Disability and Special Needs Support for Single Mothers in South Carolina
Disability & Special Needs Support for Single Mothers in South Carolina
Last updated: September 2025
Emergency help you can use right now
- Call 911: For life‑threatening emergencies only.
- Call SCDMH Mobile Crisis: 833‑364‑2274 for an in‑person clinician anywhere in South Carolina, 24/7.
- Dial 988: 24/7 mental health and suicide crisis line with text and chat options.
- Dial 2‑1‑1: Free statewide referrals for food, shelter, bills, diapers, transportation, and more. You can also text “Help” to 211‑211 or use the SC 211 app.
- Report abuse or neglect: 1‑888‑CARE4US (1‑888‑227‑3487) for child or vulnerable adult abuse/neglect.
- Medicaid member help: 888‑549‑0820 for Healthy Connections Medicaid questions.
- BabyNet early intervention (birth to age 3): 866‑512‑8881 to refer your child now.
- SNAP/TANF help: 800‑616‑1309 for SC DSS Benefits Call Center.
- Non‑emergency medical rides for Medicaid: Modivcare Region 1 866‑910‑7688, Region 2 866‑445‑6860, Region 3 866‑445‑9954.
Quick help box
- If your child is under age 3: Refer to BabyNet today. It’s free, and the system has a 45‑day federal clock to evaluate, assess, and hold the first IFSP meeting after referral. Start an online referral or call 866‑512‑8881. See the BabyNet referral portal and contacts. (asha.org, babynet.scdhhs.gov)
- If your child is 3 or older and needs school supports: Send a written request for an evaluation to your district’s special education director. South Carolina uses a 60‑day timeline from parental consent to complete the initial special education evaluation. See SCDE’s Indicator 11 guidance and Disability Rights SC. (oses.ed.sc.gov, disabilityrightssc.org)
- If you need health coverage for a disabled child: Apply for Healthy Connections Medicaid. Most disabled children qualify through TEFRA (“Katie Beckett”) based on the child’s needs and the child’s own income/resources. Child‑only income limit effective January 1, 2025 is 2,901/month∗∗(∗∗3002,901/month** (**300% of SSI Federal Benefit Rate**) with **2,000 resource limit. Apply online or use the TEFRA forms. (scdhhs.sc.gov)
- If you need food now: Visit Harvest Hope or Lowcountry Food Bank locations and also apply for SNAP. FY 2025 SNAP maximum for a family of four in SC is $975/month through September 30, 2025. Apply online at DSS. (fns-prod.azureedge.us, harvesthope.org)
- If you need child care so you can work or study: The SC Working Families Child Care Scholarship helps up to 85% of State Median Income (6,954/monthor6,954/month or 83,446/year for a family of four). Call 800‑476‑0199 or apply in the DSS Benefits Portal. (scchildcare.org)
- If your child has complex medical needs: Ask your provider to refer to the Medically Complex Children (MCC) Waiver. As of July 1, 2025, families can choose new self‑directed attendant care where some relatives may be paid. Call 888‑827‑1665 or email MedicaidWaiver@scdhhs.gov. (scdhhs.gov)
Quick reference cheat sheet
| Program | Who it helps | Key number | Where to start |
|---|---|---|---|
| BabyNet Early Intervention (Part C) | Birth–3 with delays/disabilities | Start within a 45‑day timeline to first IFSP | BabyNet online referral and contacts or call 866‑512‑8881. (babynet.scdhhs.gov) |
| School Special Education (IDEA Part B) | Ages 3–21 | District has 60 days from consent to evaluate | Contact your district’s special education office; see SCDE Indicator 11. (oses.ed.sc.gov) |
| Medicaid TEFRA (“Katie Beckett”) | Disabled children under 19 regardless of parent income | 2,901/month∗∗childincomelimit,∗∗2,901/month** child income limit, **2,000 resources | SCDHHS TEFRA eligibility and forms. (scdhhs.sc.gov) |
| Partners for Healthy Children (CHIP/PHC) | Kids under 19 by family income | Up to 208% FPL (e.g., family of 4 up to $5,572.66/month) | SCDHHS PHC income limits and application. (scdhhs.sc.gov) |
| SNAP (Food Stamps) FY 2025 | Low‑income families | Max for 4 is $975/month (thru Sep 30, 2025) | USDA FY 2025 SNAP COLA and apply at DSS Benefits Portal. (fns-prod.azureedge.us, dss.sc.gov) |
| WIC | Pregnant/postpartum, infants, kids <5 | Income at ≤185% FPL for 2025–26 | WIC income guidelines 2025–26 and call 855‑472‑3432. (fns-prod.azureedge.us, dph.sc.gov) |
| MCC Waiver | Children with hospital level of care | Self‑directed attendant care begins July 1, 2025 | Call 888‑827‑1665 or MCC waiver page. (scdhhs.gov) |
| DDSN Waivers (ID/RD, CS, HASCI) | Intellectual/developmental disability or head/spinal cord injury | Statewide I/DD waiver waitlist persists (2024 count 10,409) | Start with your local DSN Board; overview at DDSN Waivers. (kff.org, ddsn.sc.gov) |
| NEMT rides for Medicaid | Healthy Connections members | Region 1 866‑910‑7688, Region 2 866‑445‑6860, Region 3 866‑445‑9954 | SCDHHS Transportation info. (scdhhs.gov) |
| Child care scholarship | Working or in school | Up to 85% SMI | SC Child Care Scholarships or call 800‑476‑0199. (scchildcare.org) |
What this guide does differently
- Concrete numbers: We include current 2025 amounts and income limits from official sources.
- Direct links and phone numbers: You shouldn’t have to hunt for the right office.
- Plan B advice: Every section ends with steps if Plan A stalls or you get denied.
- Real‑world timelines and pitfalls: To help you plan care, work, and school.
Getting started when you’re overwhelmed
- Start with the age‑based doorway:
- Birth–3
Call BabyNet at 866‑512‑8881 and make a referral. The program must evaluate, assess, and hold your first IFSP meeting within 45 days of referral unless you delay consent. Services begin as soon as possible after consent. (asha.org) - Age 3–21
Write to your school district’s special education office asking for an evaluation. After you sign consent, the district has 60 days to complete the evaluation. If eligible, the IEP meeting should follow promptly. (oses.ed.sc.gov) - Any age with significant medical needs
Apply for Medicaid and the right waiver. For disabled children, TEFRA is often the fastest doorway to full Medicaid. If complex care is needed, ask about the MCC Waiver. (scdhhs.sc.gov, scdhhs.gov)
- Birth–3
Health coverage for disabled children
Healthy Connections Medicaid for disabled children
- TEFRA (“Katie Beckett”)
Who qualifies: Child under 19, meets SSI disability standard, requires an institutional level of care, and lives at home. Only the child’s income/resources count.
2025 child‑only income limit: 2,901/month∗∗(3002,901/month** (300% of the SSI FBR) with **2,000 resource cap.
How to apply: Online at Healthy Connections, or complete the TEFRA Application and supporting disability forms listed on SCDHHS.
Where to get help: Call 888‑549‑0820 (Medicaid) or ask Family Connection of SC for navigation support. (scdhhs.sc.gov) - Partners for Healthy Children (PHC, Medicaid/CHIP)
Who qualifies: Children under 19 by family income.
Income limits effective March 1, 2025: For a family of four, up to $5,572.66/month (about 208% FPL) with no asset limit.
Apply: Same Healthy Connections application. (scdhhs.gov) - Aged, Blind, Disabled (ABD) Medicaid
When it helps: Teens with SSI or those meeting ABD rules.
2025 limits: 1,305/month∗∗foranindividual,∗∗1,305/month** for an individual, **1,763/month for a couple; resource limit 9,660∗∗individual,∗∗9,660** individual, **14,470 couple. Apply via Healthy Connections. (scdhhs.sc.gov) - Cost‑sharing
Update: South Carolina eliminated Medicaid member cost sharing effective July 1, 2024. This helps families avoid copays that used to apply to some services. (scdhhs.gov)
Required documents:
- Child’s birth certificate, SSN, SC residency proof, medical records describing diagnoses and care needs, insurance info if any, proof of income if the program requires it (TEFRA counts only the child’s).
