Benefits & Money
Property tax relief, prescription help, Social Security and the programs that put money back in your pocket.
5 in-depth guides
ANCHOR, Senior Freeze and Stay NJ: the complete 2026 guide
One form unlocks all three of New Jersey's property tax relief programs for seniors. Here is who qualifies, how much you could get, and how to file the PAS-1 before November 2.
PAAD, Senior Gold and Medicare help: how NJ seniors save
One New Jersey application can cut your prescription copays to $5, pay your Medicare premium and add $225 a year for utilities. Here is who qualifies in 2026.
Social Security's 3.6% raise for 2027: what it means in NJ
Checks grow in January, but Medicare, the earnings test and your claiming age all shape what you actually keep. Plus how New Jersey taxes retirement income.
Food and utility help for New Jersey seniors: where to start
SNAP, senior meals, farmers market benefits, heating aid and free weatherization can all ease a tight budget. Here is how each works and how to apply this season.
Working after 60 in New Jersey: jobs, training and your rights
Part-time work, paid training through SCSEP or a second career can all make sense after 60. Here is where to find help in New Jersey and how a paycheck affects Social Security, Medicare and taxes.
Questions people ask
I got ANCHOR automatically last year. Do I need to file?
If you are 65 or older, or on Social Security or Railroad Retirement disability, yes. The state did not auto-file seniors. File the PAS-1 by November 2, 2026.
Can I get all three programs at once?
Yes, if you qualify for each. ANCHOR is calculated first, then Senior Freeze. Stay NJ tops up the total to half your property taxes, up to a ceiling of $6,500, $5,000 or $4,000 depending on income.
Do I need a Medicare Part D plan to get PAAD?
Yes, if you have Medicare. PAAD pays the premium for certain basic plans at or below the regional benchmark and then limits your copays to $5 generic and $7 brand.
Can I get PAAD and a Medicare Savings Program at the same time?
Many people qualify for more than one program. NJSave screens you for all of them at once and sorts out how they fit together with your other coverage.
When will I see the 3.6% increase?
In the payments you receive in January 2027. Social Security usually sends notices in December, and you can see yours in your my Social Security account.
Has the 2027 Medicare Part B premium been announced?
Not as of mid October 2026. It is expected later in the fall. The Medicare Trustees projected $209.50 a month, up from $202.90 in 2026.
Do I have to visit an office to apply for SNAP?
Usually not. New Jersey lets you complete the SNAP process by phone or online. A free SNAP Navigator can help you with the form.
Can I get LIHEAP if I heat with oil?
Yes. LIHEAP covers oil, propane and other fuels. Payments for delivered fuel are typically made by check to you and your supplier together.
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