Open a Purple account in minutes. Banking built for people with disabilities.
Delaware • Chronic Illness
If you have cancer in Delaware, you may qualify for disability benefits, Medicaid, and other support programs. This guide explains eligibility, how to apply, and where to get help.
To qualify for federal disability benefits with cancer, you generally need to have worked enough to earn 40 Social Security credits, with 20 earned in the last 10 years before your disability began. Your cancer must be severe enough to prevent you from working and is expected to last at least one year or result in death. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a medical guide called the Blue Book to determine if your cancer meets the criteria. If your cancer is listed and meets the requirements, you may qualify for SSDI or SSI benefits. If not, you may still qualify if your condition is severe enough to prevent you from working.
For more details, see the SSA's disability eligibility page.
[Source: SSA.gov, 2023-10-15]
Delaware does not have a state-run short-term disability insurance program like California. However, Delaware residents may qualify for federal disability benefits (SSDI/SSI) and Delaware Medicaid. To qualify for Medicaid, you must meet income and asset limits and have a qualifying disability, such as cancer. Delaware also offers Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities, which can provide additional services like home care or respite care. If you are working, you may also qualify for federal benefits if you meet the work and medical requirements. Delaware does not require state disability insurance deductions from paychecks, so eligibility is based on federal programs and Medicaid.
For more information, see the Delaware Division of Social Services and the SSA.
[Source: Delaware DSS, 2023-10-15; SSA.gov, 2023-10-15]
For more details, see the SSA and Delaware DSS websites.
[Source: SSA.gov, 2023-10-15; Delaware DSS, 2023-10-15]
For more information, see the SSA and Medicaid websites.
[Source: SSA.gov, 2023-10-15; Medicaid.gov, 2023-10-15]
Delaware does not have a state-run short-term disability insurance program. However, Delaware offers several programs for people with cancer and other disabilities:
For more information, see the Delaware Division of Social Services and the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation websites.
[Source: Delaware DSS, 2023-10-15; Delaware DVR, 2023-10-15]
Delaware offers ABLE accounts for people with disabilities, including cancer. An ABLE account lets you save money without losing eligibility for Medicaid or SSI. You can use the funds for qualified disability expenses, such as medical care, housing, and education. To open an ABLE account, visit the Delaware ABLE website or call 1-800-822-2253.
[Source: Delaware ABLE, 2023-10-15]
For SSI, the federal income limit is $914 per month for an individual and $1,371 for a couple in 2023. For Medicaid, the income limit varies by program and household size. In general, you must have income below 138% of the federal poverty level to qualify for Medicaid in Delaware. For more details, see the SSA and Delaware DSS websites.
[Source: SSA.gov, 2023-10-15; Delaware DSS, 2023-10-15]
If you receive disability benefits, you must report any changes in your income, resources, or medical condition to avoid overpayments. Overpayments can result in fines or loss of benefits. For more information, see the SSA's guide on reporting changes and avoiding overpayments.
[Source: SSA.gov, 2023-10-15]
Call 211 for free help with applications, food, housing, and other resources. You can also contact Delaware's Division of Vocational Rehabilitation for work support.
Yes, if your cancer is severe enough to prevent you from working for at least a year or is expected to result in death, you may qualify for federal disability benefits (SSDI/SSI) or Delaware Medicaid. You must provide medical documentation and meet income and work requirements.
You can apply for federal disability benefits online at SSA.gov or by phone. For Medicaid, apply through Delaware's online portal or by phone. You will need medical records and proof of income for both applications.
You need medical records from your doctor that confirm your cancer diagnosis and how it affects your ability to work. This may include treatment plans, test results, and doctor's notes.
You may be able to work part-time or try to return to work while getting disability benefits. The SSA has work incentives that let you keep some benefits while you work. Talk to your caseworker for details.
For SSI, the federal income limit is $914 per month for an individual and $1,371 for a couple in 2023. For Medicaid, the limit varies by program and household size. Check with the SSA or Delaware DSS for current limits.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalized guidance.
A Medicaid waiver provides additional services like home care, respite care, and transportation for people with disabilities. If you have cancer and qualify for Medicaid, you may be eligible for a waiver to get extra support.
Yes, you can get help with food and housing through programs like SNAP, TANF, and local charities. Call 211 for information on local resources and support.
An ABLE account lets you save money without losing eligibility for Medicaid or SSI. You can use the funds for qualified disability expenses, such as medical care, housing, and education. Delaware offers ABLE accounts for people with disabilities.
It can take 3 to 6 months to get a decision on your disability application. If your cancer is severe, you may qualify for expedited processing. Keep copies of all applications and follow up regularly.
If your application is denied, you can appeal the decision. You have 60 days to file an appeal. Talk to a disability advocate or lawyer for help with the appeals process.
