General Assistance is a state-funded program that provides cash assistance to low-income Delawareans who do not qualify for federally funded programs such as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or Social Security benefits. or Social Security benefits.
Who is Eligible for General Assistance?
You may qualify for General Assistance from the State if you meet one of the following criteria:
- You are age 18 to 54 and are too sick to work. You must have a form completed by a doctor.
- You must stay at home to care for a sick household member.
- You are age 55 or older with no other income.
- You are a high school student over 18 and are expected to graduate within two years.
There are also income and resource limits that apply to this program. A case manager with the Division of Social Services (DSS) will talk to you about your situation to see if you are eligible.
Income and Resource Limits
CASH ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS FFY 2026
(OCTOBER 1, 2025 – SEPTEMBER 30, 2026)
GENERAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM STANDARDS OF NEED AND PAYMENT STANDARDS
| Number of People in The Budget Group | Standard of Need | Payment Standard |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $79 | $79 |
| 2 | $107 | $107 |
| 3 | $144 | $144 |
| 4 | $169 | $169 |
| 5 | $209 | $209 |
| 6 | $239 | $239 |
| 7+ | $266 | $266 |
| Program Name | Amount |
|---|---|
| General Assistance | $1,000 |
| TANF | $10,000 |
| HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION BONUS | $350 |
Apply and Learn More about General Assistance
To speak with a DSS case manager about whether you are eligible for General Assistance, visit a Delaware State Service Center, call 302-255-9040, or email DHSS_DSSC@delaware.gov.
Apply online through the ASSIST self-service portal or complete a paper application:
