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Postpartum Health Coverage and Maternity Support for Single Mothers in South Carolina

Postpartum Health Coverage & Maternity Support for Single Mothers in South Carolina

Last updated: September 2025

This is your practical, no-spin hub for postpartum health coverage, baby care help, and day‑to‑day support in South Carolina. Use the “If You Only Do 3 Things” checklist first, then scan the quick help box, then jump to the section that fits your situation. You’ll see fast links to programs like Healthy Connections Medicaid, South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) WIC, and SC Department of Social Services (DSS) on almost every line, so you can click and get help right away. For Marketplace insurance steps, use HealthCare.gov; for benefits navigation, call SC Thrive at 1-800-726-8774; for 24/7 local referrals, dial SC 2‑1‑1. (scdhhs.gov)


If You Only Do 3 Things – Emergency Actions to Take

Quick Help Box — Keep These 5 Contacts Handy

What Postpartum Health Coverage Looks Like in South Carolina

Start here: your postpartum Medicaid runs a full 12 months after delivery if you qualified during pregnancy, with full benefits through Healthy Connections Medicaid. If you were approved under the pregnant women category, the “clock” starts on your delivery date and continues for 12 months with no income change checks until renewal, per SCDHHS and CMS’s time‑limited option through March 30, 2027. For ongoing care after the first year, check the Parent/Caretaker or Family Planning categories at SCDHHS. (scdhhs.sc.gov)

Why this matters: SCDHHS notes about 60% of SC births use Medicaid, and most pregnancy‑related deaths happen in that first postpartum year, so coverage continuity saves lives. Use your postpartum months to fix blood pressure, mental health, diabetes, and recovery care with your chosen MCO, and use NEMT rides if transportation is an issue. For benefit questions, call Member Center at 1-888-549-0820. (scdhhs.gov)

Heads‑up about provider networks: networks can be tight in certain counties, and a June 26, 2025 Supreme Court ruling lets states exclude Planned Parenthood from Medicaid reimbursement, reducing some clinic options. If your clinic says “we no longer take Medicaid,” ask your plan for an in‑network site the same day, and request case management. Use SC Choices to switch plans if needed, and call Member Center to report access issues. For sexual health screenings and birth control, your WIC clinic or county DPH clinic can book you at DPH Public Health Clinics. (reuters.com)

Key South Carolina Coverage Numbers You Can Use Today

Use the table below to size up where you fit. These limits are from SCDHHS program pages effective March 1, 2025. Confirm before you apply, because rules can update mid‑year. Pregnant Women & Infants, Parent/Caretaker, and Family Planning/Healthy Connections Checkup all have different thresholds. (scdhhs.sc.gov)

Program Who it covers 2025 income example Coverage length Where to apply
Pregnant Women & Infants (full benefits) Pregnant SC residents; infant covered to age 1 Family of 3 up to about $4,308/month (≈199% FPL) Pregnancy + 12 months postpartum Apply at Healthy Connections or get help from SC Thrive
Parent/Caretaker Relatives Low‑income parents living with a child Family of 3 up to about $1,377/month Ongoing if eligible Apply at SCDHHS; call 1‑888‑549‑0820
Family Planning (Healthy Connections Checkup) Men/Women needing birth control & well‑woman care Family of 3 up to about $4,308/month 12‑month periods, renewable Apply at SCDHHS; ask a DPH clinic about family planning

Note: income figures are rounded examples from SCDHHS’ 3/1/2025 tables; check the site for your family size. The pregnancy program includes full benefits and automatically continues 12 months postpartum. (scdhhs.sc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re over income for full Medicaid, explore zero‑ or low‑premium Marketplace plans through HealthCare.gov (most single parents qualify for discounts), get short‑term care at an FQHC community health center, and apply for Family Planning to cover contraception and screenings. Use SC Thrive to see every option in one session. (healthcare.gov)

How to Apply, What to Have Ready, and Typical Wait Times

Move fast: submit online and upload documents the same day. Applications for Healthy Connections Medicaid take about 45 days in non‑emergencies; SNAP can take up to 30 days (7 days if expedited). For child care, the SC Child Care Scholarship portal accepts uploads and shows status. If you lose Medicaid post‑partum, Marketplace plans must be picked within 60–90 days. (scdhhs.sc.gov)

Bring or upload:

