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The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)—formerly known as food stamps—helps eligible low-income families afford groceries and improve nutrition.

Visit SNAP Alert for important updates about work requirements and eligibility for SNAP benefits

A balanced diet and access to healthy food are keys to supporting physical health, preventing diseases, and maintaining overall well-being. Approximately 120,000 Delaware residents rely on SNAP for consistent access to healthy, balanced foods.

Benefits are issued electronically to the eligible individual’s or family’s Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card each month. Cardholders use this card at participating stores and online sites.

SNAP is a federally funded program overseen by the United States Department of Agriculture’s Food & Nutrition Administration (FNA) . In Delaware, it is administered by the Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) under the Division of Social Services (DSS).

To determine a Delawarean’s eligibility for SNAP, DSS will look at several factors, including citizenship and residency, household income, number of people in the household and relationships of those who live and eat together. All children up to age 21 who live with their parents must apply for food benefits with their parents.

Citizenship and Residency

A new federal law changes which noncitizens can get SNAP food benefits. This change started in Delaware on April 1, 2026.

Under the new law, only these groups are eligible for food benefits:

U.S. citizens

U.S. nationals

Cuban and Haitian entrants

Compact of Free Association (COFA) citizens of Micronesia, the Marshall Islands, and Palau

Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR) who have held LPR status for at least 5 years, or who qualify for an exemption from the 5-year waiting period for food benefits

Work Requirements and ABAWD Changes in 2026

To keep getting SNAP food benefits, you must spend at least 80 hours every month working and/or participating in the SNAP Employment and Training Program.

Individuals will get three months of SNAP food benefits without complying. To continue receiving your SNAP benefits after the three months, you must either comply with the work requirements or report an approved exemption. If you believe you are unable to work due to a disability, contact your Division of Social Services case manager to fill out a Medical Exemption Form.

Under the Federal Government’s SNAP work requirements, Able Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs) are no longer exempt from work requirements if they:

Currently receive food benefits

Are 18-64 years old

Do not have children under 14 living with them

Are physically and mentally able to work.

Note: The federal government has ended exemptions for being homeless, a veteran, or in foster care at the age of 18.

Visit SNAP Alert for important updates about work requirements and eligibility for SNAP benefits.

Household Size and Income

The maximum gross monthly income limit for most households to qualify for SNAP is set at 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). If you receive Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), General Assistance or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you do not need to meet an income test to receive SNAP benefits.

Food Benefit Income Eligibility Limits and Maximum Benefit Amounts

October 1, 2025 – September 30, 2026

Household Size Maximum Gross Monthly Income 200% FPL Elderly / Disabled Separate Household 165% FPL Gross Monthly Income Limit 130% FPL Net Monthly Income Limit 100% FPL Maximum Monthly Benefit Amount 1 $2,610 $2,152 $1,696 $1,305 $298 2 $3,526 $2,909 $2,292 $1,763 $546 3 $4,442 $3,665 $2,888 $2,221 $785 4 $5,360 $4,421 $3,483 $2,680 $994 5 $6,276 $5,177 $4,079 $3,138 $1,183 6 $7,192 $5,934 $4,675 $3,596 $1,421 7 $8,110 $6,690 $5,271 $4,055 $1,571 8 $9,026 $7,446 $5,867 $4,513 $1,789 * For each additional person add $918 $757 $596 $459 $218

How to apply for SNAP

Apply online for SNAP in Delaware through the ASSIST portal . You may also visit any Delaware State Service Center for more information or to apply in person.

Complete an eligibility interview. At this interview you will need to show documents that prove (verify) the information on your application. These documents may include, proof of U.S. citizenship or non-citizen eligibility, proof of Delaware residency (State-issued driver’s license or identification card, utility bills or official mail), recent pay stubs, rent or mortgage agreements, utility bills.

You will receive a notice in the mail letting you know if you are eligible for SNAP benefits within 30 days of your application. If you do not agree with the decision, you have the right to request a Fair Hearing .