SNAP for Single Mothers in South Carolina: The Ultimate 2025 Guide

Last updated: August 2025

Quick help (start here)

• Apply for SNAP online now through the South Carolina DSS benefits portal. Use the official link: Apply for SNAP on the SCDSS Benefits Portal (SCMAPP) — click “Apply for SNAP.” This page explains eligibility and links directly to the secure application.
• If you have little or no money for food, request “expedited SNAP.” You could get benefits in as little as 7 days if you meet federal emergency criteria. See the rules on the USDA site: USDA SNAP Expedited Service criteria.
• Standard processing takes up to 30 days. If it’s been longer, call your county DSS office or EBT Customer Service at 1-800-554-5268 (card help), and ask DSS about your case status via the county office finder: Find your local SCDSS county office.
• Unsure if you qualify? Check the current income limits below and the USDA page with details: USDA SNAP Income Eligibility Standards (FY 2025).
• Lost or stolen EBT card? Call 1-800-554-5268 immediately to freeze and replace. Card management: ebtEDGE Cardholder Portal (select South Carolina).

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Who runs SNAP in South Carolina, and what to do first

• Action first: submit your application online. It timestamps your request and starts the clock. Use the official SCDSS page: South Carolina SNAP benefits overview and application.
• South Carolina Department of Social Services (SCDSS) runs SNAP in the state. Federal rules are set by the USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS). See federal program basics: USDA SNAP overview for recipients.
• You’ll have an interview (usually by phone). Watch your phone and voicemail. If you miss the interview, you can reschedule—don’t give up.
• Bring or upload documents quickly (see the checklist below). Missing papers are the most common delay.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If the online portal isn’t working, download a paper application from the SCDSS SNAP page and hand-deliver or mail it to your county office. Office locator: Find your local SCDSS county office.
• Need one-on-one help applying? Call SC Thrive at 1-800-726-8774 or visit: SC Thrive benefits help (established nonprofit that assists with applications).

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Eligibility at a glance (South Carolina SNAP rules you’ll actually use)

• You must live in South Carolina and apply in your own county: SCDSS SNAP page (residency and eligibility).
• SNAP looks at your household (people who buy and prepare food together), your income, certain allowable expenses, and immigration/citizenship status.
• Most households must meet both the gross income test (130% of poverty) and the net income test (100%). Households with elderly or disabled members may not have to meet the gross test. See the official federal explanation: USDA SNAP Income Eligibility Standards.
• Assets: Because of broad-based categorical eligibility policies in many states, asset limits often do not apply to most households. If your household is subject to the federal asset test, the limits are generally $2,750\ast \ast or\ast \ast$4,250 if someone is 60+ or disabled. See official details: USDA SNAP asset/resource limits. SCDSS will tell you if an asset test applies to your case.

FY 2025 SNAP income limits (effective Oct 1, 2024 – Sep 30, 2025)

Source: USDA SNAP Income Eligibility Standards (FY 2025)

These limits apply in South Carolina (48 states and D.C. standards). Gross = 130% of poverty. Net = 100% of poverty. Elderly/disabled households may only need to meet the net test.

Important:

• If you’re close to these numbers, don’t self-deny. SNAP allows deductions for child care, child support paid, high shelter and utility costs, and medical costs for elderly/disabled members (over $35/month). These can bring your countable “net income” down. See deductions explained by USDA: USDA SNAP deductions.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re just over the gross limit, ask SCDSS if your household qualifies under categorical eligibility, or if you can be tested on net income due to an elderly or disabled household member.
• Use SCDSS screening and apply anyway if you’re near the threshold: SCDSS SNAP page and application.

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How much you could get (benefit levels)

SNAP benefits are based on the USDA Thrifty Food Plan and adjust each October. Maximum amounts differ by household size. For FY 2025 (Oct 1, 2024 – Sep 30, 2025) in the 48 states and D.C., USDA published the new maximums and minimums. See the official figures here: USDA SNAP FY 2025 Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLA).

Key figures for quick reference:

• Maximum for a household of 4 (48 states & D.C.): $1,011/month. Source: USDA FY 2025 COLA.
• Minimum benefit for 1–2 person households increased under FY 2025 COLA; check the USDA page for the exact current minimum. Source: USDA FY 2025 COLA.

