirmation numbers. (nj.gov)
- Not appealing plan denials—use your MCO’s grievance process and request a fair hearing when medically necessary benefits are denied. (nj.gov)
Application Checklist
Bring or upload copies. If you don’t have an item, apply anyway and submit later.
- Photo ID and your child’s birth certificate.
- Proof of NJ address (lease, bill, or letter).
- Proof of income (paystubs, benefit letters).
- Medical records supporting the disability (evaluation reports, therapy notes).
- Insurance information (if any).
- School documents (IEP/504, teacher reports).
- Social Security numbers for applicants when required.
- For SNAP: rent/utility bills, child care costs, medical expenses for disabled/elderly members. (nj.gov)
“What If” Plan B Index
- Healthcare coverage denied: file an appeal and ask your provider to submit detailed medical necessity notes; escalate to a fair hearing if needed. (nj.gov)
- Early Intervention delay: contact your county SCHS CMU for help coordinating services until IFSP services start. (nj.gov)
- No respite available right now: ask PerformCare about other Family Support Services and your local FSO for peer‑run breaks or events. (p1.performcarenj.org, nj.gov)
- SNAP pending and food is short: ask about expedited processing and local pantries via 211.
- Utilities at risk of shutoff: apply for USF/LIHEAP and ask your utility about Fresh Start or Winter Termination protections. (nj.gov)
Frequently Asked New Jersey Questions
- How high can my income be and my child still get NJ FamilyCare? Children under 19 are eligible up to 355% FPL; for a family of four, that’s about $9,512/month. Apply and let the state verify. (njfamilycare.dhs.state.nj.us)
- Does NJ FamilyCare cover ABA therapy? Yes, autism benefits include ABA—your MCO authorizes the assessment and treatment. (nj.gov)
- How do I get respite care? Call PerformCare to request Family Support Services after DD eligibility; options include in‑home and community respite. Funding is limited and based on need. (p1.performcarenj.org)
- How fast can I get SNAP? If you qualify for expedited service, in 7 days. Otherwise, standard processing is within 30 days. (nj.gov)
- What are 2025 SSI amounts for my child? The federal base is $967/month; parental income is “deemed” to the child to figure the actual payment. (ssa.gov)
- Is there help for giant medical bills even with insurance? Yes. Apply to the Catastrophic Illness in Children Relief Fund if uncovered expenses exceed 10% of income plus 15% above $100,000. Phone 1‑800‑335‑3863. (nj.gov)
- Which Medicaid plans operate in NJ in 2025? Aetna Better Health, Fidelis Care, Horizon NJ Health, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan, and Wellpoint (Amerigroup). (nj.gov)
- How do I get rides to appointments? If you have NJ FamilyCare, call Modivcare at 1‑866‑527‑9933 at least 2 business days before the visit. (nj.gov)
- What are TANF cash amounts in NJ right now? Examples: 425∗∗for2people,∗∗425** for 2 people, **559 for 3, $644 for 4 (maximums). Apply at your county board. (wecare.essexcountynj.org)
- What are my new rights before the annual IEP? Schools must provide a written statement 2 business days before the annual IEP with present levels, any excused members’ input, and an invitation for your feedback. (legiscan.com)
Resources by Region (Selected)
- Family Support Organizations by county: see DCF’s county list for direct peer support. (nj.gov)
- County Social Services directory for SNAP/TANF: find your county office’s phone/address on the state page (examples earlier in this guide). (nj.gov)
- SCHS CMU county phones for case management through NJ DOH (table above). (nj.gov)
Additional Program Reality Checks
- CSOC/PerformCare services depend on eligibility and available funding. Some services temporarily pause new applications (for example, assistive technology). Check the PerformCare site for current notices and alternatives. (performcarenj.org)
- Child care subsidies (CCAP) are closed to new applicants as of August 1, 2025 due to funding; sign up for alerts if you want notice when it reopens. (childcarenj.gov)
- USF credits and LIHEAP benefits change annually; always check the latest state tables before counting on a specific dollar amount. (nj.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
- Our standards: This guide follows our Editorial Standards that require official sources, ongoing link checks, and clear disclaimers. We cite NJ DHS, NJ DCF, NJ DOH, NJDOL, USDA, SSA, and established statewide nonprofits.
- How we verify: We use primary state and federal sources, and we update guides within 48 hours of confirmed policy changes. This page uses data verified for September 2025.
- Last verified: September 2025
- Next review: April 2026
- Corrections: Email info@asinglemother.org and we respond within 72 hours.
Disclaimer
- Information changes fast. Program rules, amounts, and waitlists can change. Always confirm with the linked agency before you decide.
- No legal advice. This guide is for general information and is not legal advice or a guarantee of outcome.
- Security note. For your privacy and to keep our website secure, do not email full Social Security numbers, bank account numbers, or medical record numbers. Use the official agency portals for document uploads.
- Independence. ASingleMother.org is independent and not affiliated with any government agency.
Thanks for taking care of your family. If a link is broken or a number is wrong, tell us so we can fix it right away.
Sources Used In This Guide
- CSOC and PerformCare program access including 24/7 line, DD eligibility, family supports, and camp services. (nj.gov, performcarenj.org)
- NJ FamilyCare application and income limit for children at 355% FPL with call center hours and language assistance. (njfamilycare.dhs.state.nj.us)
- Autism/ABA coverage under NJ FamilyCare. (nj.gov)
- Early Intervention payment system and 300% FPL no‑cost threshold. (nj.gov)
- SCHS Case Management Unit county phone list. (nj.gov)
- Modivcare transportation phone numbers and instructions. (nj.gov)
- USDA SNAP FY2025 maximums and deductions. (fns.usda.gov)
- NJ SNAP application timelines and expedited service. (nj.gov)
- NJ WIC 2025–2026 income table and 2025 CVB amounts. (nj.gov, fns.usda.gov)
- WFNJ/TANF grant amounts (county update Jan 2025). (wecare.essexcountynj.org)
- Family Leave Insurance 2025 benefit rates. (nj.gov)
- USF overview and DCA application portal; 2025 BPU enhancements. (nj.gov)
- LIHEAP 2025 benefit matrix. (nj.gov)
- SSI 2025 federal rate and deeming rules. (ssa.gov, secure.ssa.gov)
- ABLE account treatment for SSI/Medicaid. (ssa.gov, secure.ssa.gov)
- IEP timelines and parental rights; 2025 law P.L.2025, c.107. (law.cornell.edu, legiscan.com)
- SRAP 2025 lottery window and preferences. (nj.gov)
- FSO county directories (DCF and PerformCare). (nj.gov, performcarenj.org)
If you need help right now, start with the Quick Help Box at the top and make those first calls today.
🏛️More New Jersey Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in New Jersey
- 📋 Assistance Programs
- 💰 Benefits and Grants
- 👨👩👧 Child Support
- 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
- ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
- 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
- 🎓 Education Grants
- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
- ⚖️ Legal Help
- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
- 🏦 TANF Assistance
- 🏠 Housing Assistance
- 👶 Childcare Assistance
- 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
