Credit Repair & Financial Recovery for Single Mothers in Delaware

Last updated: September 2025

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Quick Help Box

• If you’re facing a shutoff, eviction, or no heat: Call Delaware 211 at 211 or 1-800-560-3372 for 24/7 referrals, and contact Catholic Charities LIHEAP in your county: New Castle: 302-654-9295, Kent: 302-674-1782, Sussex: 302-856-6310. See official LIHEAP details at the Delaware Energy Assistance Program page. (dhss.delaware.gov)
• Apply right now for food, cash, child care, and energy help: Use the state’s one-stop portal Delaware ASSIST online application. Phone help: 1-866-843-7212. (assist.dhss.delaware.gov)
• Stop debt collector harassment and fix report errors: Pull your free weekly credit reports at AnnualCreditReport.com (FTC guidance) and dispute errors (investigation usually within 30–45 days) using the CFPB’s step‑by‑step guide. (consumer.ftc.gov, consumerfinance.gov)
• Need quick, judgment‑free money coaching in Delaware: Get a free Stand By Me coach via Delaware 211 (211 / 1-800-560-3372) or request online; coaches can help you budget, reduce debt, build credit, and prepare to buy a home. See Stand By Me program page. (delaware211.org)
• If income just dropped or job ended: File Unemployment Insurance online at the Delaware UI portal and keep filing weekly claims; typical weekly benefit range is $20–$450 while your claim is decided (separation decisions can take 4–6 weeks). UI hotline: 302-761-8446. (labor.delaware.gov, uics.delawareworks.com)

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Emergency Actions That Protect Your Kids and Your Credit

Do this first, today:

• Call 211 and your utility immediately: Ask for a payment plan and to be screened for LIHEAP crisis help. LIHEAP crisis assistance is available year‑round if you have a shutoff notice or under 10% fuel. (dhss.delaware.gov)
• Apply through Delaware ASSIST: One application screens you for SNAP, TANF cash, Child Care Assistance, LIHEAP, Medicaid, and more. Submitting now locks in your application date and can unlock expedited SNAP within 7 days if you qualify. (assist.dhss.delaware.gov, dhss.delaware.gov)
• Pull and save your credit reports: Use your free weekly reports and freeze your credit if you suspect identity theft. The FTC confirms weekly free reports are permanent. (consumer.ftc.gov)
• If you have an eviction court date: Call DSHA at 302-739-4263 to ask about any remaining Housing Stability resources and see legal aid options at the Delaware Legal Help Link. Note: DSHA’s Housing Stability Program closed to new applications on May 7, 2025 after assisting over 1,400 households (up to $1,800/month for three months). (destatehousing.com)

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What Delaware’s Top Results Often Miss

Gaps we fix here:

• Exact, current dollar amounts and income limits for SNAP, TANF, Child Care, UI, WIC CVB, and minimum wage in Delaware for 2025. (dhss.delaware.gov, dhss.delaware.gov, labor.delaware.gov)
• Direct application links and phone numbers for every program so you don’t waste time clicking around. (assist.dhss.delaware.gov, dhss.delaware.gov)
• Your legal rights on debt, wage garnishment (15% cap), and Delaware’s 3‑year debt lawsuit limit—with citations to the Delaware Code and courts. (delcode.delaware.gov)
• Realistic timelines and “Plan B” options if approvals are delayed. (labor.delaware.gov)

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Building Your Delaware Recovery Plan

Step 1 — Stabilize Essentials With Benefits You Can Get Fast

Most important action: Apply at Delaware ASSIST right now for everything you qualify for. It takes one sitting and you can upload documents later. Apply for benefits. (assist.dhss.delaware.gov)

SNAP (Food Supplement Program)