Typical timeline:
- Medicaid decisions vary by case and how quickly medical records are obtained. Expect several weeks. Respond fast to any requests.
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your hospital’s social worker for help gathering records.
- Call Family Connection of South Carolina at 800‑578‑8750 for navigation support. (familyconnectionsc.org)
Autism and behavioral health services
- Medicaid ASD services: Healthy Connections covers ABA and other evidence‑based services with prior authorization. In 2024, SCDHHS added new ASD procedure codes and rates to expand access. Providers often have waitlists, so contact multiple clinics. (scdhhs.sc.gov, scdhhs.gov)
- Key update: From July 1, 2024, new covered ASD codes (e.g., 97152, 97157, 0362T, 0373T) and service limits were added to strengthen care options. (scdhhs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you can’t find an ASD provider, ask your child’s pediatrician to refer broadly and call your plan’s care manager. Keep a waitlist log.
- For school‑based supports, request evaluations for speech, OT, behavior, or a Functional Behavioral Assessment (FBA) through the IEP process.
- For private insurance questions, ask your plan about autism coverage and parity rules; Medicaid remains the most reliable route for many families. (scdhhs.gov)
Home‑ and community‑based services (HCBS) and waivers
Medically Complex Children (MCC) Waiver
- Who qualifies: Children with chronic conditions who meet a hospital level of care, with medical dependency criteria.
- What’s covered: Case management, personal care, pediatric medical day care, and, as of July 1, 2025, new self‑directed children’s attendant care (eligible parents/relatives may be paid hourly to provide extraordinary care).
- Contact: 888‑827‑1665, MedicaidWaiver@scdhhs.gov. Refer through SCDHHS. (scdhhs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask the waiver nurse case manager about temporary in‑home supports while awaiting new services; request written reasons for any denials.
DDSN waivers for I/DD and HASCI
- Waivers:
- ID/RD (Intellectual Disability/Related Disabilities)
- Community Supports (CS)
- HASCI (Head and Spinal Cord Injury)
- Reality check: South Carolina maintains waitlists. KFF’s 2024 analysis reports 10,409 people on HCBS waiver waiting lists statewide, with I/DD wait times often measured in years. (kff.org)
- Contacts: Start with your county Disabilities & Special Needs (DSN) Board or DDSN for screening and selection of the right waiver. See DDSN’s waiver overview and SCDHHS waiver pages. (ddsn.sc.gov, scdhhs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask for placement on multiple appropriate waiver interest lists.
- Request Family Support funds from your local DSN Board for stop‑gap needs (availability varies). (policy.mddsn.org)
Early intervention and special education in South Carolina
Birth through age 3
- BabyNet provides evaluation, service coordination, therapies, and family supports at no cost to families. The program must complete screening/evaluation/assessment and hold the initial IFSP within 45 days of referral unless you delay consent. Services begin as soon as possible after consent.
- How to start: Refer online or call 866‑512‑8881. See BabyNet contacts and policies. (babynet.scdhhs.gov, scdhhs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you hit delays, ask your service coordinator to escalate per the BabyNet dispute and concern options posted by SCDHHS. (scdhhs.gov)
Age 3 through 21
- Evaluation timeline: Districts must complete the initial special education evaluation within 60 days of parental consent. (oses.ed.sc.gov)
- Your rights: You’re entitled to prior written notice when the district proposes or refuses changes. If the system is slow, request PWN in writing and consider mediation or a state complaint. (disabilityrightssc.org)
- Help with school meetings: Family Connection of South Carolina runs the federally funded Parent Training and Information Center (PTI) for the entire state and can help you prepare for IEP/504 meetings at no cost. Call 800‑578‑8750. (familyconnectionsc.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask for an IEP facilitator or call Disability Rights South Carolina for guidance on dispute options, especially if deadlines are missed or services aren’t delivered. (disabilityrightssc.org)
Cash benefits, savings, and work supports
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for children
- 2025 federal payment standard: Up to 967/month∗∗foraneligibleindividual,∗∗967/month** for an eligible individual, **1,450/month for an eligible couple. Actual payments depend on countable income. (ssa.gov)
- How to apply: Start online or call 800‑772‑1213; you can also contact local SSA offices via the Atlanta Region page. Bring records showing how the disability limits daily functioning. (ssa.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If denied, appeal quickly and ask your pediatric specialist for function‑based reports. Consider help from legal aid or a disability advocate.
