Delaware Department of Labor 2026: Complete Guide & Services
A practical Delaware Department of Labor guide for workers, unemployment claimants, employers, HR teams, parents, job seekers and small businesses. Use it to understand Delaware UI claim filing, weekly benefits through WebBenefits and TeleBenefits, appeal deadlines, Delaware JobLink, American Job Centers, employer unemployment insurance tax, 2026 taxable wage base, Delaware Paid Leave, LaborFirst, minimum wage, wage complaints, child labor, workers’ compensation, fraud reporting, official phone numbers and Delaware labor-service map directions.
Quick Answer: What Does the Delaware Department of Labor Help With?
The Delaware Department of Labor helps with unemployment insurance, initial UI claims, weekly WebBenefits and TeleBenefits, direct deposit, stored value cards, UI appeals, Delaware JobLink, American Job Centers, labor market information, employer unemployment insurance tax, 2026 merit notices, wage and hour enforcement, child labor, workers’ compensation, vocational rehabilitation and Delaware Paid Leave.
UI claimants
File a new or reopened claim, request weekly benefits, enroll in direct deposit, appeal decisions and report fraud.
Employers
Manage unemployment insurance tax, employer accounts, merit notices, taxable wage base and Delaware Paid Leave obligations.
Job seekers
Use Delaware JobLink, American Job Centers, training services, labor market data and workforce programs.
Labor laws
Review minimum wage, wage claims, youth employment, child labor, workers’ compensation and required workplace rules.
Delaware Department of Labor Key Facts for 2026
These are the high-value facts most Delaware claimants, employers and workers need before using unemployment insurance services, Delaware JobLink, LaborFirst or DOL wage resources.
| Question | 2026 Delaware answer | Best user action |
|---|---|---|
| Where do I file a Delaware UI claim? | Use Delaware’s official unemployment claim site or the DOL “File an Unemployment Claim” page. | Prepare ID, work history, employer details and separation information. |
| How do I file weekly benefits? | Use WebBenefits for weekly benefit filing online or TeleBenefits for weekly benefit filing by telephone. | File every week you remain unemployed and eligible. |
| What is the Delaware UI phone number? | Delaware Unemployment Insurance statewide phone number: 302-761-8446. | Call with claim date, weekly claim issue, determination date and employer details ready. |
| Can I email UI questions? | Delaware DOL lists UIClaims@delaware.gov for UI questions. | Do not email passwords, full SSN or unnecessary sensitive documents. |
| What is the weekly benefit amount range? | Delaware’s current UI weekly benefit amount range is $20 to $450. | Review your monetary determination and wage records. |
| How is the weekly benefit amount calculated? | The weekly benefit amount is generally 1/46th of your two highest calendar quarters in the base period. | Check whether all base-period wages are included. |
| How many weeks can benefits last? | Under normal circumstances, total regular UI benefits may not exceed 26 times your weekly benefit amount. | Track payments and remaining benefit balance. |
| What is the appeal deadline? | Appeals generally must be filed within 10 days of the decision mailing date. | Appeal immediately and keep proof of submission. |
| What is the 2026 UI taxable wage base? | The Delaware UI taxable wage base in 2026 is $14,500. | Employers should update payroll systems and quarterly reporting. |
| What changed for 2026 employer tax? | 2026 rated employers use Table B, annual merit notices were issued April 6, 2026, and the operations and technology tax is billed separately. | Employers should read their official 2026 merit notice carefully. |
| What is Delaware Paid Leave in 2026? | Delaware Paid Leave went fully into effect January 1, 2026, and employees can submit claim applications. | Use LaborFirst or Delaware Paid Leave pages, not UI, for paid family/medical leave. |
| What is Delaware minimum wage in 2026? | Delaware’s minimum wage is $15.00 per hour in 2026 unless a higher applicable rule applies. | Check DOL wage and hour guidance for tipped or special situations. |
Delaware Department of Labor Map: Wilmington, Dover, Newark, Georgetown and JobLink Help
Use this map to plan directions to Delaware Department of Labor, Unemployment Insurance, American Job Center and Delaware JobLink-related service locations. Map listings can be stale, so always confirm the exact office, appointment rules, hours and services on official Delaware DOL pages before visiting.
Before visiting a Delaware DOL office
- Confirm the office location and service on the official office-location page.
