EITC and Tax Credits for Single Mothers in South Carolina
South Carolina EITC and Tax Credits for Single Mothers: The No‑BS Guide (2025)
Last updated: September 2025
This guide gives you the exact steps, amounts, deadlines, and links you need to claim the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and other tax credits in South Carolina. Everything here links to official sources only.
Quick Help Box (start here)
- File a federal return even if your income is low. You must file Form 1040 to get the federal EITC and to unlock South Carolina’s state EITC. Claim the federal EITC on Schedule EIC. (irs.gov)
- South Carolina’s EITC equals 125% of your federal EITC (nonrefundable) and is for full‑year SC residents. Claim it on your SC1040 using the nonrefundable credits schedule (SC1040TC). (law.justia.com, dor.sc.gov)
- 2024 federal EITC maximums (filed in 2025): up to 7,830∗∗with3+children;∗∗7,830** with 3+ children; **6,960 (2 children); 4,213∗∗(1child).Investmentincomemustbe∗∗4,213** (1 child). Investment income must be **11,600 or less. (eitc.irs.gov)
- 2024 Child Tax Credit (CTC): up to 2,000perchildunder17∗∗,withupto∗∗2,000 per child under 17**, with up to **1,700 refundable (Additional CTC). File Schedule 8812. (irs.gov)
- South Carolina Child & Dependent Care Credit: 7% of federal care expenses, max 210∗∗(1child)or∗∗210** (1 child) or **420 (2+). Full‑year SC residents only. (dor.sc.gov)
- SC dependent exemption (2024 return): $4,790 per dependent. (dor.sc.gov)
- Deadlines (TY 2024 returns): Federal due April 15, 2025; South Carolina extended to May 1, 2025 (Hurricane Helene relief). (irs.gov, dor.sc.gov)
- Refund timing with EITC/ACTC: IRS can’t issue refunds before mid‑February; many see deposits by early March if e‑file + direct deposit. Track with Where’s My Refund. (irs.gov)
- Free filing help: Call 2‑1‑1 for VITA sites, IRS VITA locator 800‑906‑9887, AARP Tax‑Aide 888‑227‑7669, or SC DOR Individual Income line 1‑844‑898‑8542 (Option 1). (eitc.irs.gov, dor.sc.gov)
What this guide covers
- Exactly who qualifies for the federal and South Carolina EITC
- The real dollar amounts for 2024 returns (filed 2025), plus 2025 preview where the IRS has posted it
- How to claim CTC, Child & Dependent Care Credit, Saver’s Credit, and education credits
- Forms, documents, timelines, and step‑by‑step filing tips
- Common mistakes that delay refunds
- Backup plans if a credit doesn’t work out
- Verified phone numbers and official links to file or get help
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
| Credit | Tax Year | Max benefit (single mom focus) | Key eligibility | Where to claim |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Federal EITC | 2024 | Up to 7,830(3+kids);7,830 (3+ kids); 6,960 (2); $4,213 (1) | Earned income and AGI within IRS limits; investment income ≤ $11,600 | Form 1040 + Schedule EIC (attach) (eitc.irs.gov) |
| South Carolina EITC | 2024 | 125% of your federal EITC (nonrefundable; limited by SC tax due) | Must qualify for federal EITC; full‑year SC resident | SC1040 + SC1040TC (nonrefundable credits) (law.justia.com, dor.sc.gov) |
| Child Tax Credit (CTC) | 2024 | Up to 2,000perchild<17;upto2,000 per child <17; up to 1,700 refundable | Income phaseouts start at $200k (HOH/single) | Schedule 8812 with Form 1040 (irs.gov) |
| Child & Dependent Care Credit (federal) | 2024 | Max 600(1child)or600 (1 child) or 1,200 (2+), based on % of expenses | Must pay for care so you can work or look for work | Form 2441 (irs.gov) |
| Child & Dependent Care Credit (South Carolina) | 2024 | 7% of federal care expense; cap 210(1)/210 (1) / 420 (2+) | Full‑year SC residents; not MFS | SC1040 (state schedule) (dor.sc.gov) |
| Saver’s Credit | 2024 | Up to 1,000backonfirst1,000 back on first 2,000 saved (HOH AGI up to $57,375) | Age ≥ 18, not a student or dependent | Form 8880 (irs.gov) |
| Education: AOTC | 2024 | Up to 2,500perstudent(upto2,500 per student (up to 1,000 refundable) | First 4 years; income limits apply | Form 8863 (irs.gov) |
| Education: LLC | 2024 | Up to $2,000 per return (nonrefundable) | Any post‑HS education/job skills; income limits | Form 8863 (irs.gov) |
Federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): What you can get and how to qualify
