$140B
Government benefits go unclaimed every year in the U.S.
White House OMB, 2023
9M
Older adults are eligible for benefits but not enrolled
NCOA/Urban Institute, 2024
~100M
Americans receive some form of government assistance
U.S. Dept. of Health & Human Services, 2023
Delaware Government Benefits Programs
Explore the main benefit programs available and find the ones that apply to your situation.
Available programs in Delaware
SSDI in Delaware - Social Security Disability
Monthly income if a disability stops you from working.
SSDI in Delaware - Social Security Disability
Monthly income if a disability stops you from working.
SSDI is a benefit you already paid for through Social Security taxes on every paycheck. If a medical condition now keeps you from working, you may be owed a monthly payment based on your work history, not the severity of your condition. It is federal, so the rules are the same in Delaware as everywhere else.
AVERAGE MONTHLY PAYMENT
$1,630
What the average disabled worker receives each month in 2026
SSA 2026 COLA Fact Sheet
HOW OFTEN CLAIMS ARE DENIED
2 in 3
First applications are usually denied, most are reversed on appeal, which is why getting it right matters
SSA, 2026
YOU CAN STILL WORK
$1,690/mo
The most you can earn from a job in 2026 and still qualify
SSA, 2026
Who qualifies
- Workers age 31 and older typically need to have worked at least 5 of the last 10 years and paid Social Security taxes
- People with a condition expected to last at least 12 months or be terminal
- The condition prevents substantial work, defined by the SSA's annual earnings limit (higher for people who are blind)
How to apply
The fastest way to apply is through Turnout. We handle the entire process for you, from the paperwork to every appeal. The consultation is free and we work on contingency, so you pay nothing unless you win.
Frequently asked questions
Does SSDI approval lead to other benefits in Delaware?
Yes. After 24 months on SSDI, you become eligible for Medicare regardless of age. In Delaware you may also qualify for Medicaid, since the state expanded coverage for adults up to 138% of the federal poverty level.
How long does SSDI take in Delaware?
Delaware processes the medical part of your claim through its Disability Determination Service. An initial decision typically takes 3 to 6 months, with appeals taking a year or more if needed. The earlier you apply, the more back pay you may receive.
Can I work while applying?
Yes, as long as you stay under the SSA's monthly limit for substantial gainful activity, which is $1,690 in 2026. Going over that signals to the SSA that you're able to do substantial work.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
SSI in Delaware - Supplemental Security Income
Monthly cash for people with disabilities and limited income.
SSI in Delaware - Supplemental Security Income
Monthly cash for people with disabilities and limited income.
SSI is monthly cash for people who are struggling to get by. You can qualify if you're disabled, blind, or 65 or older, and have very little income and few assets. Unlike SSDI, you don't need a work history, it's based on need. In Delaware, getting SSI usually opens the door to Medicaid at the same time.
MONTHLY MAXIMUM
$994
The federal SSI payment for one person in 2026
SSA, 2026
SAVINGS YOU CAN KEEP
$2,000
The federal SSI resource limit. Your home and one car never count
SSA, 2026
WHO CAN QUALIFY
No work history
SSI is based on need, not your work record. People 65+, blind, or disabled can qualify
SSA, 2026
Who qualifies
- People who are disabled, blind, or age 65 or older
- Those with very limited income
- Limited resources, with your home and one car not counting against the limit
How to apply
The fastest way to apply is through Turnout. SSI applications involve detailed financial records that trip people up, and one mistake can delay your case. We handle all of it for you. The consultation is free and we work on contingency, so you pay nothing unless you win.
Frequently asked questions
Will I get Medicaid with SSI in Delaware?
Usually. SSI recipients in Delaware are generally eligible for Medicaid, and being approved for SSI is one of the simplest paths onto Delaware Medicaid coverage.
Does Delaware add a state supplement to my SSI?
Delaware does not pay a broad general cash supplement on top of the federal SSI amount, so most recipients receive the federal payment. Certain people in specific living arrangements may qualify for limited additional state help.
Can I receive both SSI and SSDI?
Sometimes. If your SSDI payment is low enough, SSI can fill the gap up to the federal rate. This is called concurrent benefits.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Veterans Benefits in Delaware
Tax-free monthly payments for service-connected conditions.
