Welcome to the National Federation of the Blind of New Jersey (NFB of NJ), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit volunteer membership organization supporting blind, low vision, deafblind, and interested sighted individuals across the state. We provide essential resources, guidance, advocacy, and community support that promote independence, equal opportunity, and full participation in society.

As part of the nation’s oldest and largest organization led by blind individuals, NFB of NJ works to raise expectations, expand access, and empower people to live the lives they want. Through our local chapters, committees, groups, and statewide programs, we offer training, peer support, leadership opportunities, and community engagement for individuals adjusting to blindness or low vision, as well as their families and allies.

Our membership brings together individuals who are blind, have low vision, and are deafblind, along with their families and supporters, who work collaboratively to create a more inclusive New Jersey. Together, we advance accessibility, promote civil rights, and expand opportunities for people who are blind across the state.

Why Become a Member of the NFB of NJ?

NFB of NJ membership offers a wide range of benefits designed to support blind, low vision, and deafblind New Jersey residents as they pursue independence, confidence, and community connection.

Members find hope and direction after vision loss by joining a supportive network of individuals who understand the challenges and opportunities that blindness can bring. Through shared experiences, peer mentorship, and access to information, members gain the tools needed to move forward with confidence.

NFB of NJ provides access to both statewide and nationwide networks of blind individuals. This community offers practical advice, shared problem-solving, and support for living, working, learning, and thriving as a blind person. Together, members work to change societal misconceptions about blindness by advocating for policies and laws that promote equal access and full participation.

Membership also creates opportunities to meet and develop lasting friendships with blind, low vision, and deafblind individuals who share similar professional interests, hobbies, and goals. Members gain valuable guidance on accessible technology and tools that support independent living, employment, education, and daily tasks.

As part of NFB of NJ, members receive access to national programs and services that strengthen independence, including:

• NFB-NEWSLINE® – Access to hundreds of newspapers, magazines, job listings, emergency alerts, and TV schedules in audio format
• Free white cane and slate-and-stylus programs – Essential tools for independent travel and Braille writing
• The Independence Market – Specialized blindness-related products and accessible tools; free and for purchase
• Youth programs – Including the Braille Enrichment for Literacy and Learning (BELL) Academy and accessible STEM initiatives
• State and national scholarships – Supporting blind students pursuing higher education

These benefits—combined with chapter involvement, statewide programs, and national initiatives—help members build confidence, develop skills, and connect with a strong community of blind individuals across New Jersey.

How to Join the NFB of NJ

NFB of NJ welcomes new members year-round. You are encouraged to attend a couple of chapter meetings as a guest before submitting your membership application, allowing you to meet members and experience what NFB of NJ offers.

When you’re ready to begin:

• Step 1: Submit the Membership Application
  https://nfbnj.org/membership/application
• Step 2: Chapter Review and Vote
  Your local chapter will review your application and vote to accept new members.
• Step 3: Approval and Dues
  Once approved, the chapter president will send the appropriate link for paying dues and completing your membership.

After joining, members may participate fully in chapter activities and become eligible to join committees and groups.

Renewing Your Membership

To renew your membership with the NFB of NJ, please use your chapter’s renewal membership form. All chapter renewal membership form links can be found at https://nfbnj.org/membership/renewing. Locate your chapter in the list and follow the form link to complete your renewal for the current calendar year.

Membership Dues Policy

• Membership dues follow a calendar year.
• Dues may be paid up to two calendar years at a time.
• New membership dues paid between October 1 and December 31 of the current calendar year will be applied to the following calendar year.
• If dues are not paid for two or more consecutive calendar years, the member will be considered inactive and must complete the full membership application process again to return to active status.
• Refunds will not be issued for a mistaken submission.

Accepted Payment Methods

You may pay your membership dues using any of the following methods:

• Check
• Money Order
• PayPal account
• Credit Card
• Debit Card

If you have already paid your dues before completing the form, please select the checkbox indicating that you have prepaid your membership dues for the current calendar year. This allows your chapter to properly record and confirm your payment.