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Assistance and Benefits for Veteran Single Mothers in South Carolina

Assistance and Benefits for Veteran Single Mothers in South Carolina

Last updated: September 2025

This is a practical, step‑by‑step hub for veteran single moms in South Carolina. It focuses on veteran‑specific help and leaves out general programs open to everyone. Use the quick actions below first, then work through the sections that match your most urgent need.


If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

Quick Help Box — Numbers and Links to Keep Handy

Who this guide is for

Every section below is tailored to South Carolina veteran single mothers. You’ll see links for state agencies like SCDVA and SCDOR alongside federal sources such as VA Health and VA Benefits. Use your county Veterans Affairs office (search list at County VA Offices) and your nearest VA health system pages for direct help. (scdva.sc.gov)

How to use this guide

Start each section with the action box, then review eligibility, documents, steps, timelines, and Plan B. Keep phone and claim numbers in one folder. Get a county Veterans Service Officer (VSO) from SCDVA Benefits & Claims and consider free legal help from the USC Veterans Legal Clinic for appeals. (scdva.sc.gov)

Housing and homelessness help for veteran single moms in South Carolina

Most important first: Call SSVF right now if you’re in a housing crisis. In the Lowcountry/Midlands, call 1-843-212-8668 or 1-803-726-6348 at One80 Place Veterans Services for prevention, back rent, utility arrears, or rapid rehousing; SCDVA’s Housing Resources page lists other partners like Alston Wilkes Society and ECHO statewide. (one80place.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your county VSO to escalate at County VA Offices and request a Women Veterans Program Manager warm handoff through Women Veterans Health; for rural areas, ask about Veteran Transportation Service to get to housing intake at DAV/VA Transportation pages. (va.gov)

Lowering your housing costs with South Carolina veteran tax relief

Most important first: Apply for your property and vehicle tax exemptions if you are a 100% permanently and totally disabled veteran (or eligible surviving spouse). Use the online portal at SCDOR Exempt Property and read the 2024 expansion details at SCDOR Disabled Veteran Exemption News. Applications typically take 4–6 weeks. (dor.sc.gov)

  • What’s covered right now: Full property tax exemption on your legal residence (retroactive to 2022 when disability occurred if you owned the home that year) and exemptions on up to two private passenger vehicles; certain rules now also cover vehicles in a spouse’s name or a qualifying trust; see SCDVA summary and SC Code §12‑37‑220(B). (scdva.sc.gov)
  • How to apply and timeline: File online (no account required) via MyDORWAY property exemption and track your case using the Status Check; SCDOR notes applications “take 4–6 weeks to process,” and letters arrive by mail. Apply within two years of paying the tax to preserve refunds. (dor.sc.gov)
  • Vehicle/plate tips: Veterans with qualifying disabilities can receive free specialty plates and are exempt from property tax on up to two vehicles; some cities waive meter fees for disabled veteran or Purple Heart plates; confirm through SC Code §56‑5‑2585 and see DMV plate rules under Title 56, Chapter 3. Contact your county auditor first—find county contacts from SCDVA County Offices. (law.justia.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re denied or delayed, call SCDOR at 1-803-898-5700 via Exempt Property and bring your VA disability letter to your county auditor (process varies by county—see Richland County guidance for examples). (dor.sc.gov)

Women’s VA health, maternity, fertility, and travel pay

Most important first: Get a Women Veterans Program Manager on your side. Use the WVPM Locator, call 1-855-829-6636 for the Women Veterans Call Center, or contact local systems: Charleston Women Veteran Care; Columbia Women Veteran Care. (womenshealth.va.gov)

Reality check: Reproductive care policies can change. In August 2025 VA proposed reversing the 2022 abortion access rule; check current policy at VA Women’s Health and monitor reputable news for updates. Make a care plan with your WVPM and ask about community care if needed. (reuters.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Escalate through the Women Veterans Call Center (1-855-829-6636) and ask for your facility’s Patient Advocate; for transportation barriers, schedule free rides with DAV Vans or contact Charleston (1-843-789-6555) and Columbia (1-803-776-4000 ext. 57199) DAV coordination pages. (dav.org)

