How to apply for New Jersey Catastrophic Entitlement ($150/Month for Severe Service-Connected Disabilities)

Who it's for

New Jersey pays $150 a month — $1,800 a year — to resident veterans with certain severe, permanent service-connected disabilities from wartime service. Qualifying conditions include loss of sight, amputation of both hands, both feet, or one hand and one foot, paraplegia, hemiplegia, quadriplegia, osteochondritis with permanent loss of use of both legs, and multiple sclerosis with loss of use of both feet. The payment is on top of any federal VA compensation, and a surviving spouse can continue receiving it. Apply through the Veterans Benefits Bureau with the VA rating decision showing the qualifying condition.

What you'll need

• Completed Catastrophic Entitlement application
• VA rating decision or award letter documenting the permanent service-connected disability
• DD-214 or other proof of wartime military service
• Proof of New Jersey residency

Where to apply

What to say when you call

“Hello, I'm calling to ask about New Jersey Catastrophic Entitlement ($150/Month for Severe Service-Connected Disabilities). I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need completed catastrophic entitlement application, va rating decision or award letter documenting the permanent service-connected disability, dd-214 or other proof of wartime military service — is anything else required? What is the best next step?”

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.