Delaware is a Medicaid expansion state, meaning most adults ages 19 to 64 who earn up to 138% of the federal poverty level (FPL) qualify for coverage. For a single adult in 2026, that works out to $1,835 per month or about $22,020 per year. If you are unsure whether you qualify, you can run a free eligibility check at our screener or read through the income tables below.
Delaware's Medicaid program is administered by the Division of Medicaid and Medical Assistance (DMMA) under the Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS). The program covers doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, mental health services, long-term care, and more. Eligibility depends on income, household size, age, and disability status.
2026 Federal Poverty Level Baseline
The 2026 federal poverty guidelines (published by HHS in January 2026) set the foundation for Medicaid eligibility calculations. Here are the key FPL benchmarks used in Delaware:
| Household Size | 100% FPL (Monthly) | 138% FPL (Monthly) | 217% FPL (Monthly) |
|---|
| 1 | $1,330 | $1,835 | $2,886 |
| 2 | $1,803 | $2,488 | $3,912 |
| 3 | $2,277 | $3,142 | $4,941 |
| 4 | $2,750 | $3,795 | $5,967 |
| Each additional | +$474 | +$652 | +$1,026 |
Income Limits by Program Category
Delaware Medicaid uses MAGI-based (Modified Adjusted Gross Income) rules for most applicants under age 65. There is no asset test for standard Medicaid categories, meaning savings accounts and property do not affect eligibility for working-age adults and children.
Adults Ages 19 to 64 (Medicaid Expansion)
Delaware expanded Medicaid in 2014. Non-elderly, non-disabled adults qualify based on income alone up to 138% FPL.
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit | Annual Income Limit |
|---|
| 1 | $1,835 | $22,020 |
| 2 | $2,488 | $29,856 |
| 3 | $3,142 | $37,704 |
| 4 | $3,795 | $45,540 |
| 5 | $4,447 | $53,364 |
| Each additional | +$652 | +$7,824 |
Children Ages 6 to 18
Children ages 6 to 18 qualify under the same 138% FPL threshold as adults. Income is counted for the household, not the child individually.
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit | Annual Income Limit |
|---|
| 2 | $2,488 | $29,856 |
| 3 | $3,142 | $37,704 |
| 4 | $3,795 | $45,540 |
| 5 | $4,447 | $53,364 |
| 6 | $5,099 | $61,188 |
Children Ages 1 to 5
Younger children have a slightly higher income limit at 147% FPL, reflecting broader coverage goals for early childhood health.
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit | Annual Income Limit |
|---|
| 2 | $2,650 | $31,800 |
| 3 | $3,347 | $40,164 |
| 4 | $4,042 | $48,504 |
| 5 | $4,738 | $56,856 |
| 6 | $5,433 | $65,196 |
Infants Under 1 Year and Pregnant Women
Pregnant women and newborns qualify at 217% FPL. For a single pregnant woman, the household is counted as two (the mother and unborn child), raising the effective threshold significantly.
| Household Size | Monthly Income Limit | Annual Income Limit |
|---|
| 1 | $2,886 | $34,632 |
| 2 | $3,912 | $46,944 |
| 3 | $4,941 | $59,292 |
| 4 | $5,967 | $71,604 |
| 5 | $6,993 | $83,916 |
| Each additional | +$1,026 | +$12,312 |
CHIP (Delaware Healthy Children Program)
Children who earn too much for standard Medicaid may qualify for CHIP, which also uses the 217% FPL threshold. CHIP covers uninsured children whose household income falls between the standard Medicaid limit and the CHIP ceiling. Coverage includes dental, vision, and preventive care.
Seniors and Disabled Adults (ABD Medicaid)
Adults who are aged (65+), blind, or disabled and not yet enrolled in Medicare Advantage or long-term care Medicaid may qualify for regular Medicaid under the ABD (Aged, Blind, Disabled) category. The income limit for a single individual is approximately $994 per month (100% FPL). Asset tests apply to ABD cases.
Long-Term Care Medicaid (Nursing Home)
Seniors who need nursing home or institutional care qualify under a separate set of rules:
- Single applicant income limit: $2,485 per month (250% of the federal benefit rate)
- Asset limit: $2,000 for a single applicant
- Community spouse resource allowance: up to approximately $162,660
Long-term care applications require an in-person interview and medical documentation. Processing time is longer than standard Medicaid applications.
What Counts as Income?
Delaware uses MAGI rules for most non-elderly applicants. Income that counts includes:
- Wages and salaries
- Self-employment income
- Social Security income (including disability benefits)
- Unemployment compensation
- Alimony received
- Rental income
Income that does not count includes:
- Child support received
- Gifts and inheritances
- Veterans' benefits (in most cases)
- SNAP and other non-cash benefits
For seniors applying for ABD or long-term care Medicaid, different income counting rules apply and an eligibility worker can walk you through specifics.
Covered Benefits
Delaware Medicaid covers a wide range of services. All standard Medicaid enrollees receive:
- Doctor and specialist visits
- Emergency room and hospital stays
- Prescription drugs
- Preventive care and screenings
- Mental health and substance use treatment
- Lab tests and imaging
- Dental and vision for children
- Home health services
- Family planning services
Adults enrolled through Medicaid expansion also receive dental and vision coverage in many cases, depending on the managed care plan selected.
How to Apply for Delaware Medicaid in 2026
Delaware uses the ASSIST portal as its main application system. You can also apply by phone, mail, or in person.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Before you apply, review the income tables above or use our free screener to get an estimate across multiple programs at once. The ASSIST system also has a five-minute screening tool before the full application.
