Delaware TANF (Cash Assistance)
Last updated August 2026
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, TANF, is Delaware's monthly cash assistance for low-income families with children. Apply online through Delaware ASSIST at assist.dhss.delaware.gov, by paper form in English or Spanish, or in person at any State Service Center. Then you attend an interview with a Division of Social Services social worker. For help, call 302-255-9040.
The clock is the first thing to understand. Delaware limits most adults to a lifetime maximum of 36 months of TANF cash. That is shorter than the federal 60-month limit, so treat each month as scarce and use the time to get set up for work.
To qualify, you must be responsible for a minor child, or be in your ninth month of pregnancy, live in Delaware, and meet the income and resource limits. For a family of three, the maximum gross monthly income is $3,082. When the state figures your income, it takes off $90 for work-related expenses, up to $200 for child care, and does not count the first $50 of child support you receive.
TANF is built around work. Most adults must work toward a job or take part in approved work activities at least 30 hours a week, and must accept a job when one is offered.
Your part and the state's part are written down. Everyone signs a Contract of Mutual Responsibility: you commit to working toward employment, and the state provides cash support and resources to help you get there. Meeting the terms keeps your benefits in place.
Because the cash is time-limited, apply for the connected help too. A TANF family can also get SNAP food money and Medicaid coverage through the same ASSIST application, and 2-1-1 tracks local emergency funds for rent and utilities.
Phone 302-255-9040
Updated August 2026 Program details can change — confirm with the program directly.
Who qualifies
- You must be responsible for a minor child, or be in your ninth month of pregnancy, be a Delaware resident, and meet income and resource limits
- Most adults engage in work or approved work-related activities for at least 30 hours a week, and cash is generally limited to 36 months
You may qualify. The program makes the final decision.
How to apply
- 1
Apply online at Delaware ASSIST (assist.dhss.delaware.gov), by paper form, or in person at any State Service Center.
- 2
Attend your interview with a Division of Social Services social worker.
- 3
Show that you are responsible for a minor child, or are in your ninth month of pregnancy.
- 4
Sign your Contract of Mutual Responsibility and start your work activities of at least 30 hours a week.
- 5
Apply for SNAP and Medicaid at the same time through the same application.
What to have ready
- ID and Social Security numbers for the family
- Proof of income and Delaware residency
- Proof that you are responsible for a minor child, plus any child care and child support records. Your worker confirms the full list.
What the application looks like
Common questions
How long can I get Delaware TANF?
Most adults are limited to a lifetime maximum of 36 months of cash assistance, which is shorter than the federal 60-month limit.
What is the income limit?
For a family of three, the maximum gross monthly income is $3,082. The state also takes off $90 for work expenses, up to $200 for child care, and does not count the first $50 of child support.
Do I have to work?
Yes. Most adults must work toward a job or take part in approved work activities at least 30 hours a week, and must accept a job when it is offered. This is part of your Contract of Mutual Responsibility.
How do I apply?
Online through Delaware ASSIST at assist.dhss.delaware.gov, by paper form, or at any State Service Center, followed by an interview with a social worker.
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