Most important action: Check your eligibility now with the IRS’ EITC Assistant, then file a federal return even if you made little or no tax. If you don’t file, you don’t get the credit. (eitc.irs.gov)
2024 federal EITC amounts and limits (filed in 2025)
| Qualifying children | Max EITC | Income must be less than (Single/HOH) | Investment income cap |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | $632 | $18,591 | $11,600 |
| 1 | $4,213 | $49,084 | $11,600 |
| 2 | $6,960 | $55,768 | $11,600 |
| 3+ | $7,830 | $59,899 | $11,600 |
Source: IRS EITC Central (Tax Year 2024). (eitc.irs.gov)
Reality check:
- You must have earned income (wages or self‑employment). Child support, SSI, and unemployment don’t count as earned income for EITC. See IRS Publication 596. (irs.gov)
- Married filing separately is usually not allowed, but a special separated‑spouse rule can apply under ARPA—see the footnote on the IRS page and Pub. 596 for details. If you qualify federally under this rule, SC mirrors federal rules. (eitc.irs.gov)
- If anyone on your return used an ITIN (not an SSN), you can’t claim the federal EITC. (irs.gov)
How to claim:
- File Form 1040 and attach Schedule EIC (if claiming with children). Use the IRS EITC Assistant first to avoid mistakes. (irs.gov)
Required documents (have these ready):
- W‑2s, 1099s, Social Security cards (you and kids), proof your child lived with you (school/medical/lease), child’s SSN, childcare provider info if also claiming care credit. See IRS “What to bring” list at VITA sites. (taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov)
Refund timeline:
- By law (PATH Act), the IRS holds EITC/ACTC refunds until mid‑February. Many early filers who e‑file and choose direct deposit see funds by early March. Track your refund in Where’s My Refund. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your income is just over the EITC limit, run your eligibility again—one‑time income changes (bonus, severance) can push you over. If you’re not eligible, you might still get the CTC or Saver’s Credit below.
- If the IRS flags your return, answer any letters quickly. If you disagree with a denial, a Low‑Income Taxpayer Clinic can represent you for free or low cost. Use the IRS LITC map or the University of South Carolina Tax Clinic (803‑777‑8614). (irs.gov, sc.edu)
South Carolina Earned Income Tax Credit (SC EITC)
Most important action: Claim your federal EITC first—SC will not allow the state EITC unless you qualified for the federal EITC. Then add the SC EITC on your SC1040 with the SC1040TC schedule. (dor.sc.gov)
Key facts:
- Amount: 125% of your federal EITC. Example: if your federal EITC is 4,213∗∗,yourSCEITCis∗∗4,213**, your SC EITC is **5,266.25 (but see “nonrefundable” note). (law.justia.com)
- Nonrefundable: It can reduce your SC tax to $0 but won’t create a cash refund by itself. Full‑year SC residents only. (dor.sc.gov)
- How to claim: File SC1040 and include the SC1040TC nonrefundable credits schedule (the SC EITC is claimed there). (dor.sc.gov)
Estimated SC EITC maximums (TY 2024; for illustration—your actual state benefit is limited by your SC tax due):
| Qualifying children | Federal max | SC EITC = 125% of federal |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | $632 | $790.00 |
| 1 | $4,213 | $5,266.25 |
| 2 | $6,960 | $8,700.00 |
| 3+ | $7,830 | $9,787.50 |
Federal maximums per IRS; SC formula per state law. Remember: SC EITC is nonrefundable. (eitc.irs.gov, law.justia.com)
Real‑world example (state nonrefundable impact):
- You’re a head‑of‑household single mom with two kids. Your federal EITC is 6,960∗∗.YourSCEITCis∗∗6,960**. Your SC EITC is **8,700. If your SC income tax due is 650∗∗,thestateEITCwipesoutthe∗∗650**, the state EITC wipes out the **650—but the extra state credit doesn’t get refunded. You still receive your federal EITC refund. (law.justia.com)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your SC income tax is already $0 (for example, due to the dependent exemption or other credits), the state EITC may not pay out. Focus on the federal EITC and other refundable credits (CTC refundable portion, AOTC refundable portion) to bring cash in. (irs.gov)
Child Tax Credit (CTC) for 2024 (filed in 2025)
Most important action: File Schedule 8812 with your 1040.
