SNAP and food help for older adults in Delaware

SNAP for older adults

SNAP is run by the Division of Social Services (DSS), part of Delaware Health and Social Services (DHSS). Benefits come on an EBT card.

Who qualifies

• Older or disabled people who buy and cook on their own. If you are 60 or older or disabled and you buy and make your food separately from others you live with, you can apply as your own household. The gross income limit for this is 165% of the federal poverty level.
• If you get SSI, you do not have to meet an income test.

What counts

SNAP counts your income from all sources, such as Social Security, pensions and wages. Under federal rules for households with someone 60 or older or disabled, medical costs you pay yourself can be deducted, which can raise your benefit. Keep receipts for premiums, copays and prescriptions.

How to apply for SNAP

1. Apply online through ASSIST at assist.dhss.delaware.gov, or at a DHSS State Service Center.
2. Interview. You must complete an eligibility interview. Bring proof of citizenship or eligible immigration status, proof you live in Delaware (such as a state ID, driver's license, utility bill or official mail), proof of income such as your Social Security letter or recent pay stubs, your lease or mortgage papers, and utility bills.
3. Decision. You get a decision letter within 30 days.
4. Your card. Benefits come on an EBT card. ConnectEBT customer service (lost cards, PINs, balances): 1-800-526-9099.
5. Questions: DHSS general information, 302-255-9040.

After you are approved

• Return renewal forms on time so your benefits do not stop.
• Report changes the way your approval letter tells you.
• If you are denied or your benefits are cut, your notice explains how to ask for a fair hearing and the deadline.

CSFP monthly food package

The Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) gives older adults a free monthly package of USDA foods.

• Who runs it: the Food Distribution section of Government Support Services, in Delaware's Office of Management and Budget. The Food Bank of Delaware hands out the packages at local sites.
• Who qualifies: people 60 and older who meet the program's income and other rules.
• What you get: a package of shelf-stable USDA foods each month.
• How to apply: contact the Food Bank of Delaware (www.fbd.org) to find a distribution site near you.

Seniors Farmers' Market Nutrition Program

The Delaware Department of Agriculture runs this program with USDA funding.

Who qualifies

• Delaware resident,
• 60 or older, and
• household income at or below 185% of the current income eligibility guidelines.

What you get

• A $50 gift card for fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs and honey at participating farmers' markets and on-farm markets across the state.
• Only items on the state's eligible products list can be bought.
• The program runs June through October. The card can be used through October 31.

How to sign up

1. Print and fill out the application from the Department of Agriculture's website. It includes a signed income statement.
2. Register in person at a participating senior center. The Department's website lists the centers.
3. Mailed applications are not accepted.
4. Cards are first come, first served while funds last. If funds run short, you go on a waiting list.
5. Can't get to a market? Fill out the proxy form so someone else can shop for you.

Questions: Delaware Department of Agriculture, [email protected].

Senior meals

Delaware uses federal Nutrition Services Incentive Program funds to support group meal sites and meals on wheels for people over 60. To find a meal site or home-delivered meals, call the Aging and Disability Resource Center at 1-800-223-9074, or dial 2-1-1.

Things people miss

• Apply as your own household. If you live with family but buy and cook your own food, the special rule for people 60+ can help you qualify.
• SSI helps with SNAP. If you get SSI, you skip the income test.
• Farmers' market cards are first come, first served. Register early in the season at your senior center.
• Ask about every program. Each one has its own sign-up, so apply for each one you may qualify for.

Free help

• Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC): 1-800-223-9074. TDD: (302) 424-7141. Run by the Division of Services for Aging and Adults with Physical Disabilities (DSAAPD).
• DHSS general information: 302-255-9040.

See all benefits in Delaware for health care, DPAP drug help and energy help.

Phone numbers: Free help lines for Delaware agencies

Check what you may qualify for