- Bring photo ID, UI claim details, weekly claim issue, notices and employer information.
- For weekly UI, keep filing WebBenefits or TeleBenefits while waiting for help.
- For job search, use Delaware JobLink and American Job Center resources.
- For Paid Leave, use Delaware Paid Leave or LaborFirst instead of the UI claim system.
Delaware Local Tips: Wilmington, Dover, Newark, Georgetown, New Castle, Kent and Sussex Counties
Delaware labor-service questions often depend on county, industry and work pattern. Use these local tips before filing, appealing, contacting UI, visiting DOL or using Delaware JobLink.
Wilmington and New Castle County tip
Finance, corporate, healthcare, university and cross-state work can create multi-employer or interstate wage issues. Keep pay stubs, employer addresses, remote-work location and separation notices.
Dover and Kent County tip
State, education, healthcare, logistics and seasonal work may require clear documentation of separation, schedules, recall status and weekly availability.
Newark and student-worker tip
Student work, part-time work and campus employment can affect UI and work-search questions. Keep class schedule, work schedule and employer information organized.
Georgetown and Sussex County tip
Tourism, agriculture, poultry, hospitality and beach-season jobs may create seasonal layoff questions. Save recall notices, schedules, job offers and earnings details.
Cross-border worker tip
If you worked in Delaware and another state, document exactly where wages were earned and where work was performed. Interstate wage issues can delay claims.
Rural internet-access tip
If internet access is weak, use a Delaware DOL office, American Job Center, Delaware JobLink support or UI phone resources. Save every confirmation number.
Delaware Department of Labor Action Helper: Which Path Do You Need?
Choose your situation and this helper points you to the correct Delaware labor-service route. It does not collect personal data.
Select your issue to see the correct portal, what to prepare, the official link and the record-saving tip.
Delaware UI Claim Login: File New Claim, Reopen Claim, Weekly Benefits and Direct Deposit
Delaware’s unemployment insurance services include filing a new or reopened claim, WebBenefits weekly filing, TeleBenefits weekly filing, direct deposit, stored value card, appeals and overpayment resources.
Before you file a UI claim
- Personal identification and current contact information.
- Social Security number and work authorization details if applicable.
- Employer names, addresses, dates worked and separation reason.
- Pay records, W-2s and federal or military documents if applicable.
- Banking information if using direct deposit.
UI system safety checklist
- Use official Delaware DOL or DelawareWorks links only.
- Do not share passwords, full SSN or banking details by normal email.
- Save screenshots and confirmation numbers.
- Respond quickly to Division requests.
- File weekly benefits every week you remain unemployed and eligible.
Delaware Unemployment Timeline: What Happens After You File?
After filing a Delaware UI claim, the Division of Unemployment Insurance may review wages, identity, separation reason, availability, earnings, work search and employer responses. You must continue weekly claims while your issue is reviewed.
| Stage | What usually happens | User action |
|---|---|---|
| Claim filed | You file a new or reopened claim through the official initial claim site. | Save the filing date, confirmation and employer details. |
| Wage review | Delaware reviews base-period wages to calculate the weekly benefit amount. | Check whether all employers and wages are included. |
| Weekly claim filing | Because Delaware has a weekly claim processing system, payment depends on each weekly claim you make. | Use WebBenefits or TeleBenefits every week you remain eligible. |
| Eligibility review | DOL may review separation reason, availability, earnings, job search, identity or employer response. | Respond to requests promptly by official channels. |
| Payment method | Claimants may use direct deposit or stored value card resources. | Verify payment information and save confirmation. |
| Appeal rights | If you are denied or disagree, you may appeal within the deadline on the decision. | File appeal within 10 days of decision mailing date where applicable. |
Weekly Delaware UI Benefits: WebBenefits, TeleBenefits, Work Search and Payment Records
Delaware uses a weekly claim processing system. You must file weekly unemployment benefit claims for the weeks you want to receive payment, and you should keep records of job search, earnings and any communication from DOL.