  • Photo ID and SSNs for everyone applying: Use your driver’s license or other ID; WIC accepts a range of proofs at DPH WIC. Vital Records can produce birth certificates for newborn documentation (fees 17expeditedsearch;17 expedited search; 12 standard by mail; $3 each extra). (dph.sc.gov)
  • Income proofs: Pay stubs or a letter if new job; SNAP will verify during interview per DSS SNAP FAQs. Child care scholarships use 85% of State Median Income thresholds published at SC Child Care. (dss.sc.gov)
  • Medical need notes: For rides or urgent appointments, Medicaid NEMT (Modivcare) requires scheduling at least 2–3 business days ahead; call sooner if you have a high‑risk visit. (scdhhs.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a navigator to submit with you—use SC Thrive for Medicaid/SNAP, United Way 2‑1‑1 for an appointment at a local DSS office, and Healthy Connections Choices if you need a new plan right away. Save the receipt or confirmation page and note your case number for follow‑up. (scthrive.org)

Postpartum Care You Can Use Right Away

Book your 1–2 week and 6–12 week visits: Use your MCO plan card to schedule OB/GYN and primary care. Ask your plan for an in‑network therapist or psychiatrist if you screened positive for depression, and save your ride with Modivcare. If you feel stuck or unheard, call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline 1‑833‑852‑6262. (scchoices.com)

Breastfeeding and pumps: Under WIC, you can get lactation help, peer counselors, and pumps at DPH WIC Breastfeeding Support; ask your MCO if an electric pump is covered. SC is considering broader coverage expansions for lactation/doula services in future plan years; verify benefits with your plan and ask the county clinic for same‑week lactation help. (dph.sc.gov)

Newborn enrollment and care: Babies born to moms on Medicaid get automatic coverage for the first 60 days, but you must call Healthy Connections at 1‑888‑549‑0820 to add your baby for the rest of the first year. Use Partners for Healthy Children for ongoing coverage up to age 19. For a car seat check, ask your county DPH Public Health Clinic to refer you locally. (scdhhs.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If no pediatric appointment is open, ask your plan for a “newborn access” slot and request case management through your MCO. For formula or pump shortages, call WIC and ask about temporary formula changes. (scdhec.gov)

Money, Food, Diapers, and Work Leave

Food and WIC: WIC covers breastfeeding help, nutritious food, and referrals for infants and postpartum moms. Call WIC at 1-855-472-3432 or use the online pre‑application. WIC income is set at 185% of poverty per the federal 2025–26 guidance from USDA FNS. If you need groceries now, apply for SNAP and check pantry hours at Harvest Hope or Lowcountry Food Bank. (fns.usda.gov)

SNAP amounts: For FY 2025, the maximum benefit for a family of four in the 48 states is $975/month, with other household sizes scaled by USDA’s table; expedited SNAP can arrive in 7 days if you qualify for emergency processing. Call DSS at 1-800-616-1309 if you can’t upload documents. Use FNS FY2025 COLA to estimate your household benefit. (fns.usda.gov)

Diapers: Ask WIC about diaper resources and check Bundles of Joy Diaper Bank (Lowcountry) and Diaper Bank of the Carolinas (Upstate) for monthly distributions. Many pantries listed at Harvest Hope or SC 2‑1‑1 also carry baby items at certain sites. (bundlesofjoydiaperbank.org)

Paid leave and job protection: SC state employees can get paid parental leave (currently 6 weeks for birthing parents and 2 weeks for non‑birthing parents under existing law) per Department of Administration policy; bills to expand to 12/4 weeks have been introduced. Private employers follow federal FMLA rules if you’re eligible; ask HR about short‑term disability or PTO stacking. If you lost your job, file Unemployment (DEW) at 1-866-831-1724; you must be able and available for work to qualify. (admin.sc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If your employer denies FMLA, call the U.S. DOL Wage & Hour line and also ask SC DEW whether you can claim while job‑seeking post‑partum. If your diaper bank is out this month, text 2‑1‑1 for alternates and ask your WIC office about emergency supplies. (dew.sc.gov)

Child Care You Can Afford While You Heal and Return to Work

First step: apply for the SC Child Care Scholarship (SC Working Families) even if you’re not back at work yet—eligibility includes work or school/training at least 15 hours/week and income up to 85% of State Median Income (for a family of 4, up to $83,446). Use SC CCR&R to find open slots near your home and ask for ABC Quality providers to maximize paid coverage. For application issues, call DSS Child Care Operations at 1‑800‑476‑0199. (scchildcare.org)