Your exact benefit depends on your net income after deductions. Households with zero net income get the maximum for their size.

Table (anchor for quick scanning; verify amounts on the USDA link above):

Tip: If you’re not getting close to the maximum and have big costs (rent, utilities, child care, child support paid, or allowable medical costs for elderly/disabled members), make sure those are reported and verified. These can raise your benefit.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If the benefit seems too low, ask SCDSS for a “budget calculation” copy and confirm all deductions were applied. If something is missing, submit proof and request a recalculation.
• For free benefits counseling, contact SC Thrive at 1-800-726-8774: SC Thrive assistance.

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Expedited SNAP (emergency food help in as little as 7 days)

You may qualify for “expedited service” if any of these apply at application:

• Your gross monthly income is under $150\ast \ast andyourcashonhand/bankis\ast \ast$100 or less.
• Your combined monthly income plus cash on hand is less than your monthly rent/mortgage and utilities.
• You’re a destitute migrant or seasonal farmworker household with limited money/resources.

Official criteria: USDA SNAP Expedited Service.

What to do immediately:

• On your application, check the box that says you need expedited service. If you apply in person, say it clearly. If online, mention it in any notes/additional info space.
• Be ready to verify your identity fast. Identity can be verified with a driver’s license, state ID, or other official document.

Timeline:

• If approved for expedited, benefits should be issued within 7 days. Standard processing is up to 30 days. See federal rule: USDA recipient eligibility and processing.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If it’s past 7 days and you believe you meet expedited criteria, contact your county DSS office immediately via the locator: Find your SCDSS county office. If needed, ask for a supervisor.

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How to apply for SNAP in South Carolina (step-by-step)

• Apply online first for the fastest timestamp: Apply for SNAP on the SCDSS Benefits Portal.
• If you prefer paper, download the application from the SCDSS SNAP page and return it by mail, fax, or in person to your county office: Locate your county office.
• After you apply, complete your interview. Expect a phone call. If you miss it, call your county office to reschedule.
• Upload or turn in documents (see checklist below). Keep your receipts and a copy of what you submit.
• Watch for mail or online notices from SCDSS, including requests for more info and your decision notice.

Realistic timeline (if you respond quickly to requests):

• Interview scheduled within about 1–2 weeks after you apply.
• Standard decisions within 30 days; expedited within 7 days.
• EBT card arrives by mail typically within 5–10 days after approval (you may also get card instructions at the interview stage). For card issues or PIN, call 1-800-554-5268.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If the portal is down or you lack internet, visit your county DSS office in person. Locator: Find your SCDSS county office.
• If your application is pending past 30 days, call your county office and ask for a case status and any missing items list. If unresolved, you can file a fair hearing request (see appeals below).

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Documents you’ll likely need (submit early to prevent delays)

Table below covers the most common documents. Submit copies (not originals). If you can’t get a document, ask your worker what else is acceptable.

Official rules on deductions: USDA SNAP deductions.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you can’t get a document in time, submit what you have and ask for help. SCDSS can sometimes verify directly with employers/landlords or accept alternative proofs.

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Work rules and time limits (South Carolina)

Two types of work rules apply under federal law:

• General SNAP work rules (most adults 16–59): register for work, not quit a job without good cause, and accept suitable work. See: USDA SNAP work requirements.
• ABAWD time limit (Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents, ages 18–54): unless exempt or in a waived area, benefits may be limited to 3 months in a 36-month period if not meeting work/participation requirements. FRA 2023 expanded the age to 54 by Oct 2024. See: USDA ABAWD policy and age expansion.

Exemptions include caring for a child, medical limitations, pregnancy, homelessness in some contexts, and others; some areas may be waived due to unemployment. Ask SCDSS which rules apply to you and whether your county has a waiver.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you can’t meet ABAWD hours due to child care barriers, ask for an exemption based on caregiving, health, or other qualifying reasons, and request help connecting to an approved work or training program.

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How your benefit is calculated (simple example)

Below is a simplified example. Your actual budget may differ.