- Amount: Up to 2,000∗∗perchildunder17;upto∗∗2,000** per child under 17; up to **1,700 may be refundable as the Additional CTC for 2024. Income phase‑outs begin at $200,000 (single/HOH). (irs.gov)
- Where to claim: Schedule 8812 and Form 1040. (irs.gov)
- Refund timing: If you also claim ACTC, the PATH Act holds your entire refund until mid‑February (same timing as EITC). (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your child turned 17 during the year, look at the Credit for Other Dependents ($500 nonrefundable). It won’t create a refund by itself, but it can reduce your tax. See Schedule 8812 instructions. (irs.gov)
Child and Dependent Care Credits (work‑related childcare)
Most important action: Save receipts and the provider’s SSN/EIN before you file.
Federal (Form 2441):
- Max qualifying expenses: 3,000∗∗(onechild),∗∗3,000** (one child), **6,000 (two or more). Credit equals 20–35% of expenses based on your AGI; for AGI over 43,000∗∗,therateis∗∗2043,000**, the rate is **20%**. Max federal credit is **600 or $1,200. (irs.gov)
South Carolina:
- State child/dependent care credit is 7% of your federal care expense, max 210∗∗(onechild)or∗∗210** (one child) or **420 (two or more). Full‑year residents only; not allowed if married filing separately. (dor.sc.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your income is too high for a meaningful federal credit, make sure your employer’s dependent care FSA is maxed for next year (pre‑tax savings). For this year, still claim SC’s 7% credit if you’re eligible. (irs.gov, dor.sc.gov)
Premium Tax Credit (Marketplace health plans)
Most important action: If you used ACA coverage with Advance PTC, reconcile it on Form 8962 to avoid a balance due and to claim any extra credit. For 2023–2025, enhanced subsidies continue; households above 400% FPL can still qualify if the benchmark plan would cost over 8.5% of income. (irs.gov, healthaffairs.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you owe back some APTC because your 2024 income was higher than estimated, ask the Marketplace to adjust 2025 APTC now and consider a mid‑year plan change. Use the HealthCare.gov tax tool and keep your income updated. (irs.gov)
Saver’s Credit (help for moms saving for retirement)
Most important action: If you can put even 20–20–50 into an IRA or 401(k) before the deadline, do it—you might get a direct credit.
- 2024 thresholds (Head of Household): 50% credit up to AGI 34,500∗∗;∗∗2034,500**; **20%** up to **37,500; 10% up to 57,375∗∗;then057,375**; then 0%. Max credit **1,000 (on $2,000 savings). IRA contributions for 2024 are allowed until April 15, 2025. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If your AGI is too high this year, set a small, automatic transfer to an IRA for next year—timing contributions early can keep you within the credit bands. (irs.gov)
Education credits: AOTC and Lifetime Learning (LLC)
Most important action: Get Form 1098‑T from your school, then use Form 8863.