Veterans Benefits in Delaware
Tax-free monthly payments for service-connected conditions.
VA disability is tax-free monthly pay you earned through your service. If you have an injury or condition connected to your military service, you may be owed compensation every month. The VA assigns a rating from 0 to 100 percent that sets your payment, and many veterans are rated too low or denied at first.
MONTHLY PAY AT 100%
$3,938
What a veteran rated 100% with no dependents receives each month in 2026, tax-free
VA.gov, 2026
TAXES YOU OWE ON IT
$0
VA disability pay is never counted as taxable income by the IRS
IRS, 2026
DELAWARE SCHOOL TAX
100% credit
Veterans rated 100% disabled owe no school district property tax on their primary Delaware home
Delaware Dept. of Finance, 2026
Who qualifies
- Veterans who served on active duty or qualifying training (Guard and Reserve can count)
- Those with a current condition connected to their service
- Those discharged under conditions other than dishonorable
How to apply
The fastest way to get what you're owed is through Turnout. Our VA advocates build your claim from the start, catch rating errors, and fight back if the VA gets it wrong. The consultation is free and we work on contingency, so you pay nothing unless you win.
Frequently asked questions
How does the VA disability rating work?
The VA rates you from 0 to 100 percent based on how much your condition affects you. That rating sets your monthly payment. If you have more than one condition, they are combined, not simply added.
Does Delaware offer extra benefits for disabled veterans?
Yes. Through the Disabled Veterans School Tax Credit, a veteran rated 100% service-connected and permanently and totally disabled (or paid at the 100% rate for individual unemployability) can get a credit covering 100% of the school district property tax on their primary home. You must have lived in Delaware for the past 3 years, and you apply through your county by April 30.
Can I get VA disability and Social Security at the same time?
Yes. They are separate programs with separate rules, so receiving VA disability does not reduce your SSDI.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Healthcare Advocacy in Delaware
Health coverage and advocacy for people 65+ and some younger people.
Healthcare Advocacy in Delaware
Health coverage and advocacy for people 65+ and some younger people.
Healthcare advocacy is one-on-one help getting the most out of your Medicare. Medicare is federal health insurance for people 65 and older, and for some younger people on disability, and most plans cover more than people realize. A Turnout advocate works with you to understand your coverage, find the right specialists, manage your prescriptions, and cut your costs. The advocacy is covered by Medicare, so there is no cost to you.
WHERE TURNOUT HELPS
All 50 states
Turnout's healthcare advocates work with people in every U.S. state
Turnout
WHAT IT COSTS YOU
$0
Your insurance pays for the advocacy, so there's nothing out of pocket for you
Turnout
ONE-ON-ONE TIME
Up to 6 hours a month
Free monthly sessions with your own dedicated advocate
Turnout
Who qualifies
- Anyone with Medicare, including Part B, or approaching eligibility at 65
- People who want help using their coverage, finding care, or cutting costs
- And more, including those reviewing or switching plans
How to apply
The fastest way to get the most from your Medicare is through Turnout. We pair you with a healthcare advocate who helps you understand your coverage, find specialists, manage prescriptions, and lower your costs. The advocacy is covered by Medicare, so there's no cost to you.
Frequently asked questions
What does a healthcare advocate do for you in Delaware?
A healthcare advocate helps you understand and use your coverage, from finding specialists to managing prescriptions to lowering what you pay. With Turnout, the advocacy is covered by Medicare at no cost to you.
What's the difference between Medicare and Medicaid?
Medicare is federal health insurance based mainly on age or disability, not income. Medicaid is based on income. Some people qualify for both, which covers nearly all of their health costs.
Is there free Medicare counseling in Delaware?
Yes. The Delaware Medicare Assistance Bureau (DMAB), the state SHIP run by the Department of Insurance, offers free, unbiased Medicare counseling. You can reach it toll-free at 1-800-336-9500.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Education Advocacy in Delaware
Making sure your child gets every service they're entitled to.
Education Advocacy in Delaware
Making sure your child gets every service they're entitled to.
