$675 Direct Payments Could Be Given To Residents In New Jersey

The Caregiver’s Assistance Act (A-1802/S-2021) is a piece of legislation currently being considered by state lawmakers in New Jersey. If passed, the Act would provide a relief payment to families who support older loved ones through a refundable tax credit worth up to $675.

State lawmakers are currently considering the piece of legislation. AARP New Jersey has launched a campaign to support its passage. The nonprofit organization is advocating for the law to be enacted. It is hoping to use its influence and pressure to make the legislation a reality.

Evelyn Liebman is the director of advocacy for AARP New Jersey. She says that family carers in the state spend an average of 26% of their income on caregiving activities. These activities are unpaid, but are valued at over $13 billion yearly. They save the state and taxpayers money by helping loved ones stay out of costly nursing facility care

Crystal Mcdonald also added that in New Jersey, 1.1 million family caregivers work tirelessly without pay to keep their parents and spouses at home, and out of costly taxpayer-funded nursing homes. It is not easy for these caregivers, and it takes an emotional toll on them. Additionally, providing care for loved ones can also have a real financial cost.

A survey conducted by AARP New Jersey found that 84% of voters aged 50 or older support expanding the tax credit for all family caregivers, including wounded warriors.

Democratic state senators James Beach and Richard Codey are among the lawmakers who support the Caregiver’s Assistance Act. However, it remains unclear if the legislation will have enough support to become law.