HomeChild CareDelawarePurchase of Care Program
How to Apply: Purchase of Care Program
Delaware · 6 StepsDelaware families with kids under 13 (or older with special needs) who need care to work, go to school, or train.
Take it one step at a time. We're here to help.
Quick facts
Step 1 of 6: See who can get help
- Kids under 13
- Older kids with special needs
- Live in Delaware
Step 2 of 6: Ask for help
Pick the way that works for you
Step 3 of 6: Do your interview
- Talk with a DSS worker
- Often the same day
Step 4 of 6: Send your papers
- Pay stubs or work letter
- Work or school schedule
- Child's birth certificate
- State ID or utility bill
Don't miss: Send your papers within 30 days. After 60 days you have to start over.Step 5 of 6: Pick care and start
- Licensed center, home, or relative
- Get approval and copay amount
Good to know: Answers usually come within 2 business days after your interview and papers are in.Good to know: Your copay is on a sliding scale based on your household income.Step 6 of 6: Keep your help going
- Renew every 12 months
- Care is paid from your start date
Good to know: You did it! DSS pays your provider from the day care starts.
A "how to" guide to help you navigate the application process for the Delaware Purchase of Care Program.
What is the Delaware Purchase of Care (Child Care Subsidy)?
The Purchase of Care (POC) program helps families pay for licensed child care so parents can work, go to school, train, or meet their child’s special needs. It covers children under 13 (or older with special needs) and charges a small fee based on income.
How do I apply for Purchase of Care?
You can apply in these ways:
Online: Through the Delaware ASSIST portal ➝ Apply for Benefits
In person: Visit your local Division of Social Services (DSS) office
By phone: Call DSS, ask to apply over the phone.
By mail, fax, or email: Send completed forms to DSS offices.
How long does it take to receive subsidy funds?
Once you finish the intake interview and send in required documents, DSS usually processes the application in 2 business days. Funds are approved retroactively to when care started, as long as it's in the same month. The whole process—from initial inquiry to decision—must wrap up within one month.
What do the application steps look like?
Ask for help: Call, visit DSS, or start online.
Informal check: A worker sees if you might be eligible and can do the formal process right away.
Do intake interview: Over the phone or in person, often same day.
Send documents: Show income, work/school schedule, and child care need.
Pick a provider: Select a licensed center, foster home, or approved relative.
Get approval: DSS sends a client agreement and tells you the copay and start date.
Start care & DSS pays provider: Payment begins from the care start date if all is submitted on time.
Re-certify 12 months later: Your case lasts one year before you need to renew.
What documentation is required?
Proof of income (only 1 is required):
Recent Pay stubs (4 weekly or 2 bi‑weekly)
Employer letter with pay info
Benefit award letter (e.g., Social Security)
Proof of need(only 1 is required):
Work schedule or job offer
School/training schedule or enrollment letter
Child’s information (only 1 is required):
Birth certificate or vaccination record
If special needs, medical form (Form 611) from a licensed professional.
Residency & ID (only 1 is required):
State ID or driver’s license
Utility bill with current address
Common FAQs
1. How old must my child be?Under 13 years old, or older if they have a documented special need.
2. How much will I pay?Your copay is based on a sliding scale linked to your household income,
3. Can I pick my own provider?Yes! Choose a licensed provider, approved relative, or family home.
4. What if I lose a document or miss a deadline?You have up to 30 days after applying. If docs come in 31–60 days later, your start date delays. After 60 days, you must reapply.
5. Do I need to renew?Yes. Re-certify every 12 months to keep getting help.
Who do I contact about my application status?
Delaware Division of Social Services (DSS)
By phone: DSS Customer Relations at 1‑866‑843‑7212 (option 1)
By email: DHSS_DSS_CustomerRelations@delaware.gov
Local offices: Find your nearest office here ➝ DSS Office Locations.
Online status check: Log into ASSIST and click Check Application Status
Last updated July 9, 2025