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housing assistance in south carolina

Housing Assistance for Single Mothers in South Carolina

Complete Housing Assistance Guide for Single Mothers in South Carolina

Last updated: August 2025

Information verified with current program data as of August 12, 2025


Main Points

If You Need Help Today

Facing eviction or homeless? Call 2-1-1 immediately for emergency assistance. Available 24/7 statewide.

Can’t pay utilities? Contact your local Community Action Agency for crisis utility assistance up to $1,500.

Need rent help now? Apply through your local Community Action Agency – they serve all South Carolina counties and provide emergency rental assistance.

In danger? South Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault: (800) 260-9293 or National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799-7233

Emergency Housing Assistance

Community Action Agency Emergency Programs

South Carolina has 15 Community Action Agencies serving all 46 counties. These agencies are the primary providers of emergency rental assistance since the federal Emergency Rental Assistance programs ended in 2022.

What they cover:

  • Emergency rental assistance (amounts vary by agency and funding availability)
  • Utility crisis assistance up to $1,500
  • Security deposits and first month’s rent assistance
  • Moving costs and temporary storage
  • Case management and housing counseling

Income requirements: Generally serves households at or below 150% of Federal Poverty Level, with priority given to families facing immediate eviction or utility shut-off.

How to apply: Contact your local Community Action Agency directly. Each county has a designated agency that handles applications in person or by phone.

Processing time: Emergency applications are typically processed within 1-2 weeks, but funding availability varies significantly by county and season.

Reality check: Funding is extremely limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Many agencies exhaust their emergency funds by mid-year. Don’t wait if you’re facing eviction – apply immediately and to multiple agencies if possible.

2-1-1 South Carolina

Call 2-1-1 or visit sc211.org for immediate referrals to emergency assistance in your area. Available 24/7 in English and Spanish.

Long-Term Housing Programs

Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8)

The Housing Choice Voucher program is the federal government’s largest rental assistance program. In South Carolina, very low-income families typically pay 30% of their income toward rent, with the voucher covering the remainder up to Fair Market Rent limits.

Income Eligibility (2025)

Source: HUD Income Limits 2025

Family Size Very Low Income (50% AMI) Extremely Low Income (30% AMI)
1 person $25,750 $15,450
2 people $29,400 $17,640
3 people $33,100 $19,860
4 people $36,750 $22,050

Note: Income limits vary significantly by metropolitan area. These figures represent statewide non-metropolitan averages. Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville areas have higher limits. Check with your local Public Housing Authority for exact figures in your area.

Priority groups:

  • Families experiencing homelessness
  • Families with disabilities
  • Elderly households
  • Families paying more than 50% of income for rent

Application process:

  1. Contact your local Public Housing Authority
  2. Complete application when waiting list opens (check current status)
  3. Provide income verification, ID, Social Security cards, and rental history
  4. Complete eligibility interview and background check
  5. Wait for voucher availability (currently 3-5 years)
  6. Attend voucher briefing and receive Housing Choice Voucher
  7. Find qualifying rental unit within 60-120 days
  8. Pass housing quality standards inspection before move-in

Reality check: According to SC Housing, most waiting lists are currently closed due to overwhelming demand. When open, families typically wait 3-5 years for vouchers. Many housing authorities maintain waiting lists with thousands of applicants.

Fair Market Rents (2025)

Source: HUD Fair Market Rents FY2025

Area 1 BR 2 BR 3 BR 4 BR
Charleston $894 $1,084 $1,394 $1,594
Columbia $679 $799 $1,029 $1,229
Greenville $679 $829 $1,069 $1,269
Florence $559 $659 $859 $1,059

These are maximum amounts Section 8 will pay toward rent in each area.

Public Housing

Public housing developments are owned and operated by local housing authorities. Rent is typically 30% of adjusted income, and utilities may be included.

Pros:

  • Lower cost than Section 8 in many areas
  • Stable housing with on-site management
  • Some properties offer supportive services

Cons:

  • Limited locations and availability
  • Long waiting lists (often longer than Section 8)
  • Less choice in neighborhoods

USDA Rural Housing Programs

Section 502 Direct Loans

The USDA Section 502 program helps low-income families buy homes in rural areas with no down payment required.

Current rates (effective July 1, 2025): 5.00% fixed interest rate, potentially reduced to as low as 1% with payment assistance subsidy.

