NJ Resident- Handicapped sticker & SSI, other forms of state HELP? - Disabilities Message Board

babs17 · 02-03-2007, 09:15 PM

I have back multiple injuries and surguries, and applied for SSI, and just finally got a Handicapped sticker for parking (I've been injured badly for a year). I was just wondering what other kinds of help does the state provide for someone in bad health (hopefully just temporary)?

I live in NJ. The sticker has been such a huge blessing so far. Just wondering what other small things I can ask for that can help in a big way.

Thanks.

Mz Migraine · 02-04-2007, 10:02 AM

That would depend on the "county" you live in. I don't know how SSI works however, when I first received SSDI, my local SS office gave me a booklet with a listing of all my county offices that does things for the disabled/seniors.

In my county I am entitled to:

A free bus that will take me to all my doctors appoitments anywhere in So. Jersey.

Free transportation to take me grocery shopping.

Free and/or discount public transportation.

Free cell phones (while supplies last)

Free Wheels On Meals

The list goes on & on............

I don't have a Handicap "sticker". I just have the old fashion tag you just throw on top the dashboard. It belonged to my brother who is now deceased. I figure I'll use his if the time ever comes. My type of disability is "hidden".

If you did not get a booklet, suggest that you check with your local county Social Service Office and/or Social Security Office.

Good Luck!

babs17 · 02-04-2007, 01:24 PM

Hello Friend in CHill...I am in the Trenton area.

Thanks for the great reply. The cell phone thing...is that for emergency use only....? that caught my eye in your reply.

How long did it take you to get the SSI? I just applied 1 month ago....nobody told me that I would need it. So, I am caught in a rock and a hard place now. My temp disability ended, and I only just applied for SSI now, so I am without income. As you can see...I will need all the help I can get. My doctor tells me that I will not be able to return to work for maybe another 6 m- 1 year.

Mz Migraine · 02-04-2007, 03:11 PM

Hey there neighbor!

No the cell phone is NOT for emergencies.

The casinos & the State Police are supplementing the cell phone program for the disabled/seniors.

The State Police will let you know when there is another open enrollment in your local & county newspapers.
They normally do this approximately 2-3 times a year @ your County Office and/or Municiple Building where the phones are given out at a meeting w/one on one instructions on how to use your new cell phones.

I am not on SSI. I am on SSDI. There is a difference. I was employed for over 35+ years prior to retiring & filing for disability.

From the initial SSDI filing to approval through ALJ Hearing the whole process took 3 1/2 years.

babs17 · 03-01-2007, 05:48 PM

3 and 1/2 years huh?

I guess this is a good test of my patience. LOL. I just feel like everything is getting so complicated right now. I feel like I keep screwing up with all these rules all over the place. UGG! I can only learn so much from brochores and sites like these...the rest is trial and error.

How are you?? Since you are in CHill....are your MD's near you? Or do you have to travel a lot??