The Propel Guide To EBT In Delaware

SNAP, sometimes called food stamps or just EBT, can be an essential tool for low-income households in Delaware to afford groceries every month.

SNAP is federally funded and has to follow national rules, but each state manages its own program under those guidelines. That means your SNAP application steps, benefit schedules, renewal process, and customer service details can vary depending on where you live.

Here’s what to know about EBT and SNAP benefits in Delaware.

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How does SNAP work in Delaware?#how-does-snap-work-in-delaware

Once you apply and qualify for SNAP in Delaware, you’ll get money each month sent to your EBT card that you can use on any eligible groceries. You swape your card just like a debit card, and your benefits can be used at any store that accepts food stamps. About 118,800 people receive SNAP benefits in Delaware.

After you apply, your SNAP office may contact you for an interview and ask for documents to confirm details like your income and household size. Once your case is approved, benefits continue as long as you remain eligible and complete any required renewals.

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How to apply for food stamps in Delaware#how-to-apply-for-food-stamps-in-delaware

There are several ways to apply for food stamps in Delaware.

Apply for SNAP online

You can apply through the official state SNAP website below.

Apply for SNAP by phone or in person

If you need help applying or prefer speaking with someone, you can

• Call the Delaware SNAP hotline: 1-866-843-7212
• Apply in person at a county or local benefits office

SNAP application assistance is also available through your local food bank.

What you’ll need to apply for SNAP#what-youll-need-to-apply-for-snap

When you apply, you’ll need to provide information that helps your state determine your eligibility, including:

• Your identity and household: Details about yourself and everyone applying with you
• Your income and expenses: Information about money coming in and costs like housing and utilities
• Your financial situation: Details about assets or resources, if required

You may not need every document to start an application; you can often submit missing information later.

Eligibility

Who is eligible for SNAP in Delaware?#who-is-eligible-for-snap-in-delaware

SNAP eligibility is mostly determined by your household size and income, but some applicants may have to meet additional requirements.

In general, you may qualify for SNAP if:

• Your household income is at or below state limits
• You meet work requirements (if it applies to you)
• You are a U.S. citizen, or you meet immigration requirements

When are SNAP deposits issued in Delaware?#when-are-snap-deposits-issued-in-delaware

SNAP benefits are sent out once per month in Delaware from the 2nd to the 23rd. Your exact deposit date depends on the first letter of your last name. For example, if your last name starts with A, your benefits will arrive on the 2nd of the month, but if your last name starts with Q or R, your benefits will arrive on the 18th.

If your SNAP deposit doesn't arrive when expected, review these common reasons why SNAP deposits are delayed.

Renewals

How do I renew my food stamps in Delaware?#how-do-i-renew-my-food-stamps-in-delaware

SNAP benefits don’t last forever—you’ll need to renew your case (also called recertification) to keep getting them.

When to renew

Most households in Delaware must renew their SNAP benefits every 12 months and complete an interim report every 6 months. If you’re assigned a longer, 24-month certification period, you’ll need to complete an interim report at the 12-month mark.

Your SNAP office should send you a letter in the mail when it’s time to reapply or complete an interim report. To be safe, you could also put a note in your calendar or wherever you keep important reminders.

How to renew

You can usually renew:

• Online through the Delaware ASSIST portal
• By phone
• By mail or in person

To find out the easiest way to renew your SNAP, call your caseworker, local office, or the Delaware SNAP hotline: 1-866-843-7212

What can I buy with EBT in Delaware?#what-can-i-buy-with-ebt-in-delaware

Under federal SNAP rules, you can use your EBT card to buy most food items meant to be prepared and eaten at home.

SNAP‑eligible foods in Delaware include:

• Fruits and vegetables (fresh, frozen, dried, or canned)
• Meat, poultry, and fish
• Dairy products, like milk, cheese, and yogurt
• Bread and cereals
• Snack foods, like popcorn, chips, pretzels, and candy
• Seeds and plants that grow food
• Drinks like juice, water, and energy drinks
• Pantry staples like flour, olive oil, and spices
• Infant formula and baby food

What you can’t buy with SNAP in Delaware:

• Alcohol, tobacco, or vapes
• Vitamins, supplements, and medicine
• Hot food that is sold prepared and ready to eat, like rotisserie chicken or soup from a deli
• Pet food
• Cleaning supplies and household items
• Diapers and wipes
• Live animals (except certain seafood and animals slaughtered before pickup)

While SNAP benefits are strictly for groceries and related food items, some people also receive TANF, which provides cash on an EBT card for household needs, including rent, bills, and other expenses.