Loan terms: Up to 33 years (38 years for very low-income applicants who cannot afford the 33-year term)

Payment assistance: Temporary subsidy available based on adjusted family income to reduce monthly payments. The subsidy amount decreases as income increases over time.

No down payment: Required for most applicants, though those with assets above program limits may need to contribute some funds.

Eligibility requirements:

  • Adjusted income at or below low-income limits for the area
  • Unable to obtain conventional financing on reasonable terms
  • Property must be in USDA-eligible rural area
  • U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
  • Demonstrate willingness and ability to repay debt

How to apply: Contact your regional USDA Rural Development office. Processing times vary by funding availability and application completeness.

State Office: Strom Thurmond Federal Building 1835 Assembly Street, Room 1007 Columbia, SC 29201 Phone: (803) 253-3846

Section 504 Home Repair Loans and Grants

This program helps very low-income rural homeowners repair their homes.

Loans: Up to $40,000 at 1% interest for 20 years Grants: Up to $10,000 lifetime limit (must be 62+ years old) Combined assistance: Up to $50,000 total

Utility Assistance Programs

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

LIHEAP helps eligible households pay heating and cooling bills through the South Carolina Office of Economic Opportunity.

Benefits Available (FY2025)

Source: LIHEAP Clearinghouse South Carolina Profile

Benefit Type Heating Amount Cooling Amount Crisis Amount
Regular $200-$850 $200-$775 N/A
Crisis Up to $1,500 Up to $1,500 Up to $1,500

Income Eligibility (60% State Median Income)

Source: LIHEAP Clearinghouse

Household Size Maximum Annual Income
1 person $36,420
2 people $47,700
3 people $59,040
4 people $70,320
5 people $81,600

Application periods:

  • Heating assistance: October 1 – April 30, 2025
  • Cooling assistance: May 1 – September 30, 2025
  • Crisis assistance: Year-round when funds available

Processing time: Typically 2-4 weeks after complete application submission.

Required documents:

  • Photo ID for utility account holder
  • Social Security cards for all household members
  • Recent utility bills showing past due amounts or disconnect notices
  • Proof of income for previous month for all household members 18+

How to apply: Contact your local Community Action Agency. Applications must be submitted in person. Priority given to households with elderly members, disabilities, or children under 6.

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

WAP provides home weatherization assistance to improve energy efficiency for low-income families.

Services include:

  • Insulation improvements
  • Air sealing
  • Heating and cooling system repairs or replacement
  • Water heater improvements
  • Minor home repairs related to energy efficiency

Income eligibility: At or below 200% of Federal Poverty Level

Homeownership Programs

South Carolina Housing Trust Fund

SC Housing administers the Housing Trust Fund program providing assistance for home repairs and supportive housing.

Home Repair Program: Financial assistance for essential interior and exterior home repairs to correct life, health, and safety issues.

Critical Home Repair Program: Emergency repairs for low to very low-income homeowners.

SC Housing First-Time Homebuyer Programs

Down Payment Assistance: Up to $15,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance Below-Market Interest Rates: Available through participating lenders Mortgage Credit Certificates: Provide annual tax credits

FHA Loans

Federal Housing Administration loans require as little as 3.5% down payment and accept lower credit scores than conventional loans.

Benefits:

  • Down payment as low as 3.5%
  • Credit scores as low as 580 accepted
  • Seller can pay closing costs
  • Assumable loans

VA Loans (for Veterans)

Veterans and eligible spouses can access VA loans with:

  • No down payment required
  • No private mortgage insurance
  • Competitive interest rates
  • No prepayment penalties

Specialized Housing Resources

Transitional Housing Programs

The Family Shelter (Columbia)

The Family Shelter provides emergency and transitional housing for homeless families.

Services include:

  • Emergency shelter for up to 120 days (extendable based on circumstances)
  • Educational and job training programs
  • Case management and goal setting
  • Childcare assistance while parents work or attend training

Location: 2411 Two Notch Road, Columbia, SC 29204 Phone: (803) 771-7040

Christ Central Ministries – Hannah House

Hannah House provides transitional shelter for women with or without children.