Example: Single mom with two kids (household of 3)

• Gross monthly earnings: $2,400
• 20% earned income deduction: $480
• Standard deduction (FY 2025 per USDA COLA for 1–3-person household; see USDA COLA page for current amount)
• Out-of-pocket child care: $300
• Rent: $1,100, pays heating/cooling utilities (eligible for heating/cooling utility allowance per state policy)

Steps (simplified):

• From gross earnings, subtract the 20% earned income deduction and standard deduction, plus verified child care costs.
• Determine shelter costs and utility allowance, then apply the shelter cap rules (not capped if a member is elderly/disabled).
• Arrive at net income. Multiply net income by 0.30 and subtract from the maximum benefit for 3 to get your monthly benefit.

If your net income ends up at $0, your household qualifies for the maximum for your size. Official calculation rules: USDA SNAP eligibility and deductions.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Ask your worker for the exact budget worksheet used and check that child care, child support paid, medical (if elderly/disabled), and utility allowances were applied.

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EBT card use, deposits, and replacements

• Your EBT card (P-EBT is different—this is standard SNAP) is mailed after approval. To track or manage, use the ebtEDGE portal/app: ebtEDGE Cardholder Portal.
• Set or change your PIN by calling 1-800-554-5268.
• Where you can use it: grocery stores, many farmers markets, and some online stores. See official SNAP retailer locator: USDA SNAP Retailer Locator.
• What you can buy: foods for home preparation. No alcohol, tobacco, hot foods for immediate consumption, pet food, vitamins, or non-food items. Official list: USDA eligible food items.
• Deposit dates: South Carolina staggers benefits by day each month. Your approval notice lists your cycle. If unsure, check your EBT account or call 1-800-554-5268.
• Lost or stolen card: call 1-800-554-5268 immediately. Request a replacement.
• Healthy produce incentive: South Carolina has a “Healthy Bucks” produce match at many farmers markets and some retailers. Check the SCDSS SNAP page for locations and current match rules: SCDSS SNAP benefits page.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If deposits don’t arrive as expected, first check your EBT balance on ebtEDGE. Then contact your county DSS office using the locator: Find your county office.

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Recertification, reporting changes, and appeals

• Recertification: Most households recertify about every 12 months (some elderly/disabled households may get up to 24 months with an interview waiver). Your notice will list your exact “certification period.” Federal rules overview: USDA SNAP recipient eligibility.
• Reporting changes: Under simplified reporting, you must report if your household’s gross income rises above your assigned threshold (often 130% of poverty for your household size) during the certification period. Report required changes typically within 10 days. See federal rule: 7 C.F.R. § 273.12 (Change reporting).
• Appeals: If you’re denied, your benefits are lowered, or your case closes, you can request a fair hearing (generally within 90 days). Federal rule: 7 C.F.R. § 273.15 (Fair hearings). For South Carolina filing steps, contact your county office: SCDSS county office locator.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you missed a recertification deadline, submit a new application right away to restart benefits. If you believe you had good cause for missing it, ask for help reinstating your case.

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Real-world examples from South Carolina

• Mid-month job loss and expedited SNAP:
  A Charleston mom lost her hospitality job with only $40\ast \ast inheraccountand\ast \ast$900 rent due. She reported her zero income, low cash, and high shelter costs. She qualified for expedited SNAP and got benefits within 7 days. She verified identity the same day and submitted her lease and last pay stub. Federal expedited criteria: USDA expedited SNAP.
• Child care deduction changed the benefit:
  A Greenville mom working full-time reported $320/month child care. Her net income dropped after applying the child care deduction, raising her SNAP benefit. Deductions explained by USDA: USDA SNAP deductions.
• Healthy Bucks helped stretch produce budget:
  A Columbia family used $10 of SNAP at a participating farmers market and received a produce match that same visit. Check SCDSS for Healthy Bucks locations and rules: SCDSS SNAP benefits page.

