Medicaid Eligibility in Delaware 2026: Income Limits, Requirements & How to Apply

Medicaid Expansion Status in Delaware

Delaware has fully expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, meaning adults earning up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level ($22,025/year for an individual) qualify for Medicaid coverage.

Who Qualifies for Medicaid in Delaware?

Medicaid in Delaware covers several distinct groups, each with different income and eligibility requirements. The major categories are: seniors (65+), people with disabilities, pregnant women, children, and low-income adults (if the state has expanded Medicaid).

Medicaid for Seniors (65+) in Delaware

Seniors in Delaware may qualify for Medicaid to cover nursing home care, home-based care, or to supplement Medicare coverage. The income limit for Regular Medicaid (Aged, Blind, and Disabled) in Delaware is $994/month for a single person. For nursing home care, the limit is $2,485/month.

Medicaid for People with Disabilities in Delaware

People with disabilities who receive SSDI or SSI may qualify for Medicaid in Delaware. SSI recipients automatically qualify for Medicaid in most states. SSDI recipients must wait 24 months for Medicare, during which Medicaid may provide coverage if income is below $994/month.

How to Apply for Medicaid in Delaware

You can apply for Medicaid in Delaware through the following channels:

• Online: Through Delaware’s state Medicaid portal or HealthCare.gov
• Phone: Call Delaware’s Medicaid office directly
• In person: Visit your local Department of Social Services or Medicaid office
• Mail: Download and mail a paper application

Medicaid and Medicare Dual Eligibility in Delaware

Individuals who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid are called “dual eligibles.” In Delaware, dual eligible individuals receive comprehensive coverage: Medicare covers most medical services, while Medicaid covers Medicare premiums, deductibles, copays, and additional services like long-term care. There are approximately 37,800 dual-eligible individuals in Delaware.

Medicaid Asset Limits in Delaware

In addition to income limits, Medicaid for long-term care in Delaware has asset limits. For a single applicant, the countable asset limit is typically $2,000. For a married couple where one spouse needs nursing home care, the community spouse may keep up to $157,920 in countable assets (the Community Spouse Resource Allowance, or CSRA, for 2026). The primary home, one vehicle, personal belongings, and certain other assets are typically exempt.