| Weekly action | Why it matters | Common mistake |
|---|---|---|
| File weekly benefits | Delaware pays based on weekly claims you make. | Filing the initial claim but skipping weekly claims. |
| Use WebBenefits | WebBenefits lets claimants file weekly UI benefits online. | Missing the filing window or not saving confirmation. |
| Use TeleBenefits | TeleBenefits is Delaware’s telephone weekly benefit filing route. | Calling the wrong phone path for weekly filing. |
| Track work search | Work-search registration and activities may be required depending on claimant status. | Not keeping applications, contacts or Delaware JobLink records. |
| Report earnings | Part-time work and earnings can affect weekly benefit payment. | Reporting net pay instead of gross pay or waiting until payday. |
Part-Time Work, Gross Earnings, Seasonal Work and Delaware UI Claims
If you work while claiming Delaware UI, report work and earnings correctly. Seasonal work, part-time hours, temporary shifts, gig work and self-employment can affect weekly benefits and eligibility.
Report and track these
- Gross earnings before taxes and deductions.
- Part-time, temporary, seasonal and gig work.
- Work performed during the weekly claim period.
- Return-to-work dates, job offers and job refusals.
- Vacation, holiday, severance or other payments if asked.
Common claimant mistakes
- Reporting take-home pay instead of gross pay.
- Waiting until payday instead of tracking the week worked.
- Forgetting one-day, app-based or temporary work.
- Not saving employer contact and application records.
- Ignoring an appeal or eligibility notice.
Delaware UI Benefits: Weekly Amount, Base Period, Duration and Payment Methods
Delaware UI benefits depend on base-period wages, separation reason, eligibility, weekly claims and ongoing reporting. The official monetary decision controls your benefit amount and entitlement.
Weekly amount
Delaware’s current weekly benefit amount range is $20 to $450. The weekly benefit amount is generally 1/46th of the two highest calendar quarters in the base period.
Benefit duration
Under normal circumstances, total benefits in a benefit year may not exceed 26 times the weekly benefit amount.
Payment options
Claimant services include direct deposit and stored value card resources. Use official pages to manage payment details.
Delaware UI Appeals: 10-Day Deadline, Email Appeals and Hearing Prep
If you are denied benefits or disagree with a decision, Delaware DOL guidance says appeals must be filed within 10 days of the decision mailing date. Appeals may be filed through official routes including email or the claimant portal where available.
Appeal checklist
- Decision or determination and mailing date.
- Full name, address and docket/case number if listed.
- Reason you disagree with the decision.
- Pay stubs, schedules, separation letters, emails or text messages.
- Signature where required and proof of timely submission.
During appeal and hearing
- Keep filing weekly claims while eligible.
- Read hearing notices carefully.
- Prepare a short timeline of dates and events.
- Organize documents and witnesses.
- Keep all appeal emails, mail receipts and portal confirmations.
Delaware JobLink, American Job Centers, Training and Job Search Help
Delaware JobLink is the state’s job-search and workforce platform. It connects job seekers with job opportunities, American Job Center help, training resources and employer hiring tools.
Delaware JobLink
Use JobLink to search jobs, manage a résumé, connect with employers and document job-search activity.
American Job Centers
Use local centers for job-search support, workshops, training, career guidance and employment services.
Training and labor data
Use workforce and labor market resources to identify growing occupations, expected wages and training requirements.
Delaware Employer Services: UI Tax, 2026 Merit Notices, Taxable Wage Base and Employer Accounts
Delaware employers use DOL employer resources for unemployment insurance tax accounts, 2026 tax rates, taxable wage base, employer forms, payments, appeal questions, Delaware Paid Leave and workforce hiring resources.
| Employer task | Delaware rule or tool | Common mistake |
|---|---|---|
| Open employer UI account | Employers can open a UI employer account by filing Form UC-1 and should submit it no later than 20 days after the first day of business. | Starting payroll before registering properly. |
| 2026 taxable wage base | The Delaware UI taxable wage base in 2026 is $14,500. | Using last year’s wage base in payroll software. |
| 2026 merit notice | 2026 annual merit rate notices were issued April 6, 2026, with an extended deadline to May 29, 2026. | Missing the extended deadline or not reading the rate notice. |
| 2026 tax table | For 2026, rated employers use Table B with AHCM 0.95. | Applying the wrong tax schedule. |
| Operations & technology tax | The 2026 UI tax rate no longer includes the 0.2% operations and technology tax; it is billed quarterly. | Assuming it is still included in the rate notice. |
| Employer hiring | Employers can post job openings or search candidates through Delaware JobLink. | Not using JobLink or American Job Center support for hiring. |
Delaware Wage, Overtime, Minimum Wage, Tipped Wage and Wage Complaint Help
Delaware’s labor law resources help workers and employers understand minimum wage, overtime, pay practices, wage claims, child labor and special employment rules. For 2026, Delaware’s minimum wage is $15.00 per hour unless a higher applicable rule applies.
