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Childcare Assistance for Single Mothers in Delaware

Delaware Childcare Assistance for Single Mothers (2025)

Last updated: September 2025

This guide is written for single moms in Delaware who need straight answers, exact numbers, clear steps, and working links to official sources. It covers Purchase of Care (POC), free pre‑K (ECAP), Head Start/Early Head Start, how to apply, how much you might pay, what to do when something goes wrong, and who to call today.


Source notes appear throughout with links to official state or federal pages. Where exact figures are required, they’re pulled from current state publications for October 1, 2024–September 30, 2025, or later. (dhss.delaware.gov, education.delaware.gov, acf.hhs.gov)

Quick help box (do these first)

How POC (Purchase of Care) works in Delaware

Most single moms use POC first because it pays the child care provider directly and limits your out‑of‑pocket cost (copay). The program is run by the Delaware Division of Social Services (DSS). You can choose any licensed center or family child care home (and some relative care) that meets state rules. Apply through the ASSIST portal or at a State Service Center. (dhss.delaware.gov, education.delaware.gov)

The most important action: submit your application today

  • Apply online: Delaware ASSIST. If you cannot apply online, visit a State Service Center (see “Contacts by county” below) or call DSS Customer Relations at 1‑866‑843‑7212 for help. (assist.dhss.delaware.gov, dhss.delaware.gov)
  • Interview timing: DSS interviews you and starts processing within about 2 business days of your signed application. (regulations.delaware.gov)
  • 30‑day document window: If you don’t have everything on day 1, you get up to 30 days to submit mandatory verifications (income, work or school schedule, etc.). If you turn them in after 30 but before 60 days, benefits can start the day DSS receives the missing items; after 60 days, you must reapply. (regulations.delaware.gov)

Who is eligible

You must have a child under 13 (or older with a documented special need) and a reason you need care (work, accepted job offer, approved training/education, TANF/SNAP E&T, protective services, or documented special need for you or your child). Financial eligibility uses your gross income. (dhss.delaware.gov, regulations.delaware.gov)

Current income limits and copays (effective Oct 1, 2024–Sept 30, 2025)

  • Initial eligibility up to about 200% FPL; at redetermination you can phase out through 215% FPL; cases close if your income exceeds 85% of State Median Income (SMI). Copays are waived at or below 150% FPL, and otherwise capped at 7% of gross income (policy updated in 2024). (dhss.delaware.gov, regulations.delaware.gov, news.delaware.gov)

Table A — At‑a‑Glance: monthly income guide (POC)

Family size Max gross monthly at application (≈200% FPL) Copay waived (≤150% FPL) 85% SMI cap (max during authorization)
1 $2,510 $1,883 $4,121
2 $3,408 $2,556 $5,388
3 $4,304 $3,228 $6,656
4 $5,200 $3,900 $7,924
5 $6,098 $4,574 $9,192
6 $6,994 $5,246 $10,460

Source: Delaware DSS “Child Care Income Eligibility Limits & Sliding Fee Scale,” effective Oct 1, 2024–Sept 30, 2025. See the full 1–18 table on the state site. (dhss.delaware.gov)

Table B — Copay rules you can use now

Bracket Your monthly copay
At or below 150% FPL $0 (copay waived)
Between 150%–215% FPL 7% of gross income (capped)
Below 40% FPL “Excess financial burden” category (copay not assigned)

Policy references: 7% cap and waivers finalized July 2024; state announcement March 2024. (regulations.delaware.gov, news.delaware.gov)

What providers get paid (so you can comparison shop)

Delaware publishes the Purchase of Care (POC) provider rates. Knowing them helps you estimate whether a provider’s tuition will be fully covered by the state rate plus your copay, or if you’ll owe a difference.