Reality check: infant slots fill fast, and waitlists can be months long in urban counties. While you wait, ask your WIC clinic for breastfeeding support so you can feed without formula costs, and ask your MCO care manager for a list of developmental play groups. If you’re a student, your school’s student services office may add child‑care aid on top of SC Voucher. (dph.sc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Re‑check provider lists weekly on SC CCR&R, set alerts with your top three centers, and call SC Voucher to confirm your status hasn’t stalled. If you’re on TANF, ask your DSS worker about a child care guarantee while you complete work activities. (scchildcare.org)

Transportation, Utilities, and Daily Survival

Medical rides: Medicaid members can get free rides to doctor visits, WIC appointments, labs, and pharmacies through Modivcare. Call your region’s number at least 3 days ahead and cancel 24 hours in advance to avoid flags. If a ride no‑shows, call and file a complaint the same day. (scdhhs.gov)

South Carolina NEMT county lines and phone numbers:

Region Counties Reservation phone
Region 1 – Modivcare Abbeville, Anderson, Cherokee, Edgefield, Greenville, Greenwood, Laurens, McCormick, Oconee, Pickens, Saluda, Spartanburg 1‑866‑910‑7688
Region 2 – Modivcare Aiken, Allendale, Bamberg, Barnwell, Calhoun, Chester, Clarendon, Fairfield, Kershaw, Lancaster, Lee, Lexington, Newberry, Orangeburg, Richland, Sumter, Union, York 1‑866‑445‑6860
Region 3 – Modivcare Beaufort, Berkeley, Charleston, Chesterfield, Colleton, Darlington, Dillon, Dorchester, Florence, Georgetown, Hampton, Horry, Jasper, Marion, Marlboro, Williamsburg 1‑866‑445‑9954

Stop a utility shutoff: Ask the utility for an extension or payment plan, then apply for LIHEAP energy help through your county Community Action Agency (crisis grants can be larger). For water bills, ask your city utility’s assistance desk (e.g., Charleston Water Financial Assistance or Columbia Water Customer Assistance). For Upstate households, Greenville Water lists charity partners for hardship help. (oeo.sc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Text “HELP” to 2‑1‑1 for church‑based funds, ask your hospital financial aid office about charity care, and apply for Weatherization to cut high bills long‑term. If you get a shutoff date, call your OB or pediatrician; a medical letter can sometimes pause disconnection while you secure aid. (oeo.sc.gov)

How to Stop Utility Shutoff in South Carolina Today

Act the same day: call the utility’s credit department and ask for a 10‑day extension or payment plan (e.g., Charleston Water’s extension option), then call LIHEAP for a crisis appointment and ask 2‑1‑1 for any “last‑resort” funds in your county. Share your appointment confirmation number with the utility to hold disconnection. For heat or AC issues with a newborn, request priority handling. (charlestonwater.com)

Bring these: ID, last bill, shutoff notice, proof of income, and a medical note if a doctor says you or your baby has a condition affected by heat/cold. Apply for Weatherization after your crisis is resolved to lower future bills. For ride issues, re‑book with Modivcare as soon as you get the new appointment. (oeo.sc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your county DSS office via DSS Contact whether TANF diversion or emergency aid is available, and call SC 2‑1‑1 again if a pledged payment falls through—agents can escalate to alternate partners. Document every call and name. (dss.sc.gov)

Getting Coverage After Your Postpartum Year Ends

Don’t wait for a gap: when you’re 1–2 months from ending postpartum Medicaid, shop a Marketplace plan at HealthCare.gov. Losing Medicaid gives you a Special Enrollment Period and extended windows for people losing Medicaid/CHIP. If you enroll by the deadline, your plan starts the next month. If your job offers coverage, compare it to Marketplace tax credits. (healthcare.gov)

Ask for low‑premium options: many single‑parent households qualify for “$0 bronze” or “low‑cost silver” plans after tax credits. Keep your postpartum care going: pick a plan that covers your OB/GYN, therapist, and infant’s pediatrician. If you miss a bill, know the grace period rules and call the insurer before day 90. For help, contact SC Thrive. (healthcare.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If Marketplace premiums are still unaffordable, re‑check Medicaid Parent/Caretaker eligibility after any income drop and apply for Family Planning to keep contraception and well‑woman care covered. For billing disputes, ask your plan for a case manager to negotiate an internal appeal timeline. (scdhhs.sc.gov)

Mental Health and Recovery Support

Use hotlines and local help: Call or text 1‑833‑852‑6262, the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline, anytime. Connect with Postpartum Support International–South Carolina for local support groups and therapist referrals. If you’re in crisis, call or text 988. (mchb.hrsa.gov)