| Topic | 2026 practical answer | Where to look |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum wage | Delaware minimum wage is $15.00 per hour in 2026 unless a higher applicable rule applies. | Delaware DOL Industrial Affairs / wage resources. |
| Tipped wage | Tipped employee rules require careful tip-credit compliance and recordkeeping. | Delaware wage and hour guidance. |
| Overtime | Federal and state wage-hour rules may apply depending on worker status and employer coverage. | Delaware DOL and USDOL WHD resources. |
| Wage complaint | Workers who believe they are owed wages should use official DOL wage-claim resources. | Division of Industrial Affairs. |
| Pay records | Pay stubs, schedules, employer communications and time records are essential for wage claims. | Keep week-by-week records. |
Delaware Paid Leave and LaborFirst: 2026 Claims, Employer Portal and Eligibility Basics
Delaware Paid Leave went fully into effect on January 1, 2026, and employees are now able to submit claim applications. LaborFirst is Delaware DOL’s platform for Paid Leave modernization and employer portal access. Paid Leave is separate from unemployment insurance.
For employees
- Delaware Paid Leave applies to qualifying family and medical leave situations.
- Employees must primarily work in Delaware, generally 60% or more of their time.
- Employees generally need at least 12 months with the employer and 1,250 hours in the last 12 months.
- Claims are submitted through the Paid Leave system, not the UI weekly claim system.
For employers
- Most businesses with 10 or more employees are required to participate.
- Employers use LaborFirst and Paid Leave resources for portal actions.
- Employers may require employees to contribute up to 50% of program cost through payroll deductions.
- Businesses with fewer than 10 employees may have voluntary participation options.
Delaware Child Labor, Youth Employment and Student Work
Delaware child labor and student employment resources help parents, students and employers understand youth work, summer employment, job readiness, wage rights and work restrictions.
Youth work checklist
- Check the minor’s age and school status.
- Confirm allowed hours and job duties before work begins.
- Keep schedule, pay and employer records.
- Use Delaware DOL youth and student resources for employment programs.
- Review safety, wage and working condition rules.
Student and summer work
- Delaware student resources include summer youth employment information.
- Labor market tools can help students compare occupations and wages.
- Employers should document schedules and pay rates for minors.
- Parents should keep copies of job offers and work schedules.
Workers’ Compensation, Occupational Safety, Posters and Agency Confusion
Not every workplace problem belongs in the UI claim system. Unemployment insurance, wage complaints, workers’ compensation, safety complaints, Paid Leave and required workplace notices use different routes.
Workplace notices
Employers should use official Delaware DOL and federal resources for required labor law postings and worker notices.
Workplace injury
Workplace injury claims usually involve Delaware workers’ compensation resources, not a UI claim by itself.
Safety hazards
Workplace safety complaints may involve OSHA or occupational safety resources depending on the hazard and workplace.
Delaware UI Fraud, Identity Protection and Email Safety
UI claims, employer accounts, Paid Leave and wage records involve sensitive identity and payroll data. Treat every email, phone call, text, login page and document request carefully.
Do this
- Use official Delaware DOL, DelawareWorks, JobLink, LaborFirst and Paid Leave links.
- Report suspected UI fraud through official Delaware DOL resources.
- Save proof of claim actions, weekly claims and employer filings.
- Use strong passwords and check notices often.
Do not do this
- Do not send passwords, full SSN or banking details by normal email.
- Do not enter UI login details on lookalike websites.
- Do not pay unofficial services to “speed up” a claim.
- Do not ignore determinations, appeals deadlines or DOL requests.