Education advocacy is one-on-one help getting your child the school support they're entitled to. Under federal law, a child with a disability has the right to an Individualized Education Program, or IEP, a plan the school must follow and pay for. Evaluations get delayed and support gets watered down, and many families don't realize they can push back. A Turnout education advocate prepares with you, joins your IEP meetings, reviews the plan, and pushes for everything the law requires.
CONDITIONS THAT QUALIFY
13 categories
From autism to dyslexia to ADHD, federal law covers a wide range
IDEA / U.S. Dept. of Ed
HOW COMMON IT IS
1 in 7
Public school students receive special education under federal law
U.S. Dept. of Education
DELAWARE EVAL DEADLINE
60 days
Delaware must decide if your child is eligible within 60 calendar days of your written consent
DDOE / 14 Del. Admin. Code 925
Who qualifies
- Children ages 3 to 21 enrolled in Delaware public schools
- Have a qualifying disability under IDEA, including learning disabilities, ADHD, autism, speech delays, emotional disturbance, and more
- A disability that affects their ability to learn
How to apply
The fastest way to get your child the help they need is through Turnout. Our education advocates prepare with you, join your IEP meetings, and push the school for every service your child is entitled to. Reach out to get started.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between an IEP and a 504 plan?
An IEP provides specialized instruction and services for a child with a disability. A 504 plan provides accommodations, like extra time or seating changes, but not specialized instruction. A child who needs more than accommodations usually needs an IEP.
How fast does the school have to evaluate my child in Delaware?
After you sign written consent, the school must decide whether your child is eligible within 60 calendar days. If your child qualifies, the team must then develop the IEP within 30 calendar days of that eligibility decision.
What does an education advocate do?
An education advocate helps you understand your child's rights, prepares with you before meetings, joins your IEP meetings, and pushes back when the school offers less than the law requires.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Medicaid in Delaware
Free or low-cost health coverage for qualifying Delaware residents.
Medicaid in Delaware
Free or low-cost health coverage for qualifying Delaware residents.
Delaware Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that covers doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, and more for those who qualify, usually at no cost. Delaware expanded Medicaid, so adults 19 to 64 can qualify with income up to 138% of the federal poverty level, even without children. It is run by the Division of Medicaid and Medical Assistance (DMMA), and most members get care through the Diamond State Health Plan managed care program.
HOW MANY ARE COVERED
240,000+
Delawareans enrolled in Medicaid and CHIP as of late 2025 (approximate)
KFF/CMS, 2025 (approx.)
MONTHLY PREMIUM
$0
Most enrollees pay nothing per month for full health coverage
Delaware DMMA, 2026
ADULT INCOME LIMIT
138% FPL
Because Delaware expanded Medicaid, adults 19 to 64 can qualify up to 138% of the poverty level
Delaware DMMA, 2026
Who qualifies
- Adults 19 to 64 with income up to 138% of the federal poverty level, with or without children
- Parents and caretaker relatives up to 87% FPL, with higher earners covered under the adult expansion group
- Pregnant people up to 212% FPL, with 12 months of coverage after birth
- Children through Medicaid or the Delaware Healthy Children Program (CHIP) at higher income levels
How to apply
Apply online through Delaware ASSIST at assist.dhss.delaware.gov, or call 1-866-843-7212 to apply by phone or find your nearest State Service Center. Have proof of income, identity, and Delaware residency ready. The same ASSIST application also screens you for SNAP, cash assistance, and child care help. Coverage for children and pregnant people is available year-round.
Frequently asked questions
Is Medicaid called something different in Delaware?
The program keeps the name Medicaid, run by DMMA. Most members receive care through the Diamond State Health Plan managed care program, and children may be covered under the Delaware Healthy Children Program.
What's the difference between Medicaid and Medicare?
Medicaid is based on income. Medicare is based mainly on age or disability. Some people qualify for both.
My income is above the parent limit. Can I still get covered?
Often yes. Delaware's separate parent limit is low, at 87% of the poverty level, but because the state expanded Medicaid, parents who earn more usually qualify under the adult group up to 138% of the poverty level.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
SNAP in Delaware (Food Supplement Program)
Monthly grocery benefits on the Delaware Food First Card, accepted at most grocery stores.
SNAP in Delaware (Food Supplement Program)
Monthly grocery benefits on the Delaware Food First Card, accepted at most grocery stores.