Services:

  • Temporary housing
  • Educational courses and skill development
  • Case management support
  • Life skills training

Phone: (803) 771-4357

Domestic Violence Housing

South Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault

24/7 Hotline: (800) 260-9293

Safe housing options for survivors include:

  • Emergency shelter
  • Transitional housing programs
  • Rapid rehousing assistance
  • Safety planning and support services

Inclusive Housing Resources

LGBTQ+ Single Mothers

While South Carolina has limited LGBTQ+-specific housing programs, the following resources provide support:

Local resources:

  • Alliance for Full Acceptance (Charleston): Housing discrimination support
  • Contact 2-1-1 and specifically ask about LGBTQ+-affirming housing providers

National resources:

  • National LGBTQ Task Force: Housing discrimination information
  • SAGE (Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders): Senior housing resources

Tribal-Specific Resources

South Carolina has one federally recognized tribe:

Catawba Indian Nation: Enrolled tribal members may access HUD Indian Housing Programs Contact: Catawba Indian Nation Housing Authority Phone: (803) 366-4792

Rural Single Mothers with Limited Access

Rural families face unique challenges including limited transportation and fewer service providers.

Specialized resources:

  • USDA Rural Development programs (described above)
  • Rural Community Action Agencies provide outreach services
  • Mobile service delivery in some counties
  • Telehealth and virtual support services

Transportation assistance:

  • Contact local Community Action Agencies for transportation vouchers
  • Some agencies provide gas cards for essential appointments
  • Medicaid transportation for medical appointments

Single Fathers

While this guide focuses on single mothers, single fathers face similar housing challenges and can access the same programs:

All housing assistance programs described above are available regardless of gender Additional resources:

  • National At-Home Dad Network: Support groups and resources
  • Single Father Network: Online community and local meetups

Resources by Region

Upstate (Greenville-Anderson-Spartanburg)

Sunbelt Human Advancement Resources (SHARE)

  • Counties served: Greenville, Anderson, Oconee, Pickens
  • Services: LIHEAP, emergency rental assistance, Head Start
  • Phone: (864) 467-3130
  • Website: sharesc.org

Greenville Housing Authority

  • Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers
  • Public housing
  • Phone: (864) 467-4290

Midlands (Columbia Metro)

Central Midlands Council of Governments

  • Emergency assistance programs
  • Utility help
  • Transportation services
  • Phone: (803) 376-5390

Columbia Housing Authority

  • Section 8 vouchers and public housing
  • Homeownership programs
  • Phone: (803) 254-3886

Lowcountry (Charleston Area)

Palmetto Community Action Partnership

  • Counties served: Berkeley, Charleston, Dorchester
  • LIHEAP assistance
  • Emergency rental help
  • Phone: 1-(844) 769-6448
  • Website: palmettocap.org

Charleston County Public Housing Authority

  • Housing assistance programs
  • Supportive services
  • Phone: (843) 720-4133

Pee Dee Region

Pee Dee Regional Transportation Authority

  • Multi-county transportation services
  • Counties: Chesterfield, Darlington, Dillon, Florence, Marion, Marlboro

Florence County Housing Authority

  • Section 8 and public housing
  • Phone: (843) 665-3496

Common Questions Single Moms Ask (FAQs)

How long do I have to wait for Section 8 in South Carolina?

According to SC Housing, current waiting times are 3-5 years statewide. Most housing authorities have closed their waiting lists due to overwhelming demand. Check current waiting list status before applying. When lists do open, they typically fill within days or weeks.

Can I get help if I’m working full-time?

Yes! Most programs have income limits rather than requiring unemployment. According to 2025 HUD income limits, a single mother with two children can typically earn up to about $33,100 annually (50% Area Median Income) and still qualify for very low-income housing programs in most South Carolina counties.

What if my landlord won’t accept Section 8?

South Carolina does not have source of income discrimination laws, so landlords can legally refuse Section 8 vouchers. However, many do participate. Contact your housing authority for lists of participating landlords, or use HUD’s housing search tools.

Can I get emergency help if I’m about to be evicted?

Yes, but options are limited. Contact your local Community Action Agency immediately for emergency rental assistance. Call 2-1-1 for immediate referrals. Some agencies have crisis funds, but they’re often exhausted quickly. Apply to multiple agencies if possible.

What if I have bad credit or a past eviction?

Many emergency assistance programs don’t have strict credit requirements. For long-term housing like Section 8, housing authorities may consider negative history but often allow explanations and evidence of changed circumstances. Past evictions don’t automatically disqualify you, but recent ones may require waiting periods.

How do I prove my income if I work multiple part-time jobs?

