Delaware EBT Card Basics: What to Know Before You Use Your Benefits

If you live in Delaware and qualify for food assistance or cash assistance, you’ll typically receive those benefits on a Delaware EBT card. This card works like a debit card at approved stores and ATMs, but it can only be used for certain things.

This guide explains how Delaware EBT works, who usually qualifies, how to apply through official state channels, and how to avoid common problems. HowToGetAssistance.org is an independent information site, not a government office or application portal, so you’ll still need to use Delaware’s official systems to apply and manage your benefits.

What Is a Delaware EBT Card?

An Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card in Delaware is a plastic card that:

• Is issued after you’re approved for programs like SNAP (food stamps) or certain cash assistance programs
• Is loaded each month with your approved benefit amount
• Is used at the checkout like a debit card with a PIN

In Delaware, the EBT card is often called the Delaware Food First Card when used for SNAP, but the same card can carry both food benefits (SNAP) and cash benefits (if you qualify for a cash assistance program).

Important:

• You cannot use an EBT card like a normal credit/debit card for any purchase you want.
• There are strict rules on what you can and cannot buy with SNAP food benefits and cash benefits.

Programs Commonly Linked to a Delaware EBT Card

In Delaware, an EBT card is typically used for:

SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)

• Helps eligible households buy food at grocery stores, some farmers’ markets, and approved retailers.
• Benefits are loaded monthly onto the EBT card.

Cash Assistance Programs

Some families and individuals may also receive cash assistance on the same EBT card. In Delaware, this may include:

• TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) – cash aid for eligible low-income families with children
• GA (General Assistance) – limited cash aid in certain situations (for example, some individuals without children who cannot work; availability and rules can be strict and may change)

Cash benefits can usually be withdrawn at ATMs or used for purchases at stores that accept EBT cash.

Who Typically Qualifies for a Delaware EBT Card?

You don’t apply for an “EBT card” by itself. Instead, you apply for programs like SNAP or TANF through Delaware’s Division of Social Services (DSS). If approved, you usually receive an EBT card automatically.

Each program has its own rules, but common factors include:

General Factors for SNAP in Delaware

People often qualify for SNAP if they:

• Live in Delaware
• Have low income based on household size and federal guidelines
• Meet resource/asset limits (these rules can vary for seniors or people with disabilities)
• Are U.S. citizens or have an eligible immigration status
• Cooperate with work requirements if they are an able-bodied adult without dependents (ABAWD), subject to federal and state rules

General Factors for Cash Assistance (TANF/GA)

Cash programs are often more limited. People may qualify if they:

• Have very low income and few assets
• Are responsible for a child in the home (for TANF)
• Meet certain work participation or employment plan requirements (for TANF)
• Can show a qualifying hardship or disability, depending on the program rules (for GA, where available)

Because rules change and can be detailed, it’s usually best to:

• Contact your local Delaware Division of Social Services office, or
• Call the official state benefits hotline for the most current eligibility information.

What You Need to Apply for Delaware SNAP or Cash Assistance

When you apply through Delaware’s official benefits system, you will typically be asked for documents that show:

Identity:

• Photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, or other government-issued ID)
• Social Security numbers for household members applying, if available

Residency:

• Lease, rent receipt, or mortgage statement
• Recent utility bill (electric, gas, water) with your name and address
• Other mail that clearly shows you live in Delaware

Income:

• Pay stubs (usually the last 30 days or more)
• Employment verification if you just started or changed jobs
• Benefit award letters (Social Security, unemployment, pension, etc.)
• Self-employment records, if applicable

Expenses (often used to determine benefit amount):

• Rent or mortgage amount
• Utility bills
• Child care costs (if you pay so you can work or go to training/school)
• Child support payments you legally owe and pay

Immigration and household details (if applicable):

• Immigration documents for non-citizen applicants
• Birth certificates or Social Security cards may be requested for children

Not everyone is asked for every document, but having as much as possible ready usually makes the process smoother.

How to Apply for a Delaware EBT Card (Through Official Channels)

You cannot apply for an EBT card directly through HowToGetAssistance.org. To receive a Delaware EBT card, you must apply for SNAP or cash assistance through official state offices or portals.

In Delaware, people typically apply in one of these ways:

1. Online Application

Many applicants use Delaware’s official benefits portal to:

• Create an account
• Complete and submit an application for SNAP, TANF, or other supports
• Upload documents, if the system allows
• Check messages from the agency

To find the correct site, search for the official Delaware benefits portal or visit the Delaware Division of Social Services website and look for “Apply for Benefits” or “SNAP/TANF application.”