How to stop a utility shutoff in South Carolina today

Most important first: File a medical certificate to get a 30‑day delay (renewable up to three times Dec–Mar) and set a payment plan. Read your rights in the Electric Bill of Rights and contact SC ORS if the utility isn’t honoring protections. (ors.sc.gov)

  • Steps (fast):
    • Ask your doctor to sign the utility’s medical certificate stating shutoff would be dangerous; see the state summary at the LIHEAP Clearinghouse — SC policy and confirm with your utility.
    • Call SSVF for arrears help: Lowcountry 1-843-212-8668 or Midlands 1-803-726-6348 at One80 Place Veterans; ask for “temporary financial assistance” for utilities. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
  • Back‑up options: Open a complaint with the Public Service Commission consumer team and keep copies of notices; if you’re in a co‑op/municipal territory, talk to your city/county utility board and bring your certificate plus a pay plan; use SCDVA Housing Resources to find veteran‑specific utility aid. (psc.sc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Get letters showing you attempted payment arrangements, then escalate to ORS (consumer services) and PSC (regulatory) using ORS complaint and PSC contact; ask SSVF to verify your pending help so the utility sees funds on the way. (ors.sc.gov)

Transportation for VA care

Most important first: Schedule a DAV van at least 3 business days ahead. Charleston riders call 1-843-789-6555 via DAV Vans — Charleston; Columbia riders call 1-803-776-4000 ext. 57199 using DAV Vans — Columbia, which also lists Veteran Transportation Service contacts. (va.gov)

  • Eligibility & notes: You must be ambulatory for DAV vans; for wheelchair options ask about VA’s Veteran Transportation Service through your facility page; check statewide options at DAV Transportation Network and use the VA health system’s contact us pages for shuttle details. (dav.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Request BTSSS reimbursement for gas/parking or rideshare via VA Travel Pay and ask your WVPM about community vendor rides if DAV/VTS is full. (va.gov)

Jobs, training, and veteran tax breaks

Most important first: Use veteran‑priority hiring at SC Works. Go to SC Works Veteran Services and create a profile at the Veterans Portal so you see “Vet‑Hold” jobs 24 hours before the public; you’ll work with DVOP and LVER staff through DEW Veteran Services. (scworks.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your DVOP for resume translation into civilian terms and referrals to apprenticeships that accept GI Bill MHA; if childcare is blocking work, talk to your WVPM and SSVF case manager about short‑term supports and evening classes; confirm any promised benefits in writing through your SC Works center. (scworks.org)

Education benefits for you and your children

Most important first: Use your GI Bill or VR&E for a degree, certificate, OJT, or apprenticeship and ask the school’s Veterans Office to certify enrollment; see GI Bill (VA) and VR&E — Chapter 31; South Carolina public colleges must charge in‑state rates to covered veterans and dependents using VA education benefits per SC Code §59‑112‑50. (law.justia.com)

  • South Carolina free tuition for your child: The “Tuition Program for Children of Certain War Veterans” waives tuition at state‑supported colleges/technical schools for eligible children up to age 26 (for P&T disabled vets, KIA, POW/MIA, Purple Heart, etc.); apply through SCDVA Education; verify the current statute at SC Code §59‑111‑20, posted at Justia. (scdva.sc.gov)
  • Palmetto Heroes homeownership track (if you’re buying): Veterans were eligible for 2025’s Palmetto Heroes loans with $10,000 forgivable DPA and reduced rates; funds closed May 8, 2025—watch SC Housing Palmetto Heroes and the 2025 closure notice here for the next round. (schousing.sc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: For appeals or underpayments, contact your campus certifying official and escalate through Ask VA; if your child is denied the SC tuition waiver, call SCDVA Education at numbers listed on SCDVA Education and consider the USC Veterans Legal Clinic for benefit appeal help. (scdva.sc.gov)

Recreation and mental recovery you can actually afford

Most important first: Use your state park discount. South Carolina residents who are 100% disabled veterans qualify for 35% off park admission, camping, and a 50% off All Park Passport; find details at SC State Parks FAQs and Park Passports. (southcarolinaparks.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your WVPM for local women’s groups and peer support; SCDVA’s Palmetto Pathfinder connects you with trained veteran peers statewide. (scdva.sc.gov)