• Eligibility basics: Most households qualify at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) gross income. Delaware lists FY 2025 maximums and benefit amounts. Applications can be expedited in certain cases within 7 days. Apply via ASSIST. (dhss.delaware.gov)
• FY 2025 maximum monthly SNAP benefit (48 states): 1 person $292\ast \ast ,2\ast \ast$536, 3 $768\ast \ast ,4\ast \ast$975, 5 $1,158\ast \ast ,6\ast \ast$1,390. USDA notes the 4‑person maximum is $975\ast \ast andminimumbenefitis\ast \ast$23. (fns.usda.gov)
• How to check your EBT balance: Use ConnectEBT app or your receipt; EBT customer service 1-800-526-9099. DSS guidance here: DSS Food Benefits page. (dhss.delaware.gov)
• Where to get help applying: Customer Relations: 1-866-843-7212 or visit a State Service Center near you (locations listed on DSS site). (dhss.delaware.gov)

Table: FY 2025 Delaware SNAP Quick Reference

Source: Delaware DSS FY 2025 SNAP chart; USDA FY 2025 COLA. (dhss.delaware.gov, fns.usda.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a DSS worker about expedited SNAP and submit any missing docs immediately; contact a Stand By Me coach for help with paperwork; call Delaware 211 for food pantry listings while your case is pending. (delaware211.org)

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TANF Cash Assistance (for families with children)

• Who qualifies: Delaware families with minor children (also late‑pregnancy and some 18‑year‑old students) who meet income/resource rules. Apply via ASSIST. (dhss.delaware.gov)
• Monthly payment standard (FFY 2025): Family of 1 $201\ast \ast ,2\ast \ast$270, 3 $338\ast \ast ,4\ast \ast$407, 5 $475\ast \ast ,6\ast \ast$544. Delaware publishes gross and net income standards. (dhss.delaware.gov)
• Work supports: Earned income disregards and child care deductions can help you keep more benefits as you work. (dhss.delaware.gov)

Table: TANF FFY 2025 Snapshot (selected sizes)

Source: Delaware TANF FFY 2025 chart. (dhss.delaware.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask DSS about the Emergency Assistance Program (EAP) for rent/utility emergencies if you receive or qualify for TANF/GA/SSI/Some Medicaid; also ask for a referral to a State Service Center worker for local emergency help. (dhss.delaware.gov)

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Child Care Assistance (Purchase of Care)

• Who qualifies and copays: For FY 2025, initial eligibility is ≤185% FPL; redetermination up to 200% FPL, with a 12‑month graduated phase‑out; copays are waived ≤150% FPL and capped at 7% of income (150%–215% FPL). Authorization closes if income exceeds 85% of State Median Income. Apply via ASSIST. (dhss.delaware.gov)

Table: Child Care Assistance Key Financial Rules (2024–2025)

Source: Delaware DSS Child Care (Purchase of Care) FY 2025 chart. (dhss.delaware.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask about temporary waivers, seek a provider that accepts POC, and request a Stand By Me coach to build a backup care plan if hours or income change. (delaware211.org)

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WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)

• Monthly fruit/vegetable CVB amounts (FY 2025): Child $26\ast \ast ,pregnant/postpartum\ast \ast$47, breastfeeding $52 (federal amounts). Delaware clinic locations and scheduling are on the DPH WIC page. Phone: 302-424-7220 (Kent/Sussex), 302-283-7540 (New Castle). (fns.usda.gov, dhss.delaware.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the clinic about mobile pickup options and farmers market benefits; combine with SNAP to stretch groceries. (dhss.delaware.gov)

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LIHEAP (Energy, Crisis, and Summer Cooling)

• Where to apply: Catholic Charities processes LIHEAP; apply online or via drop box. Heating season typically Sept–Mar; Crisis help is year‑round for shutoffs/low fuel; Summer Cooling offers a flat electric benefit and, when needed, a window A/C. County lines: NCC 302-654-9295, Kent 302-674-1782, Sussex 302-856-6310. (dhss.delaware.gov, ccwilm.org)
• Eligibility: Up to 60% of State Median Income; LIHEAP is a supplemental payment and funding is limited. (dhss.delaware.gov)

Table: LIHEAP – Where to Start (Delaware)

Sources: DSS LIHEAP page; Catholic Charities; First State CAA; DNREC Weatherization contacts. (dhss.delaware.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your utility for a long‑term payment plan; check the PSC page for bill‑help programs; and watch for new 2025 relief credits announced by the PSC and SEU. (depsc.delaware.gov)