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Common mistakes to avoid

• Not reporting child care or child support paid. These are valuable deductions that can lower your “net income” and increase benefits.
• Missing the interview call. If you miss it, your case stalls. Call your county office to reschedule.
• Skipping documents. If SCDSS asks for proof, missing the deadline can delay or deny your case.
• Assuming you’re over-income. Use net income and deductions. When in doubt, apply and let SCDSS do the calculation.
• Not checking mail and online portal messages. You could miss requests and deadlines.
• Waiting to replace a lost EBT card. Call 1-800-554-5268 right away.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you get a denial for missing items, re-apply with complete documents. If you think an error was made, request a fair hearing within 90 days (see federal rule: 7 C.F.R. § 273.15).

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Timelines and checkpoints (what to expect)

Sources: USDA SNAP recipient eligibility (processing rules), SCDSS SNAP page.

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If you’re denied or your benefits are cut

• Read the notice. It should state the reason and what proof was missing.
• Ask for your case “budget” calculation and the list of required documents.
• If you disagree, request a fair hearing within 90 days of the notice date. Federal rule: 7 C.F.R. § 273.15.
• While waiting, you can re-apply if your situation changed (for example, hours cut, new rent amount).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• Get free help from SC Thrive at 1-800-726-8774: SC Thrive. They can help you understand your notice and your options.

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City and county office help (how to find the right desk fast)

• Use the official county office locator to find addresses, phone numbers, and hours for your local office: Find your SCDSS county office.
• For card issues (PIN, lost card, balance), use the 24/7 EBT line: 1-800-554-5268 and the portal: ebtEDGE Cardholder Portal.
• If you need food today, call 211 to locate nearby food pantries and hot meal sites: South Carolina 211 (United Way).

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If your county office is busy, go early morning or submit documents via secure upload/mail and confirm receipt by phone later in the day.

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Local organizations and charities that actually help

• SC 211 (United Way): real-time directory of food pantries, utility help, and rent assistance. Dial 211 or visit: SC 211 search.
• SC Thrive (application help): benefits screening and application support for SNAP and more. Phone 1-800-726-8774. Website: SC Thrive.
• Harvest Hope Food Bank (Midlands & Pee Dee): pantry partners and mobile distributions. Website: Harvest Hope Food Bank.
• Lowcountry Food Bank (Coastal counties): find partner pantries and distributions. Website: Lowcountry Food Bank.
• Golden Harvest Food Bank (Aiken and surrounding, plus Augusta region): pantry locator and distributions. Website: Golden Harvest Food Bank.
• Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina (serves York, Lancaster, Chester via Charlotte region): Second Harvest Metrolina.
• SC Department of Agriculture farmers market info and links to markets that accept EBT: SC Dept. of Agriculture — Markets.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If a pantry is out of stock, ask for the next distribution day and nearest alternative. Call 211 for more options the same day.

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Diverse communities: targeted help and access

• LGBTQ+ single mothers
  • Many mainstream programs serve everyone; still, if you want LGBTQ+-affirming spaces, consider community centers and support groups in Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville for peer support while you apply. For core SNAP rules, use official state links: SCDSS SNAP.
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children
  • SNAP allows additional medical expense deductions for elderly/disabled household members with monthly medical costs over $35. Keep receipts for medications, co-pays, and premiums. Official: USDA SNAP deductions.
• Veteran single mothers
  • VA benefits can affect eligibility but do not automatically disqualify you. Bring VA award letters when you apply. Standard SNAP rules apply: USDA SNAP eligibility.
• Immigrant/refugee single moms
  • Certain non-citizens qualify (e.g., lawful permanent residents meeting 5-year rules, refugees, asylees). Children who are U.S. citizens can qualify even if a parent is not. Review federal rules: USDA SNAP non-citizen eligibility.
• Tribal-specific resources
  • If you’re a tribal citizen living in SC, SNAP still applies under standard state rules; some tribal citizens elsewhere may access the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR). Overview: USDA FDPIR.
• Rural single moms with limited access
  • If internet is limited, use paper applications via mail or visit your county office. For emergency food, use 211 to locate nearby pantries and mobile distributions.
• Single fathers (heads of household)
  • SNAP is for households with low income who buy and cook together. Single dads can apply with the same rules: SCDSS SNAP.
• Language access and interpretation
  • You have a right to free interpretation and translated notices. Ask SCDSS for language services during your interview and in the county office. Federal language access is part of SNAP program requirements: USDA SNAP recipient rights.