Insurance navigation: ask your MCO for mental health network lists and telehealth options; if waitlists are long, request out‑of‑network authorization or help switching to a plan with better access. Your WIC clinic can also refer to county DPH clinics for counseling and support groups. For Spanish materials, see HHS Talking PPD. (scchoices.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If every provider is full, ask for a case manager through your MCO, call PSI HelpLine at 1‑800‑944‑4773, and request a warm handoff to a therapist who is actually taking patients. If you were hospitalized, ask for a discharge navigator and a follow‑up appointment within 7 days. (postpartum.net)

Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups

What to do if this doesn’t work: If a charity says funds are depleted, ask them to “warm transfer” you to their nearest partner agency. Re‑check waitlists monthly—many reopen without notice. Keep copies of denial letters; they help you qualify for emergency funds later. Use SC 2‑1‑1 between 6–8 pm when lines are quieter.

Resources by Region

Lowcountry–Charleston/Berkeley/Dorchester: Call Charleston Water Assistance for payment plans, get food via Lowcountry Food Bank, and schedule WIC at DPH clinics. For diapers, use Bundles of Joy; for rides, use NEMT Region 3 1‑866‑445‑9954. (charlestonwater.com)

Midlands–Richland/Lexington: Apply for SC Child Care Scholarship, get food from Harvest Hope–Columbia, and handle birth certificates at DPH Vital Records (2600 Bull St.). Water help may be available via Columbia Water Customer Assistance. (scchildcare.org)

Upstate–Greenville/Spartanburg/Anderson: Find pantries via Harvest Hope–Greenville, dial 2‑1‑1 for rent/utilities, and ask Greenville Water for hardship partners. For rides, call NEMT Region 1 1‑866‑910‑7688. (harvesthope.org)

Pee Dee–Florence/Dillon/Marion: Use Harvest Hope–Pee Dee, ask NFP–McLeod Health about nurse home visiting, and schedule WIC through DPH WIC. Rides are Region 3 NEMT 1‑866‑445‑9954. (harvesthope.org)

Grand Strand–Horry/Georgetown: Book WIC at DPH clinics, use Lowcountry Food Bank Myrtle Beach hub, and call NEMT Region 3. For housing, start at HUD South Carolina. (dph.sc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call SC 2‑1‑1 and ask for a “3‑way call” with the agency if you struggle to self‑advocate. Ask your MCO for community health worker help.

Diverse Communities and Inclusive Services

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your MCO for affirming OB/GYN and mental health providers; request a case manager if you face bias. For peer support, Postpartum Support International lists groups, and HHS Talking PPD has inclusive materials. Ask DPH clinics for gender‑affirming privacy and language access. (scchoices.com)

Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Apply for EPSDT and pediatric therapies through Partners for Healthy Children, and ask about the Medically Complex Children (MCC) waiver (self‑directed attendant care added July 1, 2025). For rides, use NEMT and ask for wheelchair van options. TTY services are available via agency relay lines. (scdhhs.gov)

Veteran single mothers: Combine VA health with Medicaid or Marketplace coverage when needed. Use SC Thrive for benefits screening, and ask DPH WIC for fast scheduling if you’re relocating.

Immigrant/refugee single moms: Many prenatal/postpartum services and WIC don’t ask about immigration status; confirm at DPH WIC. For navigation in Spanish, call PASOs. If you can’t get Medicaid, use FQHC health centers and apply for baby coverage if eligible. (scpasos.org)

Tribal‑specific resources: If you are a citizen of a federally recognized tribe and move within SC, ask your plan about Indian health/tribal providers; Marketplace has special rules year‑round. Use HealthCare.gov tribal guidance, then apply through Medicaid or Marketplace with tribal status noted.

Rural single moms with limited access: Request telehealth from your MCO, ask NEMT for longer ride times, and call SC Office of Rural Health to locate county clinics and maternity hubs. If internet is a barrier, apply in‑person at your DPH clinic and ask for paper forms.