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Step 2 — Protect Your Paycheck, Bank Account, and Credit

Your Rights With Debt Collectors and Credit Reports

• Dispute timeline: Credit bureaus generally have 30 days (up to 45 days after free annual report requests) to investigate disputes. They must send you results and a free updated report. Use CFPB’s dispute instructions and template. (consumerfinance.gov)
• Weekly free credit reports are permanent: Pull all three (Experian, Equifax, TransUnion) weekly at no cost. (consumer.ftc.gov)
• If the furnisher (bank, lender) is wrong: They must conduct a “reasonable investigation” and report results to you, generally within 30 days. (consumerfinance.gov)
• Bank errors on electronic transactions: Your bank must acknowledge your error notice within 5 business days and investigate; in many cases they must resolve within 10 business days (up to 45 with provisional credit). (consumerfinance.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: File a complaint with the Delaware DOJ Consumer Protection Unit and/or the CFPB; keep copies of letters and mail disputes by certified mail. (attorneygeneral.delaware.gov)

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Delaware Wage Garnishment and Lawsuits

• Wage garnishment cap for consumer debts: Delaware exempts 85% of wages from attachment, which means up to 15% of wages can be garnished in most consumer cases (child support and taxes have different rules). Justice of the Peace Court forms reflect a 15% attachment of the next paycheck. (delcode.delaware.gov)
• Statute of limitations for most debts: Delaware’s general limit to sue on many debts not under seal (including typical credit cards) is 3 years. Some promissory notes carry 6 years. Always get legal advice on your specific situation. (delcode.delaware.gov)
• If you’re sued: Don’t ignore court papers. Visit the Delaware Legal Help Link to screen for free legal help; the site explains steps for money & debt cases and has forms. (delegalhelplink.org)

Table: Delaware Debt Protections At‑a‑Glance

Sources: Delaware Code and JP Court guidance. (delcode.delaware.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask legal aid about exemptions, settlement talks, and bankruptcy options if judgments threaten your income. See court’s pro‑se bankruptcy info below. (deb.uscourts.gov)

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Step 3 — Earn, Budget, and Rebuild Credit (Realistic, Delaware‑Ready)

Income, Wages, and Unemployment

• Minimum wage: Delaware’s statewide minimum wage is $15.00/hour\ast \ast asof\ast \ast January1,2025\ast \ast .Tippedcashwageremains\ast \ast$2.23/hour (tip credit rules apply). Wage & Hour phone: 302-761-8200. (labor.delaware.gov)
• Unemployment Insurance benefits: Weekly benefits range $20–$450; keep filing weekly while eligibility is decided (separation determinations often take 4–6 weeks). File online and register with Delaware JobLink. Phone: 302-761-8446. (labor.delaware.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask UI about backdating if you had issues verifying ID; appeal within 10 days of a denial notice; keep filing weekly during appeals. (labor.delaware.gov)

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Free, Local Credit & Budget Coaching

• Stand By Me (free one‑on‑one coaching statewide): Call 211 or 1-800-560-3372 to be matched with a coach for budgeting, debt reduction, credit building, and homebuyer prep. Multiple partner sites (Food Bank of Delaware, West End Neighborhood House, Habitat for Humanity, etc.). (delaware211.org, standbymede.org)
• GreenPath Financial Wellness (national nonprofit): Free counseling and debt management plans; Delaware partners include Del‑One FCU. Phone: 877-337-3399. (greenpath.com, del-one.org)
• Clarifi (Delaware Valley, with Wilmington office): Financial and housing counseling, including Delaware services at West End Neighborhood House, 710 N. Lincoln St., Wilmington. (clarifi.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Check with the Delaware DOJ to confirm a debt management provider is licensed and to report scams. (attorneygeneral.delaware.gov)

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Banking that Won’t Overdraft You