Palmetto ABLE Savings accounts
- Who qualifies: Disability onset before age 26.
- Annual contribution limit for 2025: $19,000 total from all sources (tied to the federal gift tax exclusion).
- ABLE to Work extra: Beneficiaries who work can contribute up to an additional amount equal to the one‑person federal poverty guideline (2025 is $15,650) or their earnings, whichever is less.
- SSI resource protection: Balances below $100,000 are excluded for SSI.
- Fees: About $2.25/month plus 0.19%–0.33% asset‑based, depending on investments.
- Where to open: Palmetto ABLE online or by phone 800‑439‑1653. (palmettoable.com)
Food, nutrition, and diapers
SNAP (Food Stamps)
- FY 2025 maximums for the 48 states (Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025): 1 person 291∗∗,2∗∗291**, 2 **535, 3 766∗∗,4∗∗766**, 4 **975, 5 1,155–1,155–1,158 (USDA roundings), 6 1,390∗∗,7∗∗1,390**, 7 **1,532–1,536∗∗,8∗∗1,536**, 8 **1,751; each additional person +$220. South Carolina uses these federal maximums. (fns-prod.azureedge.us)
- Income screening examples used by DSS in 2024–2025 put gross income at 130% FPL and net at 100% FPL (households with an elderly/disabled member must meet net). See DSS’s chart. (dss.sc.gov)
- Apply: Online via the DSS Benefits Portal, by mail/fax, or in person at your county office. Call 800‑616‑1309 for help. (dss.sc.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask about SCCAP for SSI recipients (streamlined SNAP). If you have very little income and cash on hand, ask for expedited SNAP at application.
WIC
- Eligibility: Pregnant/postpartum, infants, and children under 5 with income at or below 185% FPL for 2025–26 (new guidelines effective July 1, 2025).
- Apply: Call 855‑472‑3432 or start online at the SC DPH WIC page. (fns-prod.azureedge.us, dph.sc.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask WIC to give you local food pantry lists and referrals for breastfeeding supplies or formula guidance.
Food banks
- Harvest Hope Food Bank: Midlands, Pee Dee, and Upstate. Columbia 803‑254‑4432; Greenville 864‑281‑3995. Pantry hours listed on site. (harvesthope.org)
- Lowcountry Food Bank: Charleston 843‑747‑8146, Myrtle Beach 843‑448‑0341, Early Branch 843‑589‑4118. (lowcountryfoodbank.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Dial 2‑1‑1 for the nearest church pantry, diaper bank, or mobile distributions. (uwasc.org)
Child care you can afford while you work or study
- SC Working Families Child Care Scholarship: For parents working 15+ hours/week or in school/training. Income up to 85% SMI (6,954/monthor6,954/month or 83,446/year for a family of four). Scholarships may cover part or all of costs and can extend up to age 18 for children with disabilities.
- Apply or ask questions: DSS Benefits Portal or call 800‑476‑0199. Payment depends on provider’s rate, ABC Quality level, and your schedule. (scchildcare.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your provider about ABC Quality level (higher level may increase reimbursement) and ask DSS whether other categories fit (e.g., TANF, homeless, foster). (scchildcare.org)
Transportation to medical appointments
- Medicaid rides: Call Modivcare at least 3 business days before your appointment.