Delaware Department of Labor Phone Numbers, Email, Offices and Service Routes
Choose the correct Delaware labor contact route. Calling UI for a Paid Leave issue, or Paid Leave for a UI weekly claim, can delay resolution.
| Need | Official contact route | Before contacting |
|---|---|---|
| DOL administrative office | 4425 North Market Street, Wilmington, DE 19802; office hours 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. | Check online services before visiting. |
| Unemployment Insurance | 302-761-8446 statewide. | Prepare claim date, weekly claim issue, notice date and employer details. |
| UI email questions | UIClaims@delaware.gov. | Do not include unnecessary sensitive data. |
| Appeal email | dol_dui_appeals_request@delaware.gov. | Include full name, address, docket/case number and reason for appeal; verify current notice. |
| Paid Leave questions | 302-761-8375; employee claims email PFMLClaims@delaware.gov; general/employer email PFML@Delaware.gov. | Use Paid Leave resources, not UI, for family/medical leave claims. |
| JobLink help | Delaware JobLink live agent/chat or American Job Center contact paths. | Prepare résumé, job-search issue and training needs. |
| Office locations | Wilmington, Dover, Newark and Georgetown offices are listed on DelawareWorks office locations. | Verify service and hours before visiting. |
Delaware Labor Contact Strategy: What to Write Before You Call, Email or Visit
A clear summary helps Delaware DOL, UI, Paid Leave, JobLink or employer services route your issue faster. Write your issue in a short, organized format before contacting any office.
Claimant contact template
“I filed a Delaware UI claim on [date]. My issue is [weekly benefit / WebBenefits / TeleBenefits / appeal / payment / earnings / identity]. The week is [date]. The notice date is [date]. I need help with [specific action].”
Employer contact template
“This is about a Delaware employer UI issue. The issue is [UC-1 / 2026 merit notice / taxable wage base / tax rate / quarterly billing / Paid Leave]. I need help with [specific action].”
People Also Search For and Bing Deep Dive Topics
These related topics match common Delaware Department of Labor search intent from claimants, employers, workers and job seekers.
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Delaware Department of Labor FAQs
Quick answers to common Delaware Department of Labor questions for 2026.
Is this the official Delaware Department of Labor website?
No. This is an independent informational guide. Use labor.delaware.gov, DelawareWorks, Delaware JobLink, LaborFirst, Delaware Paid Leave and official government pages for claims, payments, appeals, employer accounts, wage complaints and legal decisions.
What is the official Delaware Department of Labor website?
The official Delaware Department of Labor website is labor.delaware.gov.
What does the Delaware Department of Labor help with?
Delaware DOL helps with unemployment insurance, employer UI tax, Delaware JobLink, employment and training, industrial affairs, workers’ compensation, vocational rehabilitation, labor market information and Delaware Paid Leave.
Where do I file a Delaware unemployment claim?
Use the official Delaware unemployment initial claim site at uics.delawareworks.com or the Delaware DOL “File an Unemployment Claim” page.
What is WebBenefits in Delaware?
WebBenefits is the online route for filing weekly Delaware unemployment insurance benefits.
What is TeleBenefits in Delaware?
TeleBenefits is Delaware’s telephone route for filing weekly unemployment insurance benefits.
Do I need to file weekly unemployment claims in Delaware?
Yes. Delaware has a weekly claim processing system, so you must file weekly claims for the weeks you want benefits.
What is the Delaware unemployment phone number?
The Delaware Unemployment Insurance statewide phone number is 302-761-8446.
What is the Delaware UI email address?
Delaware DOL lists UIClaims@delaware.gov for unemployment insurance questions.
What is the Delaware UI appeal email?
Delaware DOL lists dol_dui_appeals_request@delaware.gov for UI appeal requests. Always verify the current address on your official notice.
What is the Delaware unemployment appeal deadline?
Appeals generally must be filed within 10 days of the decision mailing date.
What should I include in a Delaware UI appeal?
Include your full name, address, docket or case number if listed, the reason for your appeal, required signature and proof of timely submission.
What is the Delaware weekly benefit amount range?
Delaware’s current unemployment weekly benefit amount range is $20 to $450.
How is the Delaware weekly benefit amount calculated?
The weekly benefit amount is generally based on 1/46th of the wages paid during the two highest calendar quarters in the base period.
How many weeks can Delaware unemployment last?
Under normal circumstances, total regular benefits in a benefit year may not exceed 26 times your weekly benefit amount.
Can I receive Delaware UI if I work part time?
You may receive reduced benefits if you work part time and remain eligible. Report all work and earnings correctly each week.