• Open a low‑cost, no‑overdraft “Bank On” certified account: Many national and local banks/credit unions offer accounts that meet CFE Fund’s standards (no overdraft fees, low monthly cost). See certified accounts list and map. (joinbankon.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your coach to help pick a Bank On account available in Delaware or use a local credit union’s secured card or share‑secured loan to build credit. (joinbankon.org)

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Smart Credit‑Building Moves (That Actually Work)

• Use a secured card or credit‑builder loan: Many Delaware credit unions (e.g., Del‑One FCU, Dover FCU) offer secured cards or share‑secured loans to build history safely. Check their sites for current offers and requirements. (del-one.org, doverfcu.com)
• Keep balances low: Aim to report ≤30% of your limit, ≤10% for best scores. Pay before the statement cuts so usage reports low.
• Report rent/utility payments: Some services let you report positive payment history; ask your coach to evaluate reputable options.

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re repeatedly denied, pull your credit reports, clean errors, and use a secured card for 6 months before reapplying.

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Step 4 — Housing Stability and Homeownership Options

• Housing Choice Voucher/public housing waitlists: Delaware’s five PHAs reopened waitlists statewide on Feb 3, 2025 via Delaware.AffordableHousing.com. If closed again, create an account and set alerts for reopening. DSHA toll‑free: 1-888-363-8808. (destatehousing.com)
• DSHA homebuyer assistance: Programs like First State Home Loan (zero‑interest second loan, typically 3–4% of first mortgage amount) and other down payment options are active through participating lenders. Check DSHA updates and lender lists. (destatehousing.com)
• New/temporary DSHA initiatives: DSHA periodically launches programs (e.g., “Home Sweet Home,” “Diamond in the Rough” up to $35,000 FHA 203k‑limited renovations plus 5% second mortgage assistance). Availability varies; confirm current offers. (destatehousing.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Get HUD‑approved housing counseling (Clarifi, GreenPath) to improve credit and readiness and ask lenders about manual underwriting and rent history for first‑time buyers. (clarifi.org, greenpath.com)

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Real‑World Example: Two‑Month Delaware Reset Plan

• Week 1: Apply via ASSIST for SNAP/TANF/Child Care/LIHEAP; set up payment plan with utility; pull credit reports; call Stand By Me. (assist.dhss.delaware.gov, dhss.delaware.gov, consumer.ftc.gov, delaware211.org)
• Week 2: Dispute credit errors (certified mail); enroll in a Bank On account; set up autopay for essentials. (consumerfinance.gov, joinbankon.org)
• Weeks 3–4: If job loss, file UI and keep weekly certifications; meet coach to pick a secured card/credit‑builder loan; apply for WIC if eligible. (uics.delawareworks.com, del-one.org, fns.usda.gov)
• Weeks 5–8: If renting, monitor the DSHA waitlists; if buying, take homebuyer education and pull DSHA lender list; re‑check credit improvements. (destatehousing.com)

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Missing deadlines: UI appeals are usually 10 days; credit disputes need supporting documents; DSS may close applications if documents aren’t uploaded. (labor.delaware.gov)
• Paying for “credit repair” promises: Delaware licenses debt management services; avoid companies that guarantee score jumps or charge big upfront fees. Verify with Delaware DOJ Consumer Protection Unit. (attorneygeneral.delaware.gov)
• Letting one shutoff become a default: Call the utility early and ask for a plan plus LIHEAP crisis help; new 2025 relief options may exist through PSC/SEU. (dhss.delaware.gov, depsc.delaware.gov)
• Ignoring court papers: A default judgment can lead to wage attachment (up to 15%) and bank levies. Seek legal help fast. (delcode.delaware.gov)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

