How to apply for NJ FamilyCare — Aged, Blind, Disabled Medicaid

Who it's for

NJ FamilyCare Aged/Blind/Disabled (ABD) Medicaid covers New Jerseyans age 65+, blind, or disabled. Income limit (2026): ~$1,304/month single / ~$1,762/month couple (100% FPL — more generous than PA's strict SSI-FBR linkage). Resource limit: $4,000 single / $6,000 couple. Covers full Medicaid including long-term care. NJ also offers the Medically Needy program for those above income limits (spend-down). Apply at njfamilycare.org or via the local County Welfare Agency. Compare PA's strict ABD ($989/mo SSI-linked); NJ is meaningfully more generous on income.

What you'll need

• Proof of age 65+ (or blind/disabled status)
• Proof of NJ residency
• Proof of all household income and assets
• Social Security card
• Medicare card if enrolled

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about NJ FamilyCare — Aged, Blind, Disabled Medicaid. 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 proof of age 65+ (or blind/disabled status), proof of NJ residency, proof of all household income and assets — 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.

Step by step

1. Gather your required documents: proof of age 65 or older (or proof of blindness or disability), proof of New Jersey residency, proof of all household income and assets, your Social Security card, and your Medicare card if you are enrolled in Medicare.
2. Check your income and assets against the program limits. In 2026, the income limit is about $1,304 per month for a single person or about $1,762 per month for a couple. The asset limit is $4,000 for a single person or $6,000 for a couple. If your income is above the limit, ask about the Medically Needy spend-down program when you apply.
3. If you or your spouse may need long-term care, know that New Jersey applies spousal-impoverishment protections. The spouse who stays home may be able to keep a protected share of assets and income. The state Medicaid agency calculates the exact protected amounts. Consider speaking with a benefits counselor or elder law attorney for guidance before applying.
4. Apply online through the NJ FamilyCare website or call 1-800-701-0710 to apply by phone. You can also apply in person at your local County Welfare Agency.
5. Complete all sections of the application accurately. Submit all required documents along with your application.
6. Keep a copy of your completed application and any confirmation number or receipt you receive after submitting.

What to expect: After you submit your application, the New Jersey Department of Human Services will review your information and documents. Processing times vary, so contact the agency or call 1-800-701-0710 for an estimate of how long your review may take. If approved, your coverage will include full Medicaid benefits, which can include long-term care services. If your income is above the limit, ask about the Medically Needy program, which lets you "spend down" excess income to qualify. NJ FamilyCare ABD requires renewal every year, so watch for renewal notices from the agency and respond promptly to avoid a gap in coverage.

Renewals

annual