- AOTC: Up to 2,500∗∗perstudent;upto∗∗2,500** per student; up to **1,000 refundable; income phaseout 80k–80k–90k (single/HOH). First 4 years only. (irs.gov)
- LLC: Up to 2,000∗∗perreturn;nonrefundable;incomelimits∗∗2,000** per return; nonrefundable; income limits **90k (single/HOH) phaseout ceiling. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you’re past year four, switch to LLC (nonrefundable but still cuts tax). If you don’t owe tax, AOTC (refundable part) is usually better if you’re within the first four years. (irs.gov)
South Carolina‑specific: dependent exemption, deadlines, and filing help
- Dependent exemption (state): $4,790 per dependent for Tax Year 2024. This reduces your SC taxable income. (dor.sc.gov)
- 2024 SC filing deadline: May 1, 2025 (Hurricane Helene relief). Federal deadline remained April 15, 2025. (dor.sc.gov, irs.gov)
- SC refund timing: SC DOR says processing can take up to 8 weeks from filing; direct deposit is the fastest. Check status at the state “Where’s My Refund” page. If a mailed refund goes missing, use MyDORWAY to request a replacement. (dor.sc.gov)
- SC DOR contact (individual income): 1‑844‑898‑8542 (Option 1), email IITax@dor.sc.gov. Taxpayer Advocate: 803‑898‑5444. (dor.sc.gov)
Step‑by‑step: How a single mom in SC should file to maximize credits
- Gather documents (see checklist below). If your income is moderate or low, schedule free help with VITA or AARP Tax‑Aide. Call 2‑1‑1, 800‑906‑9887 (VITA), or 888‑227‑7669 (AARP). (eitc.irs.gov)
- Run the IRS EITC Assistant and confirm eligibility and your likely EITC amount. Then e‑file your federal return (Form 1040 + Schedule EIC). Choose direct deposit. (eitc.irs.gov)
- Claim other federal credits that fit (CTC on Schedule 8812; Child/Dependent Care on Form 2441; AOTC/LLC on Form 8863; Saver’s Credit on Form 8880). Use official instructions linked above. (irs.gov)
- File your South Carolina return (SC1040). Add your SC EITC on the SC1040TC (nonrefundable credits schedule). Claim SC’s child/dependent care credit (7%) if eligible, and list dependents to take the $4,790 per‑dependent exemption. Choose direct deposit for your SC refund. (dor.sc.gov)
- Track refunds: Use IRS “Where’s My Refund” (refunds update daily) and SC DOR refund status. Remember the PATH Act timing for EITC/ACTC: most early filers see funds by early March if e‑filed with direct deposit and no issues. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov)
Tables you can use right now
Table 1. Federal EITC (Tax Year 2024)
| Children | Max EITC | Max AGI (Single/HOH) | Max AGI (MFJ) | Investment income limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | $632 | $18,591 | $25,511 | $11,600 |
| 1 | $4,213 | $49,084 | $56,004 | $11,600 |
| 2 | $6,960 | $55,768 | $62,688 | $11,600 |
| 3+ | $7,830 | $59,899 | $66,819 | $11,600 |
Source: IRS EITC Central. (eitc.irs.gov)
Table 2. Estimated SC EITC caps at 125% of federal (TY 2024)
| Children | Federal max | 125% SC amount |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | $632 | $790.00 |
| 1 | $4,213 | $5,266.25 |
| 2 | $6,960 | $8,700.00 |
| 3+ | $7,830 | $9,787.50 |
Note: SC EITC is nonrefundable and limited by your SC income tax due. (law.justia.com)
Table 3. Child & Dependent Care Credits
| Program | Expenses counted | % / Max | Key rules |
|---|---|---|---|
| Federal (Form 2441) | 3,000(1child)/3,000 (1 child) / 6,000 (2+) | 20–35% of expenses; max 600/600/1,200 | Work‑related care; provider SSN/EIN needed |
| South Carolina | Same expenses as federal | 7% of expense; cap 210(1)/210 (1) / 420 (2+) | Full‑year SC residents; not MFS |
Sources: IRS Pub. 503; SCDOR. (irs.gov, dor.sc.gov)
Table 4. Saver’s Credit (2024 income limits)
| Credit rate | Married filing jointly | Head of Household | Single/MFS |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50% | ≤ $46,000 | ≤ $34,500 | ≤ $23,000 |
| 20% | 46,001–46,001–50,000 | 34,501–34,501–37,500 | 23,001–23,001–25,000 |
| 10% | 50,001–50,001–76,500 | 37,501–37,501–57,375 | 25,001–25,001–38,250 |
| 0% | > $76,500 | > $57,375 | > $38,250 |
Max credit 1,000on1,000 on 2,000 saved; IRA deadline for TY 2024 is April 15, 2025. (irs.gov)
Table 5. South Carolina quick state items (TY 2024)
| Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dependent exemption | $4,790 per dependent | State‑only exemption reduces SC taxable income |
| Top SC tax rate | 6.2% | 2024 rate; see SC tax tables |
| SC return due date | May 1, 2025 | 2024 return; Hurricane Helene relief |
| Refund processing | Up to 8 weeks | Choose direct deposit for fastest payment |
Sources: SCDOR. (dor.sc.gov)
Application Checklist
Have these before you start (for both federal and state):
- Photo ID; SSNs for you and your children; proof child lived with you (school, medical, lease, etc.). (taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov)
- Income forms: W‑2, 1099‑NEC/1099‑K/1099‑MISC (side gigs), SSA‑1099 (benefits). Self‑employed: income and expense log.