Local organizations, charities, and support groups that actually help

Resources by region

Diverse communities: tailored notes and contacts

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Waiting to apply for tax exemptions: Don’t wait—SCDOR processing can take 4–6 weeks; apply now through SCDOR Exempt Property and track status online. (dor.sc.gov)
  • Missing the 30‑day travel pay window: File BTSSS claims within 30 days at VA Travel Pay; paper forms take much longer to pay. (va.gov)
  • Assuming DAV vans will fit your schedule: Reserve early via DAV Vans pages and set BTSSS as a backup. (va.gov)
  • Not using veteran priority in job search: Set up the SC Works Veterans Portal so you see Vet‑Hold jobs first; ask a DVOP for resume translation. (veterans.scworks.org)

Reality check: Funding windows open and close fast (Palmetto Heroes closed May 8, 2025). Join mailing lists at SC Housing News and follow SCDVA so you don’t miss veteran‑only opportunities. (schousing.sc.gov)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Program Who it helps What it covers Where to apply Typical timing
SSVF (housing) Low‑income veteran families in crisis Rent/utility arrears, deposits, rapid rehousing One80 Place Veterans; SCDVA Housing Resources Crisis screening 24–72 hours; payments vary
SCDOR Disabled Vet Exemptions 100% P&T vets/surviving spouses Home property tax; up to 2 vehicles SCDOR Exempt Property 4–6 weeks processing
VA Travel Pay (BTSSS) Eligible vets/caregivers Mileage, parking, select fares VA Travel Pay 3–7 days online; longer by paper
DAV Vans Vets going to VA care Free rides to VA facilities Charleston DAV Vans; Columbia DAV Vans Book ≥3 business days ahead
SC State Parks SC resident 100% disabled vets 35% discounts; 50% off Passport SC Parks FAQs At purchase; ongoing

(one80place.org)

Application checklist (print or screenshot)

Troubleshooting: If your application gets denied

  • Tax exemption denial: Ask SCDOR for the reason in writing via Exempt Property and bring new evidence; speak with your county auditor (use SCDVA county list) about local appeal steps. (dor.sc.gov)
  • SSVF denial or waitlist: Request written denial; ask another SSVF provider on SCDVA Housing Resources; get your WVPM to document risk factors (survivor of violence, child under 6, medical fragility). (scdva.sc.gov)
  • Travel pay denied: Re‑file in BTSSS with receipts and correct appointment info through VA Travel Pay; contact your facility’s Beneficiary Travel Office; if paper claims lag, switch to BTSSS for faster self‑adjudication. (va.gov)
  • VA benefits appeal: Get free representation from DAV (NSO Office) and consider the USC Veterans Legal Clinic for complex appeals. (davwebsites.dav.org)