SNAP, called the Food Supplement Program in Delaware, helps qualifying households buy groceries. Benefits are loaded each month onto the Delaware Food First Card and can be used at most grocery stores, Walmart, and many farmers markets. The program is run by the Division of Social Services (DSS). Delaware uses broad-based categorical eligibility, which raises the income cutoff and drops the asset test for most households.
INCOME LIMIT
200% FPL
Delaware raises the gross income limit to 200% of the poverty level for most households, well above the federal default
Delaware DSS, 2026
MAX BENEFIT (FAMILY OF 4)
$994/mo
Federal maximum SNAP allotment for a family of four in FY2026
USDA, FY2026
SAVINGS DO NOT COUNT
No asset test
Most Delaware households face no resource limit under broad-based categorical eligibility
Delaware DSS, 2026
Who qualifies
- Households with gross income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level for most families
- People who already receive TANF, General Assistance, or SSI, who skip the income test
- U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizens living in Delaware
- Most adults age 18 to 54 must meet work requirements unless exempt
How to apply
Apply online through Delaware ASSIST at assist.dhss.delaware.gov, or in person at any State Service Center. An interview is required and can be done by phone. Standard processing takes up to 30 days, with expedited benefits within 7 days for urgent need. The same application also screens you for cash assistance and medical benefits.
Frequently asked questions
I work full-time. Can I still qualify for SNAP in Delaware?
Yes. Many working households qualify, and Delaware uses a higher 200% income limit than the federal default. Deductions for rent, utilities, and childcare lower the income that counts, so income alone does not tell the full story.
What is the Delaware Food First Card?
The Food First Card is the state EBT card that holds your SNAP benefits. It is accepted at most grocery stores, at retailers like Walmart and Amazon for online orders, and at many farmers markets.
How long does SNAP approval take in Delaware?
Up to 30 days for a standard decision. If your household has very low income and few resources, you may qualify for expedited benefits within 7 days. An interview is required but can be done by phone.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
WIC (Women, Infants, Children) in Delaware
Nutrition support for moms, infants, and young children.
WIC (Women, Infants, Children) in Delaware
Nutrition support for moms, infants, and young children.
WIC, the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, helps pregnant women, new mothers, and children under 5 eat well. It provides monthly benefits for healthy groceries, plus breastfeeding support and nutrition help. Many working families qualify, and being on Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF usually qualifies you automatically. Delaware WIC is run by the Division of Public Health.
BABIES WIC REACHES
4 in 10
WIC serves about 4 in 10 of all infants born in the US
USDA, 2024
INCOME LIMIT
185% FPL
Delaware families at or below 185% of the poverty level can qualify, and enrollment in Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF meets the income test automatically
Delaware DPH, 2026
WHO IT'S FOR
Through age 5
Pregnant and postpartum women, infants, and children up to age 5
USDA, 2026
Who qualifies
- Pregnant women, new mothers, and caregivers of infants and children under age 5
- Households at or below 185% of the federal poverty level
- Families already receiving SNAP, Medicaid, or TANF, who are automatically income-eligible
- Delaware residents, regardless of immigration status
How to apply
Call your county WIC office to schedule an appointment: New Castle County at 1-302-605-4066, Kent County at 1-302-605-1833, or Sussex County at 1-302-605-4055. Bring ID for each person applying, proof of Delaware residency, and proof of income or of Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF enrollment. If approved, you receive your Delaware eWIC card and food benefits.
Frequently asked questions
What can you buy with WIC?
Healthy basics like milk, eggs, cereal, fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and infant formula and baby food. The specific approved items are set by Delaware's WIC food list.
Can I get WIC if I have a job?
Yes. Many working families qualify. WIC's income limit of 185% of the poverty level is higher than people expect, and being on Medicaid or SNAP usually qualifies you automatically.
Can I get WIC if I am not a U.S. citizen?
Yes. Delaware WIC does not require citizenship, and applying does not affect your immigration status. You use your eWIC card at approved stores across the state.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
LIHEAP in Delaware (Delaware Energy Assistance Program)
Assistance that helps cover your home energy bills and prevents shutoffs.
LIHEAP in Delaware (Delaware Energy Assistance Program)
Assistance that helps cover your home energy bills and prevents shutoffs.
