The Statewide Respite Care Program is a service of the New Jersey Department of Human Services (Division of Aging Services – DoAS) designed to provide temporary or periodic respite for family or unpaid caregivers who provide daily care to people with functional limitations, including older adults.

 What is respite care?

Respite care allows caregivers to take a break from the physical and emotional demands of daily care without leaving the person in their care unattended. For example, this service can help when the caregiver needs:

• Take a vacation
• To cover a period when you have surgery or an emergency.
• Having time to attend to your own well-being, errands, or important medical appointments.

The main objective is to reduce caregiver stress and support their health and well-being, which also benefits the person receiving care.

Who is eligible?

To qualify for the program, the person receiving care must:

• Receive daily care and/or supervision from an unpaid caregiver (family member, friend, spouse) who is at least 18 years old.
• Having functional limitations that require daily assistance, certified by a licensed medical provider.
• Be over 18 years old.
• Living in the community (not in a care facility or institution).
• Meet the financial requirements according to the income and assets stipulated by the program.
• Be a resident of the state of New Jersey.

Not to be receiving similar services from other programs such as JACC, MLTSS, Alzheimer's Adult Day Services or Congregate Housing Services (although you may switch between these if applicable).

The income limits for 2026 are:

• Single or widowed: maximum $2,982 per month and liquid assets up to $40,000.
• Married couple: maximum $5,964 per month and liquid assets up to $60,000.

What services are offered?

The program does not offer permanent direct care, but rather services that provide respite for the caregiver. This may include temporary care, in-home care, companionship services, adult day care facilities, and other support depending on availability and needs.

It's important to remember that respite care services are focused on supporting the caregiver, even though they also provide care for the person being cared for. If the person requiring care needs more support than the caregiver can provide, or if no caregiver is available, this program may not be the right option. In those cases, the Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) can help find more appropriate services.

How to request or find more information?

To access this program in your county, you can call the Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) toll-free: 1-877-222-3737

You can also visit the program website for additional information, brochures, and detailed requirements by clicking here.