NJ A4543

Prohibits the Department of Children and Families from using a child's federal benefits (including Social Security, SSI, and Veterans Administration benefits) to offset the State's costs for maintaining children in out-of-home placement

Allows DCF to use a child's benefits only for the child's unmet needs beyond what the State is obligated to pay, with required notice to the child, parent/guardian, counsel, and Family Court

Requires DCF to establish qualified ABLE accounts or trust accounts for eligible children to conserve benefits while avoiding federal asset limits that could affect benefit eligibility

Mandates DCF to determine whether children in custody are eligible for federal benefits, apply for benefits on their behalf, and provide annual accounting of how benefits are used or conserved

Takes effect 12 months after enactment and requires the Commissioner to apply for any necessary federal waivers to ensure continued federal reimbursement for child welfare services