NJ A2053

Prohibits the Department of Children and Families (DCF) from using a foster child's federal benefits (Social Security, SSI, Veterans benefits) to reimburse the State for the cost of the child's care, with limited exceptions to maintain SSI eligibility and comply with federal asset limits.

Requires DCF to establish qualified ABLE accounts or trust accounts for eligible children in custody to conserve their benefits without violating federal resource limits that could affect benefit eligibility.

Mandates DCF to determine whether children in custody are receiving or eligible for federal benefits and apply on their behalf, with notice to the child, parents, legal guardians, counsel, and Family Court.

Requires DCF to provide annual accountings of how children's benefits are used, applied, or conserved to the child, parents, legal guardians, counsel, and Family Court.

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