Catastrophic Illness in Children Relief Fund What does the Catastrophic Illness in Children Relief Fund (the Fund) do: Provides reimbursement of expenses not covered by insurance, state or federal programs or other sources to New Jersey families whose children have a catastrophic illness or condition. What is a Catastrophic Illness or Condition: Catastrophic refers to the expenses, not the severity of the illness or condition Condition may be acute or chronic Key Fact: The family must generally pay the expenses first and then the Fund reimburses the expenses. Eligibility: Child must be under 22 at time medical expenses were incurred Eligible expenses must exceed 10% of family’s gross income, plus 15% of any excess income over $100,000 in any prior 12 month consecutive period. Eligible expenses must exceed 10% of family’s gross income, plus 15% of any excess income over $100,000 in any prior 12 month consecutive period. Can be a calendar year or any 12 month period No deadline or statute of limitations to submit for past expenses May reapply every 12 months Examples of types of expenses reimbursed (not inclusive): Doctor appointments Medicine Therapies Hospitalizations Durable medical equipment Home modifications Transportation Medical Supplies Lab Costs Hotel for out of state medical visits Home health care Modified vehicle Types of not reimbursed (not inclusive) Expenses related to education Modifications to rentals or vacation homes Other relevant rules May not combine multiple children’s expenses Total application each year cannot exceed $100,000 Insurance premiums may be counted as an expense to help with eligibility but will not be reimbursed Some categories have reimbursement limits How to apply: Online: njcatastrophicfund.dhs.state.nj.us/cicrf/ (Can apply but will need to mail in supporting documentation) Call 1-800-335-FUND (3863) for information For more detailed information, please refer to the Catastrophic Illness Fund Full Length page