Single fathers raising newborns: You can access WIC for your baby as a caregiver, enroll your child in Medicaid, and apply for SC Child Care Scholarships. Ask Child Support Services 1‑800‑768‑5858 about modifying orders if your income changed. (dss.sc.gov)

Language access and accessibility notes: Request free interpreters with DPH WIC, ask SCDHHS for TTY/relay, and request large‑print applications from DSS or SC Child Care. (dph.sc.gov)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Missing the newborn enrollment call: SC notes automatic baby coverage for 60 days, then you must enroll the baby to keep Medicaid for the rest of year one. Call Healthy Connections at 1‑888‑549‑0820 within a few days of birth. Forgetting this causes claim denials at the first well‑visit. (scdhhs.gov)
  • Assuming your clinic still takes Medicaid: After the Planned Parenthood ruling, some clinics changed policies. Always confirm with your MCO or switch plans if needed. Use county DPH clinics for birth control and STI testing if you hit a wall. (reuters.com)
  • Waiting until postpartum month 12 to shop insurance: Shop HealthCare.gov 30–60 days before Medicaid ends so coverage starts the next month. Upload documents within 30 days to avoid delays. (healthcare.gov)
  • Not using free rides: If you skip appointments because you lack transportation, schedule NEMT Modivcare 3 business days out and call if the driver is late. Keep your phone on for callback windows. (scdhhs.gov)

Reality Check

  • Delays happen: Expect 10–15 business days for non‑crisis child care scholarship reviews and up to 30 days for SNAP if not expedited. Call DSS 1‑800‑616‑1309 to nudge your case, and upload any missing docs immediately. (dss.sc.gov)
  • Funding runs out: LIHEAP crisis funds and diaper drives can run dry mid‑month. Ask OEO/LIHEAP which agency has slots now, and text 2‑1‑1 for alternates. (oeo.sc.gov)
  • Plan networks differ: If your OB or pediatrician isn’t covered, use SC Choices to switch and ask for continuity of care. Keep notes of every call for appeals. (scchoices.com)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Need Who to contact Fast link
Medicaid coverage, postpartum extension Healthy Connections Member Center 1‑888‑549‑0820 Apply/renew
Pick/switch Medicaid plan Healthy Connections Choices 1‑877‑552‑4642 Plan help
WIC appointments DPH WIC 1‑855‑472‑3432 Pre‑apply
Food now Harvest Hope, Lowcountry Food Bank SC 2‑1‑1
Child care help SC Child Care Scholarship 1‑800‑476‑0199 Find care
Marketplace after Medicaid HealthCare.gov SEP rules
Medical rides Modivcare NEMT Region numbers above
Mental health Maternal Mental Health Hotline 1‑833‑852‑6262 PSI–SC

Application Checklist (screenshot‑friendly)

If Your Application Gets Denied

Read the letter: it should list what was missing or why you were over the limit. For SNAP, you can request a fair hearing per DSS SNAP FAQs. For Medicaid, call Member Center 1‑888‑549‑0820 and ask how to appeal or what to fix. For Marketplace, upload missing documents within 30 days per SEP rules. (dss.sc.gov)

Fix and re‑apply: use SC Thrive to submit corrected applications and keep proof of uploads. For child care, call the SC Child Care Scholarship line (1‑800‑476‑0199) and ask whether you can switch to a different qualifying category. Use 2‑1‑1 to find a navigator if phones are busy. (scchildcare.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: For medical bills during a gap, apply for hospital financial assistance and ask your MCO or HealthCare.gov for help picking a plan with your current doctors. Keep every denial—some emergency funds require proof you tried. (scchoices.com)

County‑Specific Variations That Matter

  • NEMT phone lines differ by county: see region table and call the correct number for bookings/cancellations. NEMT page lists counties. (scdhhs.gov)
  • Water assistance is local: Charleston Water partners with Palmetto CAP; Columbia Water runs a customer assistance program; Greenville Water refers to charity partners. Programs and amounts vary by county and run out monthly. Call to confirm before you go. (charlestonwater.com)
  • Child care reimbursement and provider rates: payment rates and openings vary by county and ABC Quality level. Use SC CCR&R for live openings and SC Child Care Scholarship for the latest fee scale and policy manual. (sc-ccrr.org)

Useful Tables to Keep on Your Phone

Table — Postpartum & Next‑Step Coverage Map

Timing Best coverage move Where to click
Pregnancy to delivery Full Medicaid: prenatal, delivery SCDHHS Pregnancy
Birth to 60 days Newborn automatic coverage (call to add baby) SCDHHS FAQs
0–12 months postpartum Full Medicaid benefits Member Center
60–90 days before month 12 Shop Marketplace HealthCare.gov SEP
After postpartum ends Family Planning if over income Healthy Connections Checkup

Table — Core Family Supports (Amounts vary; confirm locally)