Where are EBT cards accepted in Delaware?#where-are-ebt-cards-accepted-in-delaware

You can use your EBT card at:

• Grocery stores
• Convenience stores
• Farmers markets
• Some online retailers

Download Propel to find nearby stores that take EBT, plus other Delaware SNAP resources

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What SNAP changes do I need to report?#what-snap-changes-do-i-need-to-report

You may be required to report any changes to your SNAP case that could affect your benefit amount.

In Delaware, most changes are reported during your regular SNAP renewal or the interim report, but some changes must be reported sooner to help avoid delays or issues with your benefits.

Changes you should report within the first 10 days of the following month:

• Income goes over the limit: If your household's total gross monthly income goes over 130% of the federal poverty level (FPL) for your household size.
• Work hours drop: If you have to meet "able-bodied adult without dependents" (ABAWD) work requirements for adults ages 18 to 64 and your hours drop below 20 hours per week

Changes that can be reported during recertification:

• Household changes: If a new baby arrives or someone moves in or out
• Address and housing changes: Changes to housing costs, including rent, mortgage, or utility expenses
• Changes to child support: If a court orders new child support obligations

How to report changes:

To report a change, you can do one of the following:

• Use your state's online benefits portal, Delaware ASSIST
• Call your local SNAP office
• Call your caseworker

If you’re unsure whether a change needs to be reported right away, contacting your SNAP office is the safest option.

Card security

How do I report a lost or stolen EBT card in Delaware?#how-do-i-report-a-lost-or-stolen-ebt-card-in-delaware

If your EBT card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you should report it as soon as possible so you can get a new one and protect yourself from EBT theft.

Here's what to do:

• Fill out the Stolen Benefits Form to help DHSS track down theft
• Call 1-800-526-9099
• Follow the prompts to cancel your card or request a replacement

Frequently asked questions#frequently-asked-questions

Can I get any discounts with my EBT card?#can-i-get-any-discounts-with-my-ebt-card

Yes, your EBT card can get you discounted or free admission to museums, zoos, aquariums, and more, including the Delaware Museum of Nature and Science, the Biggs Museum of American Art, and more.

You can even qualify for low–cost internet and discounted memberships to online retailers, like Amazon or Walmart.

Can I use my SNAP benefits at restaurants in Delaware?#can-i-use-my-snap-benefits-at-restaurants-in-delaware

No, in Delaware, you cannot use SNAP benefits to buy hot, prepared food or to eat at restaurants.

While some states have a Restaurant Meals Program for the elderly, disabled, or those experiencing homelessness, Delaware does not participate in this program.

You can only use your SNAP benefits at authorized retailers (like grocery stores and farmers markets) for food items intended to be prepared and eaten at home.

Can I get more food stamps if I’m pregnant or a new parent?#can-i-get-more-food-stamps-if-im-pregnant-or-a-new-parent

Yes, once your child is born, you should report your new family member to your SNAP case. More household members mean more benefits.

If you're pregnant or have a child under five years old, consider applying for the WIC program, which gives you extra benefits on top of food stamps—including things like support with breastfeeding and extra grocery benefits.

Can I use my Delaware EBT card in another state?#can-i-use-my-delaware-ebt-card-in-another-state

Yes, your EBT card works in all 50 states, as well as most U.S. territories, at any store displaying the Quest® symbol or EBT/SNAP/food stamps accepted sign.

Keep in mind that while your card will work nationwide, other states may have different restrictions on things you can buy with SNAP benefits.

Using your card exclusively outside of Delaware for an extended period may trigger a residency review by your SNAP agency. If you move to another state permanently, you must close your Delaware case and reapply in your new state to keep receiving benefits

How do I activate my EBT card in Delaware?#how-do-i-activate-my-ebt-card-in-delaware

To activate your EBT card online, register on the ConnectEBT site or mobile app with your 16-digit EBT card number. You’ll be able to set up a PIN after you log in.

If you prefer to activate your EBT card over the phone, call 1-800-526-9099 and follow the automated prompts to the card activation menu. Enter your card number when prompted and create a new PIN.

What other benefits are available to me in Delaware?#what-other-benefits-are-available-to-me-in-delaware

Delaware Health and Social Services runs several programs for low-income households, including:

• Kinship Care Assistance: Financial support for non-parent caregivers providing clothing, shelter, health, safety and educational supplies for a transitioning child
• Purchase of Care: Child care support for early learning and after-school care
• Low Income Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP): One-time payment toward your utility bills for each winter heating and summer cooling season–crisis payments are also available
• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF): Cash assistance, called Cash EBT, and workforce training opportunities
• General Assistance: State cash assistance for Delawareans who don’t qualify for federal programs like TANF and Social Security
• Refugee Cash Assistance: Medical and cash assistance for refugees in their first 8 months in the U.S., if they don't qualify for other programs