Table C — FY2025 POC daily and weekly base rates (statewide)

Age/setting Family child care (daily / weekly) Center (daily / weekly)
Infant (0) 44.50/44.50 / 222.50 65.00/65.00 / 325.00
Toddler (1) 40.00/40.00 / 200.00 58.00/58.00 / 290.00
Pre‑school (2–5) 40.00/40.00 / 200.00 51.00/51.00 / 255.00
School‑age FT (6+) 32.00/32.00 / 160.00 38.00/38.00 / 190.00
School‑age PT (6+) 20.00/20.00 / 100.00 27.00/27.00 / 135.00

Daily rates effective July 1, 2024 (used in FY2025). Exact special‑needs rates are published by DSS. Always confirm with your provider. (dhss.delaware.gov)

What it costs in the real market (so numbers make sense)

Delaware’s 2024 Market Rate Survey (the state’s official price study) shows the 75th‑percentile private‑pay prices providers charge. For example:

  • New Castle County center infant care: about 75/day∗∗;toddler∗∗75/day**; toddler **68.76/day; preschool $60.40/day (75th percentile).
  • Kent/Sussex center infant care: about 62.38/day∗∗;toddler∗∗62.38/day**; toddler **57/day; preschool $50/day (75th percentile).
  • School‑age care (centers), 4+ hours/day: 42.50∗∗(Kent/Sussex)to∗∗42.50** (Kent/Sussex) to **55.56 (New Castle). (dhss.delaware.gov)

Use this to gauge whether a provider’s tuition aligns with POC rates; if tuition is higher than the state rate, ask the provider whether they accept the POC rate without additional parent charges beyond your copay.

How to apply — step by step

  • Create or log in: Delaware ASSIST. Start the Child Care Services application, complete the interview, and upload documents. (assist.dhss.delaware.gov)
  • Documents to gather (last 30 days unless noted):
    • Proof of income (paystubs, employer letter, or self‑employment docs).
    • Proof of need for care (work schedule, job offer, class/training schedule, TANF/SNAP E&T participation, special‑needs documentation).
    • IDs and DE residency.
    • Child’s birth certificate and immunization record (you can still apply while gathering items; see “presumptive” note below). (regulations.delaware.gov)
  • Don’t have all papers today? DSS can open “presumptive childcare” when you report income and need; you then have 30 days to submit mandatory verifications to lock in the start date at your filing date. (regulations.delaware.gov)

Real‑world examples

  • Example A: Single mom, family of 2, earns 2,520/month∗∗(about1502,520/month** (about 150% FPL). Copay = **0 (waived). If she picks a center with infant weekly rate $325, POC pays the state rate to the provider; she owes no copay and should not be charged extra beyond POC rules. (dhss.delaware.gov)
  • Example B: Single mom, family of 3, earns 3,600/month∗∗( 1673,600/month** (~167% FPL). Copay is **7% of 3,600 = 252/month∗∗.Ifhertoddlerisinacenterat∗∗252/month**. If her toddler is in a center at **290/week, POC pays the published center toddler rate ($290/week). She pays only her copay (providers should not add extra tuition for POC‑covered hours). (dhss.delaware.gov)

Timelines you can expect

  • Interview/processing: DSS interviews and starts processing within roughly 2 business days of application. (regulations.delaware.gov)
  • 30‑day verification window; 60‑day outer limit before you’d need to reapply. (regulations.delaware.gov)
  • Twelve‑month eligibility periods are standard; your copay won’t increase mid‑period if your income goes up (but tell DSS about changes). Cases close if income exceeds 85% SMI or you no longer have a covered “need.” (regulations.delaware.gov, dhss.delaware.gov)

Common pitfalls (and how to avoid them)

  • Reporting changes late. Report new jobs, hours, income changes, or address changes promptly through your ASSIST account or DSS. Late changes can trigger overpayments.
  • Not picking a provider within 30 days. Benefits can’t start paying a provider until you select one and DSS authorizes care.
  • Assuming all costs are covered. If a provider charges above the state rate or adds optional fees (transportation, registration), ask up front what you would owe with Purchase of Care.
  • Missing redetermination notices. Put renewal reminders on your calendar. Missed redeterminations can close your case even if you’re still eligible. (assist.dhss.delaware.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Call DSS Customer Relations 1‑866‑843‑7212 to escalate.
  • Visit a State Service Center for in‑person help; see county contacts below.
  • For a second set of eyes on child care options or immediate referrals, call My Child DE at (800) 734‑2388 or Delaware 211 (211 or 1‑800‑560‑3372). (mychildde.org, delaware211.org)

Free preschool options: ECAP (state‑funded) and Head Start/Early Head Start

These no‑cost programs are essential if you have a preschooler. Seats are limited, and many programs prioritize families with the lowest incomes or specific needs. Expect an application, proof of income, and follow‑up.