County‑specific variations that matter

FAQs — veteran single moms in South Carolina

  1. How fast can SSVF help with rent or a hotel if my kids and I are about to be homeless?
    Contact SSVF the same day—One80 Place Veterans does crisis triage and can fund arrears, deposits, and limited hotel stays when eligible; providers and funding vary by county, listed on SCDVA Housing Resources. Call to confirm current availability before applying. (one80place.org)
  2. What’s the current VA travel pay mileage rate and how long does payment take?
    VA pays $0.415/mile with small deductibles; online BTSSS claims often pay in 3–7 days; paper claims can take weeks; see travel expenses and mileage rate and filing/BTSSS page. (va.gov)
  3. Can my child attend a SC public college tuition‑free because I’m 100% P&T?
    Yes—if state criteria are met under SC Code §59‑111‑20; apply through SCDVA Education and check the law via Justia code page. (scdva.sc.gov)
  4. Is my military retirement pay taxed by South Carolina?
    No. All military retirement is fully exempt from SC income tax (effective TY2022), including for eligible surviving spouses; see SCDOR release. (dor.sc.gov)
  5. How long do SCDOR property tax exemptions take once I apply?
    SCDOR says applications take 4–6 weeks; apply and track status at Exempt Property; expanded rules from 2024 benefit disabled veterans and certain surviving spouses. (dor.sc.gov)
  6. Where can I get a free ride to my VA appointment with kids at home?
    Schedule DAV Vans (Charleston 1-843-789-6555; Columbia 1-803-776-4000 ext. 57199) or ask your WVPM for community rides; combine with Travel Pay to cover mileage/parking. (va.gov)
  7. Do SC state parks offer veteran discounts?
    Yes—SC residents who are 100% disabled veterans get 35% discounts and half‑price All Park Passport; see SC Parks FAQs and Park Passports. (southcarolinaparks.com)
  8. What if I’m separating from service and pregnant—how does coverage work?
    Talk to your WVPM and current MTF before separation; verify TRICARE changes at TRICARE Newsroom and use VA Maternity Care to coordinate care. (newsroom.tricare.mil)
  9. Who can help me appeal a VA benefits denial without paying a lawyer fee up front?
    Contact DAV NSO — Columbia and the USC Veterans Legal Clinic for free representation and student‑attorney support. (davwebsites.dav.org)
  10. Are there “veteran‑only” mortgage or down‑payment programs in SC?
    SC Housing’s Palmetto Heroes included veterans in 2025 with $10,000 forgivable DPA but closed May 8, 2025; watch the news page here and consider SC Housing’s year‑round Homebuyer Program that allows VA loans with forgivable DPA. (schousing.sc.gov)

Tables you can use right now

VA and state contacts for women veterans

Need Where to start Local SC contact
Women’s care & navigation Women Veterans Call Center Charleston WVPM at Women Veteran Care; Columbia WVPM at Women Veteran Care
Maternity & postpartum Maternity Care Ask your facility WVPM for an MCC
Infertility/IVF Infertility & IVF Confirm current eligibility with your WVPM

(womenshealth.va.gov)

Housing and transportation

Program What it does How to reach
SSVF (One80 Place) Prevents homelessness, pays arrears/deposits, rapid rehousing One80 Place – Get Help
DAV Vans (Charleston) Free rides to VA 1-843-789-6555 via DAV Vans page
DAV Vans (Columbia) Free rides to VA 1-803-776-4000 ext. 57199 via DAV Vans page

(one80place.org)

Money savers specific to SC veterans

Benefit Who qualifies Where to apply
Property & vehicle tax exemption 100% P&T disabled vets/survOR Exempt Property](https://dor.sc.gov/exempt-property/)*
In‑state tuition Covered veterans and dependents using VA education benefits SC Code §59‑112‑50
State parks discount SC 100% disabled veterans SC Parks FAQs

Health travel and reimbursements

Item Rate/limit Where to file
Mileage $0.415 per mile VA Travel Pay
Deductible 3one‑way/3 one‑way / 6 round trip; max $18/mo Travel reimbursement page
Processing time 3–7 days online typical BTSSS info

Veteran job search in SC

Resource Why use it Link
SC Works Veterans Portal 24‑hour Vet‑Hold jobs SC Works Veterans Portal
DEW Veteran Services DVOP/LVER staff and priority services DEW Veteran Services
SCDVA Employment Ready‑to‑hire listings & employer recognition SCDVA Employment

“Reality Check” — common delays, denials, and shortages

Reality check: SSVF funds are limited and often targeted to the highest‑risk families first. Keep documents ready, answer calls quickly, and request letters for landlords to pause eviction while funds are pending; use SCDVA Housing Resources to try more than one provider.

Reality check: SCDOR exemptions aren’t instant—plan for 4–6 weeks. If your renewal notice arrives before approval, call the county auditor and show your MyDORWAY status to avoid paying first and refunding later.

Reality check: VA policy can shift (e.g., abortion coverage proposals). Always verify current rules through Women Veterans Health and your WVPM.

Spanish summary — Resumen en español

Esta sección en español fue traducida con herramientas de IA. Verifique siempre los detalles en los enlaces oficiales.

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.

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. 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

This content is educational, not legal or financial advice. Always verify benefits, eligibility, amounts, and timelines with the official agencies linked here. Program funding and rules can change without notice—use the phone numbers and portals provided to confirm the latest information before you apply.

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