New Jersey has an online application and screening tool, NJHelps, that can be used to see if you are eligible for food assistance (SNAP), cash assistance (WFNJ/TANF or WFNJ/GA), and health Insurance (NJ FamilyCare/Medicaid). From there, you can apply for services or learn about additional resources.

To learn more about how to apply for affordable health coverage, visit http://www.njfamilycare.org/default.aspx.

To learn more about NJ SNAP and apply for help buying groceries, you can also visit, https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/njsnap/.

To apply for support through the NJ WIC Program (Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children), applicants can visit https://nj.gov/health/fhs/wic/participants/find-wic and contact their local WIC office by phone. During the coronavirus outbreak, new applicants will be assessed, certified and issued benefits remotely.

SNAP Updates

Extra SNAP Benefit: On Sunday, March 29, eligible SNAP recipients will receive an extra SNAP benefit. The amount you receive will be the difference between your regular SNAP benefit and the maximum benefit for your family size. If you already receive the maximum benefit, you will not be eligible for this extra payment. You will be able to spend this benefit beyond March.

SNAP Work Activities: During the current public health crisis, your case will not be closed if you are unable to participate in a work activity.

SNAP Recertification Extension: If your case is due to be recertified in March, April or May and you are unable to get your paperwork in or complete your interview, your case will not be closed. You will receive your benefits on the usual day. Your case has been granted a six-month extension from the date your recertification is due. More information will follow on your new recertification date. In the meantime, you will continue to receive SNAP benefits.

Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Updates

In light of COVID-19, New Jersey WIC is allowing additional food itemsin anticipation of limited food selections related to recent events. For more information, visit the NJ WIC website or check out their flyer.

Remote Access to WIC Services: During the COVID-19 pandemic, all 133,000 current New Jersey WIC participants will continue to receive benefits each month. Typically, WIC participants and applicants must be physically present to receive services. However, USDA has temporarily waived this requirement. The waiver applies to areas impacted by WIC clinic closures and stay-at-home orders as well as to people under quarantine.

Work First New Jersey (WFNJ) Updates

WFNJ Recertification Extension: If your case is due in March or April to be recertified, the deadline has been extended 60 days. More information will follow on your new recertification date. In the meantime, you will continue to receive WFNJ benefits.

WFNJ Work Activities: During the current public health crisis, your case will not be closed if you are unable to participate in a work activity. This includes if you are a General Assistance (GA) client completing the 28-day work activity while your case is being reviewed.

Updated/Reviewed: 4/8/20

Sources: https://www.njhelps.org/; https://www.nj.gov/governor/news/news/562020/approved/20200327a.shtml; https://www.childcarenj.gov/SocialServices