Keep detailed records of all work and income. Get written statements from all employers. Pay stubs from the past 30-60 days are typically required. Your local housing counselor can help you document irregular income properly.

Can I get help moving from another state?

Section 8 vouchers are portable – you can transfer them between states through the “portability” process. Contact your current housing authority before moving. Other emergency assistance programs typically require South Carolina residency.

What happens if my income increases after getting assistance?

Most programs have annual income reviews. If your income increases above program limits, you’ll typically have a phase-out period or may transition to paying market rent. This is actually a positive step toward self-sufficiency.

Are undocumented immigrants eligible for housing assistance?

Most federal housing programs require legal immigration status. However, emergency assistance through Community Action Agencies may be available regardless of status. Mixed-status families may qualify if some members are citizens or legal residents.

What if I’m denied for assistance?

Every program has an appeals process. You’ll receive written notice of denial with information about how to request a hearing. Don’t miss the deadline – usually 10-14 days from the denial date. Contact South Carolina Legal Services at (888) 346-5592 for free legal help with appeals.

Warning Signs and Reality Checks

Red Flags to Avoid

Housing scams are common: Never pay fees to apply for Section 8 or public housing. Government programs are free to apply for.

Fake landlords: Be wary of rental listings that require money upfront before viewing the property or seem too good to be true.

“Guaranteed” housing: No legitimate service can guarantee you’ll receive housing assistance or move to the front of waiting lists.

Common Challenges

Extremely limited funding: South Carolina faces severe shortages in affordable housing assistance. Most programs have more applicants than available help.

Geographic disparities: Rural counties often have fewer resources and longer travel distances to service providers.

Transportation barriers: Many offices require in-person visits. Limited public transportation in most areas makes accessing services difficult.

Documentation requirements: Gather documents in advance. Missing paperwork is the most common reason for delays.

Tips for Success

Apply to multiple programs simultaneously: Don’t wait to be denied by one program before applying to others.

Document everything: Keep organized files of all applications, documents, and correspondence.

Follow up regularly: Call agencies monthly to check on application status and provide any additional information needed.

Be honest about your situation: Provide accurate information. Programs are designed to help people in difficult circumstances.

Get help navigating the system: Contact SC Housing or a HUD-approved housing counselor for free assistance with applications and housing searches.

Additional Resources

South Carolina State Agencies

South Carolina Department of Social Services

  • TANF, SNAP, Medicaid applications
  • Phone: (803) 898-7601
  • Website: dss.sc.gov

South Carolina Office of Economic Opportunity

  • LIHEAP program administration
  • Community Action Agencies coordination
  • Phone: (803) 734-0662

Federal Resources

HUD Customer Service

  • General housing information
  • Phone: (800) 569-4287
  • Website: hud.gov

USDA Rural Development South Carolina

  • Rural housing and home repair programs
  • Phone: (803) 253-3846
  • Website: rd.usda.gov

Legal Aid

South Carolina Legal Services

  • Free legal help for housing issues
  • Eviction defense
  • Phone: (888) 346-5592
  • Website: sclegal.org

Financial Counseling

SC Housing Counseling Programs Find a certified housing counselor to help with budgeting, credit repair, and homebuyer education through HUD’s counselor search.

About this guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

The ASingleMother.org team has been researching and writing comprehensive benefits guides for single mothers across all 50 states since 2020. Our editorial team regularly updates these guides by reviewing official government sources, contacting state agencies, and incorporating feedback from hundreds of single mothers who have used these programs.

This South Carolina guide represents over 5 years of experience helping single mothers navigate the benefits system. We verify information with official sources including South Carolina Department of Social Services, SC Housing, USDA, and HHS to ensure accuracy.

Information compiled from official South Carolina Department of Social Services, SC Housing, USDA, and HHS sources. Last verified: August 2025.

The ASingleMother.org editorial team welcomes feedback on this guide. If you find outdated information or discover new resources, please contact us at info@asinglemother.org so we can help other single mothers with accurate, current information.

Disclaimer

Program details, income limits, and availability can change. This guide provides general information and should not be considered legal or financial advice. Always verify current program requirements, application deadlines, and income limits with the relevant agency before applying. Funding for assistance programs is extremely limited in South Carolina and not guaranteed to be available when you apply.

For the most current information, contact programs directly or speak with a HUD-approved housing counselor at (800) 569-4287.

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