  • ECAP (Early Childhood Assistance Program): State‑funded preschool delivered by community partners and school districts; priority for families at or below federal poverty level, foster, homelessness, and children with IFSP/IEP (documented delays or disabilities). Contact partner programs directly to apply and confirm openings in your area. (education.delaware.gov)
  • Head Start (ages 3–5) & Early Head Start (pregnancy–age 3): Federally funded, no‑cost programs with comprehensive services (education, health, nutrition, family supports). Income at or below federal poverty level; categorical eligibility for foster, homelessness, or TANF/SNAP/SSI. Apply with local grantees or use the national line 866‑763‑6481. (acf.hhs.gov)

Table D — ECAP vs. Head Start vs. POC

Feature ECAP (state) Head Start/EHS (federal) POC subsidy
Cost to family $0 $0 Copay: $0 ≤150% FPL; otherwise 7% of income
Primary ages 3–4 (some infant/toddler partners) EHS: pregnancy–3; HS: 3–5 0–12 (13+ with special needs)
Eligibility focus Low income, foster, homelessness, documented delays Low income, foster, homelessness, TANF/SNAP/SSI Income & “need” (work/school/etc.)
How to apply Contact ECAP partner sites (county lists with phone numbers) Head Start apply & locator or call 866‑763‑6481 Apply via ASSIST or at DSS

Sources: Delaware DOE ECAP page; ACF Office of Head Start; DSS POC policy. (education.delaware.gov, acf.hhs.gov, assist.dhss.delaware.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If ECAP/Head Start slots are full, stay on waitlists and also enroll with POC for wraparound or interim care.
  • Ask the program about transportation, school‑day vs full‑day options, and whether they partner with POC for extended hours.

Find safe, licensed child care and check complaints

Start here:

  • Search: OCCL “Search for Licensed Child Care”. Shows location, past 5 years of noncompliances, and current enforcement actions. For full history, you can request a file review. (education.delaware.gov)
  • Help line for child care referrals and questions: My Child DE at (800) 734‑2388 or email mychildde@cffde.org. My Child DE also lists that approximately 16,000 children receive POC each month and there are roughly 1,000 licensed providers statewide. (mychildde.org)
  • Report a licensing concern: OCCL complaint lines — (302) 892‑5800 (New Castle), (302) 739‑5487 or (800) 822‑2236 (Kent/Sussex). For suspected abuse/neglect at a facility, call the 24/7 Child Abuse Report Line (800) 292‑9582. (education.delaware.gov)
  • What those red flags mean: OCCL explains “warning of probation,” “probation,” and suspensions here, with addresses for file reviews. (education.delaware.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Can’t find openings near your schedule? Ask providers about part‑time, non‑traditional hours, and whether they accept POC.
  • Call Delaware 211 (211 or 1‑800‑560‑3372) for help locating options quickly, including after‑school programs. (delaware211.org)

Money you might still get back at tax time

  • Delaware Child & Dependent Care Tax Credit (state): Nonrefundable credit equal to 50% of your federal Child and Dependent Care Credit. If you qualify for the federal credit, you’re generally eligible for the state credit. See Delaware Code §1114 (confirm details each tax year). (delcode.delaware.gov)
  • Federal CDCTC: Up to 20–35% of work‑related care expenses (subject to annual limits). File with your federal return; keep provider receipts and the provider’s EIN. (For how to calculate federal amounts, see IRS guidance; not a state site.)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • If you owe no state tax, Delaware’s credit won’t refund cash (it’s nonrefundable), but the federal credit might still reduce your federal tax due. Consider free tax prep via 211 during filing season. (delaware211.org)

If you’re a military/veteran single mom

  • Military Fee Assistance (Army/Navy/USMC/Air Force): If on‑base CDC care isn’t available, you may qualify for off‑base fee assistance administered by Child Care Aware of America. Call 1‑800‑424‑2246 (Mon–Fri). Start at the Military Fee Assistance hub to find your branch’s application process. (childcareaware.org)
  • Tip: Most branches require a profile at MilitaryChildCare.com and may need proof that on‑base care is unavailable. Ask a fee assistance specialist to confirm what your provider must do to qualify. (childcareaware.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

  • Use POC as a back‑up while your fee assistance application is pending (if you’re otherwise eligible). Check with your provider about accepting both programs and how overlaps are handled.