The Delaware Energy Assistance Program (DEAP) is Delaware's version of LIHEAP. It helps qualifying households pay their heating and cooling bills, with payments made directly to the utility or fuel company. The program is federally funded and run by the DHSS Division of State Service Centers, with applications handled by Catholic Charities. Delaware also runs crisis help for households facing a shutoff and a summer cooling program.
INCOME LIMIT
60% of state median
Households at or below 60% of the state median income can qualify for heating, cooling, and crisis help
Delaware DSS, FY2026
CRISIS HELP
Available year-round
Extra crisis assistance is available on top of seasonal help for households facing a shutoff or out of fuel
Delaware DSS, FY2026
PAID DIRECTLY
To your utility
The benefit is credited to your energy account, not paid to you as cash
Delaware DSS, 2026
Who qualifies
- Delaware households with income at or below 60% of the state median income
- Renters and homeowners paying home energy bills
- Households on SNAP, TANF, or SSI, who generally meet the income test automatically
- Households facing a shutoff or out of fuel, who may qualify for faster crisis help
How to apply
Apply through Catholic Charities, which runs DEAP intake for the state, or online through Delaware ASSIST at assist.dhss.delaware.gov. Heating assistance runs October 1 through the spring, and crisis help is available year-round. Bring photo ID and Social Security cards for your household, proof of income, proof of Delaware residency, and a current energy bill. You can also call the Delaware Helpline at 211 to find your local office.
Frequently asked questions
What if my income is too high for LIHEAP?
Delaware uses a 60% state median income limit, which is higher than a flat poverty-level cutoff. If you receive SNAP, TANF, or SSI, you generally meet the income test automatically.
How is the benefit paid? Do I receive a check?
No. DEAP payments go directly to your utility or fuel company. The benefit is credited to your account, reducing what you owe or preventing a shutoff. You will not receive cash.
What if I have a shutoff notice or ran out of fuel?
Delaware runs a Crisis Assistance program year-round for exactly that. It can add to your seasonal benefit when you show an emergency like a shut-off notice, an empty tank, or no money to pay for fuel.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
ACA Subsidies in Delaware
Federal subsidies that reduce the cost of health insurance for qualifying Delawareans.
ACA Subsidies in Delaware
Federal subsidies that reduce the cost of health insurance for qualifying Delawareans.
ACA subsidies are tax credits that reduce the monthly cost of a health insurance plan bought through the marketplace. Delaware uses the federal marketplace at HealthCare.gov rather than running its own platform, and the state's Choose Health Delaware site points you there. Most Delaware enrollees qualify for subsidies that lower their premiums.
HOW MANY ARE COVERED
~42,000
Delawareans enrolled in a marketplace plan for 2026 (approximate)
Delaware DOI, 2026 (approx.)
WHO QUALIFIES FOR SUBSIDIES
~9 in 10
Most Delaware marketplace enrollees receive premium tax credits that lower their monthly cost
Delaware DOI, 2025
WHERE TO ENROLL
HealthCare.gov
Delaware uses the federal marketplace, so you apply and enroll at HealthCare.gov
Delaware DOI, 2026
Who qualifies
- Delawareans without affordable employer coverage available
- Households earning at or above 138% of the federal poverty level, above the Medicaid limit
- Those not eligible for Medicaid, CHIP, or Medicare
- U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens living in Delaware
How to apply
Apply online at HealthCare.gov, or start at Delaware's Choose Health Delaware site, which links you to the federal platform. Enter household income, family size, and ZIP code to see your subsidy estimate and compare plans by premium, deductible, and network. Enroll during open enrollment or after a qualifying life event like job loss, marriage, or the birth of a child. Free local help is available, and you can call 1-800-318-2596.
Frequently asked questions
Does Delaware run its own marketplace?
No. Delaware uses the federal marketplace at HealthCare.gov. The state's Choose Health Delaware website offers information and directs you to HealthCare.gov to enroll.
What if I missed open enrollment?
You may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period if you lost coverage, got married, had a baby, or had another qualifying life event. You generally have 60 days from the event.
What if my income is too low for subsidies?
