Delaware state is issuing extra benefits for food stamps recipients this month, as the response to the COVID-19 pandemic continues. The additional funds will be loaded onto EBT cards by the end of the month. This boost is intended to help ease the burden on Delawareans who are struggling with high food costs and financial hardship during these challenging times.
Delaware SNAP Benefits Increase
The Delaware Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) has announced that SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits will increase for Delawareans starting in March 2023. This increase is due to the expiration of the federal emergency allotments that were provided during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Benefit Amounts
The average monthly SNAP benefit for a household of four will increase from $835 to $939.
- Households of one person will see their benefits increase from $281 to $327.
- Households of two people will see their benefits increase from $459 to $546.
- Households of three people will see their benefits increase from $658 to $782.
The full benefit amounts for households of all sizes can be found on the DHSS website.
New Maximum Income Limits
In addition to the benefit increases, the income limits for SNAP eligibility have also been increased.
- For a household of one person, the new income limit is $1,877 per month.
- For a household of two people, the new income limit is $2,534 per month.
- For a household of three people, the new income limit is $3,190 per month.
Households with higher incomes may still be eligible for SNAP benefits if they have certain deductions, such as medical expenses or child care costs.
How to Apply
To apply for SNAP benefits, Delawareans can visit their local DHSS office or apply online.
- The online application can be found on the DHSS website.
- Applicants will need to provide information about their income, assets, and household size.
- SNAP benefits are typically issued within 30 days of applying.
Contact Information
For more information about SNAP benefits in Delaware, please contact the DHSS at 1-855-633-5463.
Emergency Food Distribution in Delaware
Delaware is providing emergency food assistance to individuals and families facing food insecurity during the COVID-19 pandemic. This assistance includes the issuance of extra Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.
How Much Extra SNAP Benefits Are Available?
- Households already receiving SNAP benefits will receive an additional $95 per person, up to a maximum of $380 per household.
- Households not currently receiving SNAP benefits may be eligible for a one-time payment of $250.
Who Is Eligible for Extra SNAP Benefits?
- Households must meet the income and asset limits to be eligible for SNAP benefits.
- Individuals who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are automatically eligible for SNAP benefits.
How to Apply for Extra SNAP Benefits
- Individuals who are not currently receiving SNAP benefits can apply online, by phone, or by mail.
- The Delaware Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) is providing phone assistance to individuals who are unable to complete the application online.
| Method | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Online | Visit the Delaware DHSS website and follow the instructions to apply for SNAP benefits. |
| By phone | Call the Delaware DHSS at 1-800-996-9969 to apply for SNAP benefits. |
| By mail | Print and complete the SNAP application form and mail it to the Delaware DHSS. The form can be found on the Delaware DHSS website. |
Individuals who are approved for extra SNAP benefits will receive the benefits on their Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. The EBT card can be used to purchase food at authorized retailers.
Individuals who have questions about the extra SNAP benefits or the application process can contact the Delaware DHSS at 1-800-996-9969.
Delaware Food Assistance Programs
Delaware offers several food assistance programs to help individuals and families in need. These programs provide financial assistance to purchase groceries and other food items. Here are some of the most notable food assistance programs in Delaware:
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- SNAP is a federally funded program that provides monthly benefits to low-income individuals and families to help them purchase food.
- SNAP benefits can be used to purchase most food items at authorized retailers, including grocery stores, farmers’ markets, and some convenience stores.
To be eligible for SNAP in Delaware, you must meet certain income and asset limits. You must also be a U.S. citizen or a legal resident with a valid Social Security number.
The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP)
- TEFAP is a federally funded program that provides emergency food assistance to low-income individuals and families.
- TEFAP food is distributed through a variety of channels, including food banks, pantries, and soup kitchens.
To receive TEFAP food, you must meet certain income and asset limits. You do not need to be a U.S. citizen or a legal resident to receive TEFAP benefits.
The Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP)
- CSFP is a federally funded program that provides nutritious food to low-income pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women, infants, and children up to age 6.
- CSFP food is distributed through local health departments and community agencies.
To be eligible for CSFP in Delaware, you must meet certain income and asset limits. You must also be a U.S. citizen or a legal resident with a valid Social Security number.
Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP)
- SFMNP is a federally funded program that provides low-income seniors with vouchers to purchase fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs from farmers’ markets.
- SFMNP vouchers can be used at authorized farmers’ markets in Delaware.
To be eligible for SFMNP in Delaware, you must be 60 years of age or older and meet certain income limits. You must also be a U.S. citizen or a legal resident with a valid Social Security number.
Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program
- WIC is a federally funded program that provides nutritious food, nutrition education, and breastfeeding support to low-income pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women, and children up to age 5.
- WIC food is distributed through local health departments and community agencies.
To be eligible for WIC in Delaware, you must meet certain income and asset limits. You must also be a U.S. citizen or a legal resident with a valid Social Security number.
Eligibility for Extra Food Stamps in Delaware
Delaware is not currently providing extra food stamps this month. However, residents may be eligible for increased benefits based on their household size, income, and other factors.
Income and Household Size Limits
- 1 person: $1,544 per month
- 2 people: $2,074 per month
- 3 people: $2,604 per month
- 4 people: $3,134 per month
- For each additional person, add $530 per month
Asset Limits
- Single: $2,500
- Couple: $3,750
- Each additional family member: $2,000
Note: Vehicles and homes are not counted as assets.
Other Eligibility Factors
- Must be a US citizen or qualified non-citizen
- Must be a Delaware resident
- Must meet work requirements (if able-bodied and between 18 and 49)
How to Apply
Applications can be submitted online, by mail, or in person at a local Department of Health and Social Services office. Proof of income, household size, and other factors may be required.
Contact Information:
| Phone: | 1-800-994-9477 |
|---|---|
| Website: | https://www.dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dsa/index.html |
Thanks for sticking with me till the end, folks! I know this whole food stamp thing can be a bit confusing, but I hope I was able to shed some light on the situation in Delaware. If you have any more questions, feel free to drop me a line. In the meantime, keep an eye out for more updates from me. I’ll be back soon with more need-to-know info. Until then, take care and stay fed!