- Childcare provider name, address, and SSN/EIN, and total you paid. (irs.gov)
- 1098‑T (tuition), book/fee receipts if claiming education credits. (irs.gov)
- Routing/account numbers for direct deposit refunds (fastest option for both IRS and SC). (dor.sc.gov)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Leaving off a child’s SSN or entering the wrong number. That alone can hold an EITC/CTC refund for weeks. (eitc.irs.gov)
- Filing “Married Filing Separately” when you qualify under the separated‑spouse rule to claim EITC. Read the Pub. 596 rule or get VITA help. (irs.gov)
- Forgetting to file Schedule 8812 for CTC or Form 2441 for care credit—credits won’t calculate without the right forms. (irs.gov)
- Not reconciling Advance Premium Tax Credit (Form 8962). That can flip your refund into a balance due. (irs.gov)
- For SC EITC: not attaching SC1040TC or trying to claim if you didn’t get the federal EITC or if you were not a full‑year resident. (dor.sc.gov)
Real‑world examples (using 2024 rules)
- One child, HOH, earned **21,000∗∗,nootherincome.ShequalifiesforfederalEITC(within21,000**, no other income. She qualifies for federal EITC (within 49,084 limit) and likely gets a sizable EITC (exact amount calculated on IRS tables). Her SC EITC equals 125% of whatever her federal EITC is, but only up to her SC tax due (nonrefundable). Use the IRS Assistant to get the precise federal number. (eitc.irs.gov)
- Two kids, HOH, earned 33,000∗∗,paid∗∗33,000**, paid **4,800 in daycare so she could work. Federal care credit is 20%–35% of expenses (max 1,200∗∗).SCcarecreditadds∗∗71,200**). SC care credit adds **7%** of the same federal expenses (max **420). She also gets EITC if within limits, and CTC per child. (irs.gov, dor.sc.gov)
Free, trusted help in South Carolina
- VITA/TCE free tax prep: Call 2‑1‑1 or 800‑906‑9887 (VITA locator). AARP Tax‑Aide: 888‑227‑7669. Official IRS info and locator here. (irs.gov)
- SC DOR (individual income): 1‑844‑898‑8542 (Option 1), IITax@dor.sc.gov. Taxpayer Advocate: 803‑898‑5444. Refund status: use dor.sc.gov/refund. (dor.sc.gov)
- Low‑Income Taxpayer Clinic (representation in IRS disputes): Use the IRS LITC map, or contact the University of South Carolina Tax Clinic at 803‑777‑8614 (year‑round). (irs.gov, sc.edu)
Diverse Communities: tailored tips and resources
- LGBTQ+ single mothers
If a non‑biological parent is your child’s legal parent or the child meets IRS qualifying child rules (relationship, residency, age), you can claim EITC/CTC. If you adopted, check the federal Adoption Credit (amounts vary by year; see IRS) and be sure names/SSNs match Social Security records to avoid EITC delays. Use VITA sites experienced with diverse families. (irs.gov) - Single mothers with disabilities or with disabled children
Disability benefits before retirement age can count as “earned income” only in limited cases; see Pub. 596. For child care credit, care for a spouse/dependent who “isn’t able to care for themselves” can qualify. Ask VITA to review. (irs.gov) - Veteran single mothers
If using VA education benefits, note they don’t reduce AOTC eligibility, but GI Bill housing isn’t qualified tuition. If you used Tricare/VA for health coverage, still reconcile APTC only if you had Marketplace coverage. (irs.gov) - Immigrant/refugee single moms
Federal EITC requires valid SSNs for you and qualifying children. If you need an ITIN for other filing purposes, schedule an appointment at an IRS TAC (844‑545‑5640) for in‑person ITIN document review or use an Acceptance Agent in SC. (irs.gov) - Tribal citizens