• Delaware ASSIST application: Apply online. Phone: 1-866-843-7212. (assist.dhss.delaware.gov)
• SNAP maximum (FY 2025): 1 $292\ast \ast ,2\ast \ast$536, 3 $768\ast \ast ,4\ast \ast$975. (fns.usda.gov)
• TANF payment standard (FFY 2025): 3 $338\ast \ast ,4\ast \ast$407, 5 $475\ast \ast ,6\ast \ast$544. (dhss.delaware.gov)
• Child Care Assistance rules (2024–2025): Eligibility ≤185% FPL; copays waived ≤150% FPL; 7% cap 150–215% FPL; close >85% SMI. (dhss.delaware.gov)
• WIC monthly CVB (FY 2025): Child $26\ast \ast ,pregnant/postpartum\ast \ast$47, breastfeeding $52. (fns.usda.gov)
• LIHEAP county lines: NCC 302-654-9295, Kent 302-674-1782, Sussex 302-856-6310. (dhss.delaware.gov)
• Minimum wage (2025): $15.00/hour\ast \ast ;tippedcashwage\ast \ast$2.23/hour. (labor.delaware.gov)
• UI weekly benefit range: $20–$450; separation decisions can take 4–6 weeks. (labor.delaware.gov)
• Wage garnishment cap: Up to 15% of wages attachable (85% exempt). Debt suit limit: 3 years for most debts. (delcode.delaware.gov)

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Application Checklist (Have These Ready)

• Identity: Photo ID, Social Security numbers for all applying household members.
• Income: 30 days of paystubs, self‑employment logs, UI letter, child support received.
• Expenses: Rent/lease, utility bills, child care receipts, medical costs (if elderly/disabled household members).
• Crisis proofs: Shutoff notice, eviction filing, fuel gauge/photo (for LIHEAP crisis).
• Banking: Routing and account number for direct deposit (TANF/UI) and to set up a Bank On account.

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How to Fix Credit Report Errors (Fast and Free)

• Step 1 — Pull all three reports: Use AnnualCreditReport.com. Save PDFs. (consumer.ftc.gov)
• Step 2 — Circle problems and gather proof: Statements, police reports (ID theft), paid‑in‑full letters.
• Step 3 — Dispute with the bureau(s) and the furnisher: Use the CFPB’s letter templates; mail by certified mail with copies of proof. (consumerfinance.gov)
• Step 4 — Track deadlines: Bureaus investigate in 30 days (up to 45 in some cases) and must notify you of results within 5 business days after finishing. (consumerfinance.gov)
• Step 5 — If ignored or denied wrongly: Re‑dispute with additional proof and submit complaints to the CFPB and Delaware DOJ Consumer Protection Unit. (attorneygeneral.delaware.gov)

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Diverse Communities

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask for a Stand By Me coach comfortable with LGBTQ+ family needs; for housing help and discrimination issues, contact Delaware Division of Human and Civil Rights via Delaware 211. Plan B: If you experience discrimination in lending or housing, request help through the Delaware Legal Help Link for fair‑housing legal aid. (delegalhelplink.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: LIHEAP, SNAP, and Child Care rules may adjust for medical expenses and special needs; request reasonable accommodations in all benefit interviews. Plan B: Call CLASI (Wilmington 302-575-0660, Dover 302-674-8500, Georgetown 302-856-0038) for disability rights help. (declasi.org)
• Veteran single mothers: Use UI, SNAP, and VA resources; ask Stand By Me for military‑friendly budgeting and debt options. Plan B: Contact CFPB student loan guidance if you have GI Bill/loans and repayment issues. (consumerfinance.gov)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: Many programs are available depending on status. For child support, DCSS can assist regardless of the other parent’s status. Plan B: Seek immigration‑informed legal help through CLASI or the Legal Help Link. (declasi.org, delegalhelplink.org)
• Tribal citizens: Delaware programs apply equally; if living on or off tribal lands out of state, check local LIHEAP tribal admins; ask Stand By Me for culturally sensitive coaching. (delaware211.org)
• Rural single moms (Kent/Sussex): Use 302-424-7220 for WIC scheduling; Catholic Charities Sussex line 302-856-6310 for LIHEAP; Stand By Me coaches serve by phone/video. Plan B: Call 800-372-2240 (First State CAA) for Summer Cooling inquiries. (dhss.delaware.gov, dhss.delaware.gov)
• Single fathers: These programs are gender‑neutral. Fathers can receive TANF/Child Care when eligible.
• Language access: Delaware agencies provide interpretation; 211 offers multi‑language support; ask for translated forms and interpreter services in all benefit appointments. (delaware211.org)