- Region 1 (866‑910‑7688)
- Region 2 (866‑445‑6860)
- Region 3 (866‑445‑9954)
“Where’s My Ride” lines are listed on Modivcare’s site. Urgent, same‑day rides can be authorized by your provider. (scdhhs.gov, mymodivcare.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask about mileage reimbursement if a friend can drive, and keep copies of appointment letters in case of disputes. (mymodivcare.com)
Housing and utilities
- Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8): SC Housing administers vouchers in Clarendon, Colleton, Dorchester, Fairfield, Kershaw, Lee, and Lexington counties. Waiting lists are often 3–5 years; many local Housing Authorities run their own lists. SC Housing HCV phone 803‑896‑8888 (800‑236‑4009). (schousing.sc.gov)
- Find your local Housing Authority contact list on SC Housing’s resource page. (schousing.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Apply to multiple PHAs if open. Ask your DSN Board about Family Support stipends for safety items or accessibility if available. (wcdsnb.org)
- LIHEAP (energy bills): Administered by the SC Office of Economic Opportunity via local Community Action Agencies. Call 803‑734‑0662 or email oeo@admin.sc.gov for your local agency, or dial 2‑1‑1. (acf.hhs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your utility company for a medical certification hardship plan; request referrals to weatherization programs through your local agency. (oeo.sc.gov)
Education scholarships and parent choice
- Exceptional SC: Scholarships up to $11,000/year for students with exceptional needs attending eligible private schools; separate refundable tax credits are also available with statewide caps. Read eligibility and apply on Exceptional SC. (exceptionalsc.org)
- Education Scholarship Trust Fund (ESTF): For 2025‑26, the scholarship is $7,500 per student (program capped at 10,000 students, now full with a waitlist). Funds may be used for tuition, therapies, transportation, and technology with approved providers. See the SCDE ESTF site and release. (sc-estf-program.com, ed.sc.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you take a private placement, know that private schools aren’t bound by IDEA like districts are. Keep your public evaluation current and request equitable services consultations if applicable. (scstatehouse.gov)
Respite and caregiver support
- SC Respite Coalition vouchers: One‑time $500 respite vouchers for eligible family caregivers (including caregivers of disabled children), as funds allow. Call 803‑935‑5027 ext. 6 or apply online. (screspitecoalition.org)
- DDSN Family Support: Local DSN Boards may have limited Family Support funds or respite vouchers to bridge gaps when waivers aren’t in place. Availability varies. (policy.mddsn.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- Ask your pediatrician to include respite needs in letters of medical necessity for Medicaid personal care hours or MCC services if appropriate.
- Check your Area Agency on Aging for caregiver resources if you’re a kinship caregiver or if your child is approaching adulthood (GetCareSC).
Diverse communities
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your providers for affirming clinicians and therapists. SC Medicaid covers mental health and primary care regardless of orientation/gender identity. Use 2‑1‑1 for local affirming supports and consider Family Connection trainings on school advocacy. (uwasc.org, familyconnectionsc.org)
- Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: TEFRA and MCC are critical. Use Modivcare for rides, and Palmetto ABLE to protect savings without losing SSI/Medicaid. Call Family Connection (800‑578‑8750) for education help. (scdhhs.sc.gov, scdhhs.gov, palmettoable.com)
- Veteran single mothers: Combine VA benefits with Medicaid/CHIP for your children when eligible. 2‑1‑1 can connect you to veteran‑specific resources and food assistance in your county. (uwasc.org)
- Immigrant or refugee single moms: Children who are lawful permanent residents or U.S. citizens may qualify for Medicaid/CHIP and school services regardless of a parent’s status. Ask your district for language access at meetings; interpreters are free. BabyNet and schools must provide services free of charge. (scdhhs.gov)
- Tribal citizens: If you are a citizen of a federally recognized tribe and live in South Carolina, you may qualify for additional Indian Health Service supports while still using state Medicaid and school services. Use 2‑1‑1 to find local partners. (uwasc.org)
- Rural single moms: Ask for telehealth and mobile providers; use Modivcare for long‑distance specialty visits. Food banks like Lowcountry Food Bank and Harvest Hope operate rural distributions. (mymodivcare.com, lowcountryfoodbank.org)
- Single fathers: All programs above apply equally. You can refer to BabyNet, request school evaluations, and apply for TEFRA, SNAP, and child care scholarships.
