How to Apply for Delaware Medicare Savings Program for Your Parent
Helping a parent navigate state benefit programs from across the state — or across the country — means dealing with an agency that won't talk to you unless the right paperwork is on file. Delaware DSS requires formal representative authorization before caseworkers can share case details, accept documents, or issue notices to anyone other than the applicant.
You Don't Need Power of Attorney
A common misconception keeps families from helping their parents: the belief that you need a full legal Power of Attorney to submit a benefit application on their behalf. Delaware DSS accepts a simpler authorization.
The Delaware DHSS Authorized Representative Designation Form (Form DSS-A1 or the DMMA Auth Rep Form) lets your parent name you as their representative for state benefit purposes. The form is straightforward — your parent signs it, you submit it with the application, and DSS adds you to the case record.
Once the form is on file, you can:
- Submit the application and all supporting documents
- Receive copies of notices and decisions
- Call DSS and discuss case details with caseworkers
- File renewals and appeals on your parent's behalf
- Access the ASSIST portal for case management
If you already have a Power of Attorney or an SSA Appointed Representative form (SSA-1696), those work too — but they must be separately filed with DSS. Having a POA on file at the bank or with the family attorney doesn't automatically give DSS permission to talk to you.
Submitting the Application as a Representative
Through ASSIST: Submit the application through Delaware ASSIST. If you are acting for your parent, follow DSS's instructions for designating an authorized representative and submitting Form DSS-A1. Call DSS Customer Relations at 1-866-843-7212 to confirm how to add representative access to an existing case.
By paper: Attach the completed authorization form to the Application for Social Service Benefits. Both forms go to the same DSS office — mail, fax, or in-person drop-off at any State Service Center.
What Your Parent Needs to Provide
Even with representative authority, the application requires your parent's actual information and signatures where indicated. The documents you'll need to gather from them:
- Medicare card (red, white, and blue) or SSA Award Letter showing Part A entitlement
- Social Security award letter showing the current monthly benefit amount
- Proof of Delaware residency — their driver's license, a utility bill, or lease in their name
- Photo ID — their driver's license, state ID, or passport
- Pension or other income statements — if they receive income beyond Social Security
The authorized-representative designation normally requires your parent's signature. DSSM allows legal documentation of authority under state law, such as a court order establishing guardianship or a power of attorney, to serve in place of that written authorization. If your parent cannot sign, ask DSS which proof of authority to submit.
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Income Rules When You Live with Your Parent
An important rule that reassures many families: the MSP assistance unit consists strictly of the applicant (your parent) and their spouse, if applicable. Your income as an adult child is completely excluded from the MSP eligibility calculation, even if you live in the same household. Tax household definitions used for ACA Marketplace coverage don't apply to MSP determinations.
Similarly, any financial support you provide — covering groceries, paying utilities, contributing to rent — is not counted as your parent's income for MSP purposes.
Managing the Case from a Distance
If you live out of state, use ASSIST for online applications and document submission where available. For case-specific questions or mail and fax instructions, call DSS Customer Relations at 1-866-843-7212.
DSS handles cases through its statewide eligibility system. You can submit paperwork at any State Service Center or Social Services office, or use ASSIST. If your parent is in Sussex County but you're in Philadelphia, call the statewide line or use the online portal rather than making an in-person trip.
Renewal forms arrive at your parent's address by default. If you want copies sent to you as well, note that request on the authorization form. Better yet, check renewal status proactively through ASSIST before the 30-day return window closes.
Our Delaware Medicare Savings Programs, Extra Help & DPAP Guide includes the complete authorized representative workflow — what to fill out, where to submit it, and how to manage the application, renewals, and appeals as your parent's designated representative.
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Download the Delaware — Medicare Savings Program Eligibility Checklist — a printable guide with checklists, scripts, and action plans you can start using today.