EITC follows federal rules regardless of tribal income sources (unless excluded). Keep W‑2/1099 records from tribal employers and consult VITA familiar with tribal income. (irs.gov) - Rural single moms (limited internet/transport)
Many libraries and community centers host traveling VITA days during season. Call 2‑1‑1 to book the closest site and ask for “Facilitated Self‑Assistance” options if rides are hard to get. (taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov) - Single fathers (yes, this applies too)
If the child lives with you over half the year and you meet all tests, you can claim EITC/CTC. The parent who had primary custody usually claims. Use the IRS tiebreaker rules if another person also tries to claim. (irs.gov) - Language access
IRS “Where’s My Refund” and EITC Assistant are available in Spanish; IRS TACs provide professional interpretation. Ask VITA for bilingual preparers or interpretation. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov)
Resources by Region (selected)
- IRS Taxpayer Assistance Centers (by appointment): 844‑545‑5640. Common SC locations: Columbia (1835 Assembly St), Greenville (440 Roper Mountain Rd), North Charleston (4400 Leeds Ave). Check IRS “Contact Your Local Office” for updates. (thetandd.com)
- Charleston County Public Library often hosts VITA/AARP Tax‑Aide days—call 2‑1‑1 to book. (ccpl.org)
- University of South Carolina (Columbia): VITA and SC Law Taxpayer Assistance Program serve low‑income filers each Feb–Mar. (sc.edu)
If you need to file past returns to get old EITC/CTC
- You generally have 3 years to claim a federal refund (including EITC/CTC). For 2021 returns, the last day to claim was April 15, 2025. If you missed it, file anyway—some non‑refundable items can still help, but refunds expire after three years by law. (irs.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work:
- If you missed the 3‑year window, talk to an LITC about any exceptions or other options (e.g., injured spouse relief, audit reconsideration if relevant). (irs.gov)
Reality checks, timelines, and warnings
- Expect federal EITC/ACTC refunds no earlier than mid‑February; most early filers see funds by early March if e‑file + direct deposit and no issues. Don’t plan rent or bills on a date before the IRS posts a deposit date in Where’s My Refund. (irs.gov)
- SC refunds can take up to 8 weeks; direct deposit is fastest. If a check goes missing, report via MyDORWAY or SC3911; allow up to 6 weeks for replacement. (dor.sc.gov)
- Watch for identity verification letters from SC DOR; complete the quiz/code verification promptly to avoid delays. (dor.sc.gov)
Plan B options by section
- EITC denied?
Get help from VITA or an LITC before you refile. If custody is disputed, gather school/medical records showing the child lived with you over half the year. (irs.gov) - CTC limited by income?
Check if the Credit for Other Dependents applies for older kids; adjust withholding for next year if refunds matter to your monthly budget. (irs.gov) - No SC EITC benefit (nonrefundable)?
Make sure your dependents and SC exemptions/deductions are entered correctly; claim SC’s childcare credit if eligible; choose direct deposit to get any refund faster. (dor.sc.gov)
10 South Carolina‑specific FAQs
- Can part‑year residents get the SC EITC?
No. The SC EITC is only for full‑year South Carolina residents who qualified for the federal EITC. (dor.sc.gov) - Do I have to claim the federal EITC to get the SC EITC?
Yes. If you didn’t qualify for or claim the federal EITC, you can’t claim the SC EITC. (dor.sc.gov) - My filing status is Married Filing Separately. Can I get EITC?