- Language access: Agencies must provide free interpreters. Ask for written materials in your language at SCDHHS, SCDE, BabyNet, and your district. (scdhhs.gov)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Missing deadlines: For school, everything runs on timelines. Put the 60‑day evaluation deadline on your calendar the day you sign consent.
- Not applying for TEFRA: Many families wrongly assume parent income bars Medicaid. TEFRA counts child‑only income/resources.
- Waiting to gather perfect medical records: Apply first, then upload as requested. Ask clinic staff to send records directly to Medicaid.
- No written requests: Always put requests to schools and agencies in writing and keep copies.
- Not asking for rides: If your child has Medicaid, use Modivcare. Don’t skip appointments due to transportation.
- Skipping appeals: Many denials are reversed with better documentation. Appeal on time and ask providers for function‑based letters.
Application checklist
- Child’s identity: Birth certificate, SSN, immigration documents if applicable.
- SC residency: Lease, utility bill, or mail.
- Medical records: Diagnoses, treatment plans, therapy notes, medications, adaptive equipment needs.
- School documents: IEP/504, evaluations, progress notes.
- Income/resources: Pay stubs and bank statements if required by the program (note: TEFRA counts only the child’s income/resources).
- Contacts & calendar: Names, phone numbers, and appointment dates for caseworkers, school staff, and providers.
Program tables you can scan fast
Medicaid and CHIP income thresholds in South Carolina (effective March 1, 2025 unless noted)
| Program | Who it’s for | Monthly income limit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Partners for Healthy Children (PHC) | Children under 19 | Family of 4 up to $5,572.66 | Approx. 208% FPL. Full Medicaid/CHIP benefits. (scdhhs.gov) |
| ABD Medicaid | Adults who are aged, blind, or disabled | Individual 1,305∗∗,Couple∗∗1,305**, Couple **1,763 | Resources: Individual 9,660∗∗,Couple∗∗9,660**, Couple **14,470. (scdhhs.sc.gov) |
| TEFRA (“Katie Beckett”) | Disabled children under 19 | Child‑only $2,901 | Child resources ≤$2,000. Uses institutional level of care criteria. (Effective Jan 1, 2025.) (scdhhs.sc.gov) |
SNAP maximum monthly allotments (48 states & DC), FY 2025
| HH size | Max allotment |
|---|---|
| 1 | $291 |
| 2 | $535 |
| 3 | $766 |
| 4 | $975 |
| 5 | 1,155–1,155–1,158 |
| 6 | $1,390 |
| 7 | 1,532–1,532–1,536 |
| 8 | $1,751 |
| Each add’l | +$220 |
Source: USDA SNAP FY 2025 COLA (Oct 1, 2024–Sep 30, 2025). (fns-prod.azureedge.us)
Waiver programs snapshot
| Waiver | Key fit | Examples of supports | How to get in |
|---|---|---|---|
| MCC (Medically Complex Children) | Chronic medical needs meeting hospital LOC | Case management, personal care, pediatric day care, self‑directed attendant care (from Jul 1, 2025) | Ask provider to refer; family contact 888‑827‑1665. (scdhhs.gov) |
| ID/RD | Intellectual disability or related conditions | Respite, day services, home mods, personal care | Contact local DSN Board, ask for screening and interest list. (scdhhs.gov) |
| Community Supports (CS) | I/DD with community‑based needs | Limited service bundle to delay institutionalization | Contact DSN Board; waiver interest list applies. (scdhhs.gov) |
| HASCI | Head and spinal cord injury | In‑home supports, therapies, case management | DDSN/OIDD referral; waitlists may apply. (ddsn.sc.gov) |
Education timelines in SC
| Stage | Required timeline | Where it’s written |
|---|---|---|
| Part C: Referral to initial IFSP | Within 45 days of referral | IDEA regs; BabyNet policy. (asha.org, scdhhs.gov) |
| Part B: Initial evaluation | Within 60 days of parental consent | SCDE Indicator 11. (oses.ed.sc.gov) |