Step 2: Gather Your Documents
For most standard applications, you will need:
- Proof of identity (driver's license, passport, or state ID)
- Proof of Delaware residency (utility bill, lease agreement)
- Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, or employer letter)
- Social Security numbers for all household members applying
- Proof of citizenship or immigration status
Long-term care applications require additional medical records and asset documentation.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Online: Visit assist.dhss.delaware.gov and click "Apply for Benefits." The full application takes approximately 20 to 45 minutes. Documents can be uploaded electronically or mailed afterward.
By phone: Call 1-800-372-2022 to speak with a DMMA representative who can assist with the application process.
By mail or in person: Download and print the paper application from the DMMA website. Submit completed forms to your local Division of Social Services office.
Step 4: Wait for a Decision
Most Medicaid applications for expansion adults are processed within 45 days. Applications involving disability determinations may take up to 90 days. You will receive a written notice of approval or denial by mail.
Step 5: Choose a Managed Care Plan
Most Delaware Medicaid recipients receive coverage through one of the state's managed care organizations (MCOs). After approval, you will be asked to choose a plan or will be auto-assigned to one. You can switch plans during open enrollment periods.
Delaware Medicaid vs. CHIP: Which One Applies?
Many families are unsure whether their children qualify for Medicaid or CHIP. Both programs provide full coverage for children, but the income cutoffs differ.
| Category | Program | Income Limit |
|---|
| Adults 19-64 | Medicaid Expansion | 138% FPL |
| Children 6-18 | Medicaid | 138% FPL |
| Children 1-5 | Medicaid | 147% FPL |
| Infants under 1 | Medicaid | 217% FPL |
| Pregnant women | Medicaid | 217% FPL |
| Children (income too high for Medicaid) | CHIP / DHCP | 217% FPL |
If your child's household income is above the Medicaid limit but below the CHIP ceiling, they may still get low-cost or no-cost coverage through the Delaware Healthy Children Program.
Recent Policy Notes for 2026
The 2026 federal poverty guidelines were published in January 2026, slightly increasing dollar thresholds from 2025. Delaware adopted the updated FPL figures for all MAGI-based programs immediately after publication. Managed care contracts and covered benefit packages remain the same for 2026 as prior year unless Delaware DHSS announces changes mid-year.
If you are currently enrolled in Delaware Medicaid, you should receive a renewal notice annually. Missing a renewal can result in loss of coverage, so respond promptly to any correspondence from DMMA.
Other Programs You May Qualify For
If you do not qualify for Medicaid, other programs may still help:
- ACA Marketplace subsidies: Adults above 138% FPL who do not have employer coverage can apply for subsidized plans at Healthcare.gov. Delaware uses the federal exchange.
- SNAP (Food Supplement Program): Delaware's food assistance program covers households up to 130% FPL.
- LIHEAP (DEAP): Energy assistance for households up to 60% of state median income, available October through March.
- WIC: Nutritional support for pregnant women, infants, and children up to 185% FPL.
You can check eligibility for all of these at once using the free Benefits Navigator screener. See more Delaware-specific programs at the Delaware benefits page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the income limit for Delaware Medicaid for a single adult in 2026?
A single adult ages 19 to 64 qualifies for Delaware Medicaid at incomes up to $1,835 per month or $22,020 per year. This is 138% of the 2026 federal poverty level.
Does Delaware have Medicaid expansion?
Yes. Delaware expanded Medicaid in January 2014 under the Affordable Care Act. This means most adults ages 19 to 64 who meet the income limit qualify, regardless of whether they have children or a disability.
What is the income limit for a family of 4 in Delaware Medicaid?
A family of four qualifies for Delaware Medicaid expansion at incomes up to $3,795 per month or $45,540 per year (138% FPL).
Can I get Delaware Medicaid if I am pregnant?
Yes. Pregnant women qualify at 217% FPL. For a single pregnant woman (counted as a household of two), the income limit is approximately $3,912 per month. Coverage includes prenatal visits, delivery, and postpartum care for 60 days after birth.
Is there an asset limit for Delaware Medicaid?
Most working-age adults and children applying through Medicaid expansion have no asset test. Your savings, car, or home do not affect eligibility. Asset limits only apply to seniors and disabled individuals applying for ABD Medicaid or long-term care programs.
How do I apply for Delaware Medicaid online?
Apply through Delaware ASSIST at assist.dhss.delaware.gov. The online application takes 20 to 45 minutes. You can also call 1-800-372-2022 for phone assistance.
How long does it take to get approved for Delaware Medicaid?
Most expansion Medicaid applications are processed within 45 days. Disability-based applications can take up to 90 days. You will get a written decision by mail.
What if my income is above the Medicaid limit?
If you earn above 138% FPL, you may qualify for ACA Marketplace subsidies through Healthcare.gov. Subsidies are available for households between 100% and 400% FPL (and in some cases above 400% FPL depending on plan costs). Use the screener to check all available options.
Can children get coverage even if their income is too high for Medicaid?
Yes. The Delaware Healthy Children Program (CHIP) covers uninsured children in households earning up to 217% FPL. If your household earns above the standard Medicaid limit but below the CHIP ceiling, your children may still qualify for free or low-cost coverage.
Do I have to report income changes after enrolling?
Yes. Delaware Medicaid recipients are required to report significant changes in income, household size, or residency. These changes can affect your eligibility and must be reported within 10 days. You can report changes through the ASSIST portal or by calling 1-800-372-2022.