Should I report gross or net earnings to Delaware UI?
Use gross earnings before taxes and deductions unless your official weekly claim question gives different instructions.
What is Delaware JobLink?
Delaware JobLink is the state’s job-search and workforce platform for job seekers and employers.
Do Delaware claimants need to register with Delaware JobLink?
Work-search and JobLink registration requirements depend on claimant status and DOL instructions. If required, register and keep proof.
Where can I get Delaware job-search help?
Use Delaware JobLink, American Job Centers and Delaware DOL Employment and Training resources for job-search and training help.
Where is the Delaware Department of Labor administrative office?
The Delaware DOL administrative office is at 4425 North Market Street, Wilmington, Delaware 19802.
What are Delaware DOL administrative office hours?
The administrative office lists office hours from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Where are Delaware DOL offices located?
Delaware DOL office listings include Wilmington, Dover, Newark and Georgetown service locations. Verify current service details before visiting.
What is the 2026 Delaware UI taxable wage base?
The Delaware UI taxable wage base in 2026 is $14,500.
What changed for Delaware employer UI tax in 2026?
For 2026, rated employers use Table B with AHCM 0.95, and the operations and technology tax is billed separately rather than included in the UI tax rate.
When were 2026 Delaware annual merit rate notices issued?
Delaware DOL states that 2026 annual merit rate notices were issued Monday, April 6, 2026, with an extended deadline to May 29, 2026.
How do Delaware employers open a UI account?
Employers can open a UI employer account by filing Form UC-1, and should submit the form no later than 20 days after the first day of business.
What is Delaware Paid Leave?
Delaware Paid Leave is the state’s paid family and medical leave program. It went fully into effect on January 1, 2026.
Is Delaware Paid Leave the same as unemployment insurance?
No. Delaware Paid Leave is for qualifying paid family and medical leave, while unemployment insurance is for eligible unemployed workers.
What is LaborFirst?
LaborFirst is a Delaware Department of Labor platform developed to modernize and streamline Delaware Paid Leave processes.
What is the Delaware Paid Leave phone number?
Delaware Paid Leave lists 302-761-8375 for claimant, employer and third-party administrator questions.
What is the Delaware Paid Leave claimant email?
Paid Leave claimant questions can be emailed to PFMLClaims@delaware.gov.
What is the Delaware Paid Leave employer email?
General, employer and TPA Paid Leave questions can be emailed to PFML@Delaware.gov.
What is Delaware minimum wage in 2026?
Delaware’s minimum wage is $15.00 per hour in 2026 unless a higher applicable rule applies.
Who handles Delaware wage complaints?
Delaware DOL’s Industrial Affairs and wage resources handle many wage, hour and workplace-rights issues.
Does Delaware have child labor rules?
Yes. Delaware has youth employment and child labor rules covering age, hours, job duties and working conditions.
Where can students find Delaware work resources?
Delaware DOL student resources include summer youth employment information and labor market resources.
Who handles workplace injury claims in Delaware?
Workplace injury claims usually involve workers’ compensation resources, not the unemployment claim system alone.
Who handles workplace safety complaints?
Workplace safety complaints may involve OSHA or occupational safety resources depending on the hazard and workplace.
Can I email my full SSN or UI password to Delaware DOL?
No. Do not send your full SSN, password, banking details or private identity documents in normal email unless Delaware DOL provides a secure official upload route.
What should I write before contacting Delaware UI?
Write a short summary with your claim date, weekly claim issue, determination date, appeal deadline, employer details and the exact action you need.
What should employers prepare before contacting Delaware UI tax services?
Employers should prepare account details, UC-1 status, taxable wage information, 2026 merit notice, tax-rate question and proof of filing or payment.
Is this page a substitute for official Delaware DOL decisions?
No. This page is only a guide. Official eligibility, wage, employer, Paid Leave, appeal and legal decisions must come from Delaware DOL or the proper government agency.
Final Recommendation: Use This as Your Delaware Labor Roadmap
Use this guide to identify the correct Delaware labor-service path first. Then complete sensitive actions only through official Delaware DOL, DelawareWorks, UI, Delaware JobLink, LaborFirst, Delaware Paid Leave or other government pages.
Independent informational guide only. Not the official Delaware Department of Labor website.