Generally no, but the federal separated‑spouse rule may allow it if you lived apart and meet strict conditions. If allowed federally, SC follows federal eligibility. See Pub. 596 and the IRS EITC page footnote. (eitc.irs.gov) - What’s the max SC dependent exemption for 2024?
$4,790 per dependent on your 2024 SC return. (dor.sc.gov) - Does SC have a Child Tax Credit?
No standalone CTC. SC does have the 7% Child & Dependent Care Credit and the SC EITC. (dor.sc.gov) - How do I track my SC refund?
Use the state “Where’s My Refund” tool at dor.sc.gov/refund. If a check is missing after 30 days, request a replacement via MyDORWAY or SC3911. (dor.sc.gov) - When are 2024 refunds coming if I claimed EITC/ACTC?
Federal: not before mid‑February; many see deposits by early March if e‑file + direct deposit. State: allow up to 8 weeks. (irs.gov, dor.sc.gov) - Who do I call for state tax questions?
SC DOR Individual Income: 1‑844‑898‑8542 (Option 1); Taxpayer Advocate: 803‑898‑5444. (dor.sc.gov) - I used Marketplace health insurance. Do I need a form?
Yes. Use Form 8962 to reconcile your Premium Tax Credit (you’ll need Form 1095‑A). Not reconciling can delay or reduce your refund. (irs.gov) - Where can I get free tax prep in SC?
Call 2‑1‑1 or use the IRS VITA locator (800‑906‑9887). AARP Tax‑Aide: 888‑227‑7669 (focus on ages 50+ but many sites help others). (irs.gov)
Quick filing tips (short, practical)
- E‑file and choose direct deposit for both IRS and SC—fastest and most secure. (dor.sc.gov)
- Double‑check SSNs and bank info. One wrong digit can hold your refund for weeks. (eitc.irs.gov)
- Keep your 1095‑A and reconcile APTC on Form 8962 if you used the Marketplace. (irs.gov)
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from South Carolina Department of Revenue, IRS/USDA/HUD equivalents where relevant, 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.
Editorial standards reference: ASingleMother.org Editorial Policy (methodology, verification, updates). This standards page details primary‑source verification, link testing, and update cycles. (Last updated August 2025.) (eitc.irs.gov)
Disclaimer
- Rules, amounts, and deadlines can change. Always confirm on the official websites linked above or with the agencies directly before you apply or file.
- Security note for our site: We never request your SSN, tax account information, or bank details. Do not share sensitive information via email or comments. For identity verification or refund status, only use official IRS/SC DOR portals.
Sources (selected)
- Federal EITC 2024 amounts, limits, PATH timing: IRS EITC Central; IRS refund timing pages; Pub. 596. (eitc.irs.gov, irs.gov)
- South Carolina EITC (125% of federal), full‑year resident rule, and family credits: SCDOR media pages and code. (dor.sc.gov, law.justia.com)
- SC dependent exemption $4,790 (TY 2024); SC filing updates: SCDOR. (dor.sc.gov)
- CTC 2024 refundable portion $1,700 and Schedule 8812: IRS instructions. (irs.gov)
- Child/Dependent Care Credits (federal and SC): IRS Pub. 503; SCDOR. (irs.gov, dor.sc.gov)
- Saver’s Credit 2024 thresholds; IRA deadline: IRS. (irs.gov)
- Premium Tax Credit rules and 2023–2025 enhancements: IRS Form 8962 instructions; Health Affairs explainer on IRA extension. (irs.gov, healthaffairs.org)
- SC refund timing and replacement process, Where’s My Refund: SCDOR. (dor.sc.gov)
- Free tax help (VITA/TCE), AARP, LITC: IRS pages and University of South Carolina Tax Clinic. (irs.gov, sc.edu)
If you see anything out of date, email us at info@asinglemother.org and we’ll verify and update within 48–72 hours.
🏛️More South Carolina Resources for Single Mothers
Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in South Carolina
- 📋 Assistance Programs
- 💰 Benefits and Grants
- 👨👩👧 Child Support
- 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
- ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
- 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
- 🎓 Education Grants
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
- ⚖️ Legal Help
- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
- 🏦 TANF Assistance
- 🏠 Housing Assistance
- 👶 Childcare Assistance
- 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
