In the current contract-based service model, an individual living in a Division of Developmental Disabilities-funded residential setting such as a group home or supervised apartment (or his/her representative payee) is required to pay the State of New Jersey a Contribution to Care amount equal to 75% of the individual’s monthly income (supplemental security income, employment wages, etc.).
While individuals will continue to be required to contribute toward their housing-related costs in the fee-for-service system, the amount and process of remitting this contribution will change.
In the fee-for-service system, an individual living in a Division-funded residential setting will be required to pay 30% of his/her monthly income to the residential service provider toward the cost of rent. That amount will be supplemented by a Division-funded housing voucher administered through the Supportive Housing Connection (SHC), which will cover the remaining cost of rent.
As individuals living in a Division-funded residential setting are identified to shift into fee-for-service, they/their guardian will receive a letter in the mail indicating the date their rental payment to the residential service provider will begin. At the time an individual begins paying the residential provider directly toward the cost of rent, he/she may cease making the current Contribution to Care payments. Please note that any past due payments that have accrued will still be expected to be paid to the State.
It’s important to note that residential service providers also may assess an additional monthly fee or percentage of an individual’s monthly income to be paid toward other related, non-covered living expenses, such as food, utilities, etc. This extra fee/contribution will vary by provider. Any questions related to this charge should be directed toward the individual’s residential service provider.
For additional resources regarding housing-related changes in the fee-for-service system, please visit the Division’s Community Living Options web page.