What to do if this doesn’t work:

• If you’re denied due to language or disability access issues, contact your county office supervisor and note your right to reasonable accommodation and interpretation.

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Resources by region (quick links)

• County DSS offices statewide (addresses and phones): Find your SCDSS county office.
• Charleston region: Charleston County office via SCDSS locator.
• Columbia/Midlands region: Richland/Lexington offices via SCDSS locator.
• Greenville/Upstate region: Greenville/Spartanburg/Anderson offices via SCDSS locator.
• Pee Dee region: Florence/Horry/Marion offices via SCDSS locator.
• Lowcountry region: Beaufort/Jasper/Colleton offices via SCDSS locator.

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5 city-specific FAQs (South Carolina)

• Charleston, SC — Where do I apply in person?
  • Use the SCDSS county office locator to get the current address, phone, and hours for Charleston County: Find Charleston County DSS office. For faster processing, apply online first: Apply for SNAP — SCDSS.
• Columbia, SC — What if I missed my interview call?
  • Call Richland County DSS via the county locator to reschedule: Find Richland County DSS. Ask if documents can be uploaded or dropped off to avoid delays.
• Greenville, SC — Can I get emergency (expedited) SNAP?
  • If you meet expedited criteria, you can get benefits within 7 days. See the rules: USDA SNAP expedited service. Apply online now and flag the emergency: SCDSS SNAP application.
• Myrtle Beach (Horry County), SC — How do I check my deposit date?
  • Your deposit schedule is on your award notice and depends on your cycle. Check your EBT account at ebtEDGE or call 1-800-554-5268.
• Spartanburg, SC — I lost my EBT card. What do I do?
  • Call 1-800-554-5268 right away to cancel and request a replacement. If you need confirmation for your case file, contact Spartanburg County DSS via the locator: Find Spartanburg County DSS.

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Practical tips to stretch SNAP and avoid delays

• Submit your application and identity first to lock in your application date; you can submit other proofs after.
• Keep a simple folder (paper or digital) with your pay stubs, bills, and receipts.
• If your hours or pay change, update SCDSS within 10 days if required under your reporting rules.
• Use SNAP at farmers markets and ask about produce matches like Healthy Bucks.
• Compare store brands, use coupons, and look for sale cycles to maximize your monthly allotment.

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What to do if you need food today

• Call 211 or visit SC 211 for immediate food pantry locations and hours.
• Check your nearest food bank’s partner pantry map:
  • Harvest Hope Food Bank (Midlands, Pee Dee)
  • Lowcountry Food Bank (Coastal counties)
  • Golden Harvest Food Bank (Aiken and surrounding)
  • Second Harvest Metrolina (York, Lancaster, Chester)
• Ask SCDSS if you qualify for expedited SNAP: USDA expedited criteria and apply: SCDSS SNAP.

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Quick reference (links and numbers you’ll actually use)

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Reality checks, warnings, and how to handle problems

• Phone lines and offices can be busy. Call early morning. Document every call (date/time, who you spoke with).
• Notices can be confusing. If you’re unsure, bring the letter to SC Thrive or call your county office.
• Don’t skip reporting rules. If your income crosses your threshold, report within 10 days if required, or you could face overpayments.
• Benefit theft (EBT skimming) is real. Use chip-enabled POS terminals when possible, change your PIN regularly, and check your balance often on ebtEDGE. If you spot theft, report it immediately to 1-800-554-5268 and your county office. Replacement rules vary by date and program guidance.

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from South Carolina Department of Social Services, USDA, and established nonprofits.

This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards: ASingleMother.org Editorial Policy 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 August 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 48 hours.

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Disclaimer

Program rules, dollar amounts, and procedures can change at any time. Always verify details with the South Carolina Department of Social Services and the USDA Food and Nutrition Service. Use the official sources linked in this guide, including:

• SCDSS SNAP (program and application): South Carolina SNAP page
• USDA SNAP eligibility and FY 2025 amounts: USDA SNAP eligibility and USDA FY 2025 COLA
• County office locator (addresses and phone numbers): Find your SCDSS county office

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