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Temporary Disability Insurance
Most workers whose employment is covered by the New Jersey Unemployment Compensation Law are also protected by a mandatory disability insurance system. Cash benefits are payable when you cannot work because of sickness or injury not caused by your job.
Cost
Effective January 1, 2008, each worker must contribute at a rate of ½ of one percent on the first $27,700 of covered wages paid by an employer in a calendar year. The maximum individual disability insurance deduction is $138.50. Although their rates may vary, employers must also pay contributions on the first $27,700 in wages paid to each worker in 2008. For both workers and employers, this tax base is subject to change each year.
Wage Requirements
To have a valid claim, you must have had at least 20 calendar weeks ("base weeks") in New Jersey covered employment in which you earned $143 or more, or have earned $7,200 or more in such employment during the 52 weeks ("base year") immediately before the week in which you became disabled.
Weekly Benefit Amount
The weekly benefit amount is calculated on the basis of your average weekly wage. If eligible, you will be paid two-thirds of your average weekly wage up to the maximum amount payable, which is $524 for disabilities beginning on or after January 1, 2008.
Total Benefit Amount
The maximum amount of benefits payable for each period of disability is one-third of the total wages in New Jersey covered employment paid to you during the base year, or 26 times the weekly benefit amount, whichever is less.
Pregnancy
You may be eligible for temporary disability benefits if you are disabled due to pregnancy. Eligibility for benefits is determined in the same way as any other disability. The usual payment period for a normal pregnancy may be up to four weeks before the expected delivery date and up to six week after the actual delivery date. If there are medical complications or you are unable to do your regular work, your doctor may certify to a longer period of disability either before or after the birth of your child.
Please do not submit your claim for pregnancy benefits early. Your claim cannot be paid until:
- Your pregnancy becomes disabling
- You suffer a loss of wages
- Your doctor certifies that you are disabled
How to Apply for Benefits
Click http://www.nj.gov/labor and go to Benefits, Temporary Disability or contact the office of Human Resources at 2283.