| Prior Written Notice | Reasonable time before action/refusal | Disability Rights SC guidance. (disabilityrightssc.org) |
One‑stop contacts
| Need | Contact |
|---|---|
| Family support and PTI | Family Connection of SC 800‑578‑8750. PTI confirmed by US ED OSEP funding renewal. (familyconnectionsc.org) |
| Medicaid general | Healthy Connections 888‑549‑0820. (babynet.scdhhs.gov) |
| SNAP/TANF | DSS Benefits 800‑616‑1309. (dss.sc.gov) |
| NEMT rides | Modivcare Regions 866‑910‑7688, 866‑445‑6860, 866‑445‑9954. (scdhhs.gov) |
| SC 211 | Dial 2‑1‑1 or text 211‑211. (uwasc.org) |
Region‑by‑region pointers
- Charleston/Lowcountry: Lowcountry Food Bank hubs in Charleston, Myrtle Beach, and Early Branch (843‑747‑8146, 843‑448‑0341, 843‑589‑4118). Modivcare Region 3 for rides. (lowcountryfoodbank.org, scdhhs.gov)
- Columbia/Midlands: Harvest Hope pantry at 2220 Shop Rd (803‑254‑4432). Modivcare Region 2. Family Connection offices in Columbia. (harvesthope.org)
- Greenville/Upstate: Harvest Hope pantry at 2818 White Horse Rd (864‑281‑3995). Modivcare Region 1. SCVRD has multiple area offices and youth transition programs. (harvesthope.org, scvrd.net)
- Grand Strand/Pee Dee: Lowcountry Food Bank northern region (843‑448‑0341). Reach BabyNet SPOEs through SCDHHS contacts. (lowcountryfoodbank.org)
Real‑world examples
- TEFRA success: A Sumter mom applied to TEFRA with help from her pediatrician’s detailed letter describing 24‑hour care needs for her toddler with epilepsy. Approval meant Medicaid covered costly meds and EEG monitoring her marketplace plan didn’t. She later added the MCC Waiver for more in‑home support. (Use your specialists’ words about level of care and safety.)
- School timeline win: A Greenville mom emailed consent on August 20 and set a calendar reminder for 60 days. When the timeline started to slip, she requested Prior Written Notice and a make‑up services plan. The district sped up testing and convened the IEP on time. (oses.ed.sc.gov, disabilityrightssc.org)
- Food + child care bridge: A Charleston mom combined SNAP, WIC, and the SC Child Care Scholarship while starting a CNA program. The child care scholarship covered most tuition at an ABC Quality provider, and Lowcountry Food Bank helped with groceries during a wait for SNAP approval. (scchildcare.org, lowcountryfoodbank.org)
If something fails, here’s your Plan B
- Medicaid denied: Appeal on time, submit missing medical records, and ask your doctor to use level‑of‑care language (hospital, nursing facility, ICF/IID) that TEFRA requires. (scdhhs.sc.gov)
- Waiver waitlist: Request Family Support funds and SC Respite Coalition vouchers to cover gaps, and ask your care team to document health/safety risks to request any available priority. (screspitecoalition.org, policy.mddsn.org)
- School delays: Write a Prior Written Notice request. If no response, escalate to SCDE dispute options or contact Disability Rights SC for guidance. (disabilityrightssc.org)
- Transportation falls through: Call the Modivcare “Where’s My Ride” number immediately; request mileage reimbursement next time if a friend can drive. (mymodivcare.com)
10 South Carolina‑specific FAQs
- How fast will BabyNet move: Within 45 days of referral, they must finish evaluation/assessment and hold the initial IFSP meeting unless you delay consent. (asha.org)
- How long does my school have to finish an initial evaluation: 60 days from the date you sign consent. Put the date in your calendar. (oses.ed.sc.gov)
- Does my income stop my disabled child from getting Medicaid: Not under TEFRA. Only your child’s income/resources count, and the 2025 child‑only income limit is $2,901/month. (scdhhs.sc.gov)