Program Typical benefit How to apply
SNAP Max $975/mo for family of 4 in FY2025 (others vary) DSS SNAP Apply
WIC Food packages, lactation help, pumps DPH WIC
Child Care Scholarship up to provider rate (ABC Quality) SC Child Care Scholarship
LIHEAP Utility bill aid; crisis grants higher OEO LIHEAP

Table — NEMT Region Numbers (Save these)

Region Phone Link
Region 1 (Upstate) 1‑866‑910‑7688 NEMT
Region 2 (Midlands) 1‑866‑445‑6860 NEMT
Region 3 (Lowcountry/Grand Strand/PeeDee) 1‑866‑445‑9954 NEMT

Table — Vital Records (Birth Certificates) Fees & Speed

| Method | Cost | Typical time | Where |
|—|—|—|
| Online (VitalChek/GoCertificates) | 17search+vendorfee+17 search + vendor fee + 3 per extra copy | 5–7 business days | DPH Birth Certificates |
| Phone (VitalChek) | 17search+17 search + 12.85 phone fee | 5–7 business days | DPH VitalChek |
| Mail (State Office) | 12search+12 search + 3 per extra copy | About 4 weeks | DPH Fees & Address | (dph.sc.gov)

Table — Who to Call for What

Need Number Link
Healthy Connections (Medicaid) 1‑888‑549‑0820 SCDHHS Help
Healthy Connections Choices (MCO) 1‑877‑552‑4642 SC Choices
SNAP/TANF 1‑800‑616‑1309 DSS Contact
Child Support 1‑800‑768‑5858 DSS Contact
SC Child Care Scholarship 1‑800‑476‑0199 SC Child Care
Maternal Mental Health Hotline 1‑833‑852‑6262 HRSA
SC 2‑1‑1 2‑1‑1 or 1‑866‑892‑9211 SC.GOV 211

FAQs (South Carolina–specific)

How long will my postpartum Medicaid last: 12 months from the date you give birth if you qualified during pregnancy. You’ll have full benefits during that period; you must renew or switch to another category or a Marketplace plan. Use Member Center and HealthCare.gov to plan your next step 60 days before your end date.

What income limit applies if I was pregnant but am now postpartum: Your coverage remains in the pregnancy category through the 12‑month postpartum period, regardless of minor income changes. At renewal, SCDHHS uses the current category rules (Parent/Caretaker or Family Planning). See the SCDHHS income tables effective 3/1/2025.

Can I still get care if a clinic stops accepting Medicaid: Yes—call your MCO for an in‑network clinic, ask for case management, or switch plans. County DPH clinics offer family planning and STI testing. The Supreme Court decision on Medicaid funding for Planned Parenthood may affect provider choice.

How fast can I get SNAP: Standard processing is up to 30 days; expedited SNAP (emergency) can be 7 days if you qualify. Apply at DSS and call 1‑800‑616‑1309 for status.

Will WIC help with pumps and lactation: Yes—WIC offers peer counselors, lactation experts, and pumps. Ask your WIC clinic how to borrow or get a pump.

How do I get my baby’s birth certificate: Order via DPH Vital Records (phone 1‑877‑284‑1008). Expect 5–7 business days online/phone or 4 weeks by mail. Fees are 17expeditedsearch(online/phone)or17 expedited search (online/phone) or 12 standard mail plus $3 per extra copy.

Who provides free medical rides: Medicaid’s NEMT vendor Modivcare runs Region‑based lines; call 3 business days ahead (Upstate 1‑866‑910‑7688; Midlands 1‑866‑445‑6860; Lowcountry/Grand Strand/Pee Dee 1‑866‑445‑9954).

What if I lose my job post‑partum: Apply for UI at SC DEW 1‑866‑831‑1724 if you’re able and available for work, and keep healthcare via HealthCare.gov with special enrollment.

How do I find child care that takes the scholarship: Use SC CCR&R to search ABC Quality providers; then apply for the SC Child Care Scholarship and call 1‑800‑476‑0199 for status.

Are there local people who can help me apply: Yes—SC Thrive counselors (1‑800‑726‑8774) can apply for Medicaid, SNAP, and more; SC 2‑1‑1 will book you at a nearby agency; and your county DPH clinics help with WIC, family planning, and referrals.

Spanish Summary / Resumen en Español

Esta sección fue traducida con herramientas de IA. Verifique siempre los detalles por teléfono o en los sitios 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 guide is informational and not legal, medical, financial, or tax advice. Always confirm current rules, funding, and clinic participation with the agency or insurer directly. For emergencies, call 911; for mental health crises, call or text 988; for maternal mental health support 24/7, call 1‑833‑852‑6262.

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