Application checklist (print or save)

  • Photo ID(s) and proof of Delaware address.
  • Child’s birth certificate and immunizations.
  • Last 30 days of household income (paystubs, employer letter, self‑employment records, benefit letters).
  • Proof of need for care: work schedule, job offer, class/training schedule, TANF/SNAP E&T participation, or medical/special‑needs form (DSS Form 611 or other professional documentation). (regulations.delaware.gov)
  • Provider choice: name and license number if known (you can choose after applying, but picking earlier speeds authorization). Search here: OCCL provider search. (education.delaware.gov)

Quick reference cheat sheet

Documents, rules, and numbers (deeper dive)

  • POC income and copay chart (valid 10/1/2024–9/30/2025) — official DSS page. It shows: initial at ~200% FPL, redetermination up to 215% FPL, case closure at 85% SMI, and the copay waiver/cap. (dhss.delaware.gov)
  • Copay policy (7% cap and protections during your eligibility period) — final regulation July 2024. (regulations.delaware.gov)
  • State press release (Mar 2024) — confirms waived copays for ≤150% FPL and the 7% cap. (news.delaware.gov)
  • POC provider rates (FY2025 rates effective July 1, 2024). (dhss.delaware.gov)
  • Market prices (2024 Market Rate Survey) — so you can understand typical private‑pay rates and price changes since 2021. (dhss.delaware.gov)
  • Provider search and complaint lines — OCCL pages. (education.delaware.gov)

Resources by region (phone numbers you can use)

New Castle County

Kent County

  • James W. Williams State Service Center (Dover): (302) 739‑3351 (DSS) — for in‑person application support. Check current hours before visiting. (help.workworldapp.com)
  • OCCL (Kent/Sussex): (302) 739‑5487 or (800) 822‑2236. (education.delaware.gov)

Sussex County

  • Georgetown (Thurman Adams) State Service Center: (302) 856‑5340 (DSS). Seaford (Shipley SSC): (302) 628‑2011 (DSS). Bridgeville SSC: (302) 337‑8261 (DSS). (help.workworldapp.com)
  • OCCL (Kent/Sussex): (302) 739‑5487 or (800) 822‑2236. (education.delaware.gov)

Tip: If you’re not sure which center is closest or open late, use the DHSS State Service Centers page (some sites offer extended Wednesday hours). (dhss.delaware.gov)

Local organizations many moms use (verify availability)

  • My Child DE (state’s consumer education & referral site): (800) 734‑2388 — provider search help, licensing questions, complaint guidance. (mychildde.org)
  • Delaware 211: 211 or 1‑800‑560‑3372 — fast referral for child care, legal aid, emergency rent, and more (multiple languages). (delaware211.org)
  • YMCA of Delaware “Open Doors” financial assistance — sliding‑fee help for Y child care, camps, and before/after‑school programs; allow up to 30 days processing. Some Y sites accept POC/ECAP. Start here and ask your local branch: YMCA Open Doors. (ymcade.org)
  • OCCL & DOE Early Learning pages — for finding licensed care, checking staff credential info, and understanding regulations. (education.delaware.gov)

What to ask any community program: Do you accept Purchase of Care? Do you coordinate with ECAP/Head Start? Are there extra fees beyond the POC rate and my copay?

Diverse communities: specific pathways

  • LGBTQ+ single mothers: You are protected under Delaware’s nondiscrimination laws in public accommodations and programs. If you experience bias in child care admissions or services, document it and contact OCCL to file a complaint; for broader help, Delaware 211 can connect you to legal aid. (education.delaware.gov, delaware211.org)
  • Single mothers with disabilities or raising children with disabilities: Call Early Intervention (Child Development Watch) to request an evaluation and services, which can pair with child care:
    • New Castle: 302‑283‑7240 or 1‑800‑671‑0050
    • Kent/Sussex: 302‑424‑7300 or 1‑800‑752‑9393 (dhss.delaware.gov)

    These services are NOT childcare, but they can help your child receive supports in the child care setting.

  • Veteran single mothers (or active duty/Guard/Reserve): Ask about Military Fee Assistance with Child Care Aware of America (1‑800‑424‑2246) in addition to POC. (childcareaware.org)
  • Immigrant/refugee single moms: You can still apply for POC if you live in Delaware and meet income/need criteria; eligibility is based on household circumstances. For language help and navigation, call Delaware 211 (multiple languages supported) or ask DSS for interpreter services. (delaware211.org)
  • Tribal citizens: If you or your child are American Indian/Alaska Native, check the Head Start/Early Head Start locator for any AIAN grantees you can access regionally; combine with POC for wraparound hours if needed. Start at Head Start Apply (national line 866‑763‑6481). (acf.hhs.gov)
  • Rural moms with limited providers: Use My Child DE (800‑734‑2388) to widen the search radius, ask about family child care homes, and confirm which providers accept POC. Also ask OCCL about transportation options some programs offer. (mychildde.org)
  • Single fathers and kin caregivers: All programs covered here are not gender‑restricted. Grandparents and other kin can also get help if the child lives with them. See DSS “Assistance for Relatives” resource if raising a relative’s child. (dhss.delaware.gov)
  • Language access: My Child DE and 211 offer multilingual support; ASSIST has translated materials; ask DSS for interpreter services for interviews. (mychildde.org, delaware211.org)

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Waiting to apply until you find a provider. Apply first; you can add the provider after authorization. This protects your start date. (regulations.delaware.gov)
  • Assuming you won’t qualify because you “make too much.” POC now opens up to about 200% FPL, and copays are waived up to 150% FPL. Redeterminations phase out through 215% FPL. Check the chart before ruling yourself out. (dhss.delaware.gov)
  • Forgetting to keep paystubs and class schedules. DSS needs the last 30 days of income and proof of need for care. Save PDFs/photos in your phone. (regulations.delaware.gov)
  • Not reading the provider’s tuition contract. Ask what, if anything, you may owe beyond the POC rate and copay (registration, transportation). Get it in writing.
  • Missing renewal mail or emails. Put your redetermination month in your calendar and check ASSIST messages weekly during renewal time. (assist.dhss.delaware.gov)

What to do if your application is denied or delayed

  • Ask for the reason in writing and the exact policy reference.
  • Fixable issues (missing verification) — submit ASAP, within the 30‑day window (or before 60 days to avoid reapplying). (regulations.delaware.gov)
  • If you believe the decision is wrong, request a fair hearing. Keep copies of everything you submit.
  • For immediate child care referrals while you wait, call (800) 734‑2388 (My Child DE) and 211. (mychildde.org, delaware211.org)

10 Delaware‑specific FAQs

  1. What are the current income limits?
    See Table A above. For example, family of 3: 4,304/month∗∗atapplication( 2004,304/month** at application (~200% FPL); copay waived ≤ **3,228/month (150% FPL); case closes if income exceeds $6,656/month (85% SMI) during authorization. (dhss.delaware.gov)
  2. How is my copay calculated?
    If your income is at or below 150% FPL, your copay is 0∗∗.From∗∗1500**. From **150%–215% FPL**, copay is **7%** of gross monthly income. Example: **3,600 × 7% = $252/month. (dhss.delaware.gov, regulations.delaware.gov)
  3. How fast will DSS decide?
    DSS interviews and begins processing within about 2 business days of your signed application. You have 30 days to submit required verifications (see “timelines”). (regulations.delaware.gov)
  4. Can I use a relative as a provider?
    Delaware allows license‑exempt relative care in certain cases; ask DSS/OCCL. Otherwise, choose a licensed center or family child care home. See OCCL “For Parents” and DSS Child Care pages. (education.delaware.gov, dhss.delaware.gov)
  5. How do I find a provider that takes POC?
    Use the OCCL search and the My Child DE helpline (800) 734‑2388 to filter for providers accepting POC and with openings. (education.delaware.gov, mychildde.org)
  6. Are there free preschool options besides POC?
    Yes — ECAP (state‑funded) and Head Start/Early Head Start (federal). Start with the ECAP partner list and the national Head Start line 866‑763‑6481. (education.delaware.gov, acf.hhs.gov)
  7. What if I’m between jobs?
    Apply and talk to DSS. You must have an approved “need” for care, but there are options when transitioning to a new job or training. Don’t wait—call DSS at 1‑866‑843‑7212 to review your situation. (dhss.delaware.gov)
  8. How do I check safety or complaints for a provider?
    Search the OCCL database; to file a complaint call (302) 892‑5800 (New Castle) or (302) 739‑5487 / (800) 822‑2236 (Kent/Sussex). For suspected abuse, call (800) 292‑9582 (24/7). (education.delaware.gov)
  9. What are typical private‑pay prices right now?
    At the 75th percentile: New Castle center infant care is about 75/day∗∗;Kent/Sussex∗∗75/day**; Kent/Sussex **62.38/day; center preschool ranges about 50–50–60.40/day. Use these to compare with POC rates. (dhss.delaware.gov)
  10. Can I get help with taxes for child care I still pay?
    Delaware offers a state Child & Dependent Care Credit equal to 50% of your federal credit (nonrefundable). See Delaware Code §1114 and ask a tax preparer. (delcode.delaware.gov)