- What is the 2025 SSI amount for my child: Up to $967/month federally, depending on countable income. (ssa.gov)
- Can I save money without losing benefits: Yes. Palmetto ABLE lets you save up to 19,000/year∗∗in2025(moreifyourchildworks,uptothe∗∗19,000/year** in 2025 (more if your child works, up to the **15,650 FPG). Balances under $100,000 don’t count against SSI. (palmettoable.com)
- What’s the SNAP max for a family of four in 2025: $975/month through September 30, 2025. (fns-prod.azureedge.us)
- Who do I call for a Medicaid ride: Modivcare Region 1 866‑910‑7688, Region 2 866‑445‑6860, Region 3 866‑445‑9954. Book at least 3 business days ahead. (scdhhs.gov)
- Can my teen get job help: Yes. SC Vocational Rehabilitation offers Pre‑ETS and transition services for students with IEP/504 plans. Find your area office through SCVRD. (scvrd.net)
- Any new services for kids with complex medical needs: The MCC Waiver added self‑directed children’s attendant care starting July 1, 2025. (scdhhs.gov)
- Where do I get help with school advocacy: Family Connection of South Carolina is the statewide PTI; call 800‑578‑8750. (familyconnectionsc.org)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from South Carolina Department of Human Services, USDA, HUD, and established nonprofits.
This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
Last verified September 2025, next review April 2026.
Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur – email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.
Disclaimer
Information accuracy: Program rules, amounts, and deadlines change. Always verify current details with the agency before applying or deciding on care.
No legal advice: This guide offers general information only and is not legal, medical, or tax advice.
Your data security: For your safety, share personal documents only through official agency portals or secure methods provided by those agencies. We never ask you to send sensitive information to us.
Accessibility and inclusion: We aim to serve all families – single mothers and fathers, LGBTQ+ parents, veteran families, parents with disabilities, tribal citizens, immigrant families eligible for services, and rural households.
Source notes and verification
- BabyNet timelines and referral contacts: SCDHHS and IDEA guidance. (asha.org, babynet.scdhhs.gov)
- School evaluation 60‑day timeline and PWN: SCDE OSES and Disability Rights SC. (oses.ed.sc.gov, disabilityrightssc.org)
- Medicaid TEFRA and program income/resource figures, PHC and ABD limits, effective dates: SCDHHS program pages. (scdhhs.sc.gov)
- ASD coverage updates: SCDHHS bulletins and member FAQs. (scdhhs.sc.gov, scdhhs.gov)
- MCC Waiver and new self‑directed attendant care from Jul 1, 2025: SCDHHS. (scdhhs.gov)
- DDSN waivers overview and KFF HCBS waiting list data: DDSN and KFF 2024 brief. (ddsn.sc.gov, kff.org)
- SNAP FY 2025 amounts and DSS application process: USDA and SCDSS. (fns-prod.azureedge.us, dss.sc.gov)
- WIC income guidelines 2025–26 and DPH contact: USDA FR notice and SC DPH. (federalregister.gov, dph.sc.gov)
- Modivcare NEMT region numbers and SCDHHS transportation page: SCDHHS and Modivcare SC page. (scdhhs.gov, mymodivcare.com)
- SC Child Care Scholarship amounts and contacts: SC Child Care Services. (scchildcare.org)
- Palmetto ABLE contribution limits and fees: Palmetto ABLE official site. (palmettoable.com)
- Food banks contacts: Harvest Hope and Lowcountry Food Bank. (harvesthope.org, lowcountryfoodbank.org)
- ESTF scholarships amounts and cap: SCDE and program site. (ed.sc.gov, sc-estf-program.com)
If a link is down, search by the page title on the agency’s website to avoid scams.
🏛️More South Carolina Resources for Single Mothers
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