How to apply for Statewide Respite Care Program (SRCP) in New Jersey

Who it's for

The Statewide Respite Care Program gives unpaid family caregivers a short break from daily care. Services go to the person being cared for so the caregiver can rest, run errands, take a vacation, or handle a surgery or emergency. Help can include a home health aide, homemaker help, medical or social adult day care, and a short stay in a care facility. The person being cared for must be 18 or older, live in New Jersey in the community (not in a facility), have a functional impairment certified by a medical provider, and get daily care from an unpaid caregiver. In 2026 monthly income must be $2,982 or less for one person ($5,964 for a couple) and liquid assets $40,000 or less ($60,000 for a couple). A sliding-scale cost share of 0% to 25% of the service cost may apply. People in MLTSS, JACC, or the Alzheimer's Adult Day Services Program cannot use it at the same time. Call the Aging & Disability Resource Connection at 1-877-222-3737 to reach the program in your county.

What you'll need

• Proof of New Jersey residency
• Proof of income and liquid assets for the person being cared for (and spouse)
• A licensed medical provider's certification of the functional impairment

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Statewide Respite Care Program (SRCP). 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 New Jersey residency, proof of income and liquid assets for the person being cared for (and spouse), a licensed medical provider's certification of the functional impairment — 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.

Renewals

periodic reassessment