Can you collect social security and unemployment in NJ? This is a common question among individuals facing financial difficulties in New Jersey. The answer to this question is not straightforward and depends on various factors. In this article, we will explore the eligibility criteria for collecting both social security and unemployment benefits in New Jersey.
Firstly, let’s discuss social security benefits. Social Security is a federal program designed to provide financial support to retired, disabled, or surviving family members of deceased workers. To be eligible for social security benefits in New Jersey, you must meet the following criteria:
- Work Credits: You must have earned enough work credits by paying Social Security taxes. As of 2021, you need a total of 40 credits, with at least 10 of those earned in the past 10 years.
- Age Requirement: You must be at least 62 years old to receive retirement benefits. However, you can start receiving benefits as early as age 62, but your monthly payment will be reduced.
- Disability Benefits: If you are disabled and have worked enough to qualify for Social Security, you may be eligible for disability benefits. The Social Security Administration defines disability as the inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity due to a medical condition that is expected to last at least one year or result in death.
Now, let’s move on to unemployment benefits. Unemployment benefits are provided to individuals who have lost their jobs through no fault of their own and are actively seeking employment. To be eligible for unemployment benefits in New Jersey, you must meet the following requirements:
- Work History: You must have worked in New Jersey for at least 20 weeks during the base period, which is the first four out of the last five completed calendar quarters.
- Wage Requirement: You must have earned at least $1,600 in the base period.
- Unemployment Status: You must be unemployed through no fault of your own, actively seeking employment, and available to work.
It is important to note that you cannot collect both social security and unemployment benefits simultaneously. However, you may be eligible for unemployment benefits after you have exhausted your social security benefits. This means that if you are receiving social security benefits and become unemployed, you can apply for unemployment benefits once your social security benefits end.
In conclusion, the answer to the question “Can you collect social security and unemployment in NJ?” is that you can receive one or the other, but not both at the same time. Understanding the eligibility criteria for each program is crucial in determining which benefits you can claim to support yourself during financial hardship.
