How to Apply for Delaware Medicaid
Updated August 2026
Delaware DMMA accepts applications online, by phone, and in person at DHSS offices. Delaware is a small state with a limited number of DHSS office locations — the online portal at assist.dhss.delaware.gov is often the most convenient option. Per DMMA, you can apply even if you have a car, bank account, and a home — Delaware does not use an asset test for standard Medicaid.
How to apply for Delaware Medicaid
- Online — ASSIST portal: Apply at assist.dhss.delaware.gov 24/7. The ASSIST portal covers Medicaid, CHIP, SNAP, TANF, and other DHSS programs in one application. Track your application status and upload required documents online.
- By phone — (866) 843-7212: Call (866) 843-7212 (Customer Relations) to apply by phone or get help with your application. For nursing home or community-based long-term care Medicaid, contact the Medicaid Central Intake Unit at (866) 940-8963. For MCO selection and benefits questions, call the Health Benefits Manager at (800) 996-9969. Provider enrollment: (800) 999-3371.
- In person — DHSS office: Visit a Delaware DHSS Division of Social Services office. Delaware has offices in New Castle, Kent, and Sussex counties. Bring all required documents. Find office locations at dhss.delaware.gov/dmma/home/contact/ or call (866) 843-7212.
- By email — MedicaidInfo@delaware.gov: Email MedicaidInfo@delaware.gov for non-urgent questions about the Medicaid program. For time-sensitive matters — application status, renewal deadlines — call (866) 843-7212 directly.
What you need to apply for Delaware Medicaid
Per DMMA, Delaware does not look at assets when determining Medicaid eligibility. Income, residency, and citizenship/immigration status are the primary factors. Prepare the following before applying.
- Full legal name and date of birth for all household members applying
- Social Security numbers for all applicants
- Proof of Delaware residency — utility bill, lease, or official mail with current address
- Income documentation — pay stubs from the past 30 days, self-employment records, or benefit award letter
- Immigration documents for non-citizen applicants
- Current health insurance information if anyone in the household has existing coverage
- For nursing facility or long-term care applications: physician documentation and financial disclosure
How long does a Delaware Medicaid application take?
Federal rules (42 CFR 435.912) require Delaware to process most applications within 45 days. Disability-related applications may take up to 90 days. Coverage begins on the first day of the month you applied, if approved.
Per DMMA, Delaware also offers retroactive eligibility — coverage can go back up to three months before the application date for qualifying members. Ask about retro-eligibility when you apply if you have outstanding medical bills from recent months.
Delaware Medicaid
Visit the official Delaware Medicaid websiteRelated guides
How to Apply
A step-by-step walkthrough of the application process and what you'll need.
Read more →Eligibility Requirements
The income, household, age, and state rules that determine who qualifies.
Read more →Approval Time
Federal processing deadlines and what affects your approval timeline.
Read more →