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Resources by Region (Key Doors to Knock On)

• New Castle County:
  • State Service Centers: Porter, Northeast, Hudson (some later hours). Phone: 302-255-9040 (general inquiries). Locations listed on DSS site. (dhss.delaware.gov)
  • Child Support office: 84A Christiana Rd., New Castle. Phone: 302-577-7171. (dhss.delaware.gov)
• Kent County:
  • James W. Williams State Service Center (Dover): Help with SNAP, TANF, Child Care, Emergency Assistance.
  • Child Support office: 905 S. Governors Ave., Dover. Phone: 302-739-8299. (dhss.delaware.gov)
• Sussex County:
  • Thurman Adams State Service Center (Georgetown) & Laurel SSC: Emergency Assistance, LIHEAP intake, and DSS. Laurel SSC main 302-875-8402. (dhss.delaware.gov)
  • Child Support office: 20105 Office Cir., Georgetown. Phone: 302-856-5386. (dhss.delaware.gov)

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Child Support Can Be a Key Part of Financial Recovery

• Apply or manage a case: Use the DCSS customer portal via my.delaware.gov or call: NCC 302-577-7171, Kent 302-739-8299, Sussex 302-856-5386. Automated line is 24/7. (dhss.delaware.gov)
• Annual fee: $35\ast \ast maybechargedafter\ast \ast$550 is collected in a federal fiscal year, not charged on current/former TANF cases. (dhss.delaware.gov)
• Enforcement: Income withholding, license/permit holds, and more; Family Court uses the Delaware Child Support Formula. (dhss.delaware.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call DCSS to request a modification hearing if income changed; ask DOJ’s Child Support Unit or legal aid for help understanding orders. (attorneygeneral.delaware.gov)

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When Debt Is Unmanageable: Delaware Bankruptcy Basics

• Court resources: The U.S. Bankruptcy Court, District of Delaware has a clear pro‑se section: required credit counseling within 180 days, forms, fees (Chapter 7: $338\ast \ast ,\ast \ast Chapter13:$313), and cautions about proceeding without an attorney. (deb.uscourts.gov)
• Get advice first: Use the Delaware Legal Help Link to screen for free legal aid or contact CLASI / DVLS / LSCD. (delegalhelplink.org, declasi.org, dvls.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the court clerk about low‑cost filing options like paying the fee in installments (note: clerks cannot give legal advice). (deb.uscourts.gov)

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Tables: Fast Comparisons You Can Screenshot

Table: Which Program Helps With What?

Sources: Agency pages linked throughout. (assist.dhss.delaware.gov, dhss.delaware.gov, joinbankon.org)

Table: Delaware Minimum Wage & UI Snapshot (2025)

Sources: Delaware DOL; UI FAQs. (labor.delaware.gov)

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10 Delaware‑Specific FAQs

• How fast can I get SNAP if there’s no food at home: Within 7 days if you qualify for expedited service; file through ASSIST and upload documents. (dhss.delaware.gov)
• What’s the SNAP maximum for a family of four in 2025: $975/month. (fns.usda.gov)
• How much is TANF for a mom with two kids: The 3‑person payment standard is $338/month (net income limits apply). (dhss.delaware.gov)
• Can my wages be garnished for credit cards: Yes, but Delaware generally exempts 85% of wages (so up to 15% can be taken). Child support/taxes follow different rules. (delcode.delaware.gov)
• How long can a collector sue me: Often 3 years from when the claim accrued for most debts not under seal (get legal advice for your case). (delcode.delaware.gov)
• How do I get child support started: Apply with DCSS online or in person; customer service 302-577-7171 (NCC) / 302-739-8299 (Kent) / 302-856-5386 (Sussex). (dhss.delaware.gov)
• Is there help with electric bills in summer: Yes—Summer Cooling provides a flat electric credit and sometimes a one‑room A/C unit if eligible. (dhss.delaware.gov)
• What if I lose my job: File UI immediately online and keep weekly certifications; expect 4–6 weeks for many determinations. (labor.delaware.gov)
• Are there safe bank accounts that won’t overdraft me: Yes—see Bank On certified accounts (no overdraft fees; low cost). (joinbankon.org)
• Who can help me make a debt payoff plan for free: Stand By Me coaches statewide (211) and national nonprofits like GreenPath (877‑337‑3399). (delaware211.org, greenpath.com)