2. In-Person at a Local DSS Office

You can:

• Visit your local Delaware Division of Social Services (DSS) office
• Pick up a paper application
• Ask staff how to fill it out
• Turn in documents in person

Office locations can be found by searching online for “Delaware Division of Social Services offices” or by calling the state benefits hotline.

3. By Mail or Fax

Some people prefer to:

• Download and print the application form from the official DSS website, or pick it up at an office
• Complete it at home
• Mail or fax it to the address or number listed on the form

Always use the address or fax number printed on the official application to ensure it goes to the correct office.

What Happens After You Apply

After you submit an application through one of Delaware’s official channels, this is what typically happens:

1. Application received:
   The agency logs your application and may send you a receipt or notice.

2. Interview scheduled:
   For SNAP and many cash programs, you usually must complete an eligibility interview:

   • Often done by phone
   • Sometimes offered in person at a local office
   • You’ll be told what date/time and how to complete it

3. Document review:
   A caseworker reviews your income, expenses, household size, and other information.
   If something is missing, you may get a request for more documents with a deadline.

4. Decision (approval or denial):
   The agency sends an official notice telling you:

   • Whether you were approved or denied
   • Your monthly benefit amount, if approved
   • The start date for benefits
   • How long your certification period lasts (how long you’re approved before renewal)

5. EBT card mailed to you:
   If approved and you don’t already have an active card:

   • A Delaware EBT card is mailed to your address on file
   • A separate mailer usually includes instructions and sometimes your PIN setup steps

Processing times can vary. If you have little or no income and urgent food needs, you may ask the agency about expedited SNAP (faster processing) when you apply. Eligibility for expedited processing is limited and based on specific rules.

Activating and Using Your Delaware EBT Card

When you receive your card:

1. Activate Your Card

Instructions usually include:

• A toll-free customer service number on the back of the card
• A series of prompts to:
  • Enter the card number
  • Verify identity (often date of birth or other details)
  • Set or change your PIN

Keep your PIN private. Do not share it with friends, store staff, or anyone offering “help” in exchange for benefits.

2. Check Your Balance

You can usually check your SNAP or cash balance by:

• Calling the EBT customer service number on the back of your card
• Using the official EBT balance website or mobile app, if the state provides one
• Looking at your last store or ATM receipt

Avoid third-party apps or websites that ask for your full card number and PIN unless they are clearly identified as official by your state.

3. Where You Can Use Your Delaware EBT Card

For SNAP (food benefits):

• Grocery stores and supermarkets that display signs like “SNAP/EBT Accepted”
• Many big-box retailers with grocery sections
• Some farmers’ markets and local food co-ops (availability varies)
• Certain authorized online grocery retailers, depending on state participation

For cash benefits (if you receive them):

• At most places that accept EBT cash
• ATMs that accept your card network (fees and limits may apply)
• Some retailers via “cash back” at checkout (if allowed)

What You Can and Cannot Buy with Delaware EBT

The rules differ between SNAP food benefits and cash benefits.

SNAP Food Benefits – Allowed vs. Not Allowed

You can usually buy with SNAP:

• Fruits and vegetables
• Meat, poultry, and fish
• Bread, cereal, rice, pasta
• Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt)
• Snack foods and non-alcoholic drinks
• Seeds and plants that produce food for the household

You cannot buy with SNAP:

• Alcohol (beer, wine, liquor)
• Tobacco products (cigarettes, vaping products, etc.)
• Vitamins, medicines, or supplements (items with a Supplement Facts label)
• Hot foods ready to eat (like hot deli items, unless part of a special approved program)
• Non-food items:
  • Cleaning supplies
  • Paper products
  • Pet food
  • Toiletries, cosmetics

If a cashier tries to ring up items that SNAP doesn’t cover, those items will usually decline on the EBT portion, and you may be asked for another form of payment.

Cash Benefits – Allowed vs. Restricted Uses

Cash benefits from TANF or GA are more flexible, but there are still important limitations:

• You can generally use cash benefits for basic needs like rent, utilities, clothing, and transportation.
• Some states have restrictions on using cash EBT in:
  • Casinos, gambling facilities
  • Adult entertainment businesses
  • Certain liquor stores

Misusing cash benefits or buying restricted items in prohibited locations can lead to penalties or loss of benefits, depending on state law.

If you are unsure what is allowed, ask your caseworker or call the EBT customer service number on the back of your card.