HealthCare.gov screens for Delaware Medicaid at the same time. Because Delaware expanded Medicaid, adults up to 138% of the poverty level are usually directed to Medicaid rather than a subsidized marketplace plan.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
TANF in Delaware (A Better Chance)
Monthly cash and support services for families with children.
TANF in Delaware (A Better Chance)
Monthly cash and support services for families with children.
TANF, called A Better Chance (ABC) in Delaware, provides monthly cash to families with children who have very limited income. The program is run by the Division of Social Services (DSS). Delaware sets a 36-month lifetime limit for most adults, which is shorter than the federal 60-month cap, and adults must work or take part in work activities to receive a check.
MAXIMUM MONTHLY BENEFIT
$338/mo
The maximum cash grant for a family of three with no income
Delaware DSS, 2026
LIFETIME LIMIT
36 months
Delaware limits most adults to 36 months of cash assistance, shorter than the federal 60-month cap, with a possible 12-month hardship extension
Delaware DSS, 2026
INCOME ELIGIBILITY LIMIT
$338/mo
A family of three is considered needy when countable income is below $338 a month, the same figure that sets the maximum grant
Delaware DSS, 2026
Who qualifies
- Delaware residents responsible for a child under 18 (or 19 and still in high school)
- Households with very low countable income, below the payment standard for their family size
- Adults must work or take part in work activities for 30 hours a week unless exempt
- U.S. citizens or qualified non-citizens
How to apply
Apply online through Delaware ASSIST at assist.dhss.delaware.gov, or in person at any State Service Center, where an interview determines eligibility. Applying through ASSIST also screens you for SNAP and medical benefits. If approved, cash benefits are issued to your family.
Frequently asked questions
How much cash does TANF pay a family in Delaware?
A family of three with no other income can receive up to $338 a month. The exact amount depends on your family size and any income you already have.
How long can I receive TANF in Delaware?
Delaware limits most adults to 36 months of cash assistance over their lifetime, which is shorter than the federal 60-month cap. Families facing hardship may qualify for an additional 12 months.
What's the difference between A Better Chance and TANF?
They are the same thing. A Better Chance, or ABC, is simply Delaware's name for the federal TANF program, run by the Division of Social Services.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
EITC in Delaware (Earned Income Tax Credit)
Up to $8,231 back for working individuals and families.
EITC in Delaware (Earned Income Tax Credit)
Up to $8,231 back for working individuals and families.
The Earned Income Tax Credit, or EITC, is a tax break for people who work but earn low to moderate income. The federal credit is refundable, so you can get money back even if you owe no federal tax. Delaware adds its own state credit and lets you pick the version that helps you most: a larger credit that only lowers tax you owe, or a smaller one that can come back as a refund.
FEDERAL WORTH UP TO
$8,231
The 2026 federal maximum for workers with three or more children, with smaller credits for fewer or no kids
IRS, 2026
DELAWARE ADDS
20% or 4.5%
You choose either 20% of the federal credit that lowers tax you owe, or 4.5% that can be refunded to you
Delaware Division of Revenue, 2026
PICK WHAT HELPS MOST
Your choice
Lower-income filers who owe little tax usually get more from the refundable 4.5% option
Delaware Division of Revenue, 2026
Who qualifies
- Workers with earned income from a job or self-employment
- Income within the federal limits for filing status and number of children
- Valid Social Security numbers for the worker, spouse, and any children
- And more, including limits on investment income
How to apply
You claim the federal EITC by filing a federal tax return, even if you don't normally have to file, and you claim the Delaware credit on your state return, where you choose the 20% or 4.5% option. Free filing help is available through IRS-certified VITA volunteers, who can also tell you which Delaware option puts more money in your pocket.
Frequently asked questions
Does Delaware have its own state EITC?
Yes. Delaware lets you choose between a non-refundable credit worth 20% of your federal EITC, which only reduces tax you owe, or a refundable credit worth 4.5%, where any amount above your tax bill is paid back to you.
Which Delaware option should I pick?
It depends on your tax bill. If you owe little or no Delaware tax, the refundable 4.5% option usually gives you more, since you get the extra back as a refund. Tax software or a VITA volunteer can compare both for you.
Can I get the EITC without kids?