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What To Do If You’re Stuck

• Call a coach: Stand By Me via 211 for a free plan to triage bills, organize documents, and prioritize applications. (delaware211.org)
• Escalate a complaint: Use the Delaware DOJ Consumer Protection Unit for scams or abusive practices; file with the CFPB for banking/credit report issues. (attorneygeneral.delaware.gov)
• Ask for reasonable accommodations: If disability affects your ability to meet deadlines or submit docs, request accommodations when you apply.

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

Methodology: We used only official Delaware and federal sources (Delaware DHSS/DSS/DOL/PSC/DSHA/DCSS, USDA FNS, CFPB/FTC, U.S. Bankruptcy Court) and established nonprofits (United Way/Delaware 211, Stand By Me, Catholic Charities). All program amounts and rules were verified as of August–September 2025.

• Editorial standards: See our Editorial Standards for our sourcing, verification, update cycle, and correction policy.
• Last verified: September 2025, next review April 2026.

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Disclaimer

Accuracy notice: We link to official sources and verify amounts at publication, but benefit levels, income limits, and program rules can change. Always confirm details with the relevant agency before acting.

Not legal advice: This guide is general information, not legal or financial advice. For case‑specific guidance, contact the relevant agency or a qualified attorney.

Security reminder: To keep your identity safe, use only official state/federal websites, use secure Wi‑Fi when applying, and avoid sharing sensitive info over text or social media.

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Citations and Official Sources

• Delaware ASSIST portal and DSS program pages: Application hub and program details. (assist.dhss.delaware.gov, dhss.delaware.gov)
• SNAP FY 2025 amounts and Delaware chart: USDA COLA and DSS table. (fns.usda.gov, dhss.delaware.gov)
• TANF FFY 2025 standards: Payment/limits chart. (dhss.delaware.gov)
• Child Care (Purchase of Care) FY 2025 rules: Income thresholds, copay caps, SMI rule. (dhss.delaware.gov)
• WIC FY 2025 CVB amounts: USDA policy memo; Delaware clinic contacts. (fns.usda.gov, dhss.delaware.gov)
• LIHEAP program contacts and crisis: DSS LIHEAP page; Catholic Charities. (dhss.delaware.gov, ccwilm.org)
• UI weekly benefit range and timelines: Delaware UI FAQs/Claimant Services. (labor.delaware.gov)
• Minimum wage (2025): Delaware DOL Wage & Hour. (labor.delaware.gov)
• Debt rights and timelines: Wage exemption and JP Court garnishment notices; debt statutes. (delcode.delaware.gov)
• Child support: DCSS contact and annual fee policy. (dhss.delaware.gov, dhss.delaware.gov)
• Stand By Me and 211: Coaching program details and contacts. (delaware211.org)
• Bank On certified accounts: National standards and account list. (joinbankon.org)
• Bankruptcy court pro‑se info and fees: U.S. Bankruptcy Court (District of Delaware). (deb.uscourts.gov)

If you find an error or a broken link, email info@asinglemother.org and we’ll verify and update quickly.

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🏛️More Delaware Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Delaware

• 📋 Assistance Programs
• 💰 Benefits and Grants
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Child Support
• 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
• ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
• 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
• 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
• 🎓 Education Grants
• 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
• 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
• 🔧 Job Training
• ⚖️ Legal Help
• 🧠 Mental Health Resources
• 🚗 Transportation Assistance
• 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
• ⚡ Utility Assistance
• 🥛 WIC Benefits
• 🏦 TANF Assistance
• 🏠 Housing Assistance
• 👶 Childcare Assistance
• 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
• 🚨 Emergency Assistance
• 🤝 Community Support
• 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
• 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
• 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
• 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
• 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
• 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
• 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
• 👩‍💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
• 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
• 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
• 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support