Key Differences: SNAP vs. Cash on a Delaware EBT Card

Here is a simple comparison to keep things clear:

When Benefits Are Loaded on Your Delaware EBT Card

In Delaware, your benefit issuance date is usually based on:

• Your case number or
• Another scheduling system used by the state

You will be told:

• The day of the month your benefits will be loaded
• Whether SNAP and cash benefits are loaded on the same or different days

You can confirm your next deposit date by:

• Reading your approval or recertification notice
• Calling the EBT customer service number
• Asking your caseworker or local DSS office

Common Reasons for Delays or Denials

People are sometimes delayed or denied for SNAP or cash assistance in Delaware for reasons like:

• Incomplete application: Missing pages, signatures, or key information
• Missing documents: Proof of income, identity, or residency not turned in by the deadline
• Unable to complete interview: Not answering or returning calls, or missing scheduled appointments
• Income too high: Household income above the program limit
• Not meeting work requirements: For some adults, especially in TANF or certain SNAP categories
• Unclear household information: Not clearly listing who lives and eats together or who pays which bills

If you get a denial notice, read it carefully. It will usually state:

• The specific reason you were denied
• How to appeal or request a fair hearing
• Deadlines for appealing

How Reviews, Recertifications, and Appeals Work

Recertification / Reviews

SNAP and cash assistance are not permanent. You must recertify:

• At the end of your certification period (often every 6–12 months, depending on your situation and program)
• By submitting a renewal form through the official portal, by mail, or in person
• By providing updated documents and sometimes completing another interview

If you miss your recertification deadline, your benefits may stop, and you may have to reapply.

Appeals / Fair Hearings

If you disagree with a decision (denial, lower benefit amount, or termination), you can usually:

1. Follow the appeal instructions in your notice.
2. File an appeal or fair hearing request by the deadline listed.
3. Present your information or evidence during the hearing.

Appeal processes follow state and federal rules, so be sure to read all directions from the Delaware Division of Social Services carefully.

Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Delaware EBT Card

If your card is lost, stolen, or damaged:

1. Call the EBT customer service number immediately.

   • This number is printed on the back of your card and listed in official materials from the state.
   • Ask them to cancel the card to prevent unauthorized use.

2. Request a replacement card.

   • A new card is typically mailed to your address on file.
   • Check whether there are any replacement limits or fees.

3. Update your PIN.

   • If you suspect someone knows your PIN, request a PIN change when you call.

Benefits that were already spent cannot usually be replaced, even if someone else used them, so report problems as soon as you notice them.

How to Tell You’re Using an Official Delaware Channel (And Avoid Scams)

Because EBT benefits have cash value, scams do exist. To protect yourself:

Signs You’re on an Official Channel

• You accessed the website by:
  • Going from the Delaware Division of Social Services website or
  • Typing the address that appears on official state letters or forms
• Phone numbers match:
  • Those printed on your EBT card
  • Those listed on official state correspondence
• Local addresses match:
  • Locations labeled as Division of Social Services offices or other official agencies

Red Flags and Scams to Avoid

Be cautious if:

• A website or person asks for your full EBT card number and PIN outside of the official EBT line or portal
• Someone offers to “buy your EBT benefits” or trade them for cash
• You see social media posts claiming to “increase your benefits” for a fee
• You receive text messages or emails asking you to click unknown links and enter your card details

If in doubt:

• Call the EBT customer service number on the back of your card
• Contact your local DSS office or the state benefits hotline and ask if a message or website is legitimate

If You Don’t Qualify or Need Additional Help

If you’re not approved for Delaware SNAP or cash assistance, or your benefits don’t fully cover your needs, you may still have options:

• Food pantries and food banks:
  Call 211 to ask about local food resources, pantries, and meal programs.

• Community and faith-based organizations:
  Some provide emergency food boxes, rent help, utility assistance, or referrals.

• School-based programs:
  If you have children, ask about free or reduced-price school meals, weekend food backpack programs, and summer meal options.

• Utility company programs:
  Many utility providers offer payment plans or assistance programs for low-income households.

These resources may have their own eligibility rules, so it’s important to contact each organization directly for current details.

Understanding how the Delaware EBT card works—what it is, how to apply through official channels, and how to use it safely—can make it easier to access and manage the help you qualify for. For specific questions about your case, application, or benefits, reach out directly to the Delaware Division of Social Services, your local DSS office, or the EBT customer service number listed on the back of your card.