No kids needed. Workers without children can qualify for a smaller federal credit, and Delaware still applies its state credit on top.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Child Tax Credit in Delaware
Up to $2,200 per qualifying child under 17.
Child Tax Credit in Delaware
Up to $2,200 per qualifying child under 17.
The Child Tax Credit is a federal tax credit worth up to $2,200 per qualifying child under 17, available to Delaware families when they file their federal tax return. Up to $1,700 per child is refundable, meaning lower-income families can receive it as a direct payment even when they owe no federal tax. Delaware does not have its own state child tax credit, so the federal credit is what applies.
WHO IT'S FOR
Kids under 17
A federal tax credit for each qualifying child under 17 living at home
IRS, 2026
OWE LITTLE OR NO TAX?
Some comes back
Up to $1,700 per child is refundable, so you can get money back even if you owe no federal income tax
IRS, 2026
WHO QUALIFIES
Most families
Most families with children qualify; the credit only phases out at higher incomes
IRS, 2026
Who qualifies
- Families with a qualifying child under 17 with a valid Social Security number
- Part of the credit comes back as a refund for families with at least $2,500 in earned income
- Full credit for incomes up to $200,000, or $400,000 for married couples
How to apply
You claim the Child Tax Credit when you file a federal tax return. You can claim it even if you don't normally file. Tax software and free filing help will walk you through it and fill in the right forms (Schedule 8812) for you.
Frequently asked questions
Does Delaware have a state Child Tax Credit?
No. Delaware does not have a state-level Child Tax Credit. The federal credit is fully available to Delaware residents, but the state instead offers a Child and Dependent Care Credit worth 50% of the federal care credit.
Does my child need a Social Security number?
Yes. You, your spouse if filing jointly, and each qualifying child must have a valid Social Security number issued before the return due date.
What is the Additional Child Tax Credit?
The Additional Child Tax Credit is the refundable portion of the Child Tax Credit. For 2026, up to $1,700 per child is refundable. You need at least $2,500 in earned income to qualify and claim it on Schedule 8812.
Government resources
Related Turnout resources
Child Care Assistance in Delaware (Purchase of Care)
Subsidized child care for working Delaware families.
Child Care Assistance in Delaware (Purchase of Care)
Subsidized child care for working Delaware families.
Delaware's Purchase of Care (POC) program helps working families pay for child care while parents work, attend school, or complete job training. It is funded by the federal Child Care and Development Fund and run by the Division of Social Services (DSS). The program pays providers directly, and families pay a sliding-scale co-payment based on income and family size.
PARENT SHARE
Sliding scale
Families pay a co-payment based on income and family size, and the lowest-income families pay nothing
Delaware DSS, 2026
INCOME LIMIT
200% FPL to enter
Families can enter the program with income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level after a 2025 update, and keep help through a phase-out above that
Delaware DSS, 2026
WAITLIST STATUS
No waiting list
Delaware does not run a statewide Purchase of Care waiting list, though local provider space can be limited
Delaware DSS, 2026
Who qualifies
- Delaware residents with a child under 13, or under 19 with a special need
- Parents who are working, attending school, or in job training
- Households at or below the state income limit, which was updated to 200% of the federal poverty level in 2025
- Families referred by the Division of Family Services, who do not need to meet the income test
How to apply
Apply online through Delaware ASSIST at assist.dhss.delaware.gov, or contact your local Division of Social Services office. You will need proof of income, identity for parent and child, and documentation of your work, school, or training schedule. If approved, the state pays your provider directly and you pay a sliding-scale co-payment. Families below the lowest income tiers pay nothing.
Frequently asked questions
What income can I have and still qualify for Purchase of Care?
After a 2025 update, families can enter the program with income up to 200% of the federal poverty level, with a graduated phase-out for families whose income rises above that at their yearly review. This is the income limit, not the amount the program pays.
Is there a waiting list for child care help in Delaware?
No. Delaware does not run a statewide waiting list for Purchase of Care, so eligible families can enroll when they apply. Space with a specific provider can still be limited, so it helps to start early.
How much will I have to pay out of pocket?
A sliding-scale co-payment applies based on your income and family size, and the lowest-income families pay nothing. Your DSS caseworker can tell you your exact co-payment before you enroll.
Government resources
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