Tables you can screenshot

Table E — Who to call (quick directory)

Need Who Phone/Link
Apply for POC DSS via ASSIST Online; help: 1‑866‑843‑7212 (assist.dhss.delaware.gov, dhss.delaware.gov)
Find licensed care OCCL provider search NC: 302‑892‑5800; K/S: 302‑739‑5487 / 800‑822‑2236 (education.delaware.gov)
Child care referral help My Child DE 800‑734‑2388 (mychildde.org)
Free preschool ECAP partner list (DOE) Site contacts on page (education.delaware.gov)
Head Start/Early Head Start Head Start apply 866‑763‑6481 (acf.hhs.gov)
General help/triage Delaware 211 211 or 800‑560‑3372; text ZIP to 898‑211 (delaware211.org)

Table F — Sample copays at different incomes (family of 3)

Monthly gross income Copay rule Estimated monthly copay
$3,100 (~140% FPL) Waived (≤150% FPL) $0
$3,400 (~154% FPL) 7% of gross $238
$4,100 (~186% FPL) 7% of gross $287
Note: Exact FPL varies by family size; use the state chart for your household. (dhss.delaware.gov)

Table G — POC base rates vs typical market (infant center care)

County POC center daily rate Market 75th percentile daily price
New Castle $65.00 $75.00
Kent/Sussex $65.00 $62.38
Use this to ask providers about tuition and whether they accept the POC rate without extras. (dhss.delaware.gov)

Reality checks, warnings, and time‑savers

  • Openings can be tight for infants and for non‑traditional hours (nights/weekends). Expand your search radius and include family child care homes. Use My Child DE to identify lesser‑known options. (mychildde.org)
  • Some providers charge registration or transportation fees that POC doesn’t cover. Ask for a written fee sheet before you enroll.
  • If a provider tells you they’ll charge tuition above the state rate for POC‑covered hours, push back politely and ask DSS whether that’s allowed in your case.
  • Save every document you upload and every notice DSS sends. When in doubt, call 1‑866‑843‑7212 and take notes.

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Delaware Department of Health and Social Services (DSS), Delaware Department of Education (OCCL and Early Learning), the U.S. Administration for Children & Families (Office of Head Start and Office of Child Care), and established statewide resources (Delaware 211, My Child DE, YMCA of Delaware for community scholarships). It follows our Editorial Standards for source verification, timely updates, and practical, step‑by‑step guidance. We are independent researchers and are not a government agency. We cannot guarantee individual outcomes.

  • Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026.
  • Found an error or broken link? Email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll investigate within 48 hours.

Key sources used:

Disclaimer

Program rules, income limits, copays, rates, and contacts can change. Always confirm details with DSS, DOE/OCCL, or your local program before you apply or enroll. Links here go to official state and federal websites where possible. This guide is informational and not legal or financial advice. (dhss.delaware.gov)

Why this guide is different (content gap notes)

Most top search results list basic eligibility or generic tips. Few include:

  • The current (Oct 2024–Sept 2025) POC chart with copay waivers and 7% cap, plus what 85% SMI looks like in dollars.
  • Side‑by‑side POC rates vs. actual market prices so you can predict out‑of‑pocket costs.
  • Working phone numbers for OCCL complaints, DSS, My Child DE, and State Service Centers, plus county‑specific contacts.
  • Realistic timelines (2‑day interview, 30/60‑day verification rules), common mistakes, and “Plan B” steps.

This guide includes all of those with direct links to official pages. (dhss.delaware.gov, education.delaware.gov)

If you need help right now with where to apply or who to call, scroll back up to the Quick Help Box.

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