New Jersey
Personal Preference Program (PPP)
Self-directed care programs in New Jersey that let you choose your own personal assistant or pay a family member as your caregiver.
Personal Preference Program
Open - No WaitlistPA Hourly Rate
$13.00 - $16.00
per hour
Monthly Benefit
$1,200 - $3,500
estimated range
What You Can & Can't Do
What You Can Do
- Hire your spouse or family members as paid caregivers
- Manage a monthly budget for personal care services
- Use funds for approved assistive devices and home modifications
- Choose your own care schedule and providers
- Access the program without a waitlist
- Change providers at any time
What You Can't Do
- Use PPP funds for room, board, or rent
- Purchase items not approved in your spending plan
- Exceed your monthly budget allocation
- Use funds for medical or skilled nursing services
- Receive services while in a nursing facility
- Skip the fiscal intermediary for payroll
How to Apply
Apply for NJ Medicaid
Ensure Medicaid enrollment through NJ FamilyCare at (800) 701-0710.
Contact NJ DMAHS
Call (609) 588-2600 to request information about the Personal Preference Program.
Complete clinical assessment
A nurse evaluates your functional needs and determines your level of care.
Receive PPP enrollment
If eligible, you're enrolled in PPP with an assigned monthly budget.
Develop spending plan
Create a plan for how you'll use your monthly allowance for care services.
Hire caregivers
Recruit and hire your personal care attendants.
Enroll through fiscal intermediary
Your caregivers complete enrollment through the FI for payroll and tax processing.
PA Documents & Requirements
What your personal assistant needs to get started in New Jersey
Government-issued photo ID
Valid identification
Social Security card
For payroll
W-4 tax withholding form
Tax withholding
I-9 Employment Eligibility
Work authorization
NJ criminal background check
State Police background check
Direct deposit form
Banking details for payment
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Personal Preference Program (PPP)?
PPP gives eligible NJ Medicaid members a monthly cash allowance to purchase personal care and support services, including hiring their own caregivers.
Can my spouse be my caregiver in New Jersey?
Yes. New Jersey's PPP allows spouses and other family members to be paid caregivers.
How is my PPP budget determined?
Your budget is based on a comprehensive needs assessment. The monthly amount covers your personal care services and is deposited to a dedicated PPP account.
Is there a waitlist?
No. PPP is generally open enrollment with no waitlist.
What can I use my PPP budget for?
Primarily for personal care attendant services. You can also use portions for approved goods and services that increase your independence, such as grab bars or shower chairs.
Do I manage the finances myself?
PPP uses a fiscal intermediary to handle payroll, taxes, and compliance. You direct the care, but the financial administration is managed for you.
Ready to check your eligibility?
Answer a few questions and we'll tell you if you